Traveling by train is one of the most pet-friendly ways to explore Europe, offering stunning views, spacious seating, and hassle-free journeys for you and your furry companion. 🐕🚂 Whether you’re cruising through the French countryside or zipping between German cities, Europe’s train networks are designed to accommodate pets. In this guide, we’ll explore the best pet-friendly train routes in Europe for 2025, along with tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. All aboard! 🐾✨
Why Train Travel is Best for Pet Owners in Europe 🐕🚂
Train travel in Europe is a fantastic option for pet owners because:
- 🐾 Pet-Friendly Policies: Many European train companies allow pets, with clear guidelines for size, carriers, and fees.
- 🐾 Scenic Routes: Enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, rivers, and countryside while your pet relaxes by your side.
- 🐾 Convenience: No long security lines or cramped spaces—just hop on and enjoy the ride!
According to Eurail, “Train travel is one of the most stress-free ways to explore Europe with your pet.”
🐾🚆 10 Best Pet-Friendly Train Routes in Europe
Traveling by train with your furry friend in Europe? No problem! Many railways offer pet-friendly services, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey for you and your pet. Here are the top 10 pet-friendly train routes in Europe with essential travel details! 🐶🐱🌍
📍 France 🇫🇷
France’s railway system welcomes pets with easy booking options and clear policies.
- 🐾 Paris to Nice (TGV INOUI & OUIGO)
✅ High-speed trains with pet-friendly policies.
✅ Small pets (<6 kg) travel free in a carrier.
✅ Larger dogs need a paid ticket (~€7-€20).
🚄 Scenic route passing through the French Riviera! 🌊☀️ - 🐾 Bordeaux to Marseille (SNCF Intercités)
✅ No weight limit for leashed dogs—perfect for big breeds.
✅ Requires a special pet ticket (~€7).
✅ Plenty of pet-walking breaks at major stops.
🌿 Ideal for wine lovers and nature explorers! 🍇🏞️
📍 Germany 🇩🇪
Germany’s Deutsche Bahn makes train travel with pets super easy!
- 🐾 Berlin to Munich (Deutsche Bahn ICE)
✅ Small pets travel FREE in carriers.
✅ Larger dogs need a child’s ticket but get a comfy space.
✅ Air-conditioned cabins & smooth high-speed journey.
🏰 Perfect for visiting Bavarian castles & Oktoberfest! 🍻🎡 - 🐾 Frankfurt to Hamburg (IC Trains)
✅ Spacious compartments for pet owners.
✅ Pets up to 10 kg can travel for free.
✅ Bigger dogs allowed but must be leashed and ticketed.
🐾 Great for beach trips to Germany’s northern coast! 🌊
📍 Italy 🇮🇹
Italy’s trains are pet-friendly, especially for small dogs and cats!
- 🐾 Rome to Venice (Frecciarossa & Italo Trains)
✅ Pets under 5 kg travel free in carriers.
✅ Larger dogs need a pet ticket (~€10-€15).
✅ Dedicated pet-friendly zones on some trains!
🎭 Explore the romantic canals of Venice! 🛶✨
- 🐾 Milan to Florence (Trenitalia Intercity)
✅ Large dogs allowed with a pet ticket (~€5-€10).
✅ Must be leashed and muzzled (Italian law).
✅ Trains offer spacious seating for pet owners.
🏛️ Discover Renaissance art & stunning Tuscany landscapes! 🎨🍷
📍 Spain 🇪🇸
Spain is becoming more pet-friendly, with Renfe trains allowing furry travelers.
- 🐾 Madrid to Barcelona (Renfe AVE & AVLO)
✅ Small dogs & cats (max 10 kg) allowed in carriers.
✅ Pet ticket costs €10-€20, depending on class.
✅ High-speed train with only 2.5h travel time! 🚄
🎉 Visit Barcelona’s pet-friendly beaches! 🏖️🐕 - 🐾 Seville to Valencia (Renfe Alvia)
✅ Pet-friendly compartments available.
✅ Small pets allowed for free with reservations.
✅ Comfy long-distance route with beautiful Spanish landscapes.
🌴 Great for Andalusian adventures & coastal getaways! 🏝️
📍 UK & Other Countries 🇬🇧🇨🇭🇦🇹
Traveling across the UK and Europe? These routes are perfect for pet parents!
