Getting to Istanbul with Your Dog

💡 Quick Tips

• 1.Turkey requires a Turkish health certificate (not EU pet passport) issued within 10 days of entry, rabies vaccination at least 21 days old, ISO microchip. This applies at Istanbul Airport like all Turkish entry points.
• 2.The Bosphorus passenger ferries (IDO vapur) are the most dog-friendly public transport in Istanbul; dogs travel on the open upper deck for free. Essential for crossing between European and Asian sides with a dog.
• 3.Taxis (yellow cabs) are the practical solution for getting around the city with a dog; most drivers accept dogs with a blanket on the seat or floor. Uber also operates in Istanbul with similar policies.
• 4.Driving in Istanbul is challenging; if you have a car with a dog, park at the Besiktas or Kadikoy ferry terminals and use the ferry system for Bosphorus crossings.

Frequently Asked Questions