• Aargau region
  • Basel region
  • Bern Region
  • Fribourg region
  • Geneva region
  • Graubünden region
  • Jura & Three-Lakes Region
  • Lake Geneva region
  • Lucerne Region - Lake Lucerne
  • Region Eastern Switzerland / Liechtenstein
  • Ticino region
  • Valais region

Zurich region

  • Avalanche course
  • Bungee jumping
  • Carriage rides
  • Competition
  • Cooking course
  • Creative workshop
  • Cross country skiing
  • Eating with locals
  • Escape Game
  • Escape Room
  • Exhibitions
  • Food & Drink
  • Ice climbing
  • Indoor amusement park
  • Lift tickets
  • Llama and alpaca trekking
  • Monster Scooter
  • Mountain bike
  • Mountain tour
  • Natural attractions
  • Night sledding
  • Paragliding
  • Photo course
  • SBB Day Pass
  • Scenic flight
  • Ski touring
  • Snowboarding
  • Snowshoeing
  • Stand up paddle
  • Summer tobogganing
  • Swiss Rail Passes
  • Trail running
  • Train ticket
  • Travel preparation
  • Via ferrata
  • Virtual Reality Games
  • Wakeboarding
  • private car tour
  • snowboard rental
  • virtual travel companion

Unsplash

SBB Day Pass Switzerland - 8 Top Deals and Prices 2024

Find the right SBB Day Pass for you here. SBB Day Passes allow you to travel for a whole day. You only need one ticket, even if you have to change trains several times. Within the validity of your day ticket, you can travel as often as you like. You should only check the timetables so that you don't miss the "last train" or your connection. Your day pass is valid for the entire day of the date printed on it and beyond until 5:00 a.m. the following day.

Tickets and activities for SBB Day Pass

SBB Savings Day Card

Saver Day Pass SBB - starting at 29 CHF

The Saver Day Pass is available at dynamic prices up to 6 months in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper you travel. With this pass, you can travel throughout Switzerland without restrictions and use all means of public transport.

Seraina Zellweger

Day Pass Children SBB

With the Day Pass Children, a child travels alone, with other children or with adults for a whole day on all routes in Switzerland.

Seraina Zellweger

Friends Day Pass for Youth SBB

The Friends Day Pass for Youth is an incredibly attractive offer for young people under 25. With up to three other people, you can travel all over Switzerland at an unbeatable price.

pexels

Day Pass Dog SBB

With the Day Pass Dog, your dog travels with you for a day. Embark on a journey through Switzerland with your faithful, four-legged companion.

Seraina Zellweger

Day pass for Swiss Half Fare Card holders

The SBB Day Pass can be booked in combination with a Half-Fare Travelcard or a Swiss Half Fare Card. You can then travel the whole day on the public transport network throughout Switzerland.

Seraina Zellweger

Bike Day Pass SBB

With the Bike Day Pass you can take your bike with you on public transport all day. The prerequisite is that you have a valid ticket yourself.

Seraina Zellweger

Class upgrade SBB

If you want to treat yourself to a day in 1st class on your trip, the class upgrade is the perfect solution for you. This allows you to travel in 1st class in combination with your GA travelcard or an SBB Day Pass (for the Half Fare Travelcard).

Pexels

Tandem Day Pass for GA Travelcard Youth SBB

With the TTandem Day Pass for GA Travelcard Youth, you can take a companion who is under 25 years old, just like you, with you for one day for only CHF 20. Together you can travel all over Switzerland.

Popular places in Switzerland for SBB Day Pass

sbb travel with dog

SBB Day Pass Activities and tickets

The Saver Day Pass is available at dynamic prices up to 6 months in advance. The earlier you book, the cheaper you travel. With this pass, you can travel throughout Switzerland without restrictions and use all means of public transport. More details

With the Day Pass Children, a child travels alone, with other children or with adults for a whole day on all routes in Switzerland. More details

The Friends Day Pass for Youth is an incredibly attractive offer for young people under 25. With up to three other people, you can travel all over Switzerland at an unbeatable price. More details

With the Day Pass Dog, your dog travels with you for a day. Embark on a journey through Switzerland with your faithful, four-legged companion. More details

The SBB Day Pass can be booked in combination with a Half-Fare Travelcard or a Swiss Half Fare Card. You can then travel the whole day on the public transport network throughout Switzerland. More details

With the Bike Day Pass you can take your bike with you on public transport all day. The prerequisite is that you have a valid ticket yourself. More details

If you want to treat yourself to a day in 1st class on your trip, the class upgrade is the perfect solution for you. This allows you to travel in 1st class in combination with your GA travelcard or an SBB Day Pass (for the Half Fare Travelcard). More details

With the TTandem Day Pass for GA Travelcard Youth, you can take a companion who is under 25 years old, just like you, with you for one day for only CHF 20. Together you can travel all over Switzerland. More details

  • SBB Day Passes - which one is right for you?

An SBB Day Pass is the perfect companion for your trip through Switzerland. There is a suitable ticket for almost every need. Whether you are traveling alone or with friends, whether you want to take your dog for a day or make a trip by bike, with the right day ticket nothing stands in your way.

And, as you're about to find out, you can also save real money if you're smart about it. Depending on the trip, an SBB Day Pass can even be a cheap alternative to the Swiss Travel Pass .

What the SBB Day Passes all have in common is that they are valid (with the exception of the Bike Day Pass) on the entire Swiss public transport network . So you can use them to travel without restrictions on trains, buses, streetcars, post buses, most boats and even selected mountain railroads to explore every corner of Switzerland. You can find a map with all valid routes here in the interactive GA validity area of the SBB.

In addition, in combination with a day pass, you also benefit from RailAway discounts of between 10 and 30% at excursion destinations .

Passengers on the platform (Photo: © SBB CFF FFS)

  • What SBB day tickets are available?

The range of day tickets covers a wide range of wishes. New tickets are also being added all the time to meet even more needs. The table below gives you an overview of the SBB Day Tickets before we look at them individually and in detail.

Passengers on the train (Photo: © SBB CFF FFS)

Saver Day Pass SBB

Let's start right away with a very interesting offer. With the Saver Day Pass SBB you can, if you book at the right moment, benefit from very attractive prices. In combination with the Half Fare Travelcard, you can get the Saver Day Pass for as little as CHF 29. But you have to be quick and sometimes you have to search a bit. These tickets can be booked six months in advance and are subject to a quota. This means that when the cheapest price is sold out, the next cheapest price comes into effect.

Please note that this day ticket is bound to a fixed date and cannot be cancelled. So if you have bought one and the weather throws a spanner in the works, you will not get your money back.

You can buy the Saver Day Pass SBB with or without a Half-Fare Travelcard for 1st or 2nd class.

  • For whom is the SBB Saver Day Pass suitable?

As soon as you know the day you want to travel through Switzerland, it's worth looking for a Saver Day Pass . It is suitable for almost all trips on the public transport network. The only exception is the mountain railroads.

Here we share some ideas, tips and more information with you for using the SBB Saver Day Pass :

  • Take a trip on the Panorama Train . The Saver Day Pass is valid here. However, you also need a seat reservation, which is mandatory on the Bernina Express, Gotthard Panorama Express and Glacier Express.
  • Journey to the Rigi or to the Stanserhorn. Both mountain railroads accept the SBB Saver Day Pass and are therefore an exception among mountain railroads.
  • Combine your city trip with a boat trip across the lake. For example, you can take the cogwheel train from Arth-Goldau to the Rigi, do some hiking at the top or visit the Rigi Kaltbad , take the train to Vitznau and travel by boat across Lake Lucerne to Lucerne.
  • The SBB Saver Day Pass can even be an attractive alternative to the Swiss Travel Pass. If you are in Switzerland for a week or longer, it may also be worth buying a Swiss Half Fare Card . This will give you the SBB Saver Day Pass at a lower price.
  • Since the Saver Day Pass is valid until 5:00 am the following day, you can even stay out longer in the evening and enjoy the nightlife before you travel back by public transport.
  • Please note that this day pass is personalized and valid only for the person who bought it. So you can't pass it on if you don't need it.

Passengers on the train (Photo: © SBB CFF FFS)

Day pass for the Half Fare travelcard SBB

The Day pass for the Half Fare travelcard differs significantly from the Saver Day Pass in two respects.

  • It is unlimited available and costs always the same (78 CHF in the 2nd class)
  • You need a Half Fare Travelcard or a Swiss Half Fare Card to buy the Day Pass

So you can buy it much more short-term and react to your current situation, if you can't travel on the desired day after all. Otherwise, your advantages are the same as with the Saver Day Pass .

  • For whom is the day pass for the Half Fare travelcard suitable?

The SBB day pass for the Half Fare travelcard is also perfect for excursions all over Switzerland. Here we share some ideas, tips and more information with you for its use:

  • The day pass for the Half Fare travelcard is not personalized and can easily be passed on if you don't need it. So it also makes a great gift if you want to please someone or take them on your trip.
  • If you have always wanted to travel on one of the Swiss panorama trains, you will also save a lot of money with this "normal" day ticket compared to the regular train ticket. The SBB day pass for the Half Fare travelcard is valid on all panorama trains - i.e. the Glacier Express , the Gotthard Panorama Express , the Bernina Express and the Golden Pass Line. However, in all trains, except the Golden Pass Line, you also need a seat reservation. A reservation is also recommended on the Golden Pass Line.
  • Der Preis der SBB Tageskarte ist etwas höher als derjenige der Spartageskarte. Aus diesem Grund lohnt sich diese insbesondere bei längeren Fahrten. Von Zürich nach Interlaken und zurück reicht noch nicht ganz. Aber wenn du von Zürich nach Lausanne reist oder einen Ausflug ins Tessin planst, ist es die SBB Tageskarte wert.
  • Ein besonders schöner Ausflug führt dich in den Schweizerischen Nationalpark im Engadin. Du kannst die Tageskarte für die Anreise nutzen und nach deiner Wanderung mit dem Postauto zurück zum nächsten Bahnhof fahren.
  • Da das Ticket bis um 5:00 Uhr am Folgetag gültig ist, kannst du abends noch länger wegbleiben und das Nachtleben geniessen, bevor du mit deiner Tageskarte wieder zurückreist.

Gotthard Panorama Express (Photo: KEYSTONE, Swiss Travel System AG)

Tandem Day Pass for GA Travelcard Youth

Attention young people! It's getting exciting for you now.

If you are under 25 and have a GA Youth, GA Learner or GA Child travelcard, you can take an accompanying person with you for a whole day for just CHF 20. And you can do so in the class in which your GA travelcard is valid.

The only condition is that this person is younger than 25. This way you can travel through Switzerland together for a whole day.

  • Who is the Tandem Day Pass for GA Travelcard Youth suitable for?

