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Ultimate Guide: Bringing Your Dog to Europe from US in 2023

  • August 3, 2023
  • Dog Travel Tips , Europe Pet Friendly Guides , Uncategorized

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You can bring your dog to Europe from the US in 2023. It’s easier in 2023 than before but it still requires careful preparation and adherence to each European country’s specific regulations . Generally, you will need a valid pet microchip for identification, up-to-date vaccinations (including rabies), and a pet health certificate from a veterinarian. Some countries may also impose quarantine periods or have breed-specific restrictions but that is very rare. 

Additionally, you must check with your chosen airline for their pet travel policies and fees. By meeting all the necessary requirements, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry companion.

Disclaimer: All views and opinions expressed in this blog article are our own and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.

bring your dog to europe from us 2023

How to Bring Your Dog to Europe From US

Step 1: you must decide where you want to go (which european country) and when.

The first thing is deciding where to go and when. This, we believe, is the first step because it determines the rest of how you plan and go about obtaining the required documents.

If you decide to go to Europe during the off-season (November – March), then plane tickets and accommodations will be much more affordable than during high season (late May – August). Shoulder season (April – mid June; late September – October) would be a great in-between option in terms of prices and crowds.

As a general rule of thumb, you should give yourself at least 3 months of planning before you leave for Europe with your dog.

Once you choose the country you plan on going to and when, then you can move onto the next step…

travelling in europe with dogs

Step 2: Book a vet appointment as soon as possible

First, it is mandatory that your pet is microchipped and has their up to date vaccinations in order to travel to Europe. Please double check with your vet about this before booking any appointments. Note that previous vaccinations won’t be valid if given before the microchip.

After ensuring your pet is microchipped and has the necessary vaccines you will need to book an appointment with an accredited vet who can issue you an USDA-endorsed pet health certificate . Not all vets are able to do this. We recommend calling your vet’s office first and confirming before booking an appointment. You can also search this database as well to find an accredited vet.

Below is a script you can use when calling the vet:

“Hello, I plan on traveling to [European Country] on [Date you plan on traveling]   and need a pet health certificate done for my pet. Does your office have any vets that are accredited and able to issue this for me?”

To clarify, an USDA-endorsed   pet health certificate is a document that is given to you and your pet from a vet, after the vet has deemed your pet healthy enough for travel. You will need the hard copy of this form, embossed and signed by the USDA endorsement office when you fly. Meaning this document can not be shown electronically through your phone or computer. When you are checking into your flight, the airline will required the hard copy of this document. You may also need to show this document upon arrival at your designated country as well.

It is also important to note that if you do not have an European Union pet passport for your dog or pet then you will need to visit the vet and get your pet health certificate done within 10 days of your departure date (your flight date). 

More Information About the USDA-Endorsed Pet Health Certificate

To meet your designated country’s requirements for an USDA-endorsed pet health certificate you must obtain this from an accredited veterinarian. They will assist in completing, signing, and dating the necessary certificate. Your veterinarian can then submit the certificate directly to the USDA Endorsement Office through the Veterinary Export Health Certification System (VEHCS) or provide you with the paperwork for you to submit to the office yourself. The USDA Endorsement office will then emboss and sign the hard copy and send it back directly to you so you can bring it to the airport. Please note that you will have to pay for shipping.

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Step 3: Book your flight and check airline requirements

Next is making sure you book flights for you and your pet! This step can be done simultaneously with Step 2; however we find that if you get your vet appointment date booked and figure out all that business with the USDA-endorsed pet health certificate then booking your flight becomes more seamless. 

We are based in California so flying into a major European city such as Paris, Milan, etc would be the most efficient because they tend to have direct flights. We flown French Bee and loved it! Very straight to the point, cost efficient and we have not experience any delays or cancellations with them.

We listed below the airlines you can bring your dog and fly in cabin with them to Europe from US in 2023. You can click on the links to each airline to be taken directly to their pet policy page.

  • Aegean Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • TAP Air Portugal (We do not recommend flying with them. We experienced a lot of issues with this airline.)
  • United Airlines

It is also important to note that you will need to buy a soft carrier for your pet if you plan on traveling in cabin with them. We rated the top 5 best dog carriers for 2023 here if you want to check that out!

We recommend you review your airline’s pet policy in detail and understand the following:

  • their maximum weight allotment (usually has to be under 17-22 pounds, including the carrier)
  • their maximum carrier size & carrier requirements
  • the cost to fly your pet in cabin with you
  • if there are any additional paperwork needed to check your dog into the flight

travelling in europe with dogs

Step 4: Ensure your pet and you are ready for travel

Lastly, once everything is squared away you can relax! Well, sort of. We recommend you train your pet for airline travel. Getting your pet used to the carrier, making sure they relieve themselves before the flight, and watching their food and water intake are all things you must do to ensure a smooth journey.

If you want a free guide on how to best prepare your dog for in cabin airplane travel then just sign up to our newsletter below & get it instantly.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How can i take my dog to europe from the us without flying.

In 2023, flying to Europe from the US is one of the fastest ways to travel with your pet. However, there are other options if you prefer not to fly.

Ferry travel with pets is available on many large ships in US and Europe. You can sail for several hours or even days, with accommodations for both you and your pet. The ferries make stops in various countries during the journey.

You also have the option to charter a private yacht as well — but we believe this to be unnecessary and extremely pricey.

Can you bring a dog on a plane to Europe from US?

Yes! You can bring a dog on a plane to Europe. We’ve listed the airlines that allow in cabin pets to fly with their owners above. However, you must meet all the requirements and have the appropriate paperwork in order to do so.

An accredited vet needs to sign the form, and then the USDA endorsement office must endorse it within 48 hours before your pet arrives in Europe. The hard copy of the form must be on hand while traveling. If your pet is just passing through the EU, you don’t need to follow this rule.

travelling in europe with dogs

Can dogs fly in the cabin from US to Europe?

Yes! In 2023 there are plenty of options if you want to bring your dog to Europe from the US via airplane. When flying to Europe from the USA with your dog, it’s best to choose European flag-carrier airlines as they are more likely to allow pets in the cabin with you. We’ve listed the 2023 airlines that allow pets in cabin above!

How much does it cost to fly a dog internationally?

It really all depends on when you’re traveling and where you’re traveling to. However, bringing your dog on a flight in the cabin usually costs around $125 to $250. Whereas transporting them in the cargo hold can usually be well over $1,000. For international pet shipping, licensed companies usually charge between $1,000 and $6,000. We’ve heard some destinations you have to pay upwards of $10,000 to transport your pet.

How hard is it to bring a dog to Europe?

We would say it’s not hard but it takes work. Before bringing your dog, cat, or ferret to any European Union country, your pet needs to have a microchip. Note that previous vaccinations won’t be valid if given before the microchip. Even if your pet’s rabies vaccination is still valid, it must be re-vaccinated for rabies after getting the microchip. Please also double check with the official USA website  here  as well as the EU official website  here  for up to date regulations, updates and changes.

travelling in europe with dogs

Do dogs need a passport to fly internationally to Europe?

You do not need an EU pet passport for your dog unless you are traveling in Europe with your dog for more than 90 days. However, the European Union EU dog pet passport makes it easier for your dog to travel across Europe.

How much does it cost to travel with a dog in Europe?

It depends! If you are flying into Europe with your dog from the US then it can usually cost $100-250 extra.

However, if you’re traveling around Europe when you are already in Europe then the price can be much cheaper. Sites like Omio are pet friendly and offers affordable prices for pet friendly train rides. Dogs even get to ride for free on most trains (if your pet is in a pet carrier).

Also, if you have an European Union pet passport this allows your dog, cat, or ferret to travel effortlessly within the EU and even to non-EU countries (like UK, Switzerland, Iceland, etc). We highly recommend getting a European Union pet passport for your pet!

What is the weight limit for dogs to fly in cabin?

This will vary across different airlines. So make sure you double check with each airline’s pet policy. We link each airline and their pet policy above to make it easier for you to check! 

Generally, however, we have found the weight limit for dogs/pets in the cabin to be 17-22 pounds or less. This includes the carrier’s and your pet’s weight.

Do dogs have to quarantine in Europe?

Good news! Pets traveling between Europe and the US do not need to go through quarantine, so you can bring your pet to your hotel or destination right when you land. The rules are simple: ensure your pet has a rabies vaccine, a microchip, and a health certificate from a USDA vet. That’s all you need to worry about!

how to bring your dog to europe from us; dog with his two owners in st tropez france south of france

We hope you found this article helpful! 

Travel Dog Bodhi 🐶

Did this post help you sniff out some useful info for your furry friend?

If so, don’t be shy, give us a bark in the comments section! We love hearing from our fellow dog lovers on the go.

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6 thoughts on “ultimate guide: bringing your dog to europe from us in 2023”.

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Any arliner that permits my dog coffee in cabin even if weight in at 22kg ?, i am willing to purchase additional seat to travel to stockholm, sweden , since traveling in the cargo area seems like a big misstake.

i am travelin from Nuevo Laredo and if easier i take him over to laredo Texas, help would be appreciated ..

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For dogs that weigh 22kg, we believe that is over the weight limit to fly in cabin for most airlines. You may have to consider flying your dog in the cargo/hold or through private/semi private airlines.

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Great article, but I do have a question about American Airlines. When I checked on their website, it said no pets in cabins on international flights from US to Europe/UK. Can you clarify if I misread something?

Hello Carly! It seem that American airlines has updated their policy and will not allow pets in cabins for any US to Europe flights anymore. We are working to update our page to meet 2024 changes, thanks!

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Traveling to Europe with a Dog

Categories International Travel with a Dog , Travel Europe , Travel with a Dog

Traveling to Europe with a Dog

Despite the airlines’ best efforts to dissuade pet travel, more and more dog parents are considering bringing along their pets on their travels to Europe. Given the popularity of the continent and the relative proximity to North America, it’s a fairly easy international trip to make with your furry friend in tow. 

Traveling with your pet to Europe isn’t all that complicated, however it does require some advanced planning and requirements differ among countries that are within the EU opposed to those that are not.

For the sake of simplicity, this post will focus on the pet entry requirements for the European Union. We will note exceptions for travel to the UK and other similar countries that have different or more strict mandates for dogs and cats.

What do I Need to Travel with my Dog to Europe?

Iso microchip.

Europe operates on a different frequency from the United States, so you will likely need to implant a second one in your dog. Only the veterinarian who implants the microchip can sign the required microchip implementation form. 

While it is possible to bring your own scanner, we had one friend who did, but it required extra paperwork and hassle at customs. Save yourself the delay and just get a second microchip. This way, if your dog is lost during your trip a veterinarian can scan the chip.  

One-year Rabies Vaccination

This must occur AFTER the ISO Microchip implant . The rabies and the microchip can be done in the same day, but the vaccination has to come second. Both must be administered at least 21 days prior to departure. 

While some countries will take the 3-year rabies vaccination, however, the initial shot after the microchip has to be a one-year vaccination. Booster shots may be the three-year injection. 

International Health Certificate from Your Veterinarian

Ten days before departing for the EU , visit your local veterinarian for an international health certificate and an EU veterinary certificate. You have 10 days to enter the destination country after you have completed the paperwork. Plan accordingly and consider travel snafus like delayed or missed flights. 

Official Pet Export Paperwork

Make an appointment with the USDA (or your local governmental agency responsible for pet export. The international health certificate, the EU veterinary certificate, and the microchip implementation form must be endorsed by a USDA APHIS . This is the government office responsible for approving your export request and stamping your forms. 

You can choose to schedule an appointment with the nearest location or overnight the paperwork. Schedule early because appointments can fill fast. Visiting is always the safest option. Note that the fee for endorsement may only be paid by check or money order.

Traveling outside of the EU?

Norway, Finland, Ireland, Malta, and the United Kingdom require an echinococcosis (tapeworm) treatment given a minimum of 24 and a maximum of 120 hours before arrival. The paperwork mentioned above remains the same. 

The treatment required approval from the USDA accredited veterinarian. Be sure to ask your local vet write the date and time in both your current timezone, and the one to which you’re traveling on the export paperwork. With a nine hour time difference, this can affect meeting the requirements for inoculation. Always double check your country of destination that may not be listed here. The rules can change. 

Our post on entering the UK with a pet should help cover the exceptions and additional requirements, but always, always check before making assumptions.

Entering the Destination Country by Air

If you’re flying with your pet , check to see if the destination requires that you call customs. Not every EU country requires meeting with customs upon arrival, however some countries do. They generally ask for a 24 hour notice.

When we went through customs in Norway, we had to enter the “goods to declare” section. There, we met the customs veterinarian who overlooked Sora’s paperwork, scanned for her microchip, stamped a few items, and sent us on our way.

In Spain, we entered as we would, whether we had a dog or not.

Sora was an ESA, and flew with us in the cabin. We imagine the same scenario would play out for those traveling with a small dog in cabin as well. Again, this depends entirely on the destination country.

For those flying with their dog as cargo, you may be required to show your paperwork at the agricultural office located in the airport. Not all airports accept international pet transport, so check that your destination does before booking any flights.

Once you’re in the EU, you can travel freely between countries with no hassle. Just remember, this is not the case for the exemptions mentioned earlier!

Getting a Pet Passport

You’ll want to get a pet passport if you plan to travel back and forth between Europe and the US or if you plan to stay long term. Once you enter Europe, you have four months to obtain a pet passport if you plan on staying there. 

The process is very simple and straightforward if you do your homework in advance. Bring all of your paperwork to a local veterinarian and ask for a Pet Passport. They’ll know what to do.

Crossing Borders in the European Union (EU)

The Schengen zone was created by the EU to enable people to have smooth borderless travel. When traveling with a rental car, bus, or train, you will not have to stop at each border. However, it is a good idea to always bring along the pet passport. 

It’s worth noting that due to political conflict, some countries have implemented random border checks. We saw this first hand coming from France to Spain, where the French were randomly checking vehicles. Always have your paperwork ready to go in case you need it.

Generally speaking, it’s very rare to need to show documentation at any point once inside the EU.

Not all in the Schengen Zone are in the EU! Not all non-EU countries are part of the Schengen Zone. It’s very confusing, so we’ll say it one final time. Do your homework and know the requirements of the countries you plan to visit!

Related Reading

How to Fly Internationally with a Dog Is it Safe to Fly with a Dog? Best Dog Kennels for Flying 14 Questions to Ask before Flying with a Large Dog Flying with a Dog in Cargo Gear List

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Wednesday 3rd of July 2019

Thank you Dave for this excellent article (and for the fun Instagram posts). Wrestling the paperwork/bureaucracy is your true strengths. We are moving to Valencia, Spain with our 2 dogs and all your research, tips and how-to's are invaluable! I understand that you and Jen fly with your dogs back to the US often. We live in Northern California and were wondering what flight path you take to Spain (from Oregon?). It's been the bane of my existence lately to figure out how to get the dogs to Europe. We have a 65-lb pointer and 110-lb pyrenees mix. I'm assuming there would need to be a stopover but I'm not sure where. Also not sure where to start flying... SFO? YVR? further east? Any advice would be gold!

Thanks for the compliment. I assume your dogs are flying cargo, based on the your pyrenees being 110lbs! We have connected in JFK as there are direct flights from JFK to Madrid (and probably Valencia or Barcelona). So, I'm thinking you could do SFO > JFK > BARC. Now, be careful of the weather and the timing of your flight as it can get hot on the runway. Do you know when you're planning to fly? I did check and Iberia has direct flights from SFO to Barcelona that are 11hrs 25 minutes. A red-eye leaving in the evening may not be such a bad idea as the dogs would end up spending less time in the kennel. I think it really depends on your flight time, how they dogs are flying, and the airline (I don't know Iberia's record for flying). Keep in mind with the big one, you'll want the largest kennel you can find if using cargo. Let me know how I can help!

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Traveling to Europe with a Dog: How to Take Your Dog to Europe - IL

travelling in europe with dogs

I was talking to a sassy American woman on the cusp of retirement. She was buying my car and asked why I was selling a fairly new vehicle with such low mileage. When I told her I was going to Italy —with no plans to return—she got a dreamy, faraway look in her eyes…then looked a little sad. She would love to go to Europe, she said, but she couldn’t bear to leave her pets behind.

That’s when I gave her the good news: You can take your pets from the U.S. to Europe. In fact, today I’m sitting in a cozy apartment overlooking a moody autumnal landscape in Riga, Latvia, with my dog, Luna, snuggled up on the couch next to me.

Since that conversation, Luna has been to 19 European countries, and we’ve already booked #20 (Lithuania) and started dreaming about #21 (Greece).

So…how did I, a U.S. citizen, get Luna, a U.S.-born pooch here?

Research, patience, and paperwork. Here are some simple steps that will get you and your dog safely, legally, and happily to Europe.

1. Make sure your dog is healthy, microchipped, and ready for travel.

To travel internationally with your dog, you’ll need to get an international standard microchip (HomeAgain is a common brand) and make sure your dog is up-to-date on his or her vaccines (especially the rabies shot, of which the most recent shot must be given at least 21 days and no more than 12 months before your trip).

Many countries, including all those in the European Union, require pet dogs, cats, and ferrets to be microchipped before travel. A microchip compatible with ISO standard 11784 or 11785 is recommended. If your pet has a different microchip, consider buying a microchip reader and taking it with you. And note that, if you have to get your dog microchipped, you must do it before you get your dog’s latest rabies vaccine, so at least three weeks before your trip.

2. Check the dog travel policies of your preferred airline.

On some airlines, like Delta, XL Air, or Air France, a few small dogs are allowed to travel in-cabin, while large dogs travel as cargo. Other airlines require that all pets travel as cargo. Keep in mind that many airlines don’t accept pets in cargo during the hot summer months, as this area isn’t air conditioned while the plane is on the runway.

3. Check the requirements and fill out the paperwork for your first destination.

Bear in mind the requirements are set by the country of destination, not the U.S. If you are arriving directly in Italy, you’ll need a veterinary certificate in English and Italian. If you are flying into France , you’ll need one in English and French. And if you are cruising or flying into the U.K., there are a few extra guidelines you’ll need to follow and extra fees you’ll need to pay, which you can find on the DEFRA website .

For any of these countries, you’ll need a USDA-approved vet to fill out the above mentioned paperwork, usually within 10 days of travel (in the case of the U.K., within 5 days). Make sure to ask the vet about their certification. Then you can either mail your papers or drive over to the nearest USDA office for a stamp of approval. This stamped paperwork is what the customs officials will want to see when you arrive.

Keep in mind that each USDA office has slightly different policies (for example: in San Diego, I had to show up between certain hours and wait in line for my paperwork approval; in Denver, I had to make an appointment), so contact your local office ahead of time to find out about appointments, fees, and payment options for the fees.

4. Make sure you’re ready for travel.

If you have a nervous dog, ask your vet about safe sedatives for the trip and make sure to bring your Thunder Shirt or a comforting toy. This is only recommended for dogs traveling in-cabin where you can supervise them.

If you’re flying with your pet in-cabin, you’ll need a soft-sided, flexible pet carrier that will fit under the seat (and don’t trust the marketing—you can find airline seat measurements at www.dogjaunt.com and measure carriers to make sure they’ll fit). You may also want to bring treats to keep blood sugar levels up, a portable water bowl, and pee pads (if your dog is trained to use them), which you can take to the bathroom for a mid-flight potty break.

If your dog is flying as cargo, make sure your hard-sided case meets the airline’s requirements (which vary from airline to airline and can be found on the airline’s website) and consult with your vet about how much food or water to leave with your pet.

5. When traveling between European countries…

The USDA paperwork is officially good for travel within the E.U. for up to 90 days. If you are traveling in or moving to the E.U. for more than 90 days, you’ll need to complete one final step: getting your European pet passport. This passport documents all vaccinations and health check-ups and allows your dog to travel freely in between European countries.

To get a pet passport, you’ll need to make an appointment with a local vet in your first destination. They’ll check your vaccination records (so make sure you have those) and your pet’s microchip and fill out a small passport style booklet that declares your pet micro-chipped and healthy. Usually, this process can be done in the office same day, but it’s always smart to give yourself an extra day or two just in case (my first pet passport, for example, ended up taking two days and two visits due to a typo).

A handful of European countries have additional requirements for pet travel, so if you’re traveling to multiple countries, always make sure to check the official requirements before you go. Norway, and the U.K., for example, require a tapeworm treatment administered by a vet five days (or less) before you cross their borders. And if the U.K. executes a no-deal Brexit this year, there will be additional paperwork required to travel between the E.U. and the U.K.

European countries not yet in the E.U. are also subjected to additional requirements (Montenegro, for example, is a high rabies risk country and you will need a blood titer test done by an E.U.-approved lab at least 30 days before your trip if you want to re-enter the E.U. after visiting the pretty coastal vacation spot).

6. Finally, enjoy your new home.

Dogs are absolutely adored in France, Italy, and other European countries. They’re often allowed in restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops. Overall, Europe is far more pet-friendly than the U.S.

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travelling in europe with dogs

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Taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad

Travelling to an eu country or northern ireland.

When travelling to an EU country or Northern Ireland, your pet needs:

  • a microchip
  • a valid rabies vaccination
  • an animal health certificate , or a valid pet passport that’s accepted in the country you’re travelling to
  • tapeworm treatment for dogs if you’re travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway or Malta

These requirements also apply to assistance dogs.

Check the rules of the country you’re travelling to for any additional restrictions or requirements before you travel.

If you have a pet passport

You cannot use a pet passport issued in Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland).

You can only use a pet passport if the country you’re travelling to accepts passports for pets coming from Great Britain. The passport must have been issued in one of the following places:

  • an EU country
  • Faroe Islands
  • Liechtenstein
  • Northern Ireland
  • Switzerland
  • Vatican City State

You should check if it’s accepted before you travel and find out if you need any other supporting documents .

