Speak to your vet early
Allow time for identification, vaccination, certificates and any waiting period. For a first rabies vaccination under current EU travel rules, the usual waiting period is at least 21 days.
Before you travel
Begin with the route, then check the paperwork
There is no single checklist for every animal and every country of origin. A visitor arriving from within Europe will normally follow a different documentation route from a traveller entering through the EU from elsewhere.
Match the chip and document
Check that the microchip number is readable and identical across the passport or health certificate and the vaccination record.
Check the first border crossed
If you enter Europe from a non-EU country, verify the rules and approved entry point for the first EU country on your itinerary. Extra testing or certification may apply depending on origin.
Confirm every operator
Airlines, rail companies, taxis and accommodation providers set their own conditions. Reserve pet space where required and confirm carrier dimensions before travel.
Travelling from outside the EU?
An EU animal health certificate, rabies antibody test or use of a designated entry point may be required. The exact combination depends on the departure country, so use the official EU checker and your veterinarian rather than a generic packing list.
Arrival and transport
Moving around Monaco with a pet
The Principality is compact, but steep gradients, busy pavements and operator-specific rules make preparation worthwhile.
Regular CAM buses
Small animals may travel free in a suitable bag or basket no larger than 45 cm. Dogs travelling on the floor must be leashed and require a fare. Dangerous dogs are not admitted.
ClicBus is different
The on-demand service admits guide dogs and small animals carried in a bag. Declare the animal when booking and check the current terms before travel.
Walking and lifts
Keep dogs on a lead, carry water and choose shaded routes in warm weather. Public lifts can reduce climbs, but confined spaces may be busy at peak times.
Public places
Read the sign before entering
A lead is the baseline for dogs in Monaco, but it does not guarantee admission. Individual venues and regulated public spaces may prohibit animals.
Beaches
Monaco rules prohibit dogs and other animals on beaches and bathing areas where swimming is authorised, even when they are on a lead.
Gardens and attractions
Many managed gardens and visitor attractions apply their own restrictions. The Exotic Garden and Rainier III Zoological Gardens, for example, do not admit pets, apart from stated assistance-dog exceptions.
Hotels, cafes and shops
Admission is set by each establishment. Confirm the pet policy directly, including size limits, room access, terrace rules and any fee, before making a non-refundable booking.
Practical tips
Plan for a compact Mediterranean city
Monaco can be explored on foot, but slopes, stone surfaces and summer heat can be tiring for animals. Build the day around shorter walks, shade and quiet breaks rather than a continuous itinerary.
Carry water and never leave an animal in a parked vehicle. Keep waste bags to hand and dispose of them in a bin. In busy districts such as Monte-Carlo and La Condamine, a short lead helps you navigate crowded pavements and crossings.
Before arrival, ask your accommodation for its nearest suitable walking area and a local veterinary contact. For restaurants and attractions, contact the venue directly; a pet-friendly policy can vary by indoor area, terrace, season and event.
Official resources
Check current rules before departure
Use primary sources for details that can change, particularly health documents, entry routes, transport conditions and restrictions for specific venues.
EU pet travel rules
Official guidance on microchips, rabies vaccination, passports, animal health certificates and travel from non-EU countries.
Check official EU guidanceMonaco dog law
The official legal text covering leads in public places and additional requirements for dogs classified as dangerous.
View Monaco legal guidanceCAM bus conditions
Current public-bus guidance for small animals in carriers and dogs travelling on the floor.
Check current bus rulesMonaco visitor information
Official information for attractions and public places, including opening conditions and venue-specific access notes.
Explore official visitor informationInformation reviewed in September 2026. Requirements and operator policies may change.