As the name suggests, this offer is intended for teenagers and young adults. Here you will find tips, ideas and information on how to use this ticket:

  • No matter who you have visiting and where the person is from. With the Tandem Day Pass for GA Travelcard Youth , you can take them on a trip for a whole day, until 5:00 am the following day. This way you can discover Switzerland together without breaking the budget.
  • The Tandem Day Pass is particularly suitable if someone from abroad is visiting you. Because if your visitor does not have a Swiss Half Fare Card, a Swiss Travel Pass or any other rail pass , it will quickly become expensive. But if you travel together, your guest can save a lot of money.
  • With the Tandem Day Pass you can enjoy the nightlife together wherever you find a party. Whether you want to discover the nightlife in Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, St. Gallen or Geneva, it doesn't matter. You travel there and back together.
  • Please note that the person accompanying you will have to prove with an official ID that their 25th birthday is still ahead of them. In addition, you must show your GA at the control.

Prerequisite for the Tandem Day Pass GA Youth is one of the following cards:

  • GA Travelcard for Youth
  • GA Travelcard Familia for Youth,
  • Trial GA Travelcard for Youth
  • GA Travelcard for Children
  • GA Travelcard Familia for Children
  • GA Travelcard for Trainees
  • GA Travelcard for Disabled Persons or
  • 1-month GA Travelcard for Youth

 Street art selfie in Winterthur ( Switzerland Tourism, Colin Frei)

Friends Day Pass for Youth

And again a day ticket that makes young hearts beat faster.

The Friends Day Pass for Youth allows you to travel with up to three other people, all under 25 years of age, for one day in the entire GA area. And all that for just CHF 80! So if you're traveling as a foursome, you'll pay just CHF 20 per person and can travel wherever the wind blows you.

Or the train. Or the ship. You know what we mean...

  • Who is the Friends Day Pass for Youth suitable for?

Again, nomen est omen. The Friends Day Pass for Youth is specifically geared towards young people. If you're all under 25, there's nothing standing in the way of your trip with this great value offer. Here you will find tips, ideas and information on how to use this ticket:

  • You don't need a Half-Fare Card for the Friends Day Pass for Youth.
  • This day pass is undoubtedly the most attractive offer for backpackers traveling through Switzerland together. Even with the Saver Day Pass at the lowest price you won't travel cheaper. So if you're traveling with friends in Switzerland, no matter what country you're from, the Friends Day Pass for Youth is your best friend. Provided you do all your traveling together.
  • You already get a small portion of extra luxury for a small surcharge. In 1st class, the day ticket costs only CHF 120, i.e. CHF 10 extra per person. Especially if you are traveling with a steamship, this can be a nice experience.
  • Whether you want to explore panoramic trains, cities, lakes, nightlife or the mountains, the Friends Day Pass for Youth is your best choice and perfect for you.

With the Friends Day Card...

Day Pass Children

With the Day Pass Children , a child travels either alone, with other children or adults for a whole day in 2nd class through Switzerland for 19 CHF. In first class, the day ticket costs CHF 33. The prerequisite is that the child still has his or her 16th birthday ahead of them.

  • For whom is the Day Pass Children suitable?

If a child often travels with his or her parents or grandparents, he or she probably has a Junior Card or a Children’s Co-Travelcard. However, these are valid for a whole year, personalized and only valid for travel with these specific people.

Therefore, if the trip is not with parents or grandparents, the Day Pass Children may be worth it. Here we share some ideas, tips and more information with you for their use:

  • Like all other Day Passes, the Day Pass Children is valid throughout Switzerland on public transportation until 5:00 a.m. the following day.
  • The Day Pass Children is suitable for excursions where the child is traveling with another family, for example.
  • If the child is going on an excursion with friends or is visiting grandparents with siblings and is traveling independently, the Day Pass Children is worthwhile. However, only if the total cost of the trip exceeds the price of the Day Pass.
  • Day Pass Dog

With the Day Pass Dog your dog travels with you for one day. You need a valid ticket yourself. Then your four-legged companion pays 25 CHF to come with you.

By the way, you only need a ticket for your dog if he is taller than 30 cm. If it is smaller, you can take it with you free of charge in a bag or a suitable container.

Schynige Platte cable car (Photo: Jungfrau Railways)

  • Bike Day Pass

If you are planning a bigger trip with your bike and want to use public transport for a part of it, then a Bike Day Pass belongs in your luggage. You can get it for as little as 14 CHF in combination with a valid ticket for you. So you don't have to travel far to make the Bike Day Pass worthwhile. For shorter distances it is enough to buy a route or zone ticket at half price for your bike. But from 14 CHF you should not buy single tickets anymore, but change to the Day Pass.

You can take your bike with you in the class in which your own ticket is valid. Please note that there are extra compartments in the trains. There you can attach your bike to bike hooks.

Please note the following tips and restrictions when using your Bike Day Pass:

  • Most cable cars and shipping companies do not offer bike transport.
  • From March to October, seat reservations are mandatory on Intercity trains. This includes lines IC2/21 through the Gotthard base tunnel (Basel/Zurich-Ticino), and lines IC5/51 at the southern foot of the Jura (Basel-Biel/Bienne, Rorschach/Zurich-Biel/Bienne-Lausanne/Genève).
  • On public holidays, reservations are compulsory on all InterCity lines.
  • Throughout the year, reservations are mandatory for Swiss sections on international trains EuroCity (EC), InterCityExpress (ICE), Railjet (RJX) and InterCity (IC) Zurich HB-Singen/Stuttgart.

Travelers with bicycles on the Thurbo_(Photo: Switzerland Tourism)

  • Day Pass for Schools

This Day Pass is, not as the name suggests, only valid for schools. Kindergartens, trainees, students or homes for the disabled, orphanages and educational institutions also benefit from a low ticket price of 15 CHF per person. Expressly, this ticket is also provided for "Youth + Sport" events and other events of official character.

The Day Pass for Schools may be used by children and young people between 6 and 15.99 years of age. It is valid for 10 or more people, and dogs are included in these 10 people. For every eight children, a maximum of two adults are allowed to use this Day Pass for Schools.

Since additional information such as the exact travel time as well as the place of entry and exit must be provided for the reservation, a form must be filled out in advance at SBB.

Table of contents

Top destinations.

  • Grindelwald
  • Lauterbrunnen
  • Brienzwiler

Top Activities

Top attractions.

  • Harder Kulm
  • First Cliff Walk
  • Jungfraujoch
  • Museum of Transport
  • Mount Titlis
  • Eiger Glacier
  • Grindelwald First
  • Chocolarium
  • Chillon Castle
  • Alpine playground Bort
  • Glacier Gorge Grindelwald

Related Content

Great britain, switzerland, the netherlands, caledonian sleeper, european sleeper, night riviera, please support showmethejourney.

sbb travel with dog

Dogs on European trains

The rules around travelling with dogs on trains can vary hugely in Europe, tickets may or not be required and on a few services dogs can't be taken on board at all.

Simon Harper

Whether you want to

  • take your dog(s) on board trains in your home country,
  • or make an international European rail journey with your dog,
  • or will have taken your dog to a different country by car (ahem) and now want to make a scenic train journey what's good to know is that the 'rules' around taking dogs on trains can vary widely across Europe.

Tickets may or not be required; and if they are, they can be surprisingly expensive. The rules also vary around the size of dogs; particularly whether they can or can't be transported into a pet carrier / basket They also vary around whether dogs need to be muzzled when they are on the trains.

Though one thing which is universal is that no tickets or other special restrictions ever apply to guide dogs.

Other common-sense rules which are implied if they're not specifically stipulated are that dogs cannot travel in seats, they need to be in a carrier/ basket, or on a traveller's lap, or on the floor.

If you can transport a small dog in a pet carrier it is will be classed as hand luggage and no ticket will be required.

If your dog is too large to be taken in a pet carrier it will need to be muzzled and you will need to book a ticket. The ticket price will vary according to distance travelled; Wien/Vienna ↔ Innsbruck = €6.80, Wien/Vienna ↔ Linz = €3.30

If you want to travel at the cheapest possible price, it's best to book tickets in advance on the OBB booking service , OBB is the national rail operator in Austria. The booking process is similar to booking travel with a bike, you need to add a dog to your ticket You can't retrospectively add a dog ticket online to your booking, so if you decide to take a dog after you have booked a ticket online, you can buy a ticket for the dog at a station ticket counter.

The 'rules' set by the Belgian national rail operator set by SNCB are that if a dog can be fitted in a pet carrier / container measuring no more than 30x55x30cm, no ticket will be required for the dog. If it is too large for the container a 'pet supplement' ticket is required which has a flat rate of €3 for any journey within Belgium. Dogs not in the containers do not have to be muzzled, but the conductor on the train apparently may request it.

The 'rules' set by the Czech national rail operator CDm are that if a dog can be fitted in a pet carrier / container measuring no more than 90x60x40cm, no ticket will be required for the dog.

If it is too large for the carrier a ticket will be required, but you and the dog will only be able to travel in second class on trains operated by CD. The ticket prices for the dog vary according to distance, with the prices ranging from CZK 15 to CZK 50. The dog prices aren't discounted so if you want to save by booking in advance online for yourself , you can then buy the dog ticket from a ticket desk prior to boarding, or from the conductor on the train.

Dogs must also be muzzled on the train.

The 'rules' set by the Danish national rail operator DSB are that if a dog can be fitted in a pet carrier / container measuring no more than 100x60x30cm, no ticket will be required for the dog.

if the dog is too large for the pet carrier, or if you don't want to put the dog in it, you will need to buy a child ticket for the dog; only one dog can be taken by each traveller. Child tickets for those aged 12-15 typically cost around 50% of the adult rate for a journey, so the cheapest method of travelling long-distance is to add a child aged 12-15 when booking with DSB .

Also good to know is that dogs:

  • cannot travel in 1st class;
  • can only travel in the marked areas on the trains;
  • these areas do not include the quiet zones and Family zones on the trains.

The travel info on the DSB also suggests that if you will be travelling long-distance on a Lyn or IC express service that you should make a seat reservation for your dog, it won't be able to sit in it, but it is so that you can ensure that there will be a space in front of the seat on the floor of the train, for the dog to occupy.

On journeys by TGV and Intercités trains a flat rate fare of €7 is charged regardless of whether a dog is placed in a bag or basket, measuring 45 cm x 30 cm x 25 cm maximum, or is on a leash. Though when looking up journeys on SNCF Connect, the nationally managed train booking service, on a few journeys the price was €11 for dogs on leashes. This £7 fee also applies to the regional TER trains, except for journeys within these regions; Normandy , New Aquitaine , Pays de la Loire and South Region .

In Normandy if you haven't reserved, which isn't possible on most TER services, a dog weighing less than 6kg is charged at the €7 flat rate, but a dog weighing more than 6kg will be charged at half the adult rate. Unless a ticket with reservations has been booked for the 'Krono' services to/from Paris, because on these trains the dog can travel free of charge regardless of its size. In Pays De La Loire if you place a dog weighing less than 6kg in a bag or basket there will be no charge, but dogs weighing more than 6kg will be charged at half the adult rate. In New Aquitaine, the rate payable for travelling with a dog, regardless of whether it is in a bag/basket or on a leash, depends on the distance of the journey: from 0 to 43 kms = €2; from 44 to 80 kms = €4; for 81km and beyond = €7. In Occitanie a dog weighing less than 6kg and placed in a bag/basket is charged at the €7 flat rate, but a dog weighing more than 6kg will be charged at half the adult rate.