If it is not accepted, you’ll need an animal health certificate instead.

Travelling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland

If you have a pet passport issued in Northern Ireland, contact your vet for advice before travelling.

Read the rules about taking pets to Northern Ireland on the NIDirect website before you travel.

Arriving in an EU country or Northern Ireland

You’ll need to go through a travellers’ point of entry when you arrive in an EU country or Northern Ireland.

You may need to show your pet’s animal health certificate or a valid pet passport, containing proof of their:

  • rabies vaccination
  • tapeworm treatment (if required)

Repeat trips to an EU country or Northern Ireland

Your pet will need a new animal health certificate for each trip to an EU country or Northern Ireland.

Your pet will not need a repeat rabies vaccination so long as its rabies vaccinations are up to date.

Your dog will need tapeworm treatment for each trip if you’re travelling directly to Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland or Norway.

Travelling with more than 5 pets

You cannot take more than 5 pets to an EU country or Northern Ireland unless you’re attending or training for a:

  • competition
  • sporting event

You’ll need written evidence of registration for the event when you travel.

All your pets must:

  • be attending the event or training
  • be over 6 months old
  • meet all the other requirements for pet travel to that country

Exporting pets for commercial purposes

Read the Border Operating Model if you want to export pets to an EU country or Northern Ireland for commercial reasons such as change of ownership.

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How to Fly To Europe With a Pet In The Cabin

Katie Genter

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Cheap fares to Europe are relatively easy to find, and more and more hotels are becoming pet friendly . But if you're planning on taking your pet with you to Europe, you'll need to choose your airline selectively. Some airlines don't allow pets in the cabin — and among the airlines that do allow pets in cabin, some charge significantly higher fees than others or require much smaller carrier dimensions.

This guide covers the current options for flying with your pet in cabin between the US and Europe. Policies for pets traveling as checked baggage, pets traveling as cargo, service animals and emotional support animals are different and aren't considered in this guide. Plus, since it's best to minimize transit time when traveling with pets, only airlines offering direct flights between the US and Europe are included.

If you want to jump to a summary of the airlines that allow pets in cabin on at least some flights between the US and Europe, click on "Comparison Table" in the table of contents below. Otherwise, details are given for each airline in individual sections below.

Direct flights to/from Moscow (SVO) : Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), Washington (IAD)

Pets allowed : Most types except "potentially dangerous" dog breeds, brachycephalic dog breeds (such as French bulldogs, because of potential respiratory trouble), rodents and reptiles

Maximum carrier dimensions : 125cm (about 49 inches) sum of length, width and height for hard-sided carriers, 135cm (about 53 inches) sum of length, width and height for soft-sided carriers

Maximum carrier weight : 8kg (about 17.6lbs)

Fee : 75 euros (about $92)

Direct flights to/from Madrid (MAD) : Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), seasonal destinations

Pets allowed : Dogs, cats, some birds, fish, aquarium turtles, hamsters, guinea pigs and small rabbits

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 35cm by 25cm (about 21 inches by 13 inches by 9 inches)

Fee : 150 euros (about $184) departing Europe, $165 departing the US

Direct flights to/from Paris (CDG) : Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Detroit (DTW), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), Minneapolis (MSP), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), Seatle (SEA), Washington (IAD)

Direct flights to/from Paris (ORY) : New York (JFK)

Air France's long-haul Premium Economy, which allows pets (Photo by Brendan Dorsey / The Points Guy)

Pets allowed : Dogs (except Category 1 and Category 2 as defined by the French Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Forestry ) and cats

Maximum carrier dimensions : 46cm by 28cm by 24cm (about 18 inches by 11 inches by 9 inches), must be soft-sided. Air France sells carriers on their website, although use of these carriers isn't required.

Fee : 125 euros (about $154)

Restrictions : Pets can't fly in the business class cabin.

Direct flights to/from Belgrade (BEG) : New York (JFK)

Pets allowed : Dogs and cats that aren't dangerous or aggressive

Maximum carrier dimensions : 40cm by 30cm by 24cm (about 15 inches by 11 inches by 9 inches)

Fee : 85 euros (about $104)

Air Tahiti Nui

Direct flights to/from Paris (CDG) : Los Angeles (LAX)

Pets allowed : Dogs and cats that weigh less than 5kg (about 11lbs)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 40cm by 35cm by 20cm (about 15 inches by 13 inches by 7 inches)

Fee : $150 when departing LAX, 150 euros (about $184) when departing CDG

Direct flights to/from Rome (FCO) : Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK)

Direct flights to/from Milan (MXP) : New York (JFK)

Alitalia's US flights are mostly on the Airbus A330-200, whose coach class, with armrest that cannot be fully lifted, is seen here. (Photo by Alberto Riva / The Points Guy)

Pets allowed : Dogs, cats, ferrets and canaries

Maximum carrier dimensions : Varies by aircraft, but generally 40cm long by 20cm wide by 24cm high (about 15 inches by 9 inches by 7 inches). Soft-sided carriers can be slightly taller.

Maximum carrier weight : 10kg (about 22lbs)

Fee : $200 when departing the US, 125 euros (about $154) when departing Europe

Austrian Airlines

Direct flights to/from Vienna (VIE) : Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (EWR, JFK), Washington (IAD)

Pets allowed : Dogs or cats

Maximum carrier dimensions : 118cm (about 46 inches) sum of length, width and height

Fee : 70 euros (about $86)

Brussels Airlines

Direct flights to/from Brussels (BRU) : New York (JFK) and Washington (IAD)

Pets allowed : Dogs and cats

Maximum carrier dimensions : 118cm (about 46 inches) sum of length, width and height, must be soft-sided. Brussels Airlines sells approved carriers at BRU for 45 euros (about $55), but passengers may provide their own if it meets the requirements.

Fee : 70 euros (about $86) when departing Europe, $90 when departing the US

Direct flights to/from Frankfurt (FRA) : Anchorage (ANC), Las Vegas (LAS), Minneapolis (MSP), New Orleans (MSY), Phoenix (PHX), Pittsburgh (PIT), Portland (PDX), Washington (BWI)

Condor US destinations.

Pets allowed : Dogs (except fighting breeds and snub-nosed breeds) and cats (except snub-nosed breeds)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 40cm by 20cm (about 21 inches by 15 inches by 7 inches)

Maximum carrier weight : 6kg (about 13.2lbs)

Fee : 99.99 euros (about $123) — or 94.99 euros (about $117) if booked more than 30 days before departure. Pets can be easily added while purchasing a flight on the Condor website.

Restrictions : Condor requires a pet passport when departing Germany, so arrange that in Europe before your return flight.

Delta Airlines

Direct flights to/from New York (JFK) : Amsterdam (AMS), Athens (ATH), Barcelona (BCN), Berlin (TXL), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), Lisbon (LIS), Madrid (MAD), Milan (MXP), Nice (NCE), Paris (CDG), Prague (PRG), Rome (FCO), Reykjavik (KEF), Venice (VCE), Zurich (ZRH)

Delta's Economy class on the new Airbus A350, now flying to Amsterdam (Photo by Zach Honig / The Points Guy)

Direct flights to/from Atlanta (ATL) : Amsterdam (AMS), Barcelona (BCN), Brussels (BRU), Düsseldorf (DUS), Frankfurt (FRA), Madrid (MAD), Milan (MXP), Munich (MUC), Paris (CDG), Rome (FCO), Stuttgart (STR)

Direct flights to/from Detroit (DTW) : Amsterdam (AMS), Frankfurt (FRA), Munich (MUC), Paris (CDG), Rome (FCO)

Direct flights to/from Boston (BOS), Minneapolis (MSP), Salt Lake City (SLC), Seattle (SEA) : Amsterdam (AMS), Paris (CDG)

Direct flights to/from Cincinnati (CVG), New York (EWR), Raleigh (RDU) : Paris (CDG)

Direct flights to/from Orlando (MCO), Portland (PDX) : Amsterdam (AMS)

No UK or Ireland destinations are included on the above lists since Delta doesn't transport any live animals in the cabin on these flights.

Maximum carrier dimensions and weight : Varies based on itinerary, but animals must fit into their carrier "without touching or protruding from the sides"

Fee : $200 when departing the US, 200 euros (about $246) when departing Europe

Restrictions : Pets can't be carried in International Business, International First and International Delta One cabins.

Direct flights to/from Zurich (ZRH) : Denver (DEN), Los Vegas (LAS), Orlando (MCO), San Diego (SAN), Tampa (TPA)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 40cm by 23cm (about 21 inches by 15 inches by 9 inches), must be soft-sided

Fee : 70 euros (about $86) or 90 Swiss Franc (about $92). The fee includes a seat reservation.

Direct flights to/from Helsinki (HEL) : Chicago (ORD), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO)

Pets allowed : Dogs, cats, rabbits and rodents

Maximum carrier dimensions : 35cm by 30cm by 20cm (about 13 inches by 11 inches by 7 inches) for hard-sided, 56cm by 45cm by 25cm (about 22 inches by 17 inches by 9 inches) for soft-sided

Fee : $100 from the US to Europe, 75 euros (about $92) from Europe to the US

Restrictions : Pets can't be carried in the business class cabin on international flights.

Notes : The request to carry a pet in cabin can be completed online .

Direct flights to/from Madrid (MAD) : Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO)

Pets allowed : Various, must be approved by Iberia booking office. The only type of animal explicitly prohibited is weasels.

Maximum carrier dimensions : 45cm by 35cm by 25cm (about 17 inches by 13 inches by 9 inches)

Fees : $150 when departing the US, 150 euros (about $184) when departing Europe

Restrictions : Dogs that belong to a list of dangerous breeds or have a particular "build, muscle, height and weight" must wear a muzzle when out of their carrier for security check.

Direct flights to/from Amsterdam (AMS) : Atlanta (ATL), Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Minneapolis (MSP), New York (JFK), Salt Lake City (SLC), San Francisco (SFO), Washington (IAD)

With KLM, you can fly your pet to Europe on a 747 like this one (Photo by Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 46cm by 28cm by 24cm (about 18 inches by 11 inches by 9 inches)

Fee : $125 for flights departing the US, 125 euros (about $154) for flights departing Europe

Restrictions : Pets can't be carried in the business class cabin on transatlantic flights.

Direct flights to/from Warsaw (WAW) : Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 40cm by 20cm (about 21 inches by 15 inches by 7 inches) on longhaul aircraft, 45cm by 30cm by 20cm (17 inches by 11 inches by 7 inches) on other aircraft

Fee : 280 Polish Zloty (about $83) when departing Poland, 70 euros (about $86) when departing from other European countries, $100 when departing the US

Direct flights to/from Frankfurt (FRA) : Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Denver (DEN), Detroit (DTW), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (EWR, JFK), Orlando (MCO), Philadelphia (PHL), San Diego (SAN), San Francisco (SFO), San Jose (SJC), Seattle (SEA), Tampa (TPA), Washington (IAD)

Direct flights to/from Munich (MUC) : Boston (BOS), Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (ORD), Denver (DEN), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (EWR, JFK), San Francisco (SFO), Washington (IAD)

travelling in europe with dogs

Pets allowed : Dogs (non-dangerous breeds or dangerous breeds aged between four and six months) and cats

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 40cm by 23cm (about 21 inches by 15 inches by 9 inches)

Fee : $115-126 for flights departing the US, 100-110 euros (about $115-126) for flights departing Europe

Direct flights to/from Paris (ORY) : New York (EWR) until the end of Summer 2018

Maximum carrier dimensions : 45cm by 30cm by 24cm (about 17 inches by 11 inches by 9 inches)

Fee : $196 on flights departing the US, 125 euros (about $154) on flights departing Europe

Direct flights to/from Copenhagen (CPH) : Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Miami (MIA), New York (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), Washington (IAD)

Direct flights to/from Stockholm (ARN) : Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), New York (EWR)

Direct flights to/from Oslo (OSL) : New York (EWR)

SAS routes between the US and Europe

Maximum carrier dimensions : 40cm by 25cm by 23cm (15 inches by 9 inches by 9 inches), carrier must be specifically designed for flight transport

Fee : $115 when departing the US, 95 euros (about $117) when departing Scandinavia. There may be an additional pet fee levied on connecting flights.

Restrictions : No pets can travel in business class.

Direct flights to/from Zurich (ZRH) : Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (EWR, JFK), San Francisco (SFO)

Direct flights to/from Geneva (GVA) : New York (JFK)

The economy cabin of a Swiss 777 (Photo by J Keith van Straaten / The Points Guy)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 23cm by 40cm (about 21 inches by 9 inches by 15 inches), must be soft-sided

Fee : 103-126 Swiss Franc ($106-129), 90-110 euros ($111-135) or $103-126 — the exact price depends on route

Notes : Swiss' Airbus 330/340 doesn't have underseat storage in the First class cabin and only has underseat storage in the last row of the Business class cabin. For business and first class passengers with pets in seats without underseat storage, the "crew will stow the transport container in the cloakroom, in one of the overhead luggage compartments or under another passenger seat during take-off and landing." After a dog died in an overhead bin on United , I hope Swiss reconsiders their policy to store pets in the overhead bin.

TAP Portugal

Direct flights to/from Lisbon (LIS) : Boston (BOS), Miami (MIA), New York (EWR, JFK)

Direct flights to/from Porto (OPO) : New York (EWR)

Maximum carrier dimensions : 40cm by 33cm by 17cm (about 15 inches by 13 inches by 6 inches), must be soft-sided

Maximum carrier weight: 8kg (about 17.6lbs)

Fee : 150 euros (about $184)

Restrictions : No pets can travel in the executive cabin on long-haul flights.

Notes : The pet's documents may need to be emailed ahead of time to Portugal's Veterinary Directorate-General and a 40 euro (about $49) veterinary examination fee may be required at the port of entry.

Turkish Airlines

Direct flights to/from Istanbul (IST) : Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), Washington (IAD)

Turkish Airlines US destinations.

Pets allowed : Dogs (no dangerous breeds), cats and some caged birds

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 40cm by 23cm (21 inches by 15 inches by 9 inches)

Fee : Depends on the route, should be between $160 and $205

Restrictions : Dogs and cats as well as cats and birds can't be carried on the same flight. Dogs and birds can travel on the same flight as long as they're seated as far from each other as possible.

Ukraine International

Direct flights to/from Kiev (KBP) : New York (JFK)

Pets allowed : Dogs (except French / English bulldogs and dogs younger than six months on flights to the US) and cats

Maximum carrier dimensions : 55cm by 40cm by 20cm (about 21 inches by 15 inches by 7 inches), must be soft-sided

Fee : 100 euros (about $123) if paid more than 24 hours before departure, 200 euros (about $246) within 24 hours of departure or at check-in, 240 euros (about $295) at the gate

United Airlines

Direct flights : to various European cities from United hubs in Chicago (ORD), Denver (DEN), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), New York (EWR), San Francisco (SFO) and Washington (IAD)

The Economy cabin on a United Boeing 777-300ER (Photo by The Points Guy)

Pets allowed : Varies based on route

Maximum carrier dimensions and weight : Varies based on itinerary

Restrictions : Pets aren't permitted in premium cabins on Boeing 747, 757, 767, 777 and 787 aircraft. Customers with pets in cabin must sit in a window seat when traveling in economy on Boeing 757-200 aircraft.

Comparison Table

Here's a table summarizing the fees, maximum carrier weight and maximum carrier size for the airlines in this guide that allow pets in cabin on at least some routes between the US and Europe.

Aeroflot, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Edelweiss, Finnair, LOT and Lufthansa have the lowest fees for a pet in cabin at around 70-75 euros (about $86-92) or $90-100. Delta has one of the highest pet in cabin fees at 200 euros (about $246) or $200.

Pet in cabin fees are typically assessed at check-in, although some airlines require advanced purchase. Either way, make sure to use a card that provides bonus spending for airline travel. Top choices are the The Platinum Card® from American Express ( 5x on airfare ), Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2x on travel).

Most airlines require that the carrier with the pet inside weighs no more than 8kg (about 17.6lbs). Alitalia is the only airline to allow slightly heavier pets in cabin on flights between the US and Europe with a maximum weight of 10kg (about 22lbs). Condor and OpenSkies limit the weight to 6kg (about 13.2lbs).

The maximum allowable carrier dimensions vary greatly across airlines. Aeroflot and Finnair allow the largest soft-sided carriers while Alitalia, SAS and TAP Portugal have the smallest allowable dimensions. Make sure that your carrier fits within the allowable dimensions for each airline you choose.

Airlines that Don't Accept Pets in Cabin

Lest you think that your favorite airline was forgotten, here's a list of airlines that don't accept pets in cabin on flights between the US and Europe: Air India, Air Lingus, Air New Zealand, American Airlines, British Airways, Emirates, Eurowings, Icelandair, La Compagnie, LEVEL, Norwegian, Primera Air, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and WOW.

If some of these airlines seem out of place in this guide, it's because they operate at least one fifth-freedom route between the US and Europe. Note that due to importation regulations, no airlines accept pets in cabin on flights to the UK and Ireland.

TUI Fly — which flies directly between Miami (MIA) and Brussels (BRU) — deserves a special mention. Although the booking process offers an option to book an in-cabin pet on the MIA-BRU route for just 30 euros (about $37), I was unable to find any dates that showed availability for a pet in cabin.

Bottom Line

Some airlines don't accept pets in cabin on flights between the US and Europe and others have restrictions on animal types and breeds, but there are still plenty of options for traveling to or from Europe with small pets.

Before leaving the US with your pet, be sure to get your pet's paperwork together . Depending on what paperwork you already have, your pet's current vaccinations and where you're traveling and transiting, you may need to start this process months ahead of your trip. Double check the regulations and entry requirements for pets for each country you'll be visiting or transiting — as well as the requirements for bringing your pet back home.

Remember that airlines may have special requirements regarding paperwork, health certificates and arrival time at the airport. Most, if not all, airlines require passengers to reserve their pet's space on board ahead of time and have limits on how many pets can be carried on board. And you'll almost certainly not be allowed to sit in bulkhead or exit row seats. Before booking your ticket, be sure to read the airline's website and call if you have any questions.

If you decide to fly with your pet, make sure to follow our tips for keeping your pet safe and happy while flying , and make sure you choose an appropriate pet carrier . Flights and travel can be stressful for your pet—- and you — so consider whether it's really the best decision to travel with your pet.

  • Travel with pets

Everything You Need To Know About Traveling With Pets To Europe

Flying your dog, cat, or any pet, for that matter, to Europe can send even the most seasoned of travelers into a panic. Reading through airline pet policies, ticking the travel essentials off your packing list, and deciding whether you’ll be flying with your pet in the cabin or cargo is time-consuming and complicated, but we’re here to relieve some of your worries.

Keep reading as we answer all of your top questions and concerns, including the best airlines for traveling with dogs or cats, the fees you can expect to encounter, what countries require quarantine for your beloved pet, and all the need-to-know tips for traveling with your pet on a plane for the first time.

  • Can You Fly Internationally With A Pet?

Perhaps the first thing you’ll ask yourself when planning a trip to Europe is whether you can take your furry companion with you or not. While there’s no definitive answer, you can usually take your pet with you, though it will largely depend on the airline and your destination. Luckily, many countries that are European Union members follow the same policies and procedures.

Some airlines allow you to travel with your pet domestically but not internationally. If you’re flying with your dog with United or flying with your cat with Delta , for example, you can rest easy knowing your furry companion can fly overseas with you. On the other hand, flying with dogs with American Airlines is only possible within North America. The same goes for anyone flying with cats or dogs with Southwest.

Another important factor to consider is the type of animal your pet is, as it can be much more challenging to travel with exotic animals than with traditional domestic pets like cats or dogs. Before booking any flights, it’s worth comparing different airlines and import protocols, but we’ll get into more detail about all that throughout the article.

Black curly dog laying in an open suitcase

  • How Much Does It Cost To Bring A Pet On An International Flight?

You’ll quickly see that there are a lot of variables when it comes to flying with animals. Flying with big dogs in the cabin domestically will be a completely different experience than traveling with a cat to Europe, and that extends to the prices you can expect to find.

Before we get into comparing the prices from some of the most popular airlines flying to European countries, it’s a good idea to consider whether your pet can join you in the cabin or if they’ll have to fly as cargo or checked baggage in the hold. Keep in mind that you may not be able to bring your pet on vacation at all, as some airlines only allow animals onboard if you’re flying with service dogs.

Let’s take a look at the fees for international travel with animals from a range of airlines, mostly relevant for anyone traveling with a dog on a plane or a cat.

Note: Pets flying as ‘checked baggage’ will travel in the hold on the same flight as you, while animals flying as ‘cargo’ may travel on a different plane to you. Airlines will usually try to ensure your pet reaches the final destination at a similar time to you, where possible.

  • Can You Bring Pets To European Countries?

While many countries welcome pets, you’ll find that a significant number of them will only accept animals that have traveled in the hold. In other cases, your destination may permit you to bring particular pets, usually dogs and cats, into the country. However, flying with other animals, like reptiles or rodents, may be prohibited.

Many European nations will allow flying with your dog or cat in the cabin, but you may be transiting in a country with stricter regulations.

Some countries that only allow pets to fly in the hold include:

  • New Zealand
  • United Arab Emirates
  • All countries within the United Kingdom
  • What Countries in Europe Can My Pet Travel To?

Animal lovers can breathe a sigh of relief, as there are plenty of international dog-friendly and cat-friendly travel destinations in Europe. While it’s vital to do research specific to your final country, as well as any locations along the way if your itinerary includes stopovers, here are some popular countries that welcome pets without the need for quarantine. These are specifically related to dogs and cats.

