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Travelling with Pets in Kefalonia
🇬🇷Kefalonia, Greece·Updated 19 June 2026
Most travellers reach Kefalonia by ferry from the mainland, and the ferry pet rules are the single most important thing to plan: small pets travel in a carrier, larger dogs use the ship's kennels, and on deck dogs must be muzzled and leashed. On the island itself the bus network is limited and pet rules are at the driver's discretion, so a rental car is by far the most practical way to move around with a dog.
| Mode | Policy | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry (Levante Ferries / Kyllini-Poros, Patras-Sami) | Pets are allowed on all vessels. Pets up to ~10 kg may travel in a carrier beside the owner; larger pets use the ship's onboard kennels. On open decks dogs must be muzzled and leashed. Pets are not allowed in indoor lounges or restaurants. Declare your pet at booking and carry the EU pet passport; each pet needs a ticket. | 💡 Book the pet at the time of ticketing, as you cannot reserve kennel space last-minute and onboard kennels fill first-come. |
| KTEL Bus (Kefalonia local & intercity) | Small pets are accepted if kept in a carrier. Larger dogs may need an extra ticket and must be muzzled and leashed, subject to the driver's agreement. Guide dogs travel free. The island network is sparse and buses fill up in summer. | 💡 For a larger dog, phone the Argostoli KTEL station ahead, carry a muzzle and short lead, and avoid peak summer departures. |
| Taxi | There is no island-wide taxi pet rule; acceptance is at the individual driver's discretion. Small dogs in carriers are commonly accepted, while larger dogs may be refused or asked to travel on a blanket. | 💡 Phone ahead or ask before getting in, and bring a towel for the seat and a muzzle to improve your chances. |
| Rental Car | Most agencies allow pets but require the dog to be transported safely in a carrier or harness and the car returned clean; a cleaning fee may apply for hair or damage. A rental car is the most practical way to reach the island's dog-friendly beaches and northern villages. | 💡 Bring a seat cover and crate, and confirm the pet and cleaning clause in the rental terms before signing. |
Useful transport links
Levante Ferries (main operator to Kefalonia, official site and pet declaration): levanteferries.com. Ferryhopper and Ferryscanner let you compare and book Kyllini-Poros, Patras-Sami and Astakos-Sami crossings and add a pet. For island buses, KTEL Kefalonia runs from the Argostoli station near the waterfront; check timetables locally as routes are seasonal and sparse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my dog on the ferry to Kefalonia?
Yes. On Levante Ferries pets up to about 10 kg travel in a carrier beside you, while larger dogs use the ship's kennels. On deck dogs must be muzzled and leashed, and pets are not allowed in indoor lounges. Declare your pet and book its ticket in advance.
Can dogs travel on Kefalonia's KTEL buses?
Small dogs in a carrier are generally accepted. Larger dogs may need an extra ticket and must be muzzled and leashed, at the driver's discretion. Because the network is sparse and crowded in summer, a rental car is usually easier.
What documents does my dog need to enter Greece?
EU pets need a microchip, a valid EU pet passport and a rabies vaccination given at least 21 days before travel. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies shot. Non-EU pets need an EU Animal Health Certificate and may need a rabies titre test.
Pet-Friendly Hotels in Kefalonia
Our top-rated pet-friendly hotels, handpicked and verified.
Rouchotas Apartments
★★★ · 9.5/10
€70/night
Kanakis Apartments
★★★ · 9/10
€80/night
Mouikis Hotel Kefalonia
★★★★ · 8.8/10
€56/night
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