General rules regardless of the train and region:

  • A maximum of two dogs per passenger (whether in baskets or on leashes)
  • Dogs on leashes must be muzzled
  • you must travel with the documents necessary for the dog's identification
  • Dogs in categories 1 and 2 , can't be taken on trains

On Ouigo trains For journeys by Ouigo services up to two dogs travel for free if they weigh less than 6kg and are placed in pet carriers no larger than 55cm x 35cm x 25cm. Dogs weighing more than 6kg, or smaller dogs not placed in carriers, require tickets which have a flat rate charge of €15.

Small dogs which can be placed in pet-carriers can be taken on board any train as hand luggage and there is no charge for doing so.

Dogs which can't be fitted in carrier/container, because they are larger than a typical domestic cat, require tickets, So when booking online for a journey by ICE or IC trains with DB, the German national rail operator, add a larger dog as 'a passenger'. The price charged will be 50% of the adult rate If you want to travel 1st class you will need a 1st class ticket for the dog.

However, most journeys by Regio trains are not available on the DB booking service, so if you will be taking these trains, you can book the ticket for you and the dog at a station ticket counter.

All dogs travelling on leashes must be muzzled.

SMTJ is often accompanied on trips around Britain by Pear the rescue dog

Up to two dogs can be taken on board by each passenger on any national train, no tickets are required and they don't need to be muzzled.

However, dogs cannot be taken at all on the international Eurostar services.

On the Trenitalia trains:

If you can take your dog in a container or basket measuring 70x30x50cm no ticket will be required, but tickets are required for larger dogs. On the express, Frecce and Intercity trains operated by Trenitalia, the tickets cost 50% of the Adult 'Base' rate, which is the non-discounted rate for train journeys, but as the cheapest adult Super-Economy tickets can be discounted by more than 50%, the ticket for the dog may cost more than your ticket! Dogs can be taken in any class on the trains as long as you and the dog both have the appropriate ticket.

Because the dog tickets can't be booked online and aren't discounted, you can buy your travel ticket in advance in order to save money, but can then buy the ticket for the dog at the station; or you can buy a ticket from the conductor when you are on the train.

On the Regionale (R and RV) trains a dog not in a basket will be charged at 50% of the adult rate.

On an all trains the dog must be muzzled.

On the Italo trains

Dogs weighing less than 5kg weighing can be conveyed in a pet carrier at no extra cost, but if your dog is larger, or you don't want to use a pet carrier for a small dog, a ticket will be required and the price varies by departure.

Trains in Norway are now operated by three different companies Vy = trains on the Oslo <> Bergen route and regional trains to/from these cities SJ Nord = trains to and from Trondheim including the trains on the Oslo <> Trondheim route Go Ahead = trains on the Oslo <> Stavanger route.

On the trains operated by Vy:

Dogs with a shoulder height that exceeds 40 centimeters are charged 50% of the Non-Flexible ticket price. On the Bergen Line you will get an extra seat so that the pet can stay on the floor by the window while you sit in an aisle seat.

There is no need to book tickets for dogs whose shoulder height is less than 40 cm as they accompany you free of charge. The pet must be placed on the floor at your feet and you will not get an extra seat. If you would like an extra seat to have more floor space, you can buy a pet ticket even though your pet has a shoulder height of less than 40 cm.

There is a limited number of spaces available for pets on each train departure. Spaces for pets are located in designated areas, so keep in mind that there may be several pets in the same area at any given time.

On the trains operated by SJ Nord:

Dogs with a shoulder height that exceeds 40 centimeters are charged 50% of the Non-Flexible ticket price For routes with a seat reservation, you must add 'a pet' when booking regardless, of its height, so that you will then you will be allocated a seat in the section where animals are allowed For the larger dogs that require tickets you will be allocated an extra seat to ensure floor space for your dog, but for dogs with a shoulder height of under 40 centimeters, you can opt to purchase an optional dog ticket (and take up to two dogs with a height of under 40cm), to give you this extra floor space.

The dog, regardless of size, must stay on the floor and cannot sit in a seat.

On the day trains dogs cannot travel in Premium, Premium Plus, the cafe wagon, the family wagon and in the animal-free zone in Standard class and dogs cannot be taken on the Sove night trains.

On the trains operated by Go Ahead:

Dogs with a shoulder height that exceeds 40 centimeters require a ticket.

For the larger dogs that require tickets you will be allocated an extra seat to ensure floor space for your dog, but for dogs with a shoulder height of under 40 centimeters, you can opt to purchase an optional dog ticket (and take up to two dogs with a height of under 40cm), to give you this extra floor space.

Taking a larger dog (11-40 kg) on AVE trains

On the larga-distancia services

On the standard long distance express trains, the AVE, Alvia, Euromed and IC services, you can add a dog as an extra when making booking: The flat rate prices, irrespective of distance and departure are: Basic (second class) = €20 Comfort XL or Elige + Comfort tickets (first class) = €10 Premium Class = no charge

However, dogs can only be taken on board most of these larga-distancia services if they can travel in a container measuring no more than 60x35x35 cm and do not weigh more than 10kg.

If your dog weighs between 11kg and 40kg it can be taken on a few departures by AVE trains on routes between Madrid and Alicante, Barcelona, Valencia and Zaragoza. These departures now have a dog paw symbol, when looking up a journey on the Renfe website . Though you will need to select the more expensive 'Elige' tickets and the reservation fee for the dog is €35.~

  • you can take smaller dogs which weigh up to 10kg on departures with no paw symbol,
  • you can't take dogs which weigh between 11kg and 40kg on any Alvia, Euromed or IC service,
  • the English translation implies that you will be reserving a seat for the dog, but you will be reserving a place on a special mat that will be placed on the floor in front of the seat,
  • you cannot use the seat selection service that's typically available when booking 'Elige' tickets.

On the media-distancia services

On the other trains operated by Renfe, including the Avant, MD and Regional-Express services, the dog can weigh more than 10kg and it doesn't have to be placed in a container. For travel on these services it looks as though the dog ticket price will be 25% of the Adult rate.

Booking space for dogs on SJ trains in Sweden

On the trains provided by the national rail operator, SJ, up to two dogs can be taken on board for no additional cost, but on the express Snabbtag and IC trains, you and the dog(s) will need to travel in specific spaces on the train, which must be reserved in advance. These spaces are in Second Class, you cannot travel with dogs in first class on any SJ train. Though if you want more space, because your animals is large, you can purchase a ticket at the equivalent of the youth rate.

When booking the ticket for yourself you will need to select the 'Animals Allowed' option on the seating plan.

On other trains you will need to board the train into the specific marked areas.

If your dog is under 30 cm in height (up to their shoulder blades) and you travel with it in a basket or other suitable container, your dog may travel free of charge as hand luggage.

SBB is the national rail operator in Switzerland an it sells a Day Card for Dogs for travel with larger animals which costs CHF 25 and is valid for travel on any Swiss train and most public transport. If you will be travelling with a first class tickets, the same Day Card for dogs can be used for first class travel,

If a dog is small enough to travel in a bag, basket or on your lap, there will be no charge for it. For larger dogs you need to purchase a Dog Day Ticket regardless of the train you will be taking and the distance you will be travelling, but they cost a reasonable €3.30.

International day trains

How dogs can taken on Europe's international trains can be an information vacuum, but one golden rule is that it must be micro-chipped ; and this also applies to taking dogs from non E.U countries across internal and external E.U. borders.

The always excellent Seat 61 has a detailed guide to the requirements for taking a dog from the UK to the E.U, and back again .

The info on the national rail operator websites is referring to taking dogs on trains on journeys within those countries; though a logical conclusion is that the rules and tickets etc for the national journey will apply if the national operator is providing the international service; and if this service doesn't have any specific branding such as Thalys or Lyria (see below).

For example, German ICE trains operated by DB link Germany to Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and The Netherlands, so if you want to take a dog on an international journey to and from Germany, you can book on DB as though you were making a national journey. On the Railjet trains from Austria to Czechia, Germany, Hungary and Italy, book tickets on OBB, as though you were taking a national journey within Austria.

Or ask at the station and the station and book accordingly, most specific dog tickets aren't cheaper if you book them in advance, so often the most sensible approach is to buy your ticket in advance to save yourself money; and then buy the ticket for the dog at a station. You'll be given advice and the necessary tickets to take you to your destination, but there are two key exceptions: 1: Dogs can't be taken at all on Eurostar services 2: Dogs weighing more than 10kg can't be taken on Spanish high speed trains, and that includes the RENFE-SNCF services from France to Spain.

if you will be crossing a border on a regional train keep in mind the rules in each country, for example dogs must be muzzled on Italian train journeys, but not in Switzerland, so after the trains has crossed the border into Italy, you'll need to apply a muzzle, if you didn't do so when boarding.

Though the European international trains with specific branding do have their own rules for dogs on their trains, so these have been included below:

Dogs cannot be taken at all on Eurostar services.

Seat 61 has provided a wealth of detail on the alternative options, which in summary include travelling with dogs on the cross-channel ferry crossings which allow them (most don't) and taking taxis from Folkestone to Calais, by using 'Le Shuttle' services.

On the Lyria trains which travel between Paris and Switzerland, if you can contain your dog in a bag or closed basket no bigger than the maximum dimensions of 45 x 30 x 25 cm, tickets are price at a flat rate of €7.

For larger dogs travelling on a leash and which also must be muzzled for the entire journey and sat at your feet, tickets are a flat rate price of €20.

Tickets can be purchased from station travel desks or added to your booking if you use SNCF Connect .

On the Thalys services which link Paris and Bruxelles with The Netherlands and north-west Germany, there is no charge for dogs which travel in containers no larger than 45 x 30 x 25 cm.

For other dogs tickets must be purchased on board from the Train Manager / conductor and they have a flat rate price of €30, the dog must be muzzled and travel on the floor or in your lap.

Night trains

The European night train services which have travelling with dogs policies are included below:

Dogs are not allowed in the couchette or sleeping cars on EuroNight services run by PKP (Polish State Railways), ČD (Czech Railways) and MÁV-START (Hungarian Railways). They are also not permitted on domestic overnight trains within France, Italy and Norway.

Caledonian Sleeper trains are available for overnight travel between London and various destinations in Scotland including Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Fort William, Glasgow and Inverness.

In common with day trains in Britain, up to two dogs can be taken on board if you will be travelling in a sleeping cabin, for a surcharge payment of £30.

On the new European Sleeper service on the Bruxelles - Amsterdam <> Berlin route, dogs can be conveyed in the sleeping cabins, but you need to have booked the department for 'sole use'. Separate tickets for the dog aren't required.