  • Most EU countries, including Germany, Italy, France, Spain, The Netherlands, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, and Austria.
  • Switzerland

Woman pets her gray cat sitting in patio in Dubrovnik, Croatia

  • Pet-friendly adventures: traveling to Germany with your beloved companion.
  • Italian escapade with your pet: explore the possibilities of travel.
  • Pack your bags and paws: pet travel made easy to France.
  • Wander Spain alongside your pet: unleash memorable journeys.
  • Furry friend included: embark on a journey to the Netherlands with your pet.
  • Experience Belgium together: unforgettable travel with your pet.
  • Tail-wagging travels: navigate Croatia with your faithful pet.
  • Pet-ready for Czechia: search for ultimate pet-friendly flights with your furry friend.
  • From home to Austria: pet-friendly travel options await your journey.
  • Embark on a pet-friendly journey: find flights for your furry friend to explore Switzerland
  • Wings for paws: discover Norway — one of the best pet-friendly countries in Europe
  • Furry companion’s adventure awaits: explore and book pet-friendly flights to Turkey
  • What Airlines Allow Pets In The Cabin Internationally?

Here, we’ve broken down the airlines that allow pets on international flights to travel in the cabin, though this will sometimes change based on the connecting and final destinations, as some countries won’t permit pets to travel in the cabin even if the airline allows it. Animals traveling in the cabin must usually be small and fly in carriers that fit easily under the seat.

As a side note, while the United Kingdom is in Europe, it’s not in the EU and has many different regulations, which you can find here. As such, animals, except service dogs, can only travel in the hold when entering the U.K.

Below, you’ll find some pet-friendly airlines that fly to Europe and what animals they allow in the cabin.

U.S. Airlines:

  • Delta – Dogs, cats, household birds
  • United – Dogs, cats

European Airlines

  • K.L.M – Dogs, cats (within Europe)
  • Lufthansa – Dogs, cats
  • Air France – Dogs, cats

Other International Airlines

  • Air Canada – Dogs, cats
  • Turkish Airlines – Dogs, cats, household birds
  • What Documents Will I Need For Flying With My Pet To Europe?

After you’ve picked your holiday destination and airline, the next thing you’ll want to start thinking about is the documentation you need. In order to comply with the airline and country requirements, you should consider how to obtain a health certificate, if your destination imposes quarantine for animals, and what vaccines your pet needs.

We’ve put together all the must-know information about the documents you’ll need to help you get organized for your flight.

What Are Pet Health Certificates for International Travel?

Many countries have their own particular health certificate requirements, but you may find yourself visiting somewhere that doesn’t require a country-specific document.

If this is the case for you, getting a United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) International Health Certificate from a certified vet if flying from the U.S. is best. This will usually contain relevant information about your pet’s health and your contact details, confirming they’re safe to travel.

Check with your airline to see their health certificate requirements, as some airlines will ask for them to be dated no more than 10 days before the flight.

Are There Any Specific Health Certificates For Pet Travel I Should Use?

Pet owners traveling with their cat or dog to Europe, specifically to an EU country, will need to get an EU animal health certificate issued within 10 days before the animal enters the Union.

It’s helpful to know that non-EU European countries, such as Switzerland, will often accept this document too. However, if you’re traveling to a European country outside the EU, be sure to double-check that the EU health certificate is accepted.

What Do I Need To Know About International Health Certificates For Dogs?

Health certificates can vary depending on the animal, but let’s take a look at what an example of this document for a dog would contain and how to get one for your pup. You’ll need to make an appointment with a certified vet authorized to provide health certificates. It’s best to aim for a visit less than 10 days before your trip, but your destination and airline may have different time frames, so it’s a good idea to find out their requirements first.

When you’ve booked your dog in for their check-up, the vet will examine your pooch and determine whether it’s safe for them to travel. Dogs that are older, prone to certain illnesses, or in poor health may not be given the go-ahead from the vet, so it’s essential to be aware of this when planning your vacation.

If the vet is happy to let your pet travel, they’ll issue a health certificate filled with important information about your dog. This usually includes your dog’s age, breed, size, microchip number, and vaccination history, stating that your pet is free from disease and in good health. Completed health certificates will also include your contact details.

Do I Need Any Other Pet Travel Documents?

The most commonly required travel documents for your pet include:

  • International health certificate
  • Vaccination records (especially for rabies)
  • Microchip (15-digit numbers are preferred in Europe)

While you may have three separate documents, all of this information is often contained in the health certificate, helping you cut down on the paperwork you’ll need to organize.

When animals travel on a separate plane to their owner, there are generally some additional documents to fill out, such as a written declaration that you’ve permitted another person or a transporting company to fly with your pet.

Passenger flying with their pet dog in the cabin. A pet carrier is placed under the seat

  • Will My Pet Need To Be Quarantined In Europe?

Quarantine will surely be a concern for any pet owner, but there’s no need to worry about this when visiting Europe. Provided you have supplied the necessary documents, you’ll be able to reunite with your pet an hour or two after landing. After you’ve collected any checked baggage, you can go to an assigned section in the arrivals area and pick up your companion.

While this is true for dogs, cats, and ferrets, you’ll need to research country-specific regulations if flying with reptiles, birds, rabbits, and aquatic animals.

  • What Vaccinations Will My Pet Need to Enter Europe?

There are a few vaccines and treatments that your pet must have before traveling to Europe, such as:

  • Rabies: Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be fully vaccinated against rabies and have received their first shot at least 21 days before entering the EU.
  • Rabies test: Dogs, cats, and ferrets entering the EU from certain countries must also undergo a blood test to check for rabies immunity. This includes European countries like Albania, Montenegro, and Serbia.
  • Tapeworms: Dogs traveling to Ireland, Northern Ireland, Finland, Norway, or Malta must have anti-Echinococcus treatment before departure.
  • Avian Influenza H5 and H7: Needed for birds entering the EU and administered no more than 60 days before travel.

What Is A Pet Passport, And Do I Need One For My Pet?

You’ll often hear the terms ‘pet passport’ and ‘animal health certificate’ used interchangeably, but they can mean different things.

Technically speaking, pet travel certificates are issued for single trips or within short periods. In the EU, these last for four months, provided you don’t leave and re-enter the Union. These permit pets to travel for a given number of days, but owners will need to get a new certificate for any additional trips once they’ve expired.

Pet passports are commonly used and issued in EU countries. Unlike health certificates, they don’t expire as long as they’re kept up-to-date with vaccine requirements. Though they’re accepted when flying between EU countries and other European destinations, like Switzerland, Iceland, and Monaco, they can’t be obtained or issued in the U.S. or U.K.

As a result, anyone flying from the United States or the United Kingdom to most European countries will require an animal health certificate rather than a pet passport.

Is It Possible To Get An International Pet Passport?

At present, there’s yet to be a standard international pet passport that’s widely accepted in most countries. EU pet passports are great to use if you reside in a member country or other select European countries, but these can’t be used elsewhere.

For this reason, animal health certificates continue to be the norm for most destinations.

  • What Will I Need For Flying To Europe With A Pet From The U.S.?

To help you prepare for your visit to Europe from the U.S. with your pet, here’s a list of things you’ll need:

  • A valid health certificate that states your pet is up-to-date with rabies vaccinations, fit to travel, and in good health.
  • Once a certified vet completes the certificate, it must be sent to the USDA for approval and returned to you.
  • Details of your pet’s microchip information (10-digit numbers are standard in the U.S. and are not accepted in the EU. You’ll need to get a 15-digit ISO-compatible microchip).

On a side note, if you need to change your pet’s microchip from a 10-digit to a 15-digit chip, it’s vital to know any vaccinations your pet received with the original chip will be invalid. This can be frustrating if you’re coming from the U.S., but knowing in advance can save you from taking your pet for additional rabies shots before getting a new microchip.

  • What Should I Know Before Flying With Pets To France?

Although most regulations and requirements are standard amongst EU countries, there can be some variances between countries. Here are some things to be aware of when traveling to France with your pet :

  • Pets can enter France in the cabin, as checked baggage or cargo.
  • If arriving from a non-EU country by air, pets can only enter at Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Marseille, Nice, or Reunion airports.
  • Rabies vaccinations can’t be administered before puppies or kittens are 12 weeks old, meaning traveling to France with young animals may not be feasible.
  • Mastiffs and pit bulls are prohibited. Other breeds, like rottweilers and Staffordshire terriers, can only enter France as guard dogs.
  • Birds must be quarantined for 30 days before or 30 days after flying to France.
  • Fly with your beloved pets to Paris .
  • Book your pet-friendly adventure: explore Lyon getaways .
  • Search for pet-friendly flights: Toulouse awaits .
  • Discover new horizons: fly with pets to Marseille .
  • Explore Nice: find flights to journey with your pet .
  • What Should I Know Before Flying With Pets To Italy?

Another hugely popular European destination, Italy, has some of its own requirements for animals entering the country, such as:

  • Pets like dogs, cats, and ferrets from non-EU countries can only enter Italy by air at Rome, Turin, Milan, Pisa, or Bologna airports.
  • Pet birds can only fly to Rome or Milan Malpensa airports .
  • Rottweilers are not allowed to travel to Italy .
  • You can take up to five animals in total to Italy, including exotic pets like common reptiles and small turtles, as well as rodents and rabbits.
  • Unleash adventures: book pet-friendly flights to Rome.
  • Your furry friends deserve the best: fly to Turin with them .
  • Unlock exploration: fly with your pets to Milan.
  • Wings for wanderlust: discover pet-friendly flights to Pisa.
  • Pets included: search for flights and explore Bologna together

 Ginger cat sitting on a packed suitcase ready for a flight

  • What Do I Need To Know About Flying With A Cat To Europe?

Much like flying with small dogs, taking a flight with a cat is considerably more straightforward than traveling with large dogs on planes. Unless you happened to be flying with an exceptionally huge cat, that is!

Cats are often some of the easiest pets to travel with, as you can take them into the cabin with you as long as your airline and destination permits it. In Europe, only a handful of countries prohibit pets in the cabin, such as those in the U.K.

Flying with your cat internationally should be pretty uncomplicated as long as you have completed all the necessary checks and paperwork.

  • What Are The Rules For Flying With Emotional Support Pets To Europe?

Emotional support animals are subjected to the same rules as other pets for the most part. This means that, unlike trained service dogs, when you’re flying with therapy dogs, there’s no guarantee that they can travel in the cabin with you.

Your animal must meet the airline’s size, breed, and temperament requirements to fly in the cabin. As we’ve previously mentioned, some airlines and countries require all animals to travel in the hold, with the exception of service dogs.

Therefore, you must be aware of the criteria you must meet for your pet to travel with you. If an airline allows pets in the cabin, usually the animals must:

  • Be a well-behaved cat or dog.
  • Weigh less than 7-9kg.
  • Comfortably fit in a soft or hard-sided carrier within specific dimensions that can be placed under the seat.

However, it’s worth getting in touch with different airlines, as some of them may have looser rules for flying with a large dog.

  • What Are Some Other Tips For Flying With Pets To Europe?

Take a look at some of our other top tips to make your travel experience to Europe with your pet as smooth as possible!

  • Start planning your trip earlier than you usually would. Giving yourself extra time will allow you to compare different airlines, read up on safety requirements, stock up on travel accessories, and plan when to take your pet for their health certificate check-up.
  • Research the requirements of the European country you’re traveling to, particularly if it’s a country that’s not an EU member.
  • Ensure your airline permits pets to fly to the country you’re visiting. For example, flying with dogs with JetBlue might be possible in the U.S., but they don’t allow animals on European routes, even if the final and connecting destinations welcome pets.
  • Check that your destination is pet-friendly, as you could find that you can’t bring your furry friend into many businesses and spaces in some countries. Fortunately, most European countries are welcoming to pets, but it’s always best to do plenty of research.
  • Book your flight early if possible, as many airlines cap the number of animals traveling per plane. Other airlines only allow you to add a pet to your booking within 14 days before departure.
  • Try to stick to direct flights whenever possible. Connecting flights can make flying more stressful for you and your pet. The additional documentation, different protocols, new rules, and added fees associated with layovers can make connecting flights a logistical nightmare. Your pet will likely be faced with more unfamiliar faces and surroundings, too, so direct flights are best to minimize your four-legged friend’s anxieties.
  • Begin crate training your pet a few months in advance, mainly if they’re not used to spending hours at a time in kennels or carriers. Make the crate a comfortable space where they feel inclined and safe to enter.

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

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Travel With A Dog

Travelling in Europe With a Dog, Travel Tips & Advice

Travelling with the dog in the UK and throughout Europe is a new thing for me over the last few years. Overall, I have found it to be a positive experience that creates more opportunities than it stops.

Two Backpacks and a dog Interrail

I acknowledge all dogs are different so, travel will be unique for each pet-owner combination. This post is about my travel experiences in the UK and mainland Europe.

My Travelling Dog, Henry a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel

Henry , my dog, is a King Charles Cavalier Spaniel and is bigger than most of his breed, from my observations. He has been with me and his puppy mummy since very young. We ensured as soon as he could go out; he experienced things and people.

Pirate Henry

Personality wise, he is fearless and social with people and other dogs. This is because of the number of trips out when young. Henry can be obedient but easily distracted by people and flies, treats snap him back into focus though.

As long as he has company, he can settle anywhere from trains to tents. If tired, he can sleep anywhere, including hotels and hostels.

Countries In Europe We Have Visited With a Dog

Dog Mackerel Fishing

My dog has now visited 14 countries, 16 if you count England, Wales and Scotland as separate countries. Countries in Europe visited so far are;

  • United Kingdom
  • Netherlands
  • Czech Republic
  • Vatican City

Advantages of Travelling in Europe With A Dog

Dog Friendly Hotel in Ptuj

There are many fun aspects of travelling to Europe with the dog, this includes.

  • No fees for kennels. For a three-week trip, the kennel fees are roughly £400.
  • Being more flexible with return dates because you don’t need to pick up the dog on a set date.
  • Travel with a dog is a fantastic conversation starter as he is cute.
  • Planning activities and attractions cut down on waste and doing things for the sake of it.
  • Morning walkies in a new city help see parts you would normally miss.
  • Fun, creating memories.
  • Great themed photos for social media.
  • Travelling differently, many people assume you are local with a dog in tow.

Disadvantages of Travel with a Pet

Advantages and disadvantages are subjective, so one mans meat is another poison. These are things I consider an inconvenience.

  • Extra luggage for the dog, including bed, toys and food.
  • Too many people want to say hi, this can be inconvenient if too frequent an occurrence.
  • Less choice of accommodation to stay at.
  • Finding a vet 3-5 days before returning can be a challenge.
  • Restricted public transport options in some countries of Europe. Many of the big coach companies are dog unfriendly.

Things to take When Travelling With A Dog

Dog Friendly Hotel

  • Food if your pet requires a special diet, I carry a few days in case supply issues.
  • Bed, something familiar to sleep on in an unfamiliar room or on night trains.
  • A bowl for drinking water and food.
  • Water, water to keep hydrated, saves buying bottles out and fill where possible
  • Favourite treats to ensure obedience at key times.
  • Toy to play as usual.
  • Worming treatments if you are travelling for over three months. However, if your puppy is under 6 months, you need to do this more frequently, depending on age.
  • Flea prevention treatment needs administering regularly. It’s best to discuss with your vet before travelling.

EU Pet Passport & Animal Heath Certificate

Currently, until Brexit, my dog has an EU Pet Passport for travelling anywhere in the EU. It has requirements like a tapeworm treatment before re-entering the UK. Other than that, it runs seamlessly on the big adventure on Interrail.

UK residents have new rules and procedures to follow for travelling with a dog. You can find the latest government guidance for all destinations on this site . Luckily Henry is now Romanian, thus he got a new pet passport for his travelling. It’s a shame it’s not so straightforward for humans.

Dog-Friendly Attractions in UK & Europe

Dog friendly Kenilworth Castle

Choosing attractions to visit is a minefield as a solo traveller, as they rarely let pets inside. Some dogs that can settle in a strange room easily, popping out for a few hours, are easy. However, this means being selective and only visiting the preferred options. Luckily, gardens and architecture fascinate me more than anything. This can mostly be done with canine company.

Dogs at Pratter

Travelling in a pair is great with a dog. Both parties can go inside their preferred attractions while the other has a beer or chill outside. This is my usual modus operandi. It works well with travellers with different interests. For example, my fiance loves coffee and relaxing. I love exploring and visiting castles and religious sites.

Travelling With a Dog in the UK & Europe

Dog Keleti Train Station

Some of the various ways you can travel through the UK and Europe with a pet.

Train Travel

Train travel in UK is fantastic with a dog. There are no fees if you travel with a pet and no muzzle rules. The only downside is the Eurostar, which connects the dog friendly UK trains with the pet friendly French trains, is not pet friendly.

Muzzle on the dog - Train From Prague to Dresden

Travelling by train with small and medium sided pets is pretty simple, some countries are fine. In Germany, they require a muzzle on trains. They rarely enforced this, but it is best to have one though and train them to use it. In some countries like France, they prefer pet carriers. This put me off as carrying a carrier for an adventure is extra weight.

Dogs on Trains Croatia

Dogs usually have to sit on the floor and not take up seats other passengers could use. In some places like the Netherlands, if another passenger complains or is uncomfortable, they require you to move to another carriage. Before travelling it is best to enquire about costs for pets, many railway firms don’t charge others do half fare or child fair.

Dog Friendly Night Train

If travelling on a night train with a dog, you must book a whole compartment or couchette. Not usually a problem booking a 2 person compartment if arranging in advance. My Night train from Vienna to Alba Iulia was a fun trip. We learned lessons when travelling from Deva back to Vienna .

Ferry With a Dog

Ferry Kennel Deck

Ferries are tricky with dogs as foot passengers from the UK, except for the Harwich to Hook of Holland Ferry. The Hook of Holland Ferry has kennels on board for multiple dogs of any size and it the best way into Europe with pets. The ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe in France requires pets to be inside a carrier to travel.

Ferry to Islands

Croatian ferries have a confusing set of rules and conflicting information available. The ticket office in Rijeka solved our hesitation, and we enjoyed travelling with henry on the Jadrolinija ferry .

Car Travel With Pets

Some pets are great in a car, others are not so. It usually requires training to make the dog a good passenger. There are many options to keep dogs safe in cars, including carriers and doggy seatbelts.

Plane Travel

A few airlines allow dogs to fly some as carry on if tiny or as cargo. I have read many posts on this and decided it’s not for me. Being sedated, the heat, and being treated as luggage puts me off this method. The kennels or a dog-sitter would be my choice when flying.

Finding Dog Friendly Accommodation in Europe

To find pet friendly accommodation in Europe, my preferred method is to use the pets allowed feature on Booking.com. Other sites like Airbnb have similar options. Most listed on Booking.com usually state their rules, including checking before booking. Some accommodation require an extra payment if staying with dogs.

Apartments & Flats

Dog Friendly Accommodation in Rijeka

My preferred option for dog friendly accommodation while travelling is to book an entire apartment. Usually the cheapest dog friendly one that is available. The upsides are that there is more room for Henry. Fewer people around to disturb his sleep while we are out sightseeing. Apartments have many more bonuses for humans, including kitchens to help the budget and a lounge area to spread out.

Staying at Hostels With a Dog

Baroque Hostel Dog friendly

I have stayed with the dog at a few hostels in Europe. We usually find these using the pet-friendly search on Booking.com. Many have rules such as an extra cleaning charge or not allowed in the room alone. Most hostels require travelling pets to be in non-shared rooms, so dormitories are out. Chilli hostel in Prague was great and Hostel Bratislava.

Camping with a Dog

Dog Camping

Camping with Henry has been pretty easy for me. He likes to stay close and nothing phases him. Keeping him warm is easy: he likes to make his own bed, often not the one I carry. On chilly nights he cuddles up, or I put some clothes over him.

Dog Friendly Campsite Forest of Dean

Dog-Friendly campsites are pretty easy to find on Google maps or pitch up. All have micro clauses to abide by such as lead rules. My experience at Great Kellow farm was typical of a basic campsite.

Staying at Hotels With Pets

Dog-Friendly Hotel in Stratford upon Avon

Quite a few hotels in the UK and Europe accept canine guests, many charges extra for cleaning after the stay. It is best to check rules and extra charges before booking. You can find an excellent selection of searching sites like hotels.com.

Eating out With a Dog in Europe

Toro Grill dog Friendly

Many eateries allow pets to eat out, others only on outside seating, but you will never go hungry. Every city I have visited with Henry, it has been easy to find bars and restaurants we can visit with him. I have built a few guides to help fellow travellers find the best restaurants or bars in various cities.

Connolly's Wines - Dog Friendly

Shopping can be a pain. Dogs tend not to be welcome in food stores in most countries. Getting supplies is best done by leaving a pet in your room and getting all you need for the day. Trusting strangers outside the show with your best friend is not a wise thing to do, especially with pedigree breeds. We find that most pet shops are welcoming of dogs.

Related Travel With Dog Posts

Dog Theatre

Content on here and other blogs relating to travelling in Europe with dogs.

  • A camping trip to Great Kellow farm near Looe in Cornwall.
  • Staying at Tencreek Holiday Park with Henry.
  • A city break in Worcester .
  • Visiting Stratford-upon-Avon with the dog.
  • There are many great dog walks in Hampshire, including the New Forest, Old Winchester Hill and Farley Mount Country Park.
  • Is Cornwall dog friendly?
  • A fantastic dog walk in Oxford, a city with nice pet friendly pubs.
  • Dog Friendly aspects of Croatia
  • Dog Friendly places in Budapest
  • Is Vienna dog friendly?
  • Visiting France with a dog
  • Travel to Italy with a dog
  • Brasov is a pet friendly city in Romania
  • The Cumbria city of Carlisle is a great destination for pet travel .
  • My guide to the dog friendly parts of London , the capital of the UK.
  • The pretty Leamington Spa is rather dog friendly .
  • Warwick is a fantastic town to visit with pets.
  • One of the best places to visit in the UK that’s good for holidays with pets is the Forest of Dean.

