Dog Friendly Trains In Europe

If you want to take your dog with you on the train, you need to find out in advance whether you can take your pet with you, whether there are certain rules or whether you have to pay an extra charge. While the train rules in Europe are clear, there are differences when it comes to European train travel on TGV, Eurostar for example.

TGV: Dog Allowed But Subject To A Charge

If you travel with the TGV, you can bring your pet with you. For a dog that weighs less than 6 kgs and fits in a container measuring 45 x 30 x 25 cm, you have to buy a ticket for 6-7 euros. Fur noses who weigh more and need a larger box pay 50 % of the adult fare.

If you would like to buy tickets for your dog, visit a Rail Europe shop. The corresponding tickets are also available in French travel agencies.

Thalys: Take Your Dog With You At An Additional Cost

With the Thalys you travel through the countries of Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands. Dogs under five kg’s that fit in a container measuring 55 x 30 travel free. Pets that are heavier and need a larger box pay 35 % of the Hi-Life rate. People who do not want to keep their dog in a crate need a leash and a muzzle.

Eurostar With Dog: Only Companion And Service Animals Allowed

Dogs are strictly forbidden on the Eurostar, exceptions apply to service and guide dogs. There are no additional costs for taking your four-legged friends with you, so you can travel cheaply to England and France. When traveling with the dog within the EU, the pet passport should definitely be with you. Without a passport, the animal may have to be quarantined and you may have to pay a fine.

Dogs are usually allowed on all trains. There are restrictions for sleeping cars and dangerous dog breeds. Assistance dogs and small dogs can usually be taken along free of charge. In some cases, an additional ticket must be purchased for larger dogs.

Remember to take a leash and muzzle with you. Even if these are not always mandatory, the conductor can order their use. Note restrictions on taking dogs (except guide dogs) to and from Great Britain, Northern Ireland and Ireland.

What Does Long-Distance And Local Transport Mean?

Long-distance rail transport is the one of people over long distances. This includes routes longer than 150 km. Today, however, the term long-distance transport is more associated with the trains. The long-distance trains include the Intercity-Express. Transport covers public transport to cities, suburbs or within a place. For a long time, distances of up to 50 km were considered local transport. Routes between 50 and 150 km are called as regional ones.