Nightjet trains operate on these routes:

  • Wien/Vienna - Linz ↔ Paris
  • Wien/Vienna - Linz and Graz ↔ Zurich
  • Wien/Vienna - Linz ↔ Feldkirch - Bregenz (national route()
  • Wien/Vienna - Linz and Munchen/Munich ↔ Udine - Venezia/Venice
  • Wien/Vienna - Linz ↔ LIege - Bruxelles
  • Wien/Vienna - Linz and Innsbruck ↔ Koln/Cologne - Dusseldorf - Arnhem - Utrecht - Amsterdam
  • Wien/Vienna - Linz and Innsbruck ↔ Hannover - Hamburg
  • Wien/Vienna and Munchen/Munich and ↔ Firenze/Florence - Roma
  • Wien/Vienna and Munchen/Munich ↔ Verona - Milano - Genova - La Spezia
  • Wien/Vienna ↔ Pisa and Livorno (when travelling with a car)
  • Zurich - Basel ↔ Amsterdam, Berlin and Hamburg
  • Berlin ↔ Wien/Vienna - Graz

You can take a dog with you if it is muzzled and if you book an entire compartment; meaning a couple will need to book a double/two bed cabin and a solo traveller will need to book a single cabin. Once you have secured your tickets and reservation you can pay for your dog’s ticket on the train, by telephone (by calling ÖBB customer service on 0043 5 1717) or at the ÖBB ticket offices. Assistance dogs travel free of charge and do not require a muzzle More info is available here .

Night Riviera trains operate on a London - Plymouth - Cornwall route.

On the Snälltåget trains which operate on a Berlin - Hamburg <> Stockholm route dogs can be accommodated in a Private Compartment. Select "I want to travel with pet" under where you specify your passengers and select price level "Djurkupé" (Pets allowed compartment).

The Swedish national rail operator SJ offers night trains on routes between Stockholm and Are*, Duved*, Hamburg, Malmo and Umea*. *= also served by night trains to/from Goteborg. Note that SJ does not provide the trains on the Stockholm <> Kiruna - Narvik route.

What is comparatively unusual is that SJ allows dogs to be taken on board the coaches with seats on its night trains. You may bring with you two pets when travelling in 2nd class. You need to reserve a seat in the "Pets allowed" section of the train.

Dogs can also be taken in the couchettes if you book the entire compartment, regardless of many travellers will be making the journey.

How to reserve a "Pets allowed" couchette : Fill in what stations you wish to travel between and your travel dates. Then enter promo code ANIMALS in the Add promo code field and continue to the next step. If there are any pet compartments available the departure will be shown with a red price in the timetable. You pay for all six bunks in the compartment automatically. Continue your booking as usual and complete your order.

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help. We’re striving not to let anything get in the way of providing the most useful service possible, hence a facility has been set up with DonorBox which can be used to support the running costs and make improvements.

Instead of advertising or paywalls, your financial support will make a positive difference to delivering an enhanced service, as there’s a lot of ideas which we want to make happen.

So if you have found the info provided here to be useful, please go here to say thank you .

How to travel on Europe's international trains

Look for a journey guide

  • Austria by train
  • Wien / Vienna
  • Belgium by train
  • Bruxelles / Brussels
  • Czechia by train
  • Praha / Prague / Prag
  • Denmark by train
  • København / Copenhagen
  • France by train
  • Germany by train
  • Frankfurt (Main)
  • Köln / Cologne / Koeln
  • München / Munich
  • Great Britain by train
  • Hungary by train
  • Italy by train
  • Firenze / Florence
  • Milano / Milan / Mailand
  • Roma / Rome
  • Torino / Turin
  • Venezia / Venice / Venedig
  • Netherlands by train
  • Norway by train
  • Poland by train
  • Warszawa / Warsaw
  • Spain by train
  • Sweden by train
  • Switzerland by train
  • Basel / Bâle
  • Genève / Geneva
  • Zürich / Zurich
  • No Matching Cities
  • List is empty.

sbb travel with dog

Simon Harper

I wanted to share my passion for train travel and explain how anyone can take the fantastic journeys I have taken.

ShowMeTheJourney

This is one of more than 100 train travel guides available on ShowMeTheJourney , which will make it easier to take the train journeys you want or need to make. As always, all images were captured on trips taken by ShowMeTheJourney.

Help keep us advertising and paywall free!

This second version of ShowMeTheJourney is exciting and new, so we are genuinely thrilled that you are here and reading this, but we also need your help.

We’re striving not to let anything get in the way of providing the most useful service possible, hence a facility has been set up with DonorBox which can be used to support the running costs and make improvements.

So if you have found the info provided here to be useful, please consider saying thank you.

Show Me the Journey logo

  • Europe by Train
  • Journey Guides
  • Rail Stations
  • Trip Planning
  • Travel Articles
  • Tips from 100s of journeys
  • How to take a night train
  • Good to know about daytime trains
  • Travelling with Children
  • Taking Bikes on Trains
  • Travelling with Luggage
  • Taking dogs on trains
  • Common benefits of first class travel
  • Journeys with multiple connections
  • Money saving advice
  • The best permanent deals and offers
  • Intro to seat reservations
  • Step-by-step booking guides
  • InterRail/Eurail
  • Access over 500 rail holidays
  • Save 5% on more than 30 Swiss rail holidays
  • Book a range of Swiss rail passes
  • Buy Half Fare Cards for Switzerland
  • Book train tickets with Trainline
  • Book rail holidays worldwide with Bookmundi
  • Go to navigation
  • Go to main content
  • Go to search
  • Go to footer

Main content

Beach // Strand // plage

Travelling with animals

You can take your pet with you on any part of our route network. It will travel safely and in comfort, either in the cabin or in the hold. Book your pet’s carriage in advance and make sure you have all the travel documents required.

General provisions

Travel documents and regulations.

There are different rules and regulations for travelling by air with animals depending on your destination. So book your pet’s carriage in advance and present the original versions of your pet’s documents. These include the import, export and transit papers and its health and vaccination certificates.

The owner must pay for the return flights if an animal is not permitted to enter a country because it has not had the required vaccinations. Our Service Centre will be pleased to help you with bookings and will answer any questions.

Restrictions

SWISS carries dogs and cats in the cabin or in the hold. Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds are only accepted in the cabin as they are particularly susceptible to temperature and stress. These animals are at risk of health problems and are therefore not approved for carriage in the hold.

Please note: each passenger is permitted to take a maximum of two animals with them (in an approved transport container).

Carriage can be in the cabin and/or in the hold:

  • We have a limited number of pets per flight in the cabin and in the hold
  • Maximum two animals (dog or cat) for one passenger
  • One animal (dog or cat) in the cabin and one animal in the hold
  • A maximum of two animals in the hold (in one or two approved transport containers)

Dogs and cats are only permitted to travel from the age of 12 weeks and above.

Please also note that animals may only be imported as cargo in the following countries:

  • South Africa
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom

Accommodation in the plane

Whether your animal travels in the cabin or in the hold depends on its weight and the size of its transport container. The regulations on the carriage of animals differ according to the country and airport (e.g. carriage only as freight or general prohibitions on carriage). Contact the Service Centre to clarify the carriage requirements.

Please note that it is not possible to carry large animals as cargo to certain destinations due to local conditions and restrictions. Please contact our Service Centre for further information.

Carriage in the cabin (less than 8 kg)

The following animals can travel in the cabin.

  • Dogs and cats weighing up to 8 kg (weight including travel carrier)
  • Larger dogs if they are trained guide dogs (e.g. guide dogs for visually impaired passengers). They must fit in front of the seat.
  • Carry your pet in a soft travel carrier that is clean, leak-proof and scratch-resistant. The travel carrier must not exceed 118 cm (55 x 40 x 23 cm) so it can be stowed under the seat in front.
  • There must be enough space in it for the animal, which must remain fully in the transport container for the entire flight. It is not permitted to run around in the cabin.
  • Your animal must be clean and healthy and should not bother any other passengers. It should not be dangerous, pregnant or smell.
  • The transport container must be large enough for the animal to stand in its natural position, turn around and lie down.
  • The transport container must be stowed under your seat for take-off, landing and during turbulence. Due to the design of the seats in the Airbus 330/340 and Boeing 777, this is not possible in SWISS Business (except in the last row) or SWISS First. Our crew will stow the transport container in the cloakroom, in one of the overhead baggage compartments or under another passenger seat during take-off and landing.
  • There are no size and weight restrictions for dogs with protective or assistance functions. They can travel freely in the cabin and do not have to be in a transport container.

To take a dog as hand baggage in the cabin, we need confirmation from you that your animal meets all the specified requirements. Please present two printed copies of the completed and signed form at the check-in desk.

For information about carrying dogs/cats as cargo (over 8 kg) see below.

Carriage in the hold (more than 8 kg)

The conditions in the hold are similar to those in the cabin. The temperature and air pressure are also pleasant on longer flights. You cannot visit your pet in the hold during the flight. Check in together with your pet. Bring your pet to the check-in desk in an appropriate transport container at least 2 hours but no more than 3 hours before departure. Please note that you will be charged an additional fee of EUR 150/CHF 170/USD 170/CAD 220 per animal when travelling via FRA, MUC, VIE, ZRH or GVA (applies to tickets issued after 1 April 2021).

The following animals travel in the hold

  • Dogs and cats that do not belong to snub-nosed breeds and weigh more than 8 kg (weight including transport container) or are travelling in a transport container exceeding the permitted size (max. 118 cm; 55 x 40 x 23 cm).
  • Animals other than dogs and cats are not permitted to travel in the hold. Certain species may be carried as freight. Find detailed information about which species this affects under “Extended regulations”.
  • Information and special requirements for the carriage of fighting dog breeds, snub-nosed dogs and cats can be found under “Extended regulations”.
  • Your pet must be clean, healthy and not dangerous. It should not be pregnant and should not smell.
  • It must travel in a suitable container or crate and must have enough food and water for the entire journey.

Regulations for transport containers

The international aviation authority IATA has laid down regulations for transport containers. SWISS strictly adheres to these rules for reasons of animal welfare. They define the conditions, appearance and minimum size for transport containers.

Please make sure that the container is equipped with some absorbent material and is adequate for the size of the animal. Also attach the IATA “Live Animals” label securely to your container. You must also provide food and water bowls and fix them to the crate.

You can find specifications for the container for the carriage of dogs and cats as cargo in the air-conditioned hold here:

  • The container must be suitable for carrying the cat or dog.
  • The size must be calculated to ensure the animal can stand up, move around and lie down in a natural position.
  • The inside of the container must be smooth and free from any uneven sections which the animal could chew or scratch off. This will ensure the container remains intact.
  • The top of the container must be watertight to prevent rain, snow or hail from getting in.
  • Containers consisting of an upper and a lower section must be securely screwed together.
  • The container must be sturdy, lockable and clean, with a waterproof base lined with absorbent material.
  • The door must be well secured.
  • We recommend using cable ties to secure the door.
  • Wheels are not permitted on the container. If wheels are fitted, they must be removed or disabled before the container can be accepted.
  • Ventilation must be provided on all four sides of the container. The ventilation holes must be of a suitable size, or covered with a grille, to ensure that no part of the animal’s body can protrude from the container. This will minimise the risk of injury.
  • The ventilation holes on the sides and the back must be positioned in the top two-thirds of the container.
  • Spacers must be incorporated into the design (both on the sides and at the back) to act as handles for moving the container and to ensure the ventilation holes are not blocked by other freight or items of baggage.
  • Water containers must not be filled for the flight, but they must be accessible from the outside. Food and water for the flight can be provided in non-spill containers.
  • Instructions for feeding and watering must be provided on the information sticker.
  • The container must be easy for our staff to handle and must provide protection against scratch and bite injuries by the animal.