5 thoughts on “Travelling in Europe With a Dog, Travel Tips & Advice”

Great idea for an article! Dog adventures are great. I love including Woofer on my days out and do so whenever possible. I know he really enjoys it and it’s as much his trip out as it is mine. Recently I took a few days off and brought him along. We had two walks in different areas of London and a day at the pub – although this is not his favourite. He hates to be made to sit still but settles in the end. I’m careful to take him on plenty of walks while at the pub as I know it’s what he likes to do.

I always bring him along on UK holidays too! I have to say, I’ve never considered taking him abroad. I always considered it would be difficult but it seems it isn’t! However, during these Brexit/covid times I imagine that things are a lot more complicated.

If you don’t travel via train then how do you go on holiday with your dog? I don’t drive so would have to rely on trains. I guess that would mean using the channel tunnel. During these covid/brexit times this would be problematic, I imagine, since unless I am visiting France it means multiple countries covid/breixt rules for each I am moving through.

Anyway, loved reading this. Thanks for writing it! Hope you and dog have many more fantastic adventures together 🙂

Hi! I enjoyed your article very much and what a beautiful dog! We have two smaller dogs and have traveled quite a bit with them but only for road trips. Maybe we will get braver and expand those trips to include more modes of travel.

We also have a post about tips for traveling with pets that I would love to add to your list if you feel it fits: https://ramblingrussells.com/long-distance-travel-with-pets/

Thank you so much!

Henry seems like a brilliant travel companion! And the perfect temperament for adventuring. I’m wondering, have you ever missed out on a really great “bucket list” sight or attraction because dogs weren’t allowed?

He is fantastic, nothing gets missed fortunately as there are 2 of us and he settles in accomodation after a long walkies.

I really enjoyed reading your article about travelling with a dog. You shared some great tips and insights that I found very helpful and informative. I especially liked the part where you talked about how to prepare your dog for different modes of transportation, such as trains, planes, and cars. I have a dog myself and I always worry about how he will cope with the stress and anxiety of traveling. Your advice on how to make him comfortable and calm was very useful.

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How road-tripping with dogs in Europe helped us appreciate life

Nov 19, 2020 • 11 min read

Sundae and Toby near the Millau Viaduct in southern France

Sundae and Toby near the Millau Viaduct in southern France © Annie Groves

A lot of us have dreamed of taking off on a campervan trip with road-tripping supplies, our partner and our dogs. Before the pandemic turned the travel world upside down, Annie Groves did just that, so we asked her how it went and what we might be able to learn from her experience.

More of her adventures with her partner and her dogs can be found at her blog, A Contento Adventure .

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Annie, and I live in Greater Manchester , England, with my partner, Phil, who I took the trip with. We both ordinarily work in health care for the National Health Service. I like to dabble in photography, roller skating and love to travel explore new surroundings. I enjoy writing and would love to turn our trip into a children’s book eventually.

A close-up of two dogs on leashes in Venice, Italy

How about your dogs?

We have Toby, a long-haired Jack Russel. We got him from some local kennels around five years ago where he had been abandoned by his previous owners. We don't really know much about his past, not even his age (we think he is around 7 or 8 now). He's hyperactive but also very intelligent. His favorite thing is playing ball – or anything actually, he demands lots of attention!

That brings us to Sundae who is a chihuahua cross. She’s almost 3 years old now and we’ve had her since she was a young pup. She’s the sweetest girl, very gentle, loves to sleep and comfort, and everybody that meets her just falls in love with her. She loves nothing more than a cuddle.

They are the best of friends and chase each other around the house like Tom and Jerry a lot of the time!

Interested in Vanlife? Check out The Vanlife Companion.

A smiling woman sits on steps with two dogs beside her

What made you decide to bring your dogs along?

When we started planning the trip, the thought of not taking the dogs never crossed our minds. We knew we would be gone for a while, and they are our family, so it seemed like the only possible option. It gave us the opportunity to let them escape the boring routine of life (like us), of being locked up in the house every day while we went to work as they waited for us to come home. They got to see and explore a whole new place every single day. How amazing is that?

What was the route you took? How long did it take?

The trip took around four months in total.  

Our only plan when we were starting out was that we wanted to reach Italy and hoped to start a life there. We never planned how we would get there except that we would begin in England and explore France on the way by simply heading down to southern France and driving across to Italy.

An aerial view of a campervan driving through a dry landscape

The drive from Calais to Marseille was a mix of the beautiful French countryside and small French towns.

The southern coast, although very beautiful lacked the simplicity we had found and loved during the trip the first week or so. The cities such as Marseille were so busy, the parking was difficult to find in such a big vehicle. So we found ourselves getting frustrated which wasn’t what we wanted from the trip. 

So, we decided to begin traveling up again through France and head to the Alps, both for cooler weather for the dogs and to find the open country and nature that we craved.

We soon found that we loved being in places where the dogs could swim and explore off their leads. We never initially planned to travel to the Alps, but this ended up being the most memorable part of our trip. We have learned that a lot of the things that come around unexpectedly are the things that make the most amazing memories.

We have learned that a lot of the things that come around unexpectedly are the things that make the most amazing memories.

The trip was an unplanned adventure with stumbled steps into amazing sights and places. We never sought out tourist spots because in fairness when we did encounter them, during the trip, we didn't enjoy them. Mostly because these places are usually busy and somehow it does not feel as magical as finding something unexpected and experiencing it on our own.

We went to busy beaches and could not wait to leave, often having to keep the dogs on their leads to stop them from interacting with people who clearly aren’t dog lovers. But then we found the most beautiful, quiet little swimming spots by lakes where the four of us were able to relax, swim and experience it together. The things we planned or researched never lived up to our expectations anyway.

calanques.jpg

Our next plan was to cross the border into Switzerland before realizing our European insurance didn’t cover us to travel through Switzerland. The van was already showing signs of wear, so we decided after spending a few hours near Lake Geneva that we should travel back into France and begin our route to Croatia and Italy (which ended up being a good decision later in the trip).

When we eventually arrived in Italy, the trip completely changed. It was harder to find camping spots. The small towns lacked the lust and magic we knew Italy for, and although the towns we loved Italy for (Venice, Lake Garda) were as magical as ever, we knew we'd never afford to live in these places. Our dream of living in Italy wasn’t yet meant to be.

... And so, we decided to leave Italy and cross the border to Croatia via Slovenia . In one day, we visited those three countries – Italy, Slovenia and ending in Croatia. It's illegal to wild camp in Croatia but luckily we were visiting in the low season, meaning all the campsites we stayed at were half the price. We found some beautiful spots. We mostly traveled and camped on the coast, allowing us to see some amazing sunsets and listen to the waves of the ocean. 

The drives along the coast were like no other we have seen, with beautiful mountainous landscape on one side and turquoise blue waters on the other. The roads were also exceptionally quiet too. We weren’t sure if this was because of the time of year, but I imagine it can get very busy in the summer months. We got to enjoy the beaches and the landscapes alone, and the dogs got to happily roam free.

A campervan is stopped on the side of a coastal road

We decided from Croatia to start heading back home so we doubled back through Slovenia, then through Austria and finally through Germany where our journey came to a big end when the van finally gave up and broke down.

How did you pass the time on long drives?

Because of the dogs we kept our drives short. We tried not to drive for more than 3 hours at a time and searched for places to stay along our route that would fit into this. This provided us with some amazing stops, and we really got a feel for the countries instead of just visiting all the tourist spots.

What's it like to travel in Europe with dogs?

For the most part it was good. We realized quickly that city life is hard with two dogs and the heat is hard on them. But when we were in the countryside, by a lake or even up a mountain it was a beautiful thing to share it with the dogs.

Two small dogs watch while a woman swims

What was the highlight of your trip?

I learned to appreciate the little things all the more, like lying on top of the van's roof and looking at the stars and meteors shooting across the sky. We're from a busy town, so we never get to see the stars like that. Or swimming in a lake with nobody else around.

In my blog I wrote, "It’s amazing just having those simple moments makes life and our decisions to make this trip worth it. Life on the road is a wonderful thing in that we get to see and experience a whole new place every day. Life is simple. Life is happy. Life is free. Life is peaceful and it is quiet. It is experiences and adventures. Mostly it is appreciating the little things."

We have learned to appreciate the beauty that is in the quiet and realizing the inner peace that nature and being away from the stresses of a busy world gives to us.

Another highlight was Venice. Mostly because I fall in love with the city every time I visit, and this time we had the bonus of sharing it with the dogs. We took a train ride into the city (the dogs' first ever) and walked the beautiful streets. The dogs got so much attention from tourists and locals alike. Because we got the train to the city we didn’t have to worry about parking the van which took a lot of stress off.

Phil holding Sundae and Toby in Venice.jpg

The French Alps were a highlight too. Never before have I been so in awe of the amazing sights of a snow-topped mountain. It felt like I had stepped into an oil painting or the set of The Sound of Music . I felt like I was in some kind of made-up land where everything is perfect, and all is peaceful, safe and quiet. The natural, untouched landscapes seemed to go on forever.

What was the lowlight of your trip?

Breaking down in Germany . We were driving down the motorway when suddenly the van started to lose power and smoke burst from the exhaust. We immediately pulled over and looked around to find that oil had exploded from the exhaust and the entire outside of the van was covered in it.

We opened the bonnet and panic hit us; the whole engine was covered in oil too. It was a total mess. We took a minute and tried not to panic. We were in Germany with a broken-down van, on the motorway with two dogs and roaring traffic passing by. We called our insurance company who sent out a tow truck. They took us to a garage in Bonn , Germany.

The next two weeks in Bonn were not a fun time during our trip (it’s a whole other story) but eventually our insurance company funded a taxi from Bonn to Calais. Then we got a “dog taxi” who took us via the channel tunnel back to UK soil. The van was then later repatriated back to the UK and to us a few months later. 

It was a crazy end to an amazing trip it was also a memorable one! We embraced every part of the adventure (good and bad).

What are your recommendations for travelers with dogs?

First of all, just do it! Try to keep your journeys short. Avoid big cities. Embrace the adventure. Check out all the natural landscapes our world has to offer and let them enjoy swimming under the warm sun. They are animals. They aren’t meant to be locked up inside all day while we go to work. They should be given the opportunity to sniff out new smells and explore too!

A small dog looks at some cows behind a fence

What are the downsides to traveling in a van?

  • Breaking down and constant repairs!
  • Living in a small space.
  • When it's cold, it’s really cold, and when it’s hot it’s really hot!
  • If you’re rough camping, you need to constantly find water to fill your tanks for cooking and washing.

The daily life was not what we expected. We thought we would have the time to fill our days relaxing, reading or playing games. It isn’t like that. By the time we have finished driving for the day, explored the area we are in, showered, cleaned, filled the water tanks, bought food, cooked, done laundry, done the van's maintenance and planned the next day's journey – the four of us are well and truly ready to sleep!

A night photo of a campervan with a dog peaking out the window

If you could have changed anything about your trip, what would it be?

Actually nothing. It was an adventure and every experience both the good and bad gave us memories and stories. We can’t predict what’s going to happen. Of course, we’d have preferred if the van hadn’t have broken down but if we knew that was going to happen, we probably wouldn’t have taken the trip. Embrace every part of the adventure.

Do you have any upcoming travel plans?

We will always seek new adventures and amazing places in the world. We have recently had a baby boy, named Ollie, who we plan to share all these adventures with him (and not forgetting the dogs of course) as soon as possible!

You might also like:

The coziest UK camping and glamping sites to stay at this winter He launched the #vanlife frenzy - now he's swapped it for an off-grid cabin How to make sense of Europe's brand new 'traffic light' travel system

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Train advice from the Man in Seat 61...

The Man in Seat 61

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How to travel into Europe

Taking your dog by train.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, how to take your dog by train.

This gets asked surprisingly often, as it's difficult and expensive to send dogs, cats or other pets by air, and pets find it very stressful alone in the hold of a plane.  So why not take your dog by train or ferry, the civilised and comfortable option?  Unfortunately Eurostar doesn't allow dogs at all , except guide dogs.  But there are alternatives - this page explains the options for civilised & enjoyable train & ferry travel between the UK and European destinations with your dog, cat or other pet.

small bullet point

Microchip, vaccinations, health certificate

Before you start, you'll need to make sure your dog or pet is fitted with a microchip and has an up-to-date rabies vaccination.  Call your vet, they can advise you.

To take a pet from the UK to the EU , see your vet no more than 10 days before you travel for a simple health check and to get a health certificate.  Expect this to cost £180 (yet another a Brexit cost as the UK is no longer a member of the Pet Passport scheme).  The certificate is a 10-page document with more stamps than a 1970s Soviet transit visa which allows you to take your pet into the EU for up to 4 months and to re-enter the UK within 4 months.  You can have more than one pet on the same health certificate.  For certain countries you'll also need a tapeworm treatment, including Ireland, Northern Ireland, Norway, Finland & Malta.

A day or two before you return to the UK , make a vet's appointment.  The vet gives your dog a tapeworm tablet and fills in/stamps the relevant section on the form.  This must be done no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before you enter Great Britain.  Expect this to cost around €40.  This allows you to return to the UK.

For full details on how to take a pet abroad, see www.gov.uk/guidance/pet-travel-to-europe-after-brexit .

For full details on how to bring a pet into the UK, see www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife-pets/pets/travel .

Tip:   As you can't take meat or dairy products into the EU, only take enough regular pet food for the Channel crossing.  Take kibble for the onward journey, or stock up with wet food once on the Continent.

Step 1, taking a pet on British trains

This bit is easy.  You can take dogs, cats and other small animals free of charge on all British trains, up to a maximum of two per passenger, as long as they don't endanger or inconvenience passengers or staff.  Dogs must be kept on a lead unless inside a carrier.  Dogs without leads, cats, birds and small animals must be carried in an enclosed cage or pet carrier which must be rigid and not open (to prevent escape) and the animal able to stand and lie down in comfort.  Animals and containers must not occupy seats or a charge may be made.  If you want to use a Caledonian Sleeper to or from Scotland, you'll need to pay a fee, see here .  For full details of dog & pet regulations on British trains see www.nationalrail.co.uk/on-the-train/train-travel-with-pets .  So far, so good.

Step 2, getting across the Channel

Option 1 , london to holland with stena line.

I highly recommend this option for both comfort and simplicity for travel with your dog between the UK and the Continent. It's an ideal route for the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Poland, Czechia, Scandinavia and so on.  It's a round-about route to France, Spain, Switzerland & Italy, but because it's so dog-friendly & inexpensive with really easy integrated train-to-ferry and ferry-to-train connections on either side of the Channel, it's a surprisingly good option even for that.  It may also avoid the need for an overnight stay in Paris because after an overnight sailing to Hoek in a cosy pet-friendly cabin you can catch a morning high-speed train to Paris in time for an afternoon TGV to Barcelona, Switzerland or Milan.

What is Stena Line Rail & Sail?

Stena Line Rail & Sail is an integrated train & ferry service between London & the Netherlands run jointly by Greater Anglia & Stena Line.  One ticket bought at www.stenaline.co.uk covers the whole journey from London or any East Anglia rail station to Hoek van Holland.  It works in both directions, of course, but I'll describe the outward journey from the UK here.

You take the 18:45 train from London Liverpool Street station to Harwich and your dog travels with you on the train.  At Harwich, the train arrives alongside the ferry terminal at around 20:45.  It's totally painless:  You walk straight off the train into the ferry terminal, through passport control (where your dog or cat's pet passport will be checked too) and onto the luxurious Stena Line superferry to Hoek van Holland.

You enter the ship via the passenger gangway onto Deck 7.

If you've booked a pet-friendly cabin , take your dog or cat by lift or stairs up to deck 10, where all the pet-friendly cabins are.  All cabins have a shower, toilet, free WiFi and satellite TV.  Your pet stays with you in the cabin, they are not allowed on the rest of the ship.  If your pet needs a pee or poo, go down the Red Stairs to Deck 7 and press the white button to open a door to a small outside deck area where they can get some air, have a little exercise and do their business.  Inevitably, we refer to this as the poop deck.

If you've booked a kennel , you take your dog up two decks by lift or stairs to the Guest Services desk on Deck 9, which is the main passenger deck with all the bars, lounges & restaurants.  The Guest Services staff will  give you a kennel number in either Kennel A or Kennel B, and give you the 4-digit code to access the kennels.  You then go down one deck on Red Stairs to the kennels on Deck 8.  The kennels have a sink with running water, and they provide blankets for dogs to sleep on, but you should take your own pet's water bowl, food bowl and perhaps their favourite toy.  If your pet needs a pee or poo, go down one deck on the same Red Stairs to Deck 7 and press the white button to open a door to a small outside deck area where they can get some air, have a little exercise and do their business.

After settling your pet into their kennel you can settle in to your own private en suite cabin on Deck 10 or 11 and perhaps have a late dinner in the ship's restaurant (or a nightcap in the bar) on Deck 9.  All cabins have a shower, toilet, free WiFi and satellite TV.  Channel 6 on the TV shows CCTV pictures of the kennels, with close-ups of individual cages.  You can visit your dog at any time during the crossing, although pets are not allowed in the public areas, other than to reach the Customer Services desk on embarkation, or to reach a pet-friendly cabin.

The ferry sails at 23:00 every day and arrives at Hoek van Holland at 08:00 next morning, Dutch time.

You now collect your dog from the kennels, if they need a pee you can take them to that small outside deck area on Deck 7.  You then walk off the ferry into the terminal and out onto the adjacent railway station for the frequent metro train to Schiedam & Rotterdam.  Dogs travel for free on the RET metro trains.  You can use any contactless bank card to travel, just touch in and out at the start and end of the metro journey.

Get off the metro in Schiedam Centrum for a frequent NS (Dutch Railways) InterCity train to Amsterdam, arriving Amsterdam Centraal around 10:25.  In the reverse direction, you'd leave Amsterdam Centraal around 18:46, the ferry sails from Hoek around 22:00 arriving Harwich at 06:30, you reach central London around 08:50.

Or continue to Eendrachtsplein station in Rotterdam city centre, from where it's then an 800m 10-minute walk to Rotterdam Centraal .  Or continue to Rotterdam Alexander for NS trains to Utrecht, Groningen and so on.

You'll find full details, photos & a video guide on the Stena Line Rail & Sail page .

Onward trains to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Eastern Europe etc...

Direct daytime trains link Amsterdam with Germany and Switzerland - in many cases these go via Utrecht, and changing at Utrecht saves going all the way into Amsterdam.  Regular daytime trains link Rotterdam with Brussels and Paris.  All of these trains take dogs, sometimes free, sometimes for a fee, sometimes with a child rate ticket.

Or take the Nightjet sleeper from Amsterdam to Basel, Zurich (change for Italy), Munich, Innsbruck or Vienna (change for Bratislava, Budapest, Zagreb).  Dogs are carried on Nightjets for €29 paid on board the train, as long as you and your party occupy a whole compartment.

You'll find specific timetables for journeys between London and each of the following countries here:  Belgium , Italy , Switzerland , Germany , Austria , Denmark , Hungary , Czech Republic & Poland .

Onward trains to Paris (for France, Switzerland, Spain, Italy)

Take the metro from Hoek van Holland to Eendrachtsplein station in Rotterdam city centre, dogs go free of charge on the metro.  It's then an 800m 10-minute walk to Rotterdam Centraal .

Then take a Eurostar (formerly Thalys) high-speed train from Rotterdam Centraal to Paris Gare du Nord , you'll usually find a 10:58 arriving 13:38.  Dogs can travel in any class on Eurostar (formerly Thalys) trains for €30, you pay the dog fee on board to the conductor.  Book your own ticket from Rotterdam to Paris from €35 online in advance at www.sncf-connect.com (don't bother trying to add a dog to the booking, this doesn't work with Eurostar (formerly Thalys) .

How much does it cost?

You'll find specific fare & booking information for journeys between London and each of the following countries by clicking the relevant link:  Netherlands , Belgium , Italy , Switzerland , Germany , Austria , Denmark , Hungary , Czech Republic & Poland .

...and to take a dog or cat?  

On the train from London to Harwich your dog travels free.  On the ferry, you must reserve a kennel (£21) or pet-friendly cabin during the online booking process.  On the Dutch domestic trains between Hoek van Holland, Rotterdam & Amsterdam or Utrecht, small dogs or cats in containers on your lap travel free of charge, but if you have a larger dog you'll need to buy a dog day-ticket (Dagkaart Hond) for €3, you may be able to buy this at the Guest Services desk on deck 9 on board the Stena Line ferry, otherwise buy it at Schiedam station.  On the international daytime trains from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Germany and Switzerland, cats and small dogs (up to cat sized) in containers go free, larger dogs on leads require a child rate ticket which you can buy online exactly as you would for a child, although unlike kids they don't qualify for the free kid with an adult deal.

How to buy tickets for you & your dog, step 1 :

Book your Rail & Sail ticket from London to Amsterdam online at www.stenaline.co.uk .  You simply need to choose a pet-friendly (animal) cabin at the cabin stage plus the 'pet in cabin' option at the extras stage, or just add a pet in kennel at the extras stage.

How to buy tickets, step 2 :

You now need to book the onward trains to your European destination.  Booking usually opens 90 days ahead, you cannot book before reservations open.  Trains from Amsterdam to Cologne, Frankfurt and Switzerland pass through Utrecht so it's quicker to pick them up there rather than going all the way into Amsterdam, unless you really want to.  For daytime travel from Amsterdam or Utrecht to Germany or Switzerland, book your own ticket at int.bahn.de .  Small (cat-size) dogs & cats in containers go free, if you have a larger larger dog it travels at the child rate (either full-fare flexpreis or discounted sparpreis , it doesn't matter) so simply use int.bahn.de again to buy a child ticket, I recommend buying this as a separate booking to avoid the system automatically offering the 'Child under 15 accompanied by an adult goes free' offer which doesn't apply to dogs!  There are Nightjet sleeper train from Cologne to Innsbruck (for Italy) & Vienna (for all points east) and you can easily book these online at int.bahn.de .  Onward connections from Innsbruck to Italy or Vienna to Budapest can be booked at www.oebb.at .