- 🐾 London to Edinburgh (LNER & Avanti West Coast)
✅ Pets travel for FREE—no extra fee! 🎉
✅ Max two pets per passenger.
✅ Plenty of walkable stations along the way.
🏰 Perfect for exploring Scotland’s pet-friendly trails! 🏞️🐕
- 🐾 Zurich to Vienna (ÖBB Railjet & Nightjet)
✅ Long-distance sleeper train with pet-friendly cabins.
✅ Small pets travel free, large dogs require a ticket.
✅ Perfect for overnight trips—bring a blanket for your pet!
🌙 Explore Vienna’s beautiful parks & dog-friendly cafés! ☕🐾
Train Companies in Europe That Allow Pets 🐕🚂
Here’s a quick overview of pet policies by train company:
- 🐾 SNCF (France): Pet tickets required for large dogs. 🐶🎟️
- 🐾 Deutsche Bahn (Germany): Large dogs need a child’s ticket. 🐕🎫
- 🐾 Trenitalia & Italo (Italy): Small pets travel free in carriers. 🐕🆓
- 🐾 Renfe (Spain): Pets must be under 10kg in carriers. 🐕📦
- 🐾 Eurostar (UK to France): Does NOT allow pets (except service animals). 🚫🐕
How to Book a Train Ticket for Your Pet in Europe 🐾🎟️
Follow these steps to book a pet-friendly train ticket:
- 🐾 Check Pet Policies: Confirm the train company’s rules for pets.
- 🐾 Book Online: Use the train company’s website or app to reserve your pet’s spot.
- 🐾 Choose the Right Class: First-class cabins often offer more space for pets.
Tips for Traveling by Train with a Pet 🐕🚂
Make your journey stress-free with these tips:
- 🐾 Keep Your Pet Calm: Bring a favorite toy or blanket to help your pet relax.
- 🐾 Pack Essentials: Bring a leash, food, and a collapsible water bowl.
- 🐾 Plan Rest Stops: Research pet-friendly stations for breaks during long journeys.
As noted by the American Kennel Club, “Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip with your pet.”
Top Pet-Friendly Train Routes in Europe by Country 🐾🚂
| Country | Train Route | Pet-Friendly Features |
|---|---|---|
| France 🇫🇷 | Paris to Nice (TGV INOUI) | Small pets travel free in carriers |
| Germany 🇩🇪 | Berlin to Munich (Deutsche Bahn ICE) | Large dogs need a child’s ticket |
| Italy 🇮🇹 | Rome to Venice (Frecciarossa) | Pets up to 5kg travel free |
| Spain 🇪🇸 | Madrid to Barcelona (Renfe AVE) | Pets under 10kg allowed in carriers |
| UK 🇬🇧 | London to Edinburgh (LNER) | No extra fee for pets |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓
1. Which trains in Europe allow pets?
Most European trains allow pets, including SNCF (France), Deutsche Bahn (Germany), and Trenitalia (Italy). 🐕🚂
2. Do pets need a ticket for European trains?
Small pets often travel free in carriers, while larger dogs may need a ticket. 🐶🎟️
3. Can I take my dog on Eurostar from London to Paris?
No, Eurostar does not allow pets except for service animals. 🚫🐕
4. Are large dogs allowed on European trains?
Yes, but they usually require a ticket and must be leashed. 🐕🎫
5. What are the best pet-friendly train routes in France?
Paris to Nice (TGV INOUI) and Bordeaux to Marseille (SNCF Intercités) are top pet-friendly routes. 🐕🇫🇷
6. Are there pet-friendly sleeper trains in Europe?
Yes! The ÖBB Nightjet from Zurich to Vienna offers pet-friendly sleeper cabins. 🐾🌙
7. What should I pack for train travel with my pet?
Bring a leash, food, a collapsible water bowl, and a favorite toy to keep your pet comfortable. 🎒🐕
Ready to Explore Europe by Train with Your Pet? 🐕🚂
Start planning your 2025 European adventure today! With these pet-friendly train routes and tips, you and your furry friend can enjoy a seamless journey. For more pet-friendly travel ideas, check out our Master International Pet Travel Requirements. Bon voyage! 🐾✨
Looking for more pet-friendly travel guides? Check out our article on Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Hawaii.