Transport containers for dogs and cats

Please note: containers made of wire or wire mesh are not permitted for air carriage. The top of the container must also not be made of wire but must be made of a solid material. Ventilation holes are permitted, providing they do not reduce the stability of the top of the container.

sbb travel with dog

1 Door hinges and latches must protrude above and below the door openings on the horizontal projections by at least 1.60 cm.

2 Ventilation holes

3 Rear view

4 Attached food and water containers

5 Door latch

Charges for the carriage of animals

The charges for the carriage of animals will vary depending on the route. Animals are not included in your baggage allowance and are always charged as excess baggage. The prices for animals in transport containers refer to flights in the hold or in the cabin.

Note : for tickets issued after 1 April 2021 an AVIH surcharge of EUR 150 / CHF 170 / USD 170 / CAD 220 will apply to transfers via Geneva, Frankfurt, Vienna and Zurich

Carriage as cargo

The following travel as cargo:

  • animals travelling without a human companion
  • animals travelling to countries where they are required by law to travel as cargo

Your animal will also be safe and comfortable if it travels as cargo. Whether it travels on the same flight as you depends on the capacity of the flight. For bookings and questions, please contact ​Swiss WorldCargo .

Bringing pets to SWISS Lounges

You are welcome to bring your four-legged friends with you to our Lounges. However, please note that out of consideration for our other guests, your dogs or cats must not be allowed to roam freely around in SWISS Lounges and they should wait in their cargo crate or carrier for their onward journey. These rules do not apply to assistance dogs.

Travelling to Switzerland with dogs and cats

If you fly directly to Switzerland, your pet will be checked by customs at the airport. If the animal fails to meet the entry requirements, it will be confiscated by the Border Veterinary Service and must immediately return to its country of origin. This will be at the expense of the person who brought the animal into the country. For further information, please refer to the ​ website of the Swiss Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office .

Importing dogs into the USA

The risk of rabies means there are restrictions on importing dogs into the USA. You can find more detailed information about these CDC restrictions and how to obtain a certificate of exemption on the website of the United States Center for Disease Control.

Importing dogs into Canada

If you wish to bring a dog as a pet or a trained service animal into Canada, including return travel, special papers are required to satisfy the Canadian import regulations. If you cannot provide these papers, you run the risk of delays at the border and your pet may not be permitted entry into Canada. Please find out in good time exactly which documents you need before you travel to Canada with your animal or you import an animal into Canada. You can find details about this on the website of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (English) .

When animals go on long journeys

Whether pets or exotic species from the zoo: every animal will feel at home in our special cargo holds.

Book the flight for your pet before commencing your journey

Contact our Service Centre if you wish to take your pet on a flight. The carriage of animals is subject to a charge.

Recommendation ‒ animals in the hold

Bring your pet to the check-in desk in an appropriate transport container at least 2 hours but no more than 3 hours before departure.

Quick links

  • FAQs: Travelling with animals

Extended regulations

Regulations for snub-nosed animals.

Snub-nosed breeds of dogs and cats are particularly sensitive to temperatures and transport stress. Your pet could suffer health problems or even die during the journey. For this reason, SWISS excludes these breeds from carriage in the hold.

This restriction also applies to crossbreeds of the breeds listed above.

Regulations for dangerous dog breeds

The following breeds and crossbreeds are classified as dangerous dogs:

  • American Bulldog
  • American Bully (fundamentally prohibited due to potential snub-nosed characteristic)
  • Caucasian Ovcharka (Caucasian Shepherd Dog)
  • Dogo Argentino
  • Karabash (Kangal Dog) (Anatolian Shepherd Dog)

Cargo crates for dangerous dogs

Dogs that are considered dangerous breeds may only be carried in a suitable cargo crate and are not permitted in the cabin. Dogs aged between 3 and 6 months old are exempt from this regulation. In line with the IATA Live Animals Regulations Container Requirement 82, the cargo crate must comply with certain requirements detailed in the listed criteria.

Cargo crates for dangerous dog breeds must comply with the following criteria:

  • The cargo crate must be made from wood, metal, synthetic materials, welded wire mesh or standard wire mesh.
  • Additional requirements apply to the frame, sides, floor, roof and door of the cargo crate. Please consult the diagram below “Cargo crates for dangerous dog breeds”.
  • No part of the crate must be made from plastic.
  • The door must be made from a heavy duty wire mesh, metal or reinforced wood and must be equipped with a safety lock that prevents accidental opening.

Travelling with animals - EN

Assistance dogs

General terms and conditions for taking assistance dogs in the cabin.

To ensure that the flight can operate safely and securely, your dog must be trained to obey you and behave appropriately in a public space (e.g. no barking, growling or jumping up at people).

If your dog does not behave appropriately, Swiss may charge you to carry the dog as cargo or refuse to carry the dog altogether. You will be liable for damages and additional costs that arise in connection with the carriage of the dog.

To make a reservation for your guide dog, please contact a Service Centre

In order for you to take your dog with you in the passenger cabin, certain terms and conditions must be met. We have compiled a list of the most important information:

Registration of recognised assistance dogs on flights outside the USA

We carry one (1) assistance dog free of charge.

Definition of an assistance dog

It is a dog, regardless of breed or type.

It is individually trained to work with or carry out tasks for a person with a disability.

  • Disabilities include a visual, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.

Entry regulations

You are responsible for ensuring compliance with all the relevant import and export regulations as well as the animal welfare requirements for your dog throughout the journey.

Mandatory forms

  • Assistance Dogs International (ADI),
  • Assistance Dogs Europe (ADEu),
  • International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) or
  • with the name and address,
  • details of the type and duration of the training and
  • the task for which the dog has been trained and successfully completed the training

Please note that a certificate for obedience training or a completed DOT form for travel outside the USA is not sufficient. Self-taught and online training websites are also not recognised.

If you are unable to provide the required documents, your dog will travel under the usual carriage conditions for pets: in the cabin or as cargo, depending on the size and weight, for an additional fee. Further information about the carriage of dogs in the cabin (under 8 kg). Further information about the carriage of dogs in the hold (over 8 kg).

Send us the required documents with details of the breed, weight and age of the animal no later than 48 hours before departure.  

Conditions for bringing your dog on board

  • It must be at least 4 months old
  • It must not sit on a seat
  • It must fit in the footwell in front of your seat. We would like to point out to guests in First and Business Class that in this case it may not be possible to extend the seat into a fully horizontal bed.
  • It must behave appropriately and remain under your direct control throughout the flight. Dogs that do not behave appropriately (e.g. by barking, growling, biting or jumping up) cannot be accepted as assistance dogs
  • You must bring a muzzle for your dog. In situations where your dog poses a risk to other passengers, we will require your dog to wear a muzzle or will have to refuse to carry the dog. On flights to and from Canada you are not obliged to carry a muzzle with you. However, we strongly recommend that you bring one.

Registration of a recognised assistance dog on nonstop flights to and from the USA

We carry two (2) assistance dogs free of charge.

including a visual, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.

Emotional support dogs and assistance dogs in training do not count as assistance dogs.

Important note : from 1 March 2021 SWISS only accepts trained assistance dogs in the cabin. Emotional support dogs are not classified as assistance dogs and new bookings will no longer be accepted after this date. They will travel under the usual carriage conditions for pets, either in the cabin or as cargo, depending on the size and weight, for an additional fee.

Further information about the carriage of dogs in the hold (over 8 kg) Mandatory forms

In order to travel with an assistance dog on SWISS, you must download the relevant form from the US Department of Transport (DOT) before your flight and submit it to SWISS no later than 48 hours before your flight

  • Download the US DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form (PDF). With this form you are confirming the health, training and behaviour of the animal

Download the US Service Animal Relief Attestation Form (PDF)

Please send the updated form to us at the following e-mail address This form is required for a flight duration of more than 8 hours. Here you confirm that your animal will not need to relieve itself or that it will not do so in any way that would represent a risk to health or hygiene. Keep this form handy during your journey.

Important : have you booked a connecting flight with your assistance dog? If so, please note that a training certificate for the animal must be submitted for this onward flight.

  • You are not obliged to bring a muzzle with you. However, we do recommend you bring one. If there is a situation where your dog poses a risk to other passengers, we may require that your dog wear a muzzle or will have to refuse to carry the dog.

Acceptance before departure

Our ground crew will check whether the dog meets all the qualifications for an assistance dog. They will check how the animal behaves in public or whether it exhibits any disturbing or aggressive behaviour that might suggest that the dog has not been properly trained and they will also check external features (e.g. wearing a harness).

Refusal of carriage

SWISS can refuse carriage in line with American DOT regulations if the dog

  • represents a direct threat to the health or safety of others
  • causes a significant disturbance on board or in the gate area of the airport or
  • its behaviour suggests that it has not been trained to behave appropriately in public
  • if the passenger with disabilities does not present the required forms for the carriage of the dog in the cabin
  • if the carriage of guide dogs would violate existing safety or health requirements.

Train advice from the Man in Seat 61...

The Man in Seat 61

Share on Facebook

How to travel into Europe

Taking your dog by train.

  • Buy train tickets
  • Buy ferry tickets
  • Book a hotel
  • Privacy & cookies
  •   Home

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 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 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 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 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 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."

Back to home page

  • Share full article

 The author and his goldendoodle, Steve on the floor of a luxury kennel.

My Goldendoodle Spent a Week at Some Luxury Dog ‘Hotels.’ I Tagged Along.

How exactly did dogs take over our world? This writer journeys into the bespoke pet care industry to find out.

The author and his goldendoodle, Steve, in the Annapolis suite at the Holiday Barn Pet Resorts outside Richmond, Va. Credit... Holly Andres for The New York Times

Supported by

By Sam Apple

  • March 14, 2024

By the time my goldendoodle, Steve, and I pulled up to our resting place, I was tired from the long drive and already second-guessing my plan. I felt a little better when we stepped inside the Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat. The lobby, with its elegant tiled entrance, might have passed for the lobby of any small countryside hotel, at least one that strongly favored dog-themed décor. But this illusion was broken when the receptionist reviewed our reservation — which, in addition to our luxury suite, included cuddle time, group play, a nature walk and a “belly rub tuck-in.”

Listen to this article, read by Eric Jason Martin

Open this article in the New York Times Audio app on iOS.

Venues like this one, located on Kent Island in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay, didn’t exist when I was growing up in the 1980s. If you needed a place to board your dog back then, you went to a kennel, where your dog spent virtually the entire day in a small — and probably not very clean — cage. There were no tuck-ins, no bedtime stories, no dog-bone-shaped swimming pools. There were certainly nothing like today’s most upscale canine resorts, where the dogs sleep on queen-size beds and the spa offerings include mud baths and blueberry facials; one pet-hotel franchise on the West Coast will even pick up your dog in a Lamborghini. I knew Dogwood Acres wouldn’t be quite as luxurious as that, but the accommodations still sounded pretty nice. The website mentioned “distinctive décor,” “cable television” and “a large picture window overlooking an extra-large private outdoor patio.”