Inward one-way tickets :  Note that www.stenaline.co.uk can only book one-way or return tickets starting in the UK.  One-way or return tickets starting in the Netherlands must be booked at the Dutch version of the Stena Line website, see the advice here .

Option 2, London to Paris via the Newhaven-Dieppe ferry

See the London/Brighton-Newhaven-Dieppe-Paris timetable on the London-Paris by train & ferry page .  This is the cheapest option if you're heading for France or Spain.

Step 1, take a train to Newhaven Town , see www.nationalrail.co.uk for train times.

Up to 2 dogs of any size go free of charge on British trains, just buy a ticket for yourself.

Step 2, take a DFDS ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe , check ferry times at www.dfds.com .

DFDS allows you to take a cat or dog with you as a foot passenger on these routes.

Only small and medium size dogs are carried, according to DFDS customer services.  That means I'd expect them to have no problem with springer spaniels, but they won't carry great Danes or St Bernards.  You'll have to call them to check whether your labrador will fit their kennels.

If the animal is small and in a carrier, the pet & carrier are handed to staff at check-in and returned to you after the crossing.  Larger dogs have to be booked in one of the ship's 3 kennels, although you can visit the pet in the middle of the crossing by taking an appointment at the reception desk.

To book as a foot passenger with a pet you must call DFDS on 033 058 787 87 if you're in the UK or 0809 541 890 if you're in France or +44 33 058 787 87 from outside either country.  You cannot book online if you're taking a pet!

Step 3, take a French train from Dieppe to Paris St Lazare , book this at www.thetrainline.com . 

Dogs can be taken on all French trains.  Small dogs (under 6Kg) placed in containers not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm pay no more than €5.10 per journey.  Larger dogs muzzled and on leads pay half the 2nd class full fare (even travelling in 1st class).

You can buy a ticket in English at the official French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com (for English scroll to the bottom and change France to Europe (other countries).   You add a dog to the booking by clicking the Add button (English version) or Ajouter (French version) before running the enquiry.

Once in Paris, you can take onward trains to Spain, Portugal or the South of France, as shown in step 3 below.

Option 3, London to Paris by train + taxi with Pet Travel Abroad .

For France, Spain or Portugal you really need to go via Paris.  As Eurostar won't take pets and most Channel Ferries won't let foot passengers take pets either, here is a solution which works well, although it's not cheap:

Step 1, travel from London to Folkestone by train.

You can use any normal British domestic train, dogs go free.  There are hourly or half hourly trains from London Charing Cross, Waterloo East or St Pancras to Folkestone Central, check train times & fares at www.nationalrail.co.uk .

Step 2, book a taxi from Folkestone to Calais via the Eurotunnel shuttle with Pet Travel Abroad .

Book your trip by calling Pet Travel Abroad (part of Folkestone Taxis) on 01303 246 925 (+00 44 1303 246925 from outside the UK), see their pet transport page at pettravelabroad.co.uk .

They can take you and your dog and up to 3 other passengers from Folkestone Central station to Calais Ville or Calais Fréthun stations for around £190 plus the cost of the Eurotunnel ticket, typically £164, but this can vary.

You and your dog remain together in the taxi throughout the journey via the Channel Tunnel car shuttle train.  Pet Travel Abroad (part of Folkestone Taxis) has been highly recommended by several travellers, further feedback is always appreciated.

Of course, a cheaper solution is to get a friend to drive you to Calais and drop you at the station, using a cheap day return ferry ticket - try www.dfds.com or www.poferries.com .  The dog remains inside the car on the ferry car deck.

Step 3, take a French domestic train from Calais Ville or Calais Fréthun to Paris .

To check train times use www.raileurope.com (in £ or €) or www.thetrainline.com (in €).  On French trains, small dogs under 6 Kg placed in containers not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm pay no more than €5.10 per journey.  Larger dogs muzzled and on leads pay half the 2nd class full fare, even travelling in 1st class.  For onward train travel with your dog to Spain, Italy, Portugal and so on, see the following section.

How to plan your trip.

The French trains from Calais to Paris are irregular and less frequent than the British ones, so start by picking a suitable afternoon train from Calais to Paris and work backwards.  Ask Folkestone Taxis what time you need to leave Folkestone Central in their taxi to make this train.  Then work out a train from London (or your local station) to Folkestone Central with plenty of time in hand.

This blog may inspire you: Argo, the dog who took the train to Italy .

Option 4, Hull-Rotterdam or Newcastle-Amsterdam by ferry

You can take a dog as a foot passenger on P&O Ferries Hull-Rotterdam route, with pet-friendly cabins & kennels.  Book online and add a pet plus pet-friendly cabin or kennel at www.poferries.com .  More information about the Hull-Rotterdam ferry route .

You can also take a dog as a foot passenger with pet-friendly cabins on DFDS overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry.  However, you can't book online as a foot passenger with a pet, you need to book by phone, so check sailing times at www.dfds.com then call DFDS on 0871 522 9955.  More information about the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry route .

Back to top

Step 3, taking pets on trains in mainland Europe

Once safely across the Channel, you can take a dog or cat with you on most trains across Europe, sometimes free, sometimes for a small charge, sometimes with a normal child-rate ticket.  In sleeping-cars and couchettes on overnight trains, you can generally only take a dog if your party occupies all the berths in a compartment.

From the UK to France

Eurostar doesn't take dogs and nor do most ferry companies unless you are a motorist.  P&O used to allow foot passengers to take dogs, but have stopped doing in 2012.  However, DFDS will take caged pets if you're a foot passenger on their Newhaven-Dieppe route.

So either travel from London to Newhaven by train, take a DFDS ferry to Dieppe as a foot passenger with your pet in a cage as explained above in option 2 , take a taxi to Dieppe station and a train to Paris, or travel from London to Folkestone by train, pay Folkestone Taxis to shuttle you through the Tunnel from Folkestone Central station to Calais Ville station, then take a train to Paris as explained above in option 3 .

Or you can travel from the UK to Paris via Hoek van Holland using option 1 , it's a round-about route, but so easy, dog-friendly, inexpensive and avoids the need for an overnight stop in Paris as you can sail overnight from Harwich to Hoek van Holland in a cosy pet-friendly cabin, catch the metro to Rotterdam and a morning high-speed train to Paris, then take an afternoon train to almost anywhere in France, even Nice & the south coast.

Pets on trains within France

Dogs can be taken on all French trains.  Small dogs (under 6 Kg) placed in containers not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm pay €7 per journey.  Larger dogs muzzled and on a lead pay €7.

You can buy a ticket in English at the official French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com , you add a dog to your booking by clicking the Add travellers, pets & bicycles button before running the enquiry.

To the Netherlands

From the UK to the Netherlands

I recommend travelling via the Harwich-Hoek van Holland superferry as shown in option 1 above .  Once at Hoek van Holland your Dutch Flyer ticket is valid to any Dutch station, not just Amsterdam.  You can book from London to Amsterdam or any Dutch station online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a kennel during the booking process.

Alternatively, you can also take a dog as a foot passenger with pet-friendly cabins on DFDS overnight Newcastle-Amsterdam ferry, but you must book by phone, check sailing times at www.dfds.com then call 0871 522 9955.  P&O take dogs with foot passengers on their overnight Hull-Rotterdam ferry, see www.poferries.com .

Pets on trains within the Netherlands

On Dutch trains, small dogs or cats in containers placed on your lap travel free of charge, if you have a larger dog on a lead you will need to buy a Dagkaart Hond   (dog day-ticket) for just over €3.  You can check details for this at the Dutch Railways site www.ns.nl .

To Switzerland

From the UK to Switzerland

You should use the train & ferry service from London to Amsterdam via the Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, as explained in option 1 above .  For details of the London to Switzerland journey via this route see the Switzerland page , which has timetables & fares.  You can book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.  You'll then find daytime trains from Utrecht to Basel & Zurich, which you can book online at int.bahn.de . 

Pets on trains within Switzerland

Dogs of any size can travel for half the 2nd class fare on any Swiss train (for longer journeys there's a Dog Day card), small dogs up to 30cm high at the shoulder can travel free if they are in a carrier, you'll find information on the Swiss railways website www.sbb.ch and you can easily buy Swiss tickets at the station when you get there.

From the UK to Italy, via Hoek van Holland

Travel overnight from London to Hoek van Holland using the Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry as explained in option 1 above .

I'd then suggest travelling from Amsterdam to Munich by daytime trains, then overnight again from Munich to Venice on the excellent Nightjet sleeper train.  You'll find full details of these trains and how to book them in the via Harwich section of the London to Italy page .

Dogs travel on the German-run trains between Amsterdam, Cologne & Munich under the same arrangements as for trains within Germany explained in the To Germany section below .

Dogs are carried on the Nightjet sleeper from Cologne to Innsbruck or Vienna for €29, as long as you and your party occupy a whole compartment.  You don't need to book the dog, you just pay the extra €29 to the staff on board the train.

First book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.

Then book Amsterdam-Munich followed by Munich-Venice using www.thetrainline.com .  Then buy a separate 2nd class child ticket for your dog from Amsterdam to Munich as explained in the To Germany section below .

Then travel onwards from Venice to other Italian cities.  See the Pets on trains within Italy section below.

Alternatively, you can take daytime trains from Utrecht to Basel or Zurich, book these online at int.bahn.de .  Stay overnight in Basel or Zurich.  Then take a Zurich to Milan EuroCity train, which you can book online at www.sbb.ch .  Dogs under 30cm high at the shoulder in a carrier travel free on this EuroCity train and on onward trains within Italy.  Dogs over 30cm high and not in a carrier must have a ticket, usually charged at half the 2nd class fare, which you can buy at the station in Zurich for about £35.

From the UK to Italy, via Paris

Step 1, Eurostar doesn't take dogs, so travel from London to Paris via Folkestone/Newhaven & Paris using option 2 or option 3 above, both involving ferry or EuroTunnel to France then domestic French train to Paris.  You may need to stay in Paris overnight.  Or use option 1 via Hoek van Holland, it's a round-about route, but so easy, dog-friendly, inexpensive and avoids the need for an overnight stop in Paris.

Step 2, you can then take one of the three daily Paris-Turin-Milan TGV trains in 1st or 2nd class with any size of dog muzzled and on a lead for €20, or a small dog/cat in a pet carrier not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm for €7.  You can book yourself and your dog from Paris to Milan at www.sncf-connect.com , look for the Add Travellers, animals, bicycles button and add a dog on a lead or in a carrier before running the enquiry.

Step 3, take an onward train from Milan or Turin to anywhere in Italy, see the Pets on trains within Italy section below.

Dogs are also carried on Trenitalia's competing Paris-Milan Frecciarossa , dogs under 5 Kg go free, dogs 5-50 Kg €30, all dogs must travel in Standard or Business class Allegro cars.  See the London to Italy page for details of times, prices and how to buy tickets.  The £10 fee for taking a dog on the Paris-Milan TGV must be paid by phone, it cannot be booked online.

Pets on trains within Italy

Dogs and pets are carried on most Trenitalia trains, free in a carrier (maximum size 70cm x 30cm x 50cm) or at half the 2nd class fare if on a lead and muzzled, for full details to www.trenitalia.com and look under Services for Transport of pets . 

You'll need to carry the dog's pet passport or health certificate, and yes, you will need to use a muzzle if your dog isn't inside a carrier.  You aren't allowed to take dogs on regional trains between 07:00 & 09:00 weekdays.  You aren't allowed to take a dog in Premium or Executive classes on Frecciarossa high-speed trains .  You can only take a dog in sleepers or couchettes if your party occupies the whole compartment.

From the UK to Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Valencia, Alicante...

Step 2, you can then take one of the twice-daily Paris-Barcelona TGV trains with any size of dog muzzled and on a lead on for €20, or a small dog/cat in a pet carrier not exceeding 45cm x 30cm x 25cm for €7.  More information about the Paris-Barcelona TGV journey .

You can buy a ticket for yourself and your dog from Paris to Barcelona at www.sncf-connect.com , look for the Add Travellers, animals, bicycles button and add a dog on a lead or in a carrier before running the enquiry.

Step 3 if your dog is under 10 Kg, you can then travel from Barcelona direct to Madrid, Malaga, Valencia or Alicante, see the Pets on trains within Spain section below.

Step 3 if your dog is 10-40 Kg, you can travel from Barcelona to Madrid on certain AVE trains, then from Madrid to Malaga, Valencia or Alicante also on certain trains only, see the Pets on trains within Spain section below.

From the UK to San Sebastian

Step 1, Eurostar doesn't take dogs, so travel from London to Paris via Folkestone/Newhaven & Paris using option 2 or option 3 above, both involving ferry or EuroTunnel to France then domestic French train to Paris.  Or use option 1 via Hoek van Holland, it's a round-about route, but so easy, dog-friendly, inexpensive and avoids the need for an overnight stop in Paris.

Step 2, you can then take one of the regular TGVs from Paris Montparnasse to Hendaye on the Spanish border, a stone's throw from San Sebastian.  These also take dogs of any size muzzled and on a lead for €20, or a small dog/cat in a pet carrier for €7. 

You can buy a ticket for yourself and your dog from Paris to Hendaye at www.sncf-connect.com , look for the Add Travellers, animals, bicycles button and add a dog on a lead or in a carrier before running the enquiry.

Step 3, the half-hourly trains from Hendaye to San Sebastian run by Euskotren take dogs of any size, muzzled and on a lead, or in a pet carrier, buy that ticket when you get to Hendaye.  More information about the Paris-San Sebastian journey .

Pets on trains within Spain

Dogs under 10 Kg in pet carriers (maximum size 60cm x 35cm x 35cm) can be taken on most Renfe long distance trains either free or for a small fee, see www.renfe.com/es/en/viajar/informacion-util/mascotas (please let me know if that link stops working).

In general, larger dogs are not allowed at all on Spanish medium & long-distance trains .  I gather this is a cultural thing, as large dogs are generally regarded as working animals (for example, guard dogs) not pets in Spain.  Disappointingly, that not only goes for national operator Renfe, but for open-access competitors Ouigo and Iryo , too.

However, as from June 2023, dogs up to 40 Kg are allowed on certain Barcelona-Madrid, Madrid-Malaga, Madrid-Alicante & Madrid-Valencia AVE trains, for a fee, muzzled, with a 40-minute check-in and some forms to complete.  See www.renfe.com/es/en/viajar/informacion-util/mascotas (please let me know if that link stops working).  Dogs up to 40 Kg are only allowed 2 or 3 designated trains per day on each of those routes, there's a list of trains linked from that page.  Feedback would be appreciated!

More information about train travel in Spain .  Buy Spanish train tickets with dog added at www.renfe.com .

To Portugal

From the UK to Portugal

Eurostar doesn't carry dogs, so first travel from London to Paris using either option 2 or option 3 above.  You'll then need to stay overnight in Paris. Then travel from Paris to Lisbon as shown on the London to Portugal page .

They key issue is that dogs over 10 Kg aren't carried on trains beyond Madrid.

From the UK to Germany

Step 1, first travel from London to Amsterdam via the overnight Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, see option 1 above .

Step 2, check train times & buy tickets from Amsterdam Centraal to anywhere in Germany at int.bahn.de .  On the German-run international IC & ICE trains between Amsterdam and Cologne, Frankfurt, Hannover & Berlin, the same arrangements apply as for German domestic travel explained below.

Alternatively, the overnight European Sleeper between Rotterdam/Amsterdam & Berlin takes dogs for free if you and your party occupy a whole couchette or sleeper compartment, see the European Sleeper page for more information .

Pets on trains within Germany & on international trains between Amsterdam & Germany

Small dogs & cats in containers go free.  Larger dogs pay the child price.

You can buy tickets for you and your dog at int.bahn.de .  Click the From field to open the details panel, click on Passengers, bicycles , click on Add , click on More passenger types and add a dog to the booking.

Dogs not in carriers must be on a lead and (in theory at least) muzzled.  In practice you'll seldom see dogs muzzled).  Dogs classed as 'dangerous breeds' aren't carried on trains in Germany.

To Austria , central & eastern Europe

From the UK to Austria & central Europe

I recommend travelling from London to Amsterdam via the overnight Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, see option 1 above .  For details of a journey from London to various countries via this route, click the relevant destination link:  Austria , Hungary , Czech Republic , Poland .

For Austria

Step 1, book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.

Step 2, book a late afternoon train from Amsterdam Centraal to Cologne Hbf at int.bahn.de .  On trains between Amsterdam and Cologne, small dogs and cats in containers go free, larger dogs pay the child rate, you can buy child tickets for your dog online at int.bahn.de , but do this as a separate booking from your own ticket to avoid the 'child under 15 accompanied by an adult goes free' offer which doesn't apply to dogs!  Note that dogs classed as 'dangerous' breeds aren't carried on trains in Germany. 

Step 3, then use www.oebb.at to book the Nightjet sleeper from Cologne Hbf to Munich Hbf , Innsbruck or Vienna Hbf .  Change in Munich for Salzburg.  Dogs are carried on the Nightjet sleeper from Cologne to Innsbruck or Vienna for €29 paid on board the train, as long as you and your party occupy a whole compartment.

Pets on trains within Austria

Small dogs (meaning cat-size) or cats in containers go free, larger dogs require a child ticket, which can be booked online at www.oebb.at .

For Hungary

Travel to Vienna as above.  On onward trains from Vienna to Budapest, small dogs (meaning cat-size) or cats in containers go free, larger dogs require a child ticket, which can be booked online at www.oebb.at .

Dogs aren't allowed in MAV (Hungarian Railways) sleeping-cars or couchette cars at all, which rules out the Munich-Budapest and Zurich-Budapest sleeper trains.

To Denmark , Sweden, Norway

From the UK to Scandinavia

I recommend travelling from London to Amsterdam via the overnight Harwich-Hoek van Holland ferry, see option 1 above .  For details of a journey from London to various countries via this route, click the relevant destination link:  Denmark , Sweden , Norway , Finland .

Step 1, you can book the London-Amsterdam part of the journey online at www.stenaline.co.uk , adding a reserved kennel during the booking process.

Step 2, check train times & buy tickets from Amsterdam Centraal to Copenhagen at int.bahn.de .  An overnight stop in Hamburg may be necessary.

On the German-run international trains between Amsterdam, Hamburg & Copenhagen, small dogs and cats in containers go free, larger dogs pay the child rate.  You can buy child tickets for a larger dog online at int.bahn.de , although do this as a separate booking from your own ticket to avoid the child under 15 accompanied by an adult goes free offer which doesn't apply to dogs.  Note that dogs classed as 'dangerous' breeds aren't carried on trains in Germany.

Step 3, dogs can go on the Copenhagen-Stockholm X2000 trains , but you can't take a pet in 1st class and you need to use the special pets allowed section of the train in 2nd class.  You can reserve seats in this section when booking at www.sj.se or call their telesales line.

From the UK to Greece

Step 1, travel from London to Venice via Harwich-Hoek and Munich exactly as shown in the To Italy section above .

For more information

For information on the transport of dogs and other pets in particular countries, search the website of the relevant national train operator.  There is a list of links to each operator's website on the useful links page .

Feedback requested!

Feedback from anyone who takes their dog or cat into Europe by train would be very welcome.

Traveller's reports

Dog owner Wendy Shillam reports :  "We've been taking our dog abroad since the rules changed 9 years ago.  Firstly I agree that its mad that Eurostar doesn't allow dogs, especially as it would be a good earner for them and they need the money!  I wrote to the COE but got no reply.  The most comfortable and quickest way for dogs to cross the channel (though not always the cheapest) is by car with Eurotunnel .  They just stay in the car with you and there is no bother.  Once, we then left our car at the Calais 'parkway' station, but on returning we saw that quite a few cars - not ours thank goodness - had been broken into.  It is a very desolate spot and no security as far as I can see.  But it is free parking.  Once across the channel be careful which train you get from Calais - some especially on Sundays are really slow.  We also have taken the motorail train from Düsseldorf, it's not too far and then you can get a car-carrying overnight train from Düsseldorf to Italy, the south of France or Austria .  Dogs are accepted on these German motorail trains in the sleeper cabins and we have never had a problem. Our dog Astrid, a nine year old Mini Schnauzer, has lasted 17 hours on a train with no ill effects - overnight she just settles down to sleep, generally taking up most of my bunk!  The steward will tell you if there are longer stops which allows you to give your dog a 'comfort' walk.  The irony is that if we could travel on Eurostar we would never dream of taking our car with us at all!  On Spanish trains dogs should be muzzled - the guard did let us get away with it, but if Astrid had been a bigger dog there might have been trouble.  Also beware if you plan to travel with your dog by bus in Spain.  They insist that the dog goes in a casket (which you have to bring) in the hold underneath the seats, which I suspect on a hot day is tantamount to animal cruelty!  Astrid has been most comfortable and spoilt in France, Italy, Belgium and Sweden.  Also remember that if you are going to the South dogs need to be protected against a nasty bug called lishmania which can cause a chronic disease with no cure - but drugs can control it.  So always check with a  vet who knows about foreign travel well before you go."

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Days to Come

Travelling Without a Passport

man walking on pathway with his dog

Backpacking in Europe With Your Dog

travelling in europe with dogs

For avid travellers who are also dog owners, bringing your beloved pup with you on your adventures has undoubtedly crossed your mind. Travelling with your dog can mean sharing some of the most meaningful experiences of your life with your pet, as well as having peace of mind knowing that they’re being taken care of while by your side.

