Best Things to Do:
Visiting Paris with Your Dog or Cat
All set for your vacation in Paris and you've decided to bring your dog or cat along? No problem! We have already discussed pet-friendly hotels, and now here are some tips for those visiting Paris with their pets: documents to bring, rules for public transportation, and pet-friendly spots in Paris.
Traveling with Pets by Air
Before you leave, make sure that your dog or cat has a passport to travel freely within the European Union; the European pet passport is an official document that can be issued by a veterinarian and local health authority.
Additionally, remember to get all vaccinations, especially rabies, and book your airplane seats in advance as they are limited; if your dog or cat weighs less than 11-18 lbs, they can stay with you in the cabin (properly placed in a carrier!). If they weigh more than 11-18 lbs, they will be transported in the aircraft's hold (pressurized and climate-controlled) in an approved crate.
The price for pet airline tickets varies by airline; to fly to France the price is about 20 euros in the cabin and 40 euros in the hold.
Traveling on the Metro, Buses, and Trains in Paris with Pets
- Metro: theoretically, pets are not allowed on the metro, except for small animals that can travel in carriers, but sometimes inspectors are very tolerant as long as the dog is muzzled.
- Bus: the same rules as the metro apply, meaning small animals traveling in carriers are allowed, as well as large guide dogs.
- RER: on RER lines pets are always allowed by paying half fare (guide dogs travel for free); however, dogs must be on a leash and muzzled.
Pet-Friendly Areas in Paris
The green spaces in Paris with pet-friendly areas include: Jardin du Palais Royal, Bois de Boulogne, Parvis de Notre-Dame, Jardin du Luxembourg, Promenade Quai Branly, Jardins des Champs-Élysées, Parc des Buttes Chaumont, Parc Monceau.
In Square Jacques-Antoine, located in the 14th arrondissement, there is a dog park that welcomes animals 24/7 even without a leash; at Disneyland Paris, we find the Animal Care Center.
In museums, it is not permitted to bring your pet, but many offer a dog-sitting service; however, guide dogs can access the rooms freely.
If you need a veterinarian, the Clinique Vétérinaire located in Place des Fêtes is open 24 hours every day.