Steve getting soaped up at the Olde Towne spa.

My plan was to stay with Steve at a string of dog hotels — yes, for dogs only — in the Mid-Atlantic region, not too far from where I live. Putting the plan into action had required making a series of deeply embarrassing phone calls. My requests were sometimes met with awkward silences, which would be followed by questions along the lines of: “You sure you want to do that?” I tried to explain that staying at dog hotels would take me to the heart of some questions that I’d been thinking about a lot in recent months. How did humans start catering to the whims of canines rather than the other way around? And what if, somewhere along the way, we all became a little too obsessed with our dogs?

After Steve was weighed and examined for fleas and ticks, we were escorted to our room. Everyone at Dogwood Acres was exceptionally warm and welcoming, which did nothing to lessen my fear, as I walked by them clutching my sleeping bag and rolling suitcase, that they all thought I was a total schmuck. I wanted to take each employee aside and explain that it wasn’t what it seemed, that I was actually on a very serious quest to understand something important about the American condition in the 21st century. But there was nothing to be done, because of course the only thing schmuckier than staying at a facility for dogs is trying to justify it as a quest to understand something important about the American condition in the 21st century.

I tried to remain positive as Steve and I made our way into the recesses of Dogwood Acres. Never mind if the hallway of luxury suites had less the feel of the Ritz-Carlton than of, say, a Soviet-era Bulgarian office building. So what if the room directly across from our suite was occupied by a large black dog named Bella who was barking ferociously and lunging at the window facing our room? What difference did it make that someone had used a black marker to add some all-caps notes to the printed chart taped to Bella’s door? (“DO NOT REACH FOR HEAD”; “CAUTION W/ SUDDEN MOVEMENTS.”) Did it really matter that our room was significantly smaller than I anticipated — 6.5 feet by 6.5 feet — or that the “extra-large private outdoor patio” was surrounded by steel caging? It could have been worse. I had my sleeping bag. There was a TV and an elegant stainless-steel pail of water should Steve or I get thirsty.

It was all, of course, entirely my own fault. Audrey Reichardt, the owner, had graciously offered to set up a cot and air mattress for me, but I insisted I wanted only what the dogs get. “This is it,” Reichardt said, extending her hand to the room. “But you’re not a dog.”

A little while later, a young woman came by to give Steve his bedtime “belly rub tuck-in.” Watching by the open door, I couldn’t help thinking that, if only humans were good and innocent like dogs — instead of being so weird and gross and sex-obsessed — we might have a wider range of wholesome services like this one available at our hotels. Then I remembered that Steve might not be so good and pure around his own kind, either, had I not had his testicles surgically removed.

At 8 p.m., it was lights-out. Steve got onto his dog cot with the stuffed mallard toy I’d packed. A few minutes later, I heard some deep breathing and saw that Steve was out cold, which made the whole experience lonelier, like when a friend would fall asleep first at a sleepover. At some point, I remembered that I hadn’t eaten all day. I took a few hard-boiled eggs out of my bag and looked through the window to the patio/steel cage and felt — it really should have been impossible — even schmuckier than before.

It’s not just the hotels. There are now dog bakeries and ice cream parlors and social clubs. One dog-only San Francisco cafe serves canines a $75 tasting menu; more and more restaurants (for people) also now offer dog menus. A lot of these things probably started as jokes, but such gestures have a way of outliving their origins. At some point, throwing birthday parties for our dogs and buying them Valentine’s Day gifts went from being something we did to be funny to something we just did. Total spending on pets in the United States — and dogs are by far the most popular pet — rose more than 50 percent between 2018 and 2022, when it reached $137 billion, according to a pet-products trade association. Americans now spend more than half a billion dollars each year on pet Halloween costumes alone, per the National Retail Federation.

This sharp spending increase overlaps with Americans’ spending approximately twice as much time with pets today as they did two decades ago. A 2023 survey found that around half of American owners believe their pet knows them better than anyone else does, including significant others and best friends. These statistics sit uncomfortably alongside the fact that the U.S. surgeon general recently declared human loneliness an “epidemic.” It’s hard not to wonder whether our growing obsession with dogs is somehow related to our declining interest in one another. Maybe, even as we’re humanizing our dogs, the deeper appeal is not that they’re like people but that they’re not like people. Maybe, if you dig far enough beneath the surface of our dog love, you eventually arrive at a thin layer of misanthropy.

My interest in America’s dog mania wasn’t only sociological. Several months before our trip, I found a small lump on Steve’s right hind leg. The tumor turned out to be benign, but the experience left me profoundly shaken. When the veterinary surgeon told me she thought it was cancer, I had to sit in the car for 10 minutes to regain my composure before driving home. Every time I looked over and saw Steve’s breathtakingly goofy face, encircled by his dumb plastic cone, I started to cry again. Before this cancer scare, I probably would have said that the expanding place of dogs in American life was a good thing, that a world that revolves around dogs is a better world. It was only after I realized how unready I was to lose Steve that I found myself wondering if the problem with our current dog mania might run deeper than I’d thought.

I don’t think of myself as particularly lonely. But I don’t get together with friends in person very often anymore; the phone calls I used to have with friends have been replaced by texts. I usually work from home, and on a typical workday, I interact with many more people on Zoom than in real life. If I need the comfort of another beating heart, the closest one around is inside Steve’s rib cage.

Unfortunately, if less human connection is driving us to form deeper bonds with our dogs, it’s hard to conclude that dogs are actually solving our problems. The most surprising finding in the field of anthrozoology, which studies human-animal relationships, might be that there’s no conclusive link between pets and well-being. In 2021, Megan Mueller at Tufts University discovered that pet owners were twice as likely to report being depressed as those without pets. The finding was only an association: We can’t really say whether pets are responsible for that depression or if depressed people are simply more likely to have pets. Still, “the mismatch between our personal experience with the animals that we love and what the research says is a complete mystery,” Hal Herzog, an anthrozoologist and emeritus professor at Western Carolina University, told me. “Most studies don’t show that pet owners are happier; that pet owners are less depressed; that pet owners go to the doctor less.”

The next morning at Dogwood Acres, the staff threw a birthday party for Steve in a gated yard — Steve’s birthday was less than two months away, so I told myself the request was legit. A dozen dogs ran around happily in a sea of toys. There was a bubble machine and a tub full of colorful plastic balls. Steve, decked out in a handsome birthday-boy bandanna, immediately picked up a stuffed bone, and because I know there’s nothing he loves more than making a complete mockery of me in a game of chase, I ran after him.

Our next stop was a presidential suite at Holiday Barn Pet Resorts just outside Richmond, Va. Each Holiday Barn suite had a different regional theme. Ours was “Annapolis,” and the suite’s orange-and-white walls featured tasteful maritime décor, including a little blue shelf holding an antique beer stein and tiny pitchers. It was so nice — 7.5 feet by 8 feet! — that I didn’t care at all that Hartley, the golden retriever staying down the hall, had the considerably fancier Mount Vernon Suite, which featured a painting of George Washington and a tubular light fixture that called to mind Dan Flavin.

This business, which has been family-run since it opened in Glen Allen, Va., in 1972, was originally called Holiday Barn Pet Kennel, and the dogs stayed in cages attached to outdoor kennel runs. “You had vermin coming in,” the resort owner, Michael Hughes, recalled. “All of a sudden you look and there’s a raccoon in there, or a possum or snake.” Not long after it opened, Hughes’ parents began hiring teenage “petters.” At the time, tending to the emotional needs of a dog in a kennel was considered novel.

Today dog-boarding establishments have to focus most on the emotional needs of “pet parents,” as owners are known in the industry. Hughes mentioned a Holiday Barn guest that ate only Chick-fil-A sandwiches. At some dog hotels, suites have cameras, and emails from concerned owners arrive throughout the night. San Francisco’s Pet Camp once received a frantic call from a woman who wanted to know why her dog had come home with an erection. (The hoteliers denied responsibility for the erection.) A dog hotel in Pennsylvania once had to make time for a pet parent who insisted on calling in each day to play the kazoo to her dog.

“Pet parents” is a term of modern creation, although “pet” has a longer history. The word first came into use in the early 1500s, and from the beginning, it could refer not only to animals but also to people — particularly spoiled children. James Serpell, an emeritus professor of animal welfare at the University of Pennsylvania, told me that the origin of humans’ keeping pets can probably be traced to the human tendency to respond to young animals in the same way we respond to small children: It’s “an extension of our parenting instincts.”

We have extended our parenting instincts so far, it seems, that the distinction between pets and children has evaporated altogether. And pet-industry experts say the relentless humanizing of our dogs has been accelerated by millennials and Gen Z, who now make up the largest share of dog owners in the country, and who often have a first dog before a first child. Americans in their 20s and 30s nowadays have a lot of spare parental love in their hearts — and their dogs are lapping it up.

I slept well at Holiday Barn. The next morning, before leaving, I helped Steve into a dog life jacket so he could splash around in the bone-shaped pool. I put on some rubber boots and clomped around after him, while two chocolate Labs took turns swimming laps. The previous few days were overcast, but the sun was out now, and I was overcome with an “I could really get used to this” feeling, before I realized I was now fantasizing about extending my stay at a dog resort.

I knew before I arrived that the Olde Towne Pet Resort in Dulles, Va., where Steve and I would be spending the last night of our trip, would be the fanciest of our destinations. But I was wowed just the same. The lobby had a sculpture of a pointer and a glass wall with a view of the heated indoor pool. It was nicer than the lobby of most human hotels I’d stayed in. When I later interviewed Ron Hallagan, president and chief executive of Olde Towne Pet Resorts, he told me his job came with some special challenges: “It’s like running an acute-care retirement facility. They all have to be taken to the bathroom. We have a med cart. Half of them are on meds.”

After we checked in, a friendly young man named Jonathan Neal led Steve through an agility session, during which Steve jumped through hoops and walked along ramps and elevated planks. Neal then changed into a wet suit to oversee Steve’s swimming session, which involved leading a very unamused Steve back and forth across the 20-foot-long pool.

Though I’d arranged to stay at a luxury suite at Olde Towne, there was a concern that the dogs there might smell me and that this could be upsetting to them, so Steve and I were put up in an otherwise-unoccupied wing comprising, essentially, large roofless cages. It was probably for the best. I wasn’t particularly in the mood to watch “Happy Feet,” which was playing on the TVs in the suites that night.

A cot had been set up for me, and I was too tired to refuse it. It was hardly big enough for a person, but Steve, forgoing his own dog-size cot, climbed up with me. Then William Tyler, the executive director of the hotel at the time, stopped by our cage. Tyler, a middle-aged former Marine and a good-size man, got down on the floor inches away from us and began to read Steve his bedtime story, a book about Clifford the Big Red Dog saving people from a fire. When Tyler finished reading, he said good night to us and turned out the lights. I curled around Steve as best I could on the cot, feeling grateful that he was there with me.