You’ll also be putting their needs before your own, which will show you a different approach to travel that isn’t just centred around your own experience but about sharing an adventure with your most loyal friend.

travelling in europe with dogs

Europe is an incredibly dog-friendly continent that’s perfect for a country-hopping trip with your intrepid pup. There, animals mostly have the same freedom as humans to move through European Union borders without needing extra documentation, which limits the hassle.

While backpacking in Europe with your dog is a rewarding experience, there’s a lot to prepare and consider. If you’re willing to pull out all the stops for an adventure with your furry friend, read on to find out what you’ll need to make it happen.

See Also: Pet-Friendly Travel Options: Your Complete Guide

What to consider before you go

Is your dog suited for a long period of travel.

Travelling can be hard on your dog, so it’s important to consider the toll that your trip will take on your pup. Depending on their temperament and lifestyle, your dog might not be suited to all the different climates and unfamiliar settings outside of their routine that come with travel. Only consider bringing them along if you’re confident they will be able to handle those changing conditions.

Where you’ll be flying to and departing from

With the proper paperwork, flying into Europe is not complicated, but take note of your dog’s breed. Some breeds that are considered “dangerous” by certain countries will face restrictions or be denied entry.

While it’s unfortunate that such classifications exist, you’ll want to be prepared so that you don’t run into a situation where you need to turn back upon arrival. Upon arriving back home after your trip, there may be things to consider as well. Some countries, like Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, require a period of quarantine upon arrival to make sure your dog hasn’t contracted any contagious illnesses abroad.

travelling in europe with dogs

How to prepare for backpacking with your dog in Europe

Prepare your paperwork.

There is a ton of preparation that you’ll need to do if you want to travel with your dog. Depending on the length of your stay in the EU, you’ll need to prepare an EU health certificate or an EU pet passport that documents your pet’s health records.

Pay attention to timing, as some requirements come with tight timelines that may affect the validity of your paperwork, and make sure that your documents are the right ones for the country of landing in the EU.

Visit the vet

Along with a general check at your dog’s veterinarian to ensure that your pet is in good health to travel, you should also coordinate with your vet to make sure your furry friend is microchipped and has all the vaccinations and treatments it needs for entry into Europe. Some EU countries, like Finland, Norway, and Malta, require a worming treatment to be done by a vet before entry.

woman petting dog in front of an old building

Plan your itinerary

Travelling with your dog means less flexibility than you would otherwise have. Once you’ve got all the paperwork done, you’ll need to carefully plan your itinerary to ensure that your accommodations are pet-friendly.

You might also want to take note of whether your dog’s preferred type of food can be purchased nearby, and whether there are options available to you if you run into medical emergencies abroad. Many museums and tourist attractions in even the most dog-friendly cities won’t allow dogs, so take that into account when planning your trips.

Finally, when booking your flight, research each airline’s pet policies to see whether your pup will be able to fly with you in the cabin or if they’ll be required to fly in the hold.

See Also: The 29 Most Pet-Friendly Beaches, Ranked

What to pack

When it comes to packing for a trip with your dog, there’s a lot to think about, too! There’s a long list of things that will make your dog more comfortable on the road, and it’s just as important to pack for their needs as it is for your own – if not more.

Bringing a harness, leash, and carrier are a must, as well as a collar with detailed contact information in the case of any emergencies. Depending on your dog’s breed and temperament, you might want to bring a muzzle as well, as some places might require it.

Pack some outfits for your dog to keep it warm in case of wet or cold weather, and a small towel and grooming essentials to freshen them up after long days of exploring. Bring a good amount of your dog’s preferred food to help them adjust and prevent them from getting an upset stomach.

Having some of your dog’s favourite things, like bowls and toys, will help comfort them and make things feel more familiar. And while plastic bags and poop bags are probably readily available in Europe, dog owners know that carrying a few extra will always come in handy.

How to fly with a dog

This is one of the trickiest parts of travelling with your pet, and it’s incredibly important to do your research here. Consider the airline that you’re flying with, and inquire about their track records and policies regarding pets.

Book a direct flight to make sure your travel time is as short as possible without transfers. When it comes to flying, having your dog with you in the cabin is ideal, but depending on the airline’s requirements and your dog’s size, they will need to be transported in the cargo or the hold.

man walking on pathway nearby sea with a dog

While it’s important to remember that many animals are transported this way every day without any issues, having them fly on their own can be anxiety-inducing for you and hard for your pet. If your dog needs to be flown in the hold or the cargo, feed them at least a few hours before the flight so that they will have time to relieve themselves before the flight.

In the weeks leading up to the flight, train your pet in a cargo crate and make sure your pet will be comfortable being alone inside for the duration of the flight. Never sedate your pet before a flight, and if your dog is a brachycephalic breed, it might best to avoid flying if they’re not allowed in the cabin, as these snub-nosed breeds have trouble breathing in high altitudes.

See Also: The 20 Most Pet-Friendly International Airlines Ranked

Where to go in Europe

Most of Europe loves dogs, and will happily welcome your furry friend. Germany , France, and Italy are three of the most dog-friendly countries in Europe, with a great selection of accommodation and the option of bringing your dog with you in most restaurants, stores, and public transportation.

Go for a walk in one of Berlin’s many parks, most of which welcome dogs, or you can even visit the famous archaeological site of Pompeii with your pup in tow.

Austria , Belgium, Prague, Latvia and the Netherlands are also quite dog-friendly, charging small fees for public transportation and allowing them in most public spaces. You’ll love exploring the Keukenhof Gardens or Prague’s Old Town with your furry friend, and enjoying a meal on a sunlit patio in Bruges or Vienna.

While still dog-friendly, you’ll find more of a challenge in Ireland and Spain , with varying attitudes towards dog visitors and a limited amount of accommodation and public spaces that will allow your dog to enter.

While travelling with your dog requires preparation and planning, it can be an incredibly worthwhile experience. Where in Europe will you take your furry friend?

travelling in europe with dogs

Melanie Cheng

Melanie is a Toronto-based writer and editor who loves experiencing new things in new places. In between adventures, you can find her with her nose in a book, re-watching episodes of Friends, or on the lookout for her next favourite brunch spot.

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Travelling with pets on Eurostar

Everything you need to know about bringing your pet on board our trains between Belgium, France, the Netherlands and Germany.

Can I take my pet on Eurostar?

Taking your seat.

At Eurostar, we always want to make sure that everyone enjoys their journey. Please check that the passengers seated around you are happy with the presence of your pet. If anyone is a little nervous, the Train Manager will happily find you an alternative seat.

Does my pet need a ticket?

On our trains between Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, small domestic animals weighing less than 6kg travel free of charge – provided they travel in a carrier (max. 45 x 30 x 25 cm).

Larger dogs that don’t fit in a carrier will need a ticket with our specific “dog” fare (single price of €30). Please speak to the Train Manager to purchase a ticket for your four-legged friend. Your dog must sit on your lap or on the floor of the coach and be leashed and muzzled.

Guide dogs and assistance dogs and cats always travel free of charge on Eurostar.

Animals that are not permitted on Eurostar

As much as we love animals, we can’t welcome all of them on board. Dangerous dogs, wild animals and birds (parrots, canaries etc.) are not allowed on our trains.

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Travelnuity

Rules to Travel With a Dog Between European Countries

One of the best things about travelling around Europe with a dog is that you don’t need to visit a vet and fill in paperwork to travel between many countries, unlike in other parts of the world. This is thanks to many of the countries in Europe belonging to the European Union (or EU for short) and its single set of rules making it easy for pets to travel around the EU and a handful of other countries.

But what preparations are required to travel with your dog in between EU countries? Which border crossings does this apply to? And what about the rules for travelling with your dog between other countries? I take you through all the rules for dog travel between European countries.

Dog travel between European countries

Travelling Between EU and Related Countries

When travelling between countries within the EU and a number of “related” countries, this page sets out the requirements for your dog. Essentially, your dog needs to be microchipped, have been vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days ago, and have a pet passport . For a handful of countries, there is also the requirement for the dog to have a worming treatment.

What Countries are in the European Union?

Currently, there are 27 countries in Europe that are part of the EU. These countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden.

Additionally, since the United Kingdom transitioned out of the EU following Brexit, Northern Ireland is still counted as part of the EU for the purposes of pet transport.

What are the “Related” Countries?

The EU counts a small number of other countries and territories as applying rules equivalent to the EU for the transportation of pets. The same rules apply for dogs crossing from these countries into EU countries. The pet passport can be either an EU pet passport or a pet passport issued by one of these countries.

These countries are also referred to as “Part 1 listed” countries and are listed on this page  in the top table. These seven countries and three territories are: Andorra, Faroe Islands, Gibraltar, Greenland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Switzerland and Vatican City State. Additionally, Norway is included.

Jungfraujoch in Switzerland with Swiss flag

Note however that more onerous conditions may apply for transporting pets back into some of these countries! This is the case for both the Faroe Islands and Iceland. The Faroe Islands only allows pets to be imported if you intend to stay for longer than three months, while Iceland requires a 14-day quarantine period and pets can only be imported from a short list of approved countries.

What Countries Require a Worming Treatment?

For a handful of the EU and related countries, a worming treatment is required to be administered to your dog by a vet, before arriving in the country. This is also referred to as the “treatment against Echinococcus multilocularis “. It needs to be administered between 24 hours and five days before arrival and recorded in your pet’s passport.

This is required for dogs travelling to: Finland, Ireland, Malta, Northern Ireland and Norway and the United Kingdom. Note that this treatment is not required for dogs travelling in between these countries, such as between Northern Ireland and Ireland.

Dog friendly ferries to Ireland

Do Pets from Other Countries Require a Pet Passport?

If you travelled from outside of the EU with your pet , you would have required an animal health certificate or “Annex IV” to enter the EU. If you initially entered one of the related countries, you would have likely used the same or a similar form.

When you arrive in Europe, you should try and get this stamped by customs. Even if it isn’t stamped, you should hold onto it during your travels around Europe. This certificate is then valid for travel within the EU for four months after your entry and should be shown in place of an EU pet passport.

Alternatively, you may be interested in getting an EU pet passport for your pet . The pet passport makes it easier to return to Europe with your pet. (You don’t need to have an Annex IV completed, unless your pet has been vaccinated outside of the EU.)

If you need to have a worming treatment done by a vet, it’s easiest to get an EU pet passport at the same time. (This is what I did before travelling to the UK with my dog, prior to Brexit.)

Are Pet Passports Really Checked?

Just like human passports are often not checked when travelling in between the Schengen countries, pet passports are generally not checked when travelling within the EU and these related countries, at least when not flying. Although there is always the expectation that your pet does have a passport and it may be checked!

France EU Pet Passport

Other than when checking into flights, our pet passport was only checked when we travelled to Malta, plus when we travelled to the United Kingdom prior to Brexit. Malta is one of the countries that is quite stringent with the importation of pets, and I recommend reading my specific guidelines for how to take your dog to Malta .

I’ve also heard of someone being turned down for boarding a ferry to Corsica from mainland France, as their dog’s rabies vaccine wasn’t up-to-date.

On the other hand, despite also needing a worming treatment for dogs travelling to Finland and Norway, our dog’s passport wasn’t checked on either occasion, both at a road crossing and when boarding a ferry.

Any Additional Requirements for These Countries?

Generally, I’ve assumed that there are no additional requirements for pets travelling into any of the EU countries. However, this is not always the case.

For instance, when travelling to Malta you also need to advise the country in advance of your pet’s arrival, so that they can be checked by a vet on arrival. As Malta doesn’t have any land borders, you’ll likely be reminded of this if booking a flight or ferry trip to the country with your dog. I’ve covered the whole process in my guide to travelling to Malta with a dog .

Pet travel to Malta

Sweden also has the requirement to advise the country of your dog’s arrival, but only at the customs declaration point or through an online form, with no need to do it in advance. I didn’t actually find out about this until I was leaving the country, and luckily didn’t suffer any consequences. I cover this fully in my guide to travelling in Sweden with a dog .

Typical Farmhouse Sweden

I’m not aware of any other EU country that has any additional requirement, but I recommend double-checking the individual country websites listed here , if in doubt. When it comes to related countries, as I mentioned above both the Faroe Islands and Iceland have quite strict entry procedures.

What About Puppies?

There are some exceptions to the rabies vaccination requirements for young animals that are too young to be vaccinated. I don’t recommend travelling with animals so young for a holiday, but if they are crossing the border to go to their new home refer to the EU regulations .

Travelling into the EU from Other European Countries

If you are travelling into an EU country or one of the related countries from another European country, the rules are more complex and similar to travelling to Europe with your dog from elsewhere in the world .

Depending on what country you are travelling from, a rabies titre test may or may not be required. Additionally, an animal health certificate or “Annex IV” will be required if you don’t have a pet passport from the EU or a related country.

Which Countries Require a Rabies Titre Test?

If you are travelling into the EU from these European countries, a rabies titre test is required: Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine.

A rabies titre test is not required for “Part 2 listed” countries, as listed on the bottom table on  this page . These five European countries are included: Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Russia, United Kingdom (including Guernsey, Isle of Man and Jersey).

What are the Requirements of the Rabies Titre Test?

There are a number of rules stipulated by the EU for the administration of a rabies titre test, if your dog requires one to travel to the EU.

The sample for the test needs to be collected by an authorised veterinarian at least 30 days after your dog is vaccinated for rabies. The sample needs to be tested in an EU approved laboratory . Assuming a sufficient level of antibodies are detected (0.5 IU/ml or greater), you then need to wait three months after the sample collection date to enter the EU.

Dog at vet about to have vaccinations

The rabies titre test though remains valid for the life of your pet, as long as they always receive their rabies vaccine booster shot before the previous one expires.

What About Pets from the EU?

If your pet is originally from the EU, it is advisable to get a rabies titre test done before leaving the EU. In this case, there is no waiting period applied. You can immediately travel back to the EU without waiting for three months after the rabies titre test. There is a section in the EU pet passport for recording your dog’s rabies titre test.

Rabies Titre Test Record in EU Pet Passport

As noted above, the rabies titre test remains valid for the life of your pet, as long as they receive their next rabies booster shot before the previous one expires. If this doesn’t occur, your pet will require another rabies titre test (hence the room for recording multiple tests).

Is the Paperwork Really Checked?

During my travels around Europe, I didn’t actually make it to any of these countries. At first I wasn’t sure of the requirements for dogs travelling in between the countries (and didn’t realise that my rabies titre test from Australia was valid), and then I later ran out of time. So, I don’t have personal experience at travelling between these countries and the EU.

However, I have been informed by other travellers, that paperwork is not always checked when travelling from these countries into the EU. This includes travelling from Serbia into Bulgaria. However, it is advisable to always comply with the regulations and expect that paperwork may be checked.

If you go to cross the border and you haven’t had the rabies titre test done for your dog, there is a long waiting period. Especially if your dog is originally from within the EU and could have skipped the waiting period entirely!

What Entry Points are Allowed?

If you are entering an EU country or any of the related countries with your dog, you are required to enter at specific entry points, where your dog’s paperwork can be checked. These are known as “Travellers’ points of entry”, and may include airports, shipping ports and land border crossings.

To view the list of relevant entry points for each country, click here .

Travelling out of the EU to Other European Countries

When travelling from a country in the EU or one of the related countries to other countries in Europe, the list of requirements differs between different countries. You should check the requirements for the individual country.

Often it is sufficient to assume that travelling with your dog’s EU pet passport and an up-to-date rabies vaccine is sufficient, but this is not always the case.

At the moment, I have not yet travelled personally with my dog to these countries or investigated the details of the rules for most countries. As I investigate each country, I will list them here.

A handy initial place to check the rules is PetTravel.com , but always check the relevant government website to double-check your have the latest rules and the full details required.

Importing a Dog to Serbia

The rules to import a dog to Serbia are quite similar to the rules for importing a dog to EU countries.

For dogs being imported to Serbia from EU countries and the related countries, the rules are listed at the top of this page . Your dog needs to be permanently identified (such as by a microchip), vaccinated against rabies, comply with comply with any preventive health measures for other diseases, and be accompanied by either a passport or a health certificate, quite similar to the EU health certificate.

There are also rules listed for both Part 2 listed countries (as per the EU legalisation) and unlisted countries (generally higher risk countries). For unlisted countries, a rabies titre test is also required, performed by an EU approved lab, followed by a waiting period of three months.

Importing a Dog to Albania

The rules to import a dog to Albania are again relatively simple and similar to those for importing a dog to EU countries. The more complicated part is making sure you can re-enter the EU with your dog from Albania!

Your dog needs to have a microchip, be vaccinated against rabies (with 3 year vaccines recognised) and have a bi-lingual health certificate. For more information, see the guide put together on World Wide Walkies , along with plenty more tips about visiting Albania with a dog.

Importing a Dog to Turkey

The rules to import a dog to Turkey are not that clear, with different interpretations on different websites. At a minimum, your dog needs to be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies, at least 30 days in advance.

It is likely the 3-year rabies vaccine isn’t recognised, so make sure you dog has been vaccinated in the last year. Additionally, a rabies titre test may or may not be required. Read my full discussion on the rules for travelling to Turkey with a dog .

Istanbul by night

Is the 3-Year Rabies Vaccine Recognised?

Within the EU countries, the 3-year rabies vaccine is recognised. This means that if your dog receives a 3-year rabies vaccine, your dog does not need a booster shot for another three years. However, there are some countries around the world that only recognise 1-year rabies vaccines, and required your dog to have a booster shot yearly.

The following European countries require a yearly rabies vaccine (according to my investigations): Belarus, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine.

You May Also Like

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  • Is it Possible to Visit Turkey with a Dog?
  • Do I Need a Rabies Titre Test to Travel with My Dog?

About the Author

Photo of Shandos & Schnitzel

Shandos Cleaver is the founder of Travelnuity: Dog-Friendly Travel. She has travelled extensively with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, including to 33 countries across Europe, every state and territory of Australia except Tasmania, and 10 of the United States. She’s passionate about providing inspiration and information to others wanting to travel with their dogs, whether close to home or internationally.

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Rules for Travelling With a Dog Between European Countries

17 thoughts on “Rules to Travel With a Dog Between European Countries”

Wonderful article and you explained so much. Thank you so much!! We are traveling in Europe for 8 months (from the US) and visiting different locations. Couple quick questions and hope you may know the answer. We have the Pet Certificate and haven’t got a EU Passport, based on your article.. this pretty much takes the place of it. If we decide to get a EU Pet Passport, did this need to be applied for within so many days of our arrival in France or can we apply 3 months after arriving in France and nothing additional is required? We may go to Prague for the day when we are staying in Austria.. I noticed they need approval of your EU Pet Passport? Is this the case? I thought our Pet Certificate was good for travel in an country within the EU? Last question.. We plan on traveling for 8 months and our health certificate is good for four.. How do we get another one for the 2nd 4 months? Do we get that from a vet in the EU or will we have to go back to the US after 4 months. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you

The certificate you have is good for travel for 4 months, including Prague. The best thing to do before this period is up, or before you next cross country borders after 4 months, is to get a pet passport. France is being problematic about giving pet passports to pets who aren’t registered there, since the UK left the EU and many English have tried to get French pet passports. But most other countries should be fine. Some vets won’t transfer across the rabies vaccine, and may insist on a booster shot, that they will then record. Hope this is clear!

Brilliant article. Helps with so much but I think I’m just confusing myself. We’re going to Austria next year with our dog. She’ll get a rabies vaccination and an Animal Health Certificate before going. We’re using the tunnel and she’ll be checked in Calais. Our final destination is Austria. Does she have to get checked at their border too? Or not as it’s all the EU?

No, she only needs to get checked at the Tunnel when first entering the EU. Just keep the certificate handy in case you’re asked later when crossing borders, but it is extremely unlikely.

Great article! Can’t thank you enough! Just one thing that I couldn’t really find an answer anywhere. My pet is in the EU and has an EU passport. We will travel to Turkey and back. Do you know if she needs an EU health certificate also?

I’ve covered the requirements for Turkey here: https://www.travelnuity.com/dog-friendly-turkey/ . For returning to the EU, your dog will not need an EU pet health certificate as long as they have an up-to-date EU pet passport, including rabies vaccine and in the case of Turkey a rabies titre test result.

Great article! Thank you. Just wondering if you have travelled under one year, and have had Rabies vaccinations and titre test prior to leaving Australia, what are the quarantine requirements etc needed to return to Australia with your dog?

Meaning travelled through the EU & UK only.

We had a rabies vaccine and titre test before leaving Australia. Until recently, the titre test was valid for up to 2 years. So, when we returned to Australia after about 22 months, our dog’s titre test was still valid and he quarantined for 10 days. With the recent changes, I believe the titre test is only valid for 1 year, so we would have had to get a new titre test (or return in under a year). I also believe the records from your dog leaving Australia counts as proof of identity. We travelled throughout the UK, EU and USA.

Great article to read, thankyou. Can I ask, i live in Bulgaria, will be taking a road trip to the uk and back to Bulgaria, we will be transiting through serbia into hungry, and then on the way back through hungry, serbia, back into Bulgaria, will I need to get a titre test done ? My understanding is i don’t, because I’m not stopping in serbia. Thankyou 🤞

I recommend getting a titre test done before leaving Hungary. This is technically required for crossing the border from Serbia into Hungary or other EU countries – I haven’t heard about it not being required if you’re not stopping. I have heard that it is rarely checked, but I would get it for my own peace of mind.

The potential headache is that if you get it done in Serbia, there is then a long waiting period before it is valid to enter the EU, but there is no waiting period if you have it done before leaving the EU.

I brought my dogs from Montenegro to the UK in May 2023 and they have Montenegrin passports. We are now planning our trip to Montenegro and are wondering if their passports are valid for travel? We understand that they would still need the health certificate to leave the UK but would their rabies vaccination (given in Montenegro) and titre test (approved by a Serbian lab) be valid?

