Pawprint Economy 2026: Pet-friendly travel in Europe
2026 marks a turning point in the travel industry. The "Pawprint Economy" is no longer just a trend, it is a global shift. With the pet industry projected to reach $500 billion by 2030, travel providers are transforming their services to treat pets as VIPs (Very Important Pets).
2026 is the year where pet-inclusive travel becomes the gold standard. For those of us who refuse to leave our four-legged family members behind, the world has never been more welcoming.
Premium destinations & "Pawsome" stays
Choosing the right destination is the first step in planning your journey. Leading hotel brands have already integrated pets into their loyalty programs and guest experiences:
- Italy (Rome & Florence): Stay at AKA Hotels, where the Canine Club offers gourmet dog menus, specialized bedding and professional dog-walking services. Italy remains one of the most pet-friendly countries in the world, with pets welcome in most outdoor cafes and boutiques
- Spain (Barcelona & Mallorca): Marriott’s "Paws in the Neighborhood" program provides guests with curated maps of local pet-friendly beaches and parks, ensuring your pet enjoys the sightseeing as much as you do
- Greece (Cyclades & Crete): Beyond the sun and sea, many boutique hotels now offer "Pet-inclusive" packages, featuring organic treats and high-end pet amenities
Pro Tip: When booking your stay, check for "Pet Loyalty" perks. Many luxury chains now offer reward points for pet stays, which can be redeemed for grooming or specialized pet services.
Why ferries are the #1 choice for pet owners
While airlines are slowly adapting, the ferry remains the most comfortable and stress-free way to travel with a pet in Europe. Unlike the cramped conditions of an airplane cabin or the isolation of a cargo hold, ferries offer freedom and proximity.
Why you should book a ferry for your next trip:
- Exclusive pet cabins: Major operators like Grimaldi Lines, Minoan Lines and Blue Star Ferries offer specially designed cabins. These rooms feature easy-to-clean flooring and are sanitized with pet-safe products, allowing your pet to sleep right by your side
- Pet decks & exercise areas: Many modern vessels now feature designated "Pet Decks" where your dog can stretch its legs and enjoy the sea breeze during the crossing
- No weight restrictions: Unlike planes, ferries are ideal for large breeds. Whether you have a Chihuahua or a Golden Retriever, there is plenty of space for everyone
Important note: Pet cabins are in extremely high demand and often sell out months in advance, especially on popular routes like Italy-Greece or Spain-Balearics. Secure your pet cabin now on our platform and travel with peace of mind!
Seamless onward travel: The rail revolution
Your journey doesn't end at the port. Europe’s rail network has become a leader in the Pawprint Economy, making it easy to reach the heart of any city:
- Trenitalia (Italy): Their official policy allows dogs of all sizes on Frecce and Intercity trains. Medium and large dogs are welcome, provided they have a ticket, which is often discounted during holiday seasons
- Renfe (Spain): Has expanded its "Project Dog" to allow large dogs (up to 40kg) on major high-speed lines, such as Madrid-Barcelona
- SNCF (France): Offers a straightforward "Pet Ticket" system for all TGV trains, ensuring a smooth transition from the ferry port to the French Riviera or Paris
Essential travel checklist for 2026
To ensure a smooth boarding process at the ferry terminal, make sure you have the following:
- EU pet passport: The standard document for cross-border travel within the EU
- Microchip: Ensure it is ISO-compliant and registered
- Rabies vaccination: Must be administered at least 21 days before departure
- Booking confirmation: Always ensure your pet is explicitly listed on your ferry ticket
Important: Check the most popular questions and their answers regarding the pets on board.
Ready for your next adventure?
Don’t leave your best friend behind. The Europe of 2026 is ready to welcome both of you.
Some popular pet-friendly routes include:
The Adriatic route: Italy – Greece
These are the gold standard for long-distance pet travel. Since these crossings take between 15 to 36 hours, comfort is non-negotiable.
Operators like Minoan Lines and Anek-Superfast offer a high volume of pet cabins. Additionally, the "Camping on Board" option (available on specific lines) allows travelers to stay in their campers with their pets, providing a familiar environment for the animal.
Important: Check the latest updates for the "Camping on Board" service.
Note: Due to the length of the journey, pet cabins on these routes are the first to reach 100% occupancy. Early booking is essential.
The Western Mediterranean: Mainland Spain – Balearic Islands
- Barcelona – Mallorca / Ibiza
- Valencia - Ibiza / Menorca
A high-demand route for both luxury travelers and locals moving to summer residences. Short travel times combined with high-tech pet amenities.
Baleària has revolutionized this route with its "Smart Pet" project, offering CCTV monitoring so owners can watch their pets in the kennels via a smartphone app. Trasmed also stands out by offering "Pet-In-Cabin" luxury kits including specialized bedding and snacks.
These routes are perfect for travelers with "anxious" pets who want to keep a digital eye on them at all times.
The Northern Passage: UK – France
The primary gateway for British travelers heading to the sun-drenched coasts of Southern Europe.These operators understand that pets are family.
DFDS, in the Dover-Calais route, allows travelers to choose to leave their pets safely in their vehicle or upgrade to an exclusive, climate-controlled Pet Lounge available on select vessels. This premium lounge allows them to remain by their dog's side throughout the 90-minute crossing, offering a comfortable environment with complimentary refreshments for owners.
This is the most "premium" pet experience in the North. If your readers value socialization, this is their best choice.
The Aegean Hub: Piraeus – Crete & Cyclades
Greece has significantly upgraded its fleet to meet the 2026 pet-inclusive standards. High frequency of travel and a massive increase in pet-specific infrastructure.
Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways have expanded their "Pet Cabin" inventory by 30% to meet demand. Most modern vessels on these routes now feature linoleum-floored cabins for easy hygiene and designated "Pet-Friendly" areas on the sun decks.
These routes are the busiest in Europe during summer. Securing a pet cabin for a night crossing to Crete is nearly impossible unless there is a 2-month advance booking.
Start planning your journey! Find the best pet-friendly ferry routes and book your tickets today!