But I wondered about Steve’s feelings, too. Over the course of my time living in the lap of canine luxury, I became more convinced than ever that a world with more dog love is a better world — yet I also met quite a few human beings in the bespoke pet-care industry who, having observed all parties up close, expressed their anxieties about the extent of our devotion. When humans include animals in everything they do, the “dog doesn’t know how to be a dog,” Hughes had told me. Lying there on this last night, I wished Steve could tell me what he’d thought of the whole thing.

In the morning, Steve got a mud bath at Olde Towne’s spa, and a blueberry facial, and then, after Steve was blown out and brushed and sprayed with a dog cologne, it was time to drive home. It had been a good trip. As we drove back, I stroked Steve’s head at red lights and felt only a little bit like a schmuck.

Sam Apple teaches in the science writing and writing master’s programs at Johns Hopkins University. He is the author of “Ravenous: Otto Warburg, the Nazis and the Search for the Cancer-Diet Connection.” Holly Andres is a photographer in Portland, Ore. She has photographed numerous subjects for the magazine, including Tom Sandoval, open marriages and young climate activists.

A Closer Look at Man’s Best Friend

Dogs are more than just pets, they’re our companions..

How exactly did dogs take over our world? A writer spent a week in the world of luxury dog “hotels”  to find out.

Small dogs with prominent noses live longer than bigger, flat-faced canines,  a new study suggests.

Longevity drugs for our canine companions are moving closer to reality. Here is what to know .

Can your dog make you sick? While dog lovers cherish their pets’ affection, their licks and nips can potentially spread harmful germs .

How do you handle an aggressive dog? Trainers weighed in on how owners can help pets keep their cool .

DogTV, a pay-TV service designed for dogs who are stuck at home alone, hopes to tap into a huge new audience of pandemic puppies  — plus their owners.

Advertisement

TheSBB

Tips on Traveling with a Chosen Dog!

Photo of author

If you’re looking to take your travel with the dog to another level, or if you just don’t have the time to go out and visit your friends and family, then you can try using a friend’s car as your pet’s travel companion. This way, you can come and go as you please, and your pet doesn’t get in the way of your travel plans simultaneously.

PAWAii Travel Pet Carrier is your best choice when you travel with your puppy.

If you’re looking for a pet that you can bring with you wherever you go, then the dog of your choice will do just fine. This way makes travel with your pet more plane-like and becomes a place where you and your dog can socialize and bond over this new lifestyle.

Few Things to Consider

One is your dog’s safety and well-being. Make sure to keep them safe and secure when travelling with a dog. They also need to be Patricia’s favourite time with all that is happening in the world. Here are a few more things to keep in mind when travelling with a dog!

  • Make sure to plan and have a dog-proof home.
  • Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and a good meal once in a while.
  • Some tips when travelling with a dog include:
  •     Have a dog-proof home -get dog-proof food.
  •     Have a dog-proof blanket.
  •     Have dog-proof toys.
  •     Have dog-proof toys and food with paper.

Click here – Benefits Of Choosing An Online MBA Course In Canada

Benefits of Traveling with a Dog

  • Dogs are known to be very intelligent pets.
  • Dogs are One of Theiak Society’s most effective Marie’s dogs.
  • Dogs are good companions and can provide financial stability for a family.
  • Dogs are good animals that can be trained to do various tasks for the family.
  • Dogs are good companions when home with someone willing to invest in their well-being.
  • Dogs are an excellent way of providing socialization for children and emotional support.
  • Dogs are valuable pet animals that can provide public transportation with protection.
  • Dogs are valuable members of a family and can be trusted with important items.
  • Dogs are valuable military members and can be used for marching and leading.
  • Dogs are valuable members of their families and can be used for color control.

When traveling with a dog, it is important to take into account the following:

  • The dog’s weight – Dogs can be quite strong and can cause harm to property while travelling, so it is important to make sure that the dog is not too heavy or too small of an animal that would cause difficulties for the traveler.
  • The dog’s size and weight – A dog that is too large or too small can cause Billboarding or travel as luggage.
  • The dog’s speed – Dogs are very fast and can easily navigate through tight spaces, so it is important to make sure that they are not too slow or too fast.
  • The dog’s Payback Time – Dogs can be very aggressive and take quite a lot of time to move through traffic, so it is important to make sure that the dog is not too long or too short of an animal that can only take one direction at a time.
  • The dog’s fear factor – Dogs can be quite strong and cause fear in people, so it is important to consider the dog’s size and weight before traveling with it.

This electric dog fence kit for travelling with your dog is perfect for a casual get-along. The fence has two electric fences, a control box, and a handle, making it easy to set up and use. The control box allows you to control the pace and behaviour of your pet, while the electric fences keep your dog safe and secure.

  • This is also great for taking to other dog shows or events quickly and easily. The control box and electric fences make it easy to set up and use, and the toolbox gives you plenty of places to add more fences and control boxes as needed.
  • This is a great way to keep your pet safe and secure, and it can be easily put on and off of your dog without any fuss. This is a great choice for travelling dog shows, and it is perfect for quickly and easily keeping your pet safe and secure.

Click here – 6 Lucrative Ways Enterprise App Development Changes Your Business

Best Places to Travel with Your Dog

  • A restaurant with great service and polite staff.
  • A park with plenty of grass, flowers, and trees.
  • A beautiful sunset or sunrise over a calm river or desert landscape.
  • A friend and family member’s house is currently being used as a pet-sitting service.
  • Aweinskien is where you can have a heartfelt conversation about your dog’s or any other pet’s needs.
  • A local airport if you can fit in an airport feast as your travel planner requires it.
  • A Nature Reserve if you find your dog’s size or distance is too restricted.
  • A new building or improvement that you tell your dog about, and they love it.
  • A place to relax and people-watch.

The best way to travel with a dog depends on the dog’s size and the host’s and guests’ personal preferences. Some people find it helpful to have a second dog with them on trips in case the first dog gets lost or needs to be replaced.

Others might prefer to only bring a pet sitter with them on trips or in larger cities for a longer period to keep the dog entertained and/or connected to people and surroundings. Some people also find it helpful to have a second pet name or image with them when leaving home, to keep the dog’s name and history known and loved.

When traveling with a dog, it is important to make sure to have a variety of activities to keep them active and entertained. Some things to keep in mind include taking breaks for a water bottle, going for walks, and getting up close and personal with the dog’s food.

Benefits Of Choosing An Online MBA Course In Canada

6 Lucrative Ways Enterprise App Development Changes Your Business

Facts.net

Turn Your Curiosity Into Discovery

Latest facts.

Facts About The Research in Epithalon Properties Overview Analysis

Facts About The Research in Epithalon Properties Overview Analysis

How To Protect Children From Junk Food Marketing

How To Protect Children From Junk Food Marketing

40 facts about elektrostal.

Lanette Mayes

Written by Lanette Mayes

Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

40-facts-about-elektrostal

Elektrostal is a vibrant city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia. With a rich history, stunning architecture, and a thriving community, Elektrostal is a city that has much to offer. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about different cultures, Elektrostal is sure to captivate you.

This article will provide you with 40 fascinating facts about Elektrostal, giving you a better understanding of why this city is worth exploring. From its origins as an industrial hub to its modern-day charm, we will delve into the various aspects that make Elektrostal a unique and must-visit destination.

So, join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of Elektrostal and discover what makes this city a true gem in the heart of Russia.

Key Takeaways:

  • Elektrostal, known as the “Motor City of Russia,” is a vibrant and growing city with a rich industrial history, offering diverse cultural experiences and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.
  • With its convenient location near Moscow, Elektrostal provides a picturesque landscape, vibrant nightlife, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal destination for residents and visitors alike.

Known as the “Motor City of Russia.”

Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname “Motor City” due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.

Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.

Boasts a rich industrial heritage.

Elektrostal has a long history of industrial development, contributing to the growth and progress of the region.

Founded in 1916.

The city of Elektrostal was founded in 1916 as a result of the construction of the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant.

Located approximately 50 kilometers east of Moscow.

Elektrostal is situated in close proximity to the Russian capital, making it easily accessible for both residents and visitors.

Known for its vibrant cultural scene.

Elektrostal is home to several cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries that showcase the city’s rich artistic heritage.

A popular destination for nature lovers.

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and forests, Elektrostal offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching.

Hosts the annual Elektrostal City Day celebrations.

Every year, Elektrostal organizes festive events and activities to celebrate its founding, bringing together residents and visitors in a spirit of unity and joy.

Has a population of approximately 160,000 people.

Elektrostal is home to a diverse and vibrant community of around 160,000 residents, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

Boasts excellent education facilities.

The city is known for its well-established educational institutions, providing quality education to students of all ages.

A center for scientific research and innovation.

Elektrostal serves as an important hub for scientific research, particularly in the fields of metallurgy, materials science, and engineering.

Surrounded by picturesque lakes.

The city is blessed with numerous beautiful lakes, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.

Well-connected transportation system.

Elektrostal benefits from an efficient transportation network, including highways, railways, and public transportation options, ensuring convenient travel within and beyond the city.

Famous for its traditional Russian cuisine.

Food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Russian dishes at numerous restaurants and cafes scattered throughout Elektrostal.

Home to notable architectural landmarks.

Elektrostal boasts impressive architecture, including the Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord and the Elektrostal Palace of Culture.

Offers a wide range of recreational facilities.

Residents and visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, and fitness centers, enhancing the overall quality of life.

Provides a high standard of healthcare.

Elektrostal is equipped with modern medical facilities, ensuring residents have access to quality healthcare services.

Home to the Elektrostal History Museum.

The Elektrostal History Museum showcases the city’s fascinating past through exhibitions and displays.

A hub for sports enthusiasts.

Elektrostal is passionate about sports, with numerous stadiums, arenas, and sports clubs offering opportunities for athletes and spectators.

Celebrates diverse cultural festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal hosts a variety of cultural festivals, celebrating different ethnicities, traditions, and art forms.

Electric power played a significant role in its early development.

Elektrostal owes its name and initial growth to the establishment of electric power stations and the utilization of electricity in the industrial sector.

Boasts a thriving economy.

The city’s strong industrial base, coupled with its strategic location near Moscow, has contributed to Elektrostal’s prosperous economic status.

Houses the Elektrostal Drama Theater.

The Elektrostal Drama Theater is a cultural centerpiece, attracting theater enthusiasts from far and wide.

Popular destination for winter sports.

Elektrostal’s proximity to ski resorts and winter sport facilities makes it a favorite destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities.

Promotes environmental sustainability.

Elektrostal prioritizes environmental protection and sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce pollution and preserve natural resources.

Home to renowned educational institutions.

Elektrostal is known for its prestigious schools and universities, offering a wide range of academic programs to students.

Committed to cultural preservation.

The city values its cultural heritage and takes active steps to preserve and promote traditional customs, crafts, and arts.

Hosts an annual International Film Festival.

The Elektrostal International Film Festival attracts filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing a diverse range of films.

Encourages entrepreneurship and innovation.

Elektrostal supports aspiring entrepreneurs and fosters a culture of innovation, providing opportunities for startups and business development.