I haven’t heard whether Montenegrin passports are valid in place of EU pet passports. I know the Swiss ones are, but I don’t know whether this extends to Montenegrin ones. With the EU pet health certificate used to exit the UK, this is then valid for 4 months travel within the EU, including crossing borders.

Hello Shandos, Thanks for the article. I want to ask about crossing the border between Croatia and Hungary (I will be going by train – the dog is allowed on trains in both countries so I know that is ok although I think going actually across the border is by bus). My dog has an AHC as we are from the UK and a pet passport issued on a previous trip to Portugal but I am just wondering is it possible just to take a dog across a land border between two EU countries at any border crossing?

Hi Naomi, While I haven’t crossed the border between Croatia and Hungary with my dog, we crossed plenty of borders between other EU countries (and the EU and Switzerland), without any checks at all – either by road or on trains. I know there’s the list of Travellers Entry Points, but I think they’re mainly for entering the EU from non-EU countries, I’ve never heard of being restricted on border crossings by other travellers either. Have a great trip! Shandos

Hello! I’m travelling to Albania from Finland by car with my two chihuahuas. They have EU passports. Do they need titre test done in Finland as well? We’ll travel via Baltia-Poland-Czech-Austria-Slovenia-Bosnia-Montenegro-Albania and same way back. Is there anything else to pay attention?

I recommend having the rabies titre test done before leaving and entered in the EU pet passports. This way there’s no waiting period. Otherwise, if you have it done in Albania, you’d then have a 3 month wait before you could re-enter the EU. This also applies for Montenegro and Serbia.

I haven’t fully reviewed all the requirements for all the non-EU countries. See the links above for Serbia and Albania, but you may want to search for the government pages for Bosnia and Montenegro. Usually though its microchip + rabies vaccine + pet passport/health certificate, sometimes the rabies titre test. I’ve often heard from people road tripping through the Balkans that dog passports are often not checked, but I would always be prepared.

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A cruise ship at the end of the square at San Marco in Venice which is crowded with tourists between the old buildings

Entrance fees, visitor zones and taxes: how Europe’s biggest cities are tackling overtourism

From Seville to Venice to Amsterdam, Europe is learning to improve locals’ lives by curbing tourists’ enthusiasm

O riginally built for the grand Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, Seville’s ­flamboyant neo-Moorish Plaza de España has for nearly a ­century been one of the city’s major ­attractions, an ornate ­showcase for Spanish architecture and ­decorative tiling.

But the several thousand visitors from around the world who throng the plaza every day, on foot or in horse-drawn carriages, may soon have to pay for the privilege, with proceeds from a planned entry fee going towards its upkeep.

“We are planning to close the Plaza de España and charge ­tourists to finance its conservation and ensure its safety,” Seville’s mayor, José Luis Sanz, announced on X last week, posting a video showing missing tiles and damaged facades.

Sanz made clear local ­residents and visitors from Andalucía ­province would not have to cough up to visit the plaza, which served as a backdrop in a Star Wars film, and is used regularly for concerts, fashion shows and theatrical performances.

Many residents objected to the scheme nonetheless – but their ­criticism was mostly that it would be complicated to administer and not very effective. Far better, many locals said, would be a hefty tourism tax on all visitors to Seville.

“Mass tourism,” said one, “is destroying our city.”

It’s a refrain heard in historic ­cities across Europe , from Prague to Barcelona, Athens to Amsterdam. Mass tourism, promoted by cash-hungry councils since the 2008 crash and fuelled by cheap flights and online room rentals, has become a monster.

After plummeting during Covid, tourism numbers are soaring again and set to exceed pre-pandemic ­levels this summer. The number of low-cost airline seats in Europe, which rose 10% annually from 2010 and hit 500m in 2019, could pass 800m in 2024.

A sticker saying “Tourism kills the city” with a skull and crossbones image on a post in Barcelona

Before lockdown, Airbnb, the ­biggest but far from only ­platform for short lets, saw triple-digit growth in some European ­cities. The net result is that the most ­popular city break destinations now annually host 20 or more visitors for each local.

What to do about it, though, is no easy question. Delicate ­balances need to be struck between the much-needed revenues and jobs generated by tourism, and the ­quality of life of residents; between managing tourism and ­discouraging it.

One strategy that Seville – 3 million tourists a year for 700,000 inhabitants – may adopt is to charge for the big attractions. Since January, foreign visitors to Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, which gets about 3.5m ­visits a year, have been paying €25 for the privilege.

Venice is so overrun by visitors it has introduced what amounts to an entrance fee for the entire city, ranging from €3 to €10. Paris has almost trebled its tourist tax rates, from – depending on area and accommodation type – €0.25-€5 to €0.65-€14.95.

A dense crowd of tourists in sunglasses, some in baseball hats, others in vests, stand with the Acropolis in Athens in the background

Other cities are relying on better management – Athens, for example, last summer introduced a time-slot system for visits to the Acropolis, while summer access to Marseille’s Calanques is now regulated through a free reservation scheme.

Some places are launching ­information campaigns aiming to reshape tourist flows. France, where 80% of visits are concentrated in 20% of the country, will this spring roll out a €1m campaign urging domestic and foreign tourists to head more off the beaten track .

From Mont Saint-Michel and the ­seaside resort of Étretat in Normandy to the Atlantic beaches of the south-west and the Riviera, ­peak-season influxes now threaten the environment, locals’ quality of life and the visitor experience, authorities say.

They are also setting up a tourism observatory to accurately measure flows and identify possible overloads. “France is the world’s biggest tourist destination, but we have a serious lack of data to help manage the crowds,” the government said.

Some anti-tourism ­measures, however, turn out to be just rumours. Last summer, the walled Croatian town of Dubrovnik, said to be the most over-visited ­destination in Europe, with 36 ­visitors per resident, was widely reported to have banned wheelie suitcases.

In fact, as part of a Respect the City campaign urging visitors to dress appropriately in the historic centre and avoid climbing on monuments , the town hall had just asked them to carry their bags over cobblestones to reduce the noise level for locals.

The Netherlands

In the capital of the country that coined the term overtoerisme , ­tourist might be a dirty word – but Amsterdam is also increasingly ­desperate for visitors’ cash.

A plan last March to dissuade partying young British men with “stay away” videos warning of fines, hospital and criminal records made headlines worldwide. It’s unclear what effect it had, though, as Amsterdam’s overnight tourist numbers last year hit almost pre-pandemic levels at 9 million – 21% more than in 2022.

A soft-soap Renew your View campaign highlighting positive aspects off the beaten track (rather than sex and drugs) launched in November. Meanwhile the city is expected to expand its stay-away campaign to dissuade nuisance tourists from Germany, France, Spain and Italy after the summer.

A crowd of young people and lots of bicycles outside a cannabis/coffee shop

Since last spring there has been a ban on smoking cannabis in ­public space in the red light district, while bar closures at 2am instead of 4am have reduced street numbers by between 30% and 60%. However, after complaints about safety, sex-worker brothel windows are open until 6am again rather than 3am.

Amsterdam is reducing the number of licensed B&B premises by 30%, has voted to close a city centre cruise terminal and is trialling tougher licensing measures to remove “rogue” tourist businesses such as candy shops suspected of being criminal fronts.

The council says it is monitoring tourist numbers to try to maintain a balance. But multimillion budget shortfalls and a bill of billions to repair crumbling canalsides mean tourism is essential for Amsterdam: this year, the tourist tax rose from 7% to 12.5%, the highest in Europe , with a day tax of €14 a head for visiting cruise ships. Senay Boztas

Spain received 85 million ­tourists in 2023, nearly 2% up on pre-­pandemic 2019 – and in a country where ­tourism generates 13% of GDP, after the economic ­devastation of the Covid years, voices ­calling for curbs on numbers have been ­virtually silenced.

The hospitality business, however, continues to chant the mantra of quality over quantity – nowhere more so than in the Balearic Islands, where a new law is being drafted to crack down on drunk tourists.

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Last year about 15 ­million ­people visited the Balearics (­population 2 million), more than half British and German, with a ­significant percentage coming for what the regional government calls “tourism of excess”: a week-long drinking binge.

The new law to crack down on booze tourism is expected to be in force when the season kicks off at Easter. Under a 2020 law, areas such as Magaluf in Mallorca and Sant Antoni in Ibiza were named as ­trouble spots.

Heavy fines were imposed for “balconing” (leaping into a pool from a balcony), shops were banned from selling alcohol after 9.30pm, and organised pub crawls, beach parties, party boats and two-for-one happy hours outlawed, Local businesses faced fines of up to €600,000.

But after areas such as Magaluf complained of being stigmatised, the new law will focus more on ­individuals. Among the planned measures are deportation for antisocial behaviour and a blacklist of people banned from visiting the islands.

Lawyers warn that this would infringe the EU’s principle of ­freedom of movement, although as the UK is no longer a member, rowdy Brits – who are among the worst offenders – could soon find themselves personae non gratae . Stephen Burgen

After years of talk, Venice is the first major tourist hotspot in Italy to introduce an entrance fee for day trippers. The measure kicks off at the start of peak season on 25 April, and in a first experimental phase will apply only on certain days until 14 July.

The €5 tickets have been bookable online since mid-January. Time will tell whether the controversial initiative works, but with visitor numbers back to pre-pandemic levels – an average of 40,000 day trippers on peak days – and the perennial threat of the fragile lagoon city losing its Unesco heritage status, authorities were forced to act. The city is also poised to limit tourist groups to 25 people from June and to ban the use of loudspeakers because they “generate confusion and disturbances”, Venice council said in late December.

Florence has long suffered from similar overtourism woes and an exodus of residents from its historic centre, prompting the council in October last year to ban new short-term lets in the historic centre from Airbnb and similar platforms.

The city’s mayor, Dario Nardella, said that while the initiative was not a “panacea”, it was a “concrete step” for tackling the issue in a city with a population of about 720,000 that records, on average, more than 16 miilion overnight visitor stays a year.

Elsewhere in Italy, drivers along the Amalfi coast will again be hit by a measure aimed at ­preventing a perpetual jam along the ­winding 35km coastal road described as “a nightmare” by locals. Cars with number plates ending in an odd number are allowed to use the road one day, and those ending in an even number the next.

In Cinque Terre, another Unesco site, local authorities are also pondering how to manage overtourism. “We don’t want fewer tourists, but we want to be able to manage [tourism] in a sustainable way,” Donatella Bianchi, president of Cinque Terre national park, said last month. Angela Giuffrida

In Greece, one of the most ­visited places in the world, soaring ­tourist numbers are not only ­straining infrastructure on island idylls but increasingly stretching ­capacity in Athens, where residents, as ­elsewhere, are up in arms.

Once a stopover for travellers en route to isles, the Greek ­metropolis is now a “must-see” destination in its own right, drawing more than 7 million tourists – an all-time record – in 2023, with Americans and Britons topping arrivals.

To cope with an influx that is only expected to grow when the Asian market rebounds, Greek authorities have announced that crowd control policies – implemented in pilot form at the Acropolis in September – will be expanded to other archaeological sites next month.

A cruise ship docks at Mykonos.

Last year, at the height of the ­season, more than 20,000 ­tourists a day climbed the hill to see the fifth-century BC site. “We got to the point of as many as 23,000 a day,” the Greek culture ­minister, Lina Mendoni, said. “Tourism is ­obviously desirable for the country, for all of us, but we have to ensure overtourism doesn’t harm the monument.”

The visitor zone scheme, in ­operation from 8am to 8pm, aims to ease congestion, with authorities introducing a time-slot system, ­electronic ticketing and fast-lane entry points for organised groups. “It will help ensure the safety of the monument and those who work there, and improve the experience of visitors,” Mendoni said.

Museums will also cap visitor numbers from April.

The spectre of the country enjoying another bumper year of tourism has been met with mounting fears among environmentalists on islands where communities have increasingly struggled with waste management, water scarcity, insufficient public services and illegal construction.

In the face of local disgruntlement the government has been forced to step in. On Santorini, where complaints of ­oversaturation have grown steadily over the years, a berth-allocation system for cruise ships was introduced, with the number of disembarkations in any 24-hour period being limited to 8,000 passengers.

On Mykonos – like Santorini, one of the most popular islands in the Cycladic chain – authorities have clamped down on illicit construction, bulldozing illegally built bars and eateries in prime sites. Helena Smith

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10% of travelers have had their medicines confiscated. Here's how you can avoid it.

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It’s always a good idea for passengers to keep medicine in their carry-on bag, but even that doesn’t guarantee they’ll get to their final destination with all their prescriptions.

According to a January survey of 1,245 Americans from BuzzRx , a prescription discounting service, one in 10 Americans have had their medicine confiscated while traveling, either by the Transportation Security Administration or by border officers abroad.

“Before traveling, it’s imperative to research the destination, especially if traveling internationally, about what their medication requirements are,” Ricardo Rodriguez, a member of BuzzRx’s data team, told USA TODAY. 

Rodriguez explained that some U.S. medications are not approved in other countries, which could make traveling with them complicated. “Discussing the issue with your provider will probably be the best thing to do.”

Medicine is almost equally likely to be confiscated on domestic trips, with 41% of respondents saying it has happened to them, as on international trips, with  44% of respondents saying they’d experienced it.

Planes carry medical kits. Here's why you may not rely on them in an emergency.

For domestic trips, the TSA recommends keeping your prescriptions in their original, marked containers. TSA regulations allow travelers to bring more than 3.4 ounces, the usual limit for liquids, if their medicine comes in liquid form.

Data from BuzzRx shows that one in nine travelers have had to cancel their trip after having medicine confiscated at the airport, and one in six have been able to replace their meds but had to pay full price for the prescription.

More than 50% of the respondents to BuzzRx’s survey said having their medicine increased their stress and anxiety around a trip, and 18% said it forced them to cancel some trip activities.

Anxiety medication was the most common type to be confiscated, followed by sleep aids and over-the-counter remedies.

Rodriguez said travelers should reach out to their doctor to see about getting confiscated medicine replaced, or consider seeking help from a consulate or embassy if the issue happens abroad.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

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Naked? With Strangers? In Europe, It’s How You Relax at the Spa.

Austria and Germany abound with popular resorts called thermen where getting the full sauna experience typically means having to take it all off.

An illustration of many people of many different ages and skin tones wearing no clothes, lounging in a flowery garden and a sauna. Leaves, flowers, books and steam inside the sauna obscure the bathers’ breasts and other private parts, and in the background, there is a bright blue lake and a snow-dappled mountain range.

By Valeriya Safronova

Valeriya Safronova, who is based in Vienna, steamed and soaked at three nude spas while reporting for this article.

Had I ever seen so much bare flesh in one room? Naked in a mixed-gender Austrian sauna, I sat opposite two dozen other nude people on wooden benches. Even after more than a year of living in Europe, as an American, I still felt a little uncomfortable sitting there in nothing but my own skin.

The sauna master came in to warm things up. Tall and lanky, wearing just a towel wrapped around his hips, he wheeled in a cart with several grapefruit-size balls of crushed ice infused with essential oils like black pepper, lime and eucalyptus. After a short speech telling us to leave immediately if we felt dizzy, he placed one of the ice balls onto a tray of hot coals, and it began to sizzle. The smell reminded me of an expensive aromatic candle: a touch sweet, a touch spicy.

He twisted forward, backward and sideways with a large towel clutched between his hands, like a half-dressed matador, moving the air around the room with a singular goal: to get us very, very hot, as part of a sauna ritual called aufguss, German for “infusion.” As I watched, mesmerized, I began to forget my awkwardness — or that I was even naked.

No swimsuits allowed

Austria and Germany abound with spas called thermen — resorts with pools, saunas, lakes, restaurants, bars and treatment areas. Typically, they have a warm mineral spring, and a section where nudity is required. Walk in wearing swim trunks and you’ll get glares and maybe even reprimands.

I had traveled to St. Martins Therme & Lodge in Frauenkirchen, a small town about an hour southeast of Vienna. St. Martins stands next to a serene, shallow lake where guests can swim in the summer or take a cold plunge in winter. At the center of the therme is an atrium with a pool that has indoor and outdoor areas connected via a tunnel, floor-to-ceiling windows that look out onto the lake and several levels of balconies with rows of lounge chairs. The complex has five saunas and a steam room; 11 thermal pools; a treatment area with massages, facials and more; a restaurant; and a cafe. A day pass is 53 euros, or about $58.

After about five minutes of intense sweating in the sauna, we moved on to the second stage of the aufguss: Still naked, we filed outside into a courtyard with a whirlpool and walls covered in vines. My skin was so hot that the normally stinging 40-degree November air felt like a balm. An attendant handed each of us scoops of a salt-and-coconut-oil scrub, which we dutifully rubbed into our skin.

Thoroughly scoured, we returned to our perches inside, where the sauna master whipped out an oversize fan and spent the next six or seven minutes in a hot-air crescendo. After about 15 minutes total, the aufguss ended, and we flooded back out through the door, our bodies bright red and steamy.

Sit back, relax and ‘don’t stare’

The aufguss is just one of the joys of a day at a therme, which might also include a body treatment, a soak in a heated outdoor pool with rotating jets and a fresh schnitzel with an icy glass of wheat beer or sparkling apple juice. For locals in German-speaking countries, the aufguss is a hugely popular pastime, especially in the late fall and winter.

“I really enjoy it after a week of hard work, or when I just need relaxation, or if my body is really tense and my muscles are really stiff,” said Laura Blumenstiel, 29, a psychologist from Freiburg, in the southwestern corner of Germany, who has been a frequent visitor to thermen for about decade.

Typically, a therme complex is divided into two sections: one with several heated indoor and outdoor pools, where bathing suits are required and children are allowed, and a second that usually contains all the saunas, where clothing is verboten.

For some Americans, including me, nudity, especially in a mixed-gender environment, can initially feel extremely uncomfortable. Keon West, a professor of social psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London, explained that cultural standards often affect what level of nudity people find tolerable: In some places, seeing women with their hair uncovered might feel racy, while in others, stripping down on a public beach is perfectly acceptable.

“You might think the Germans are a bit risqué, whereas they think they’re normal, and you’re a bit silly,” Dr. West said.

In countries like the United States, he said, there is a “highly sexualized and puritanical culture, where sex is tightly controlled. Attitudes are generally much more conservative concerning what women do and women’s bodies. In Europe that tends to be less of the case.”

In a number of studies, Dr. West and his team have found that being naked around others can increase self-confidence and life satisfaction. “If you go to a naturist event, you see a lot of normal people, people who aren’t airbrushed and aren’t Beyoncé, and you realize you don’t look bad compared to the average person,” Dr. West said. “And you spend time naked in their company and nothing bad happens. No one says anything bad to you, no one laughs at you.”

Some Americans have found that the discomfort of being nude in the sauna is fleeting and has a worthwhile payoff.

After moving to Graz, Austria, Amy Feineman, 38, a saddle fitter originally from Colorado, made the hourlong drive to Rogner Bad Blumau , a colorful, trippy therme and hotel designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an Austrian architect who believed that “the straight line is the curse of our civilization.” At the therme (day visit, €57), this philosophy translates to wavy floors, circular buildings with uneven ceilings, and bright orange, blue and green mosaics. On their first visit, Ms. Feineman and her husband skipped the nude sauna area, instead exploring the pools and outdoor gardens partly clothed. But on their second visit, they felt brave enough to bare it all in the sauna area.

“It took us most of our first day there to build up the courage to check it out, and then we spent most of our time there,” Ms. Feineman said. “I’m a plus-size person, and in the U.S., I would never wear a bikini in public. Here, I’m happily walking around the nude area.”

Ms. Feineman and her husband are regular guests at Rogner Bad Blumau now. Her main piece of advice for other nervous Americans? “Don’t stare,” she said. “And don’t worry about them judging you either.”

The most basic entry ticket to a therme, with the sauna section included, usually costs from €40 to €65, depending on how fancy or large the complex is. Typically, thermen offer at least three ticket options: a three- or four-hour pass, a day pass, and an evening pass. For example, Therme Erding in Germany, about an hour northeast of Munich, has 24 saunas and a large indoor-outdoor pool in the nude section, and costs €62 for an entire weekend day.

The best way to experience a therme is to relax and settle in for at least a half day. Bring a book. Schedule a massage, a facial or a “soft pack,” a treatment in which a massage therapist rubs a hydrating cream into your skin, then leaves you ensconced in a contraption that’s a cross between a sleeping bag and a warm water bed.

Thermen usually offer packages that encourage daylong retreats. For example, St. Martins, where my aufguss odyssey began, has an option that costs €107 and includes a bathrobe, slippers, unlimited towels and snacks.

Sweltering with a soundtrack

The sauna master was playing pulsing Austrian pop music and handing out bottles of cold, nonalcoholic beer to the 40 or so of us gathered at Alpentherme Gastein , about 90 minutes south of Salzburg (day visit, €45.50), for a party-themed evening aufguss. The balls of crushed ice flashed from the lights shining beneath them, and he encouraged us to chat, a rarity in most saunas.

Aufguss sessions come in all different types. Some sauna masters blast Metallica, while others prefer calming beats. Some dress up as Vikings. But there are two immutable rules: No clothes, and don’t enter an aufguss once it’s started (you can leave anytime).

A few other tips: Always sit on a towel in the dry saunas, claim your spot at an aufguss a few minutes early (the higher you sit, the hotter you’ll be), don’t bring your phone into nude areas, and shower before entering.

I had come a long way toward embracing my naked self by the time I sat down in the party-themed aufguss and started grooving to the music. It required a little bit of letting go: of my fears, of my ego and of my control. Glancing around — without staring, of course — I could see that no one around me looked like Jennifer Lopez or Jeremy Allen White. We were all just beautiful lumps and bumps.

Was anyone judging my body? To be honest, I was way too hot to care.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

Italy :  Spend 36 hours in Florence , seeking out its lesser-known pockets.

Southern California :  Skip the freeways to explore the back roads between Los Angeles and Los Olivos , a 100-mile route that meanders through mountains, canyons and star-studded enclaves.

Mongolia : Some young people, searching for less curated travel experiences, are flocking to the open spaces of this East Asian nation .

Romania :  Timisoara  may be the most noteworthy city you’ve probably never heard of , offering just enough for visitors to fill two or three days.

India: A writer fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Darjeeling, in the Himalayan foothills , taking in the tea gardens and riding a train through the hills.

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

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I’m a travel expert — beware this currency ‘scam’ that can cost you thousands.

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Be careful with this sneaky fee overseas that appears harmless.

Eur-on your own if you fall for this overseas money grab.

A savvy travel expert is warning Americans visiting Europe to watch for a credit card currency exchange “scam” that’s marking up purchases across the pond.

Brian Kelly, the founder of The Points Guy travel site, said Monday that the con known as “dynamic currency conversion,” or DCC for short, “could cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars.”

DCC is when credit card readers overseas offer customers the opportunity to pay in US dollars or the traveler’s native currency as opposed to the local one, commonly Euros.

The catch is that these merchants and vendors almost always include a sneaky fee rather than an equal exchange that is not made entirely clear to travelers making the snap-second decision.

Experts are warning of a conversion rate scam targeting foreigners in Europe.

“Everywhere I went, they gave me the option of paying US dollars,” Kelly said of a recent trip to Europe.

Using the example of a 384 Euro charge he had incurred, Kelly said he was offered the chance to pay $437.

“Instead, I paid on my US credit card, which only charged me $416. … If I would have clicked that ‘yes’ button, I would have lost $20,” explained Kelly, who recommends using XE.com for quick and accurate exchange rates.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Brian Kelly (@briankelly)

“I know so many people who travel who get confused by this,” he added.

Kelly noted that ATMs are also set up to do this with persistence and will even show the American amount in green and the European rate in red.

“They really want to take your money. So be smart, charge in the local currency, and let your bank do the transaction,” he advised.

Kelly isn’t the only one sounding the alarm on this cheap trick, which dates back to the 1990s.

“Fundamentally, it is a scam. The consumer is almost always paying more just to see the price in their home currency,” warns the European Consumer Organisation .

Customers in Europe can often be prompted to pay in American dollars for a sneaky fee.

“Worse, there is no realistic way for the consumer to make an informed decision when presented with the DCC option,” the group continued.

When paying in local currency, the cardholder’s bank will navigate the conversion rate automatically, according to the ECO.

However, when opting for DCC, the merchant’s service provider creates the conversion — likely with the subtle fee included.

Visa also has a warning about DCC ploys for customers abroad.

“If you don’t see the required details or feel pressure to choose one currency over the other, Visa recommends that you decline the currency conversion offer and report the incident to your card issuer,” the company stated.

“Opting to accept or decline DCC will not impact your ability to make purchases or withdraw cash internationally,” Visa shared.

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The best new hotels in europe according to the 2024 world travel awards.

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Bulgari Hotel Rome

The World Travel Awards celebrates the best in the tourism and hospitality industries every year. This year, travel professionals and the public selected the nominations for the best new hotels in Europe that offer the ultimate destinations for travelers.

Numerous nominations came from hotels in Spain and Portugal, while Italy, Greece, and England followed suit. Leading brands nominated include Marriott and Domes Resorts, while there was particular interest in urban properties and historic locations. Emerging tourism destinations are also highlighted this year, including Bad Ischl-Austria, Bansko-Bulgaria, Braga-Portugal, Bydgoszcz-Poland, Huesca La Magia-Spain, Ljubljana-Slovenia, Matera-Italy, Mljet-Croatia, Sines-Portugal, and Tartu-Estona.

Mandrian Hotel Savoy - Zurich

I spoke with Graham Cooke, Founder of the World Travel Awards, who said, "The year is already shaping up as a buoyant one for global travel and tourism. We hosted our Europe Gala Ceremony, the opening leg of our 2024 Grand Tour, in Berlin this week, and the caliber of winners was remarkable. Highlights include the Leading New Hotels category with a wealth of new openings over the past year vying for victory and raising the collective benchmark to even greater heights."

Dover Terrace Suite at 1Hotel Mayfair

Millions Of Google WhatsApp Facebook 2FA Security Codes Leak Online

Samsung just gave millions of galaxy users a reason to buy an iphone, facebook and instagram down here s why, best new hotel, 1 hotel mayfair (england).

A sustainable 181-room and suite retreat in the heart of London's famed Mayfair district, surrounded by numerous Royal Parks and museums. The property displays nearly 4500 sf of green walls, which help produce oxygen, absorb greenhouse gases, and provide energy-saving insulation.

AC Hotel by Marriott Split (Croatia)

This high-rise hotel, with 214 rooms, is located in the city center near the historic Diocletian's Palace. Each guest room provides sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea and the city of Split.

The Bulgari Suite at Bulgari Rome Hotel

Bulgari Hotel Rome (Italy)

This 114-room and suite luxury property is a stunner. It is located at the famed Piazza Augusto Imperatore, only a stone's throw from the famed shopping area Via del Corso. The highlights include the magnificent Bulgari Suite, which looks out over the Mausoleum of Emperor Augustus, the enormous Bulgari spa, Il Ristorante—Niko Romito, and the spectacular rooftop terrace, with sweeping views of Rome.

Domaine Reine Margot Paris Issy-MGallery Collection (France)

This 83-room property was once a royal country retreat of Marguerite de Valois in 1606, a country residence for monks, and a retirement home for the priests of Saint-Sulpice. Nestled on a hillside, this charming luxury hotel offers magnificent views of western Paris. Suite views include the Eiffel Tower and the centuries-old gardens.

Poolside at Domes Noruz Mykonos

Domes Noruz Mykonos (Greece)

This property offers 52 rooms, including 32 suites. It is an adults-only beachfront hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and nightclub. Many of the rooms offer private plunge pools or Jacuzzis.

Dorothea Hotel, Budapest, Autograph Collection (Hungary)

Inspired by the lives of Archduchess Dorothea and Palatine Joseph in 19th-century Budapest, this property is set in three grand buildings and features 216 contemporary rooms and suites. There is a BIBO Andalusian rooftop brasserie by Dani Garcia and an extensive spa with a gym.

Old town view Terrace Suite at JW Marriott Madrid

JW Marriott Hotel Madrid (Spain)

Located in the heart of the city, the historic building offers 139 rooms and suites, most with private balconies. The top floors have sweeping views of Madrid. The culinary options include Michelin-star chef Mario Sandoval at QÚ Restaurant.

Mandarin Oriental Savoy, Zurich (Switzerland)

Founded in 1838, this iconic property is the oldest grand hotel in the city. It is located near the luxury shopping district and promenade leading to Lake Zurich. The 80 modern rooms include 36 of the city's largest suites.

Moxy Tromso (Norway)

This 208-room property is part of the Marriott experiential hotel brand for younger budget-minded travelers. The 11th-floor rooftop terrace offers dramatic views of the city and the fjord.

Munich Marriott Hotel City West (Germany)

Located in the heart of Munich, this property includes 398 guest rooms and suites. The hotel’s M Club is on the 7th floor with its own terrace offering breathtaking views of the Alps.

Paragraph Freedom Square, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Tbilisi (Georgia)

Located in the heart of Tbilisi, this property offers 220 guest rooms with traditional Georgian design and a large three-floor spa.

Raffles London at The OWO

Raffles London at The OWO (England)

This 120-room and suite property is located in the Old War Office building. It was once home to legends such as Sir Winston Churchill and Lord Haldane. Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond, was a regular visitor to the building, and many scenes from the 007 movies have been filmed on location there. The OWO is associated with spies and espionage, as MI5 and MI6 operated here during the 20th century. Located in the heart of Whitehall, the Edwardian Baroque building offers a Guerlain Spa, a large indoor pool, nine restaurants, and three bars.

ROOMS Batumi (Georgia)

Batumi is Georgia's jagged pearl on the Black Sea. The 120 retro-style rooms offer round beds and velvet sofas, acclaimed dining, and a rooftop pool and restaurant on the top floor with views of the Black Sea coast. Later this year the property will open a rooftop pool and restaurant on the top floor.

Rosewood Munich (Germany)

Housed in two restored historic buildings—the former State Bank of Bavaria headquarters and the adjacent Palais Neuhaus-Preysing aristocratic residence, the property offers up 73 rooms and 59 unique luxury suites and houses.

The Hotel Maria (Finland)

The hotel is located near the Presidential Palace and Senate Square. It features 117 guest rooms, including 38 suites. There is also a Maria Spa and multiple culinary options.

The Peninsula London (England)

Located alongside Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, the 190-room property is just steps away from Kensington Gardens and other iconic attractions. Its Michelin-starred restaurant is Brooklands by Claude Bosi , and The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Center is on the lower floor.

Rome EDITION Hotel lobby

The Rome EDITION (Italy)

Located near Via Veneto and Bernini’s Tritone Fountain in Piazza Barberini, the property features 74 guest rooms and 17 modern suites. It also has a signature restaurant with outdoor dining space, a Punch Room Bar, and a Rooftop Terrace overlooking the city. The hotel is housed within a historical building and offers culinary feasts from famed Roman Chef Paola Colucci.

Vila Galé Collection S. Miguel (Portugal)

The hotel, which has 92 rooms, is located in the center of the city on the island of São Miguel, Azores. Located in a historic building that was once the hospital of São Francisco, the property offers an acclaimed restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, Satsanga Spa & Wellness, and an indoor pool.

Vila Galé Collection Tomar-Portugal

Vila Galé Collection Tomar (Portugal)

Located next to the Nabão River, this 100-room property in Tomar consists of two historic and rehabilitated buildings – the old Convent of Santa Iria and the former women's school – connected by a renovated walkway. It has outdoor swimming pools for adults and slides for children, a Satsanga Spa & Wellness with a heated indoor pool.

W Budapest (Hungary)

This property offers 151 stylish guest rooms, including 45 suites. Located on Andrássy Avenue (a UNESCO heritage site), the hotel offers views of the iconic State Opera House. There is a large underground AWAY Spa and Nightingale by Beefbar restaurant.

W Edinburgh (Scotland)

This hotel is the redevelopment of the former 1960s St James Centre and Scottish Office buildings. It has 244 rooms and suites spread across three buildings. The hotel also has a signature restaurant, SUSHISAMBA, a cocktail bar, Joao’s Place, and a rooftop deck with 360-degree views of Edinburgh.

Casa Palacio Don Ramón in Seville

Best New Boutique Hotel

Casa palacio don ramón (spain).

The 23-room hotel is located in the center of Seville, occupying one of the most famous buildings in the city. There is a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, lounge, restaurant, and bar.

COMO Le Montrachet (France)

Located in Burgundy's Côte-d'Or, this property offers 30 rooms nestled within three distinct buildings — the Main Building, the Residence, and Villa Christine. Most rooms face a village square, just a few steps from the legendary 'Le Montrachet' vineyard. There is an acclaimed Restaurant Como Le Montrachet and an outrageous wine collection with over 17,000 bottles in the hotel's caves. A pool and spa are part of future launches.

Domes Novos Santorini (Greece)

This boutique property has only 50 suites and two villas, each with its own private pool. There is a signature Soma Spa, indoor pool, and gym. The signature Makris restaurant is on the rooftop, offering sunset views.

Hotel La Palma, Capri

Hotel La Palma, Capri (Italy)

Located in the heart of Capri, next to the famous Piazzetta, the property originally opened in 1822. The 50-room Hotel La Palma – formerly known as Locanda Pagano – is the oldest hotel on Capri. The place is buzzing with a new Da Gioia beach club, a new bar Bianca on the roof, with great views across the main town, and a basement nightclub.

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin (France)

Just a few minutes from the center of Cognac, this property offers twelve rooms, a gourmet restaurant, a brasserie, a cocktail bar, a terrace, and a garden.

Nobu Hotel San Sebastián (Spain)

Located overlooking La Concha Bay, the hotel offers 17 contemporary Japanese-style guest rooms and suites with wonderful beach views. Of course, there is also an iconic Nobu Restaurant on the property.

Son Bunyola on Mallorca

Son Bunyola (Spain)

Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, this 1,300-acre estate on Mallorca features a 6th-century manor house transformed into an intimate, luxurious 27-bedroom hotel. Rooms range from Tower Suites built in 13th—and 19th-century turrets to suites with private terraces and views. Opening soon is Sa Tafona Restaurant, housed within the historic olive press.

Violino d’Oro (Italy)

Part of three adjoining buildings that formerly housed several hotels, this luxurious new boutique hotel offers up 32 suites, some with outdoor terraces and others with views of the canal. There is also an intimate Il Piccolo Restaurant and Bar.

WeSense Santorini (Greece)

Located in Imerovigli, the property contains just two units: a Cave Suite called Zest and a Cave Villa called Bliss. Privacy and tranquility are guaranteed, with each unit providing an outdoor jacuzzi and a kitchenette.

Cava Villa at WeSense on Santorini

Jim Dobson

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  1. Traveling to Europe with a Dog

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  2. I always wanted to travel Europe with my dog because I was planning to

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  3. Best Dog Friendly destinations in Europe

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  4. Travelling in Europe with a Dog: The Ultimate Guide

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  5. Travelling in Europe with a Dog: The Ultimate Guide

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  6. Planning a road trip around Europe with a dog

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  1. Dogs in Europe lives luxury life

COMMENTS

  1. Travelling in Europe with a Dog: The Ultimate Guide

    If you're travelling to the EU, your dog will need to be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies and an EU health certificate completed. Sometimes, a rabies titre test will be required, or your dog may need a worming treatment. For other countries in Europe, generally similar requirements apply, but they can differ.

  2. Everything you need to know about traveling with pets to Europe

    Obtaining an EU pet passport (besides being adorable looking) allows you to travel back and forth to EU countries, Switzerland, Norway and much of the Balkans without any other paperwork for as long as the EU-issued rabies vaccine is valid. To maintain your dog's EU passport, you must schedule their next rabies vaccine in Europe before it expires.

  3. Ultimate Guide: Bringing Your Dog to Europe from US in 2023

    If you are flying into Europe with your dog from the US then it can usually cost $100-250 extra. However, if you're traveling around Europe when you are already in Europe then the price can be much cheaper. Sites like Omio are pet friendly and offers affordable prices for pet friendly train rides. Dogs even get to ride for free on most trains ...

  4. Flying to Europe with a Dog from the USA

    For dogs travelling to the European Union (the majority of countries in Europe), I list all the steps in this post, plus briefly cover the requirement for other non-EU countries. Key Steps to Travel to Europe with a Dog. If you're travelling directly from the USA to the EU (and most other European countries), the steps required are quite simple:

  5. Travelling with pets and other animals in the EU

    Travelling with pets: dogs, cats and ferrets. EU rules make it easy to travel to another EU country (in this case the 27 EU countries + Norway and Northern Ireland) with your dog, cat or ferret. These rules also cover travel to the EU from a country or territory outside the EU. With a few exceptions, your pet can travel with you to another EU ...

  6. Traveling to Europe with a Dog

    Ten days before departing for the EU, visit your local veterinarian for an international health certificate and an EU veterinary certificate. You have 10 days to enter the destination country after you have completed the paperwork. Plan accordingly and consider travel snafus like delayed or missed flights.

  7. Taking Your Dog to Europe: Vaccines & Paperwork

    Europe is largely rabies free, although wildlife-mediated rabies still occurs in some countries, including in the EU. Due to this, it's a requirement that your dog is vaccinated against rabies before travelling to the EU. If you're vaccinating your dog for the first time, it must be completed at least 21 days before arriving in the EU (plus ...

  8. Rules and Tips for Travelling to Europe With Pets

    Dogs, cats and ferrets traveling with their owners to the European countries shall be marked by the implantation of a transponder or by a clearly readable tattoo. Vaccination Against Rabies. Before traveling to Europe, you must vaccinate your pet against rabies by an authorized veterinarian. Your pet must be at least 12 weeks old at the date of ...

  9. Traveling to Europe with a Dog: How to Take Your Dog to Europe

    Here are some simple steps that will get you and your dog safely, legally, and happily to Europe. 1. Make sure your dog is healthy, microchipped, and ready for travel. To travel internationally with your dog, you'll need to get an international standard microchip (HomeAgain is a common brand) and make sure your dog is up-to-date on his or her ...

  10. Taking your pet dog, cat or ferret abroad: Travelling to an EU country

    Travelling with more than 5 pets. You cannot take more than 5 pets to an EU country or Northern Ireland unless you're attending or training for a: competition. show. sporting event. You'll ...

  11. How to Fly To Europe With a Pet In Cabin

    Pets allowed: Dogs and cats. Maximum carrier dimensions: 40cm by 33cm by 17cm (about 15 inches by 13 inches by 6 inches), must be soft-sided. Maximum carrier weight: 8kg (about 17.6lbs) Fee: 150 euros (about $184) Restrictions: No pets can travel in the executive cabin on long-haul flights.

  12. FAQs

    EU Regulation on the rules for travelling with pet animals in the EU or to the EU from a territory or non-EU country. Commission implementing Regulation on the model identification documents for dogs, cats and ferrets including the lists of territories and third countries, and the format and language requirements of the compliance declarations ...

  13. Traveling with Dogs on Trains in Europe: What to Know Before You Go

    WOOF, small dogs can travel for FREE as long as they're in a bag, basket, or able to sit on your lap. If you are traveling with a larger dog, you can purchase a "dog ticket" for €3.30 online. This "dog ticket" is mandatory for larger dogs and is only valid in domestic NS and Arriva trains. Large dogs must also be leashed.

  14. Dog Travel: How to Prepare for Your Dog's Travel Abroad

    You might need to start planning many months in advance. You also need to look at the time frame in the destination country's regulations. For example, your dog might need to have his physical ...

  15. How To Fly With Pets To Europe

    Pet owners traveling with their cat or dog to Europe, specifically to an EU country, will need to get an EU animal health certificate issued within 10 days before the animal enters the Union. It's helpful to know that non-EU European countries, such as Switzerland, will often accept this document too. However, if you're traveling to a ...

  16. Travelling in Europe With a Dog, Travel Tips & Advice

    Advantages of Travelling in Europe With A Dog. There are many fun aspects of travelling to Europe with the dog, this includes. No fees for kennels. For a three-week trip, the kennel fees are roughly £400. Being more flexible with return dates because you don't need to pick up the dog on a set date.

  17. Living the vanlife in Europe with our dogs

    A lot of us have dreamed of taking off on a campervan trip with road-tripping supplies, our partner and our dogs. Before the pandemic turned the travel world upside down, Annie Groves did just that, so we asked her how it went and what we might be able to learn from her experience. More of her adventures with her partner and her dogs can be ...

  18. Taking pets abroad after Brexit

    Visit the government website. Call the government's pet travel helpline on 0370 241 1710 Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 5pm (closed on bank holidays) Email the government's pet travel helpline at [email protected]. — Page last updated 27/01/2023. Pet passports are no longer valid for UK pets going on holiday to the EU.

  19. How to travel with a dog by train between the UK and France, Italy

    A guide to taking your dog or pet by train from London to almost anywhere in Europe, including taking your dog on trains to France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Amsterdam, even Moscow or Istanbul. Covers taking your dog on Eurostar and on ferries, then on international trains across Europe.

  20. Backpacking in Europe With Your Dog

    Germany, France, and Italy are three of the most dog-friendly countries in Europe, with a great selection of accommodation and the option of bringing your dog with you in most restaurants, stores, and public transportation. Go for a walk in one of Berlin's many parks, most of which welcome dogs, or you can even visit the famous archaeological ...

  21. Travelling with your pet

    On our trains between Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, small domestic animals weighing less than 6kg travel free of charge - provided they travel in a carrier (max. 45 x 30 x 25 cm). Larger dogs that don't fit in a carrier will need a ticket with our specific "dog" fare (single price of €30). Please speak to the Train ...

  22. Rules to Travel With a Dog Between European Countries

    When travelling between countries within the EU and a number of "related" countries, this page sets out the requirements for your dog. Essentially, your dog needs to be microchipped, have been vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days ago, and have a pet passport. For a handful of countries, there is also the requirement for the dog to have a ...

  23. Entrance fees, visitor zones and taxes: how Europe's biggest cities are

    The number of low-cost airline seats in Europe, which rose 10% annually from 2010 and hit 500m in 2019, could pass 800m in 2024. View image in fullscreen A sticker near Park Güell in Barcelona.

  24. What to know about traveling with medicine, prescriptions

    "Before traveling, it's imperative to research the destination, especially if traveling internationally, about what their medication requirements are," Ricardo Rodriguez, a member of BuzzRx ...

  25. Naked? With Strangers? In Europe, It's How You Relax at the Spa

    In Europe that tends to be less of the case." In a number of studies, Dr. West and his team have found that being naked around others can increase self-confidence and life satisfaction.

  26. Travel expert warns of European currency exchange 'scam'

    A savvy travel expert is warning Americans visiting Europe to watch for a credit card currency exchange "scam" that's marking up purchases across the pond.

  27. The Best New Hotels In Europe According To The 2024 World Travel Awards

    The Bulgari Suite at Bulgari Rome Hotel. Bulgari Bulgari Hotel Rome (Italy). This 114-room and suite luxury property is a stunner. It is located at the famed Piazza Augusto Imperatore, only a ...

  28. Airplane safety has hit a new record. But these 'critical phase ...

    Europe has maintained a fatality risk of zero since 2018. However, the biggest chunk of the non-fatal airplane incidents in the region were related to landing gear collapse.