Offers a range of housing options.

Elektrostal provides diverse housing options, including apartments, houses, and residential complexes, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.

Home to notable sports teams.

Elektrostal is proud of its sports legacy, with several successful sports teams competing at regional and national levels.

Boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.

Residents and visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife in Elektrostal, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Promotes cultural exchange and international relations.

Elektrostal actively engages in international partnerships, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic collaborations to foster global connections.

Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves.

Nearby nature reserves, such as the Barybino Forest and Luchinskoye Lake, offer opportunities for nature enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the region’s biodiversity.

Commemorates historical events.

The city pays tribute to significant historical events through memorials, monuments, and exhibitions, ensuring the preservation of collective memory.

Promotes sports and youth development.

Elektrostal invests in sports infrastructure and programs to encourage youth participation, health, and physical fitness.

Hosts annual cultural and artistic festivals.

Throughout the year, Elektrostal celebrates its cultural diversity through festivals dedicated to music, dance, art, and theater.

Provides a picturesque landscape for photography enthusiasts.

The city’s scenic beauty, architectural landmarks, and natural surroundings make it a paradise for photographers.

Connects to Moscow via a direct train line.

The convenient train connection between Elektrostal and Moscow makes commuting between the two cities effortless.

A city with a bright future.

Elektrostal continues to grow and develop, aiming to become a model city in terms of infrastructure, sustainability, and quality of life for its residents.

In conclusion, Elektrostal is a fascinating city with a rich history and a vibrant present. From its origins as a center of steel production to its modern-day status as a hub for education and industry, Elektrostal has plenty to offer both residents and visitors. With its beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and proximity to Moscow, there is no shortage of things to see and do in this dynamic city. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historical landmarks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Elektrostal has something for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in the Moscow region, don’t miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Elektrostal.

Q: What is the population of Elektrostal?

A: As of the latest data, the population of Elektrostal is approximately XXXX.

Q: How far is Elektrostal from Moscow?

A: Elektrostal is located approximately XX kilometers away from Moscow.

Q: Are there any famous landmarks in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to several notable landmarks, including XXXX and XXXX.

Q: What industries are prominent in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal is known for its steel production industry and is also a center for engineering and manufacturing.

Q: Are there any universities or educational institutions in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal is home to XXXX University and several other educational institutions.

Q: What are some popular outdoor activities in Elektrostal?

A: Elektrostal offers several outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in its beautiful parks.

Q: Is Elektrostal well-connected in terms of transportation?

A: Yes, Elektrostal has good transportation links, including trains and buses, making it easily accessible from nearby cities.

Q: Are there any annual events or festivals in Elektrostal?

A: Yes, Elektrostal hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including XXXX and XXXX.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

Share this Fact:

IMAGES

  1. Travelling with dogs

    sbb travel with dog

  2. How to Travel With Your Dog: A Complete Guide to Traveling With a Dog

    sbb travel with dog

  3. The Ultimate Guide: Tips For Flying With Your Dog In Cabin

    sbb travel with dog

  4. Everything You Need to Know About Traveling with a Dog

    sbb travel with dog

  5. Traveling With Your Pet

    sbb travel with dog

  6. Pups Onboard: Why Trains Are a Great Way to Travel With Your Dog(s

    sbb travel with dog

VIDEO

  1. 22 July 2023 #new #cutedog

  2. डॉगी से मिला खरगोश को पार्टी#dog #funny #amazingfacts #pets #animals #fact #amazingfact #animal #pet

  3. dog cute Love❤❤❤❤❤❤

  4. Funny Gameplay 😂

  5. よく走るイッヌ達を眺める動画。 #雑種犬 #保護犬 #犬のいる暮らし #dog #gopro #dogshorts #shortvideo #shorts #short

  6. Catch & Cook In New Zealand

COMMENTS

  1. Travelling with dogs

    Dogs of any size travelling in passenger carriages or luggage vans must always pay second-class half fare or the stipulated minimum fare (Day Pass Dogs, Dog Pass) if there is one. Dogs must sit under your seat so that passage is not blocked for other passengers. Exception: you can transport small dogs with a wither height of up to 30cm for free ...

  2. Travelling with your dog

    Travelling with your dog. A dog can travel freely all day with the Day Pass Dog for CHF 25, when accompanied by a person with a valid ticket. Tip: small dogs (under 30cm) can even travel for free provided they are in a suitable carrier (e.g. a basket or bag) and placed under your seat.

  3. Dog Pass

    Unlimited travel with your dog on public transport in Switzerland - with the Dog Pass at an annual price. Buy it online right away! Navigate at sbb.ch. To contents ... If you do not already own a SwissPass, you can order one by phone via the SBB Contact Center on 0848 44 66 88 (CHF .08/min.) or at a staffed public transport point of sale ...

  4. Companion Ticket: great-value travel for your companion

    Break out together with the Companion Ticket. The Companion Ticket: your companion travels for just CHF 38. From 11 April to 31 May 2023, travelling as a pair is especially good value thanks to the Companion Ticket. For just CHF 38, you can take someone along to travel with you for a whole day - in either 1st or 2nd class.

  5. Help with travelling with dogs

    Alternatively, you can buy the Day Pass for Dogs directly online at SBB.ch or via the SBB Mobile app in the 'Shop & Services' tab. Purchase a Day Pass for Dogs online. More on the Day Pass for dogs. Dog Pass. ... If you would like your small dog to travel on a seat, the dog must be in a suitable container and you must buy a separate 2nd ...

  6. Traveling with your dog in Switzerland's trains, buses, boats and more

    Taking your dog on buses, boats, and mountain transport Dogs on buses. Dogs with a wither height of up to 30 cm travel for free in the national Swiss Postbuses, if you carry them in a basket or container. You need a 2nd class bus ticket if your dog is larger than that. The SBB dog tickets and Day Passes for dogs are valid in Postbuses too.

  7. I'm travelling with my dog. What do I have to do?

    Your dog may travel with a 2nd class ticket in 1st class with you. Small dogs of up to 30 cm shoulder height in a suitable carrier travel free of charge as hand luggage. However, if the dog is removed from the carrier during the journey, a ticket will be required. Tickets can be obtained online (sbb.ch) or at the ticket counter.

  8. Traveling with my dog

    On most lines in Switzerland you need a ticket for your dog at half fare in the 2nd class. If the price exceeds CH25.-, the dog day ticket is the most worthwhile. More information about traveling with dogs can be found here. I wish you an excellent Sunday. Regards RahelW

  9. The Complete Guide to Traveling With Your Dog

    Traveling By Car With Your Dog. Get your dog used to the car by letting them sit in it with you without leaving the driveway, and then going for short rides. Avoid carsickness by letting your dog ...

  10. SBB Day Passes

    An SBB Day Pass is the perfect companion for your trip through Switzerland. There is a suitable ticket for almost every need. Whether you are traveling alone or with friends, whether you want to take your dog for a day or make a trip by bike, with the right day ticket nothing stands in your way.

  11. How to travel with your dog on European trains

    SBB is the national rail operator in Switzerland an it sells a Day Card for Dogs for travel with larger animals which costs CHF 25 and is valid for travel on any Swiss train and most public transport. If you will be travelling with a first class tickets, the same Day Card for dogs can be used for first class travel,

  12. Travel with dog

    When there is a restaurant on the train (where most of the train has a restaurant), does it mean i cannot take the dog on that train? Or just that the pet cannot go to the section of the train where the restaurant is. Based on SBB description, most interctiy trains have restaurant. I search for trains via SBB website, most of it has restaurant ...

  13. Travelling with a dog in Geneva

    Hello ylw1501. There is an excellent website providing good information on travelling with a dog on public transport: Travelling with dogs | SBB Generally said, you can transport small dogs with a wither height of up to 30 cm for free as hand luggage provided they are in a transport box, basket or other animal-friendly container and placed under your seat.

  14. Travelling with animals

    Maximum two animals (dog or cat) for one passenger. One animal (dog or cat) in the cabin and one animal in the hold. A maximum of two animals in the hold (in one or two approved transport containers) Dogs and cats are only permitted to travel from the age of 12 weeks and above. Please also note that animals may only be imported as cargo in the ...

  15. Travelling with dogs using InterCity/EuoCity

    I would like to travel by train from Switzerland to Italy with my two small dogs. I've read one of the answers regarding travelling with dogs - 46726 SBB.ch; Search. Search cancel. Turn on suggestions ... do not have a SwissPass login, you can create one free of charge on the login page. Then select your user name for the SBB Community ...

  16. Travel with reduced mobility

    Travel with reduced mobility. Accessible travel. Find out more. We have gathered together all information on accessible travel to enable you to travel as independently as possible by public transport. Whether it is travel planning, ticket purchasing or travel discounts, independent travel or free assistance with boarding - there are plenty of ...

  17. How to travel with a dog by train between the UK and France, Italy

    Option 3, London to Paris by train + taxi with Pet Travel Abroad. For France, Spain or Portugal you really need to go via Paris. ... 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 ...

  18. Travel with dog

    Willkommen in der SBB Community. Hier können Sie sich mit anderen Fahrgästen austauschen, Fragen stellen, und Ihre Erfahrungen teilen. SBB Community ... Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee, collected at check-in. They must be able to fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in ...

  19. My Goldendoodle Spent a Week at Some Luxury Dog 'Hotels.' I Tagged

    Total spending on pets in the United States — and dogs are by far the most popular pet — rose more than 50 percent between 2018 and 2022, when it reached $137 billion, according to a pet ...

  20. Tips on Traveling with a Chosen Dog!

    Benefits of Traveling with a Dog. Dogs are known to be very intelligent pets. Dogs are One of Theiak Society's most effective Marie's dogs. Dogs are good companions and can provide financial stability for a family. Dogs are good animals that can be trained to do various tasks for the family.

  21. TIL there are 20 dogs on the Moscow Metro that have learnt how ...

    TIL about "The Bell of Good Luck", the heaviest functioning bell in the world at 116 metric tons (255,200 lbs). It's 8.1 metres high and 5.1 metres in diameter. TIL that the planet Saturn is the only planet in our solar system with an average density that is lower than water.

  22. Milan to Elektrostal

    Find the travel option that best suits you. The cheapest way to get from Milan to Elektrostal costs only RUB 19003, and the quickest way takes just 11 hours. Find the travel option that best suits you. ... sbb.ch Train from Milano Centrale to Zürich Hb Ave. Duration 3h 17m Frequency Once daily Estimated price RUB 8000 - RUB 15000 ...

  23. Kiyevsky Railway Terminal to Elektrostal

    Rome2Rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. Find all the transport options for your trip from Kiyevsky Railway Terminal to Elektrostal right here. Rome2Rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators ...

  24. 40 Facts About Elektrostal

    Known as the "Motor City of Russia." Elektrostal, a city located in the Moscow Oblast region of Russia, earned the nickname "Motor City" due to its significant involvement in the automotive industry.. Home to the Elektrostal Metallurgical Plant. Elektrostal is renowned for its metallurgical plant, which has been producing high-quality steel and alloys since its establishment in 1916.