Summer in Greece is sun, sea, and holidays—but what do our dogs get? We love having them with us on holiday, don't we? At mybestie.gr, we believe knowledge is power for safe and responsible pet parenthood. That’s why we’ve broken down what the Greek law (Ν. 4830/2021) says about dogs at the beach, on the road, in ships, and in airplanes. Here's what every pet parent needs to know before taking their dog out this summer.

Dogs at the beach – What the law says

According to Ν. 4830/2021, dogs are allowed on Greek beaches, but with a few rules:

• Dogs are allowed on the beach, but only if they're leashed and under control.
• Swimming is only allowed if it doesn't disturb other bathers.
• Owners must carry waste bags and clean up after their dogs immediately.
• Dogs must not be allowed to run loose, disturb wildlife, or present a safety risk.

Mybestie.gr tip: Choose early morning or late evening hours when the beach is not full of people and sand isn't scorching paws. And remember to bring fresh water and shade!

Car travel with your dog

Car travel with your dog is convenient—but controlled:

• Dogs must be restrained by a seat belt harness, crate, or carrier.
• Freely sitting dogs on the front seat are prohibited by law, or they shouldn't distract the driver.
• Suggested regular stops every 2–3 hours for water, exercise, and using the restroom.
• Do not leave your dog alone in an unattended automobile—temperatures become unbearably hot in Greek summers.
• Certain rest stops at highways in Greece are currently pet-friendly. Try to stop in places with shade and grassy places.

Dogs on ferries and ships

If you are traveling to a Greek island, ferry companies must comply with Ν. 4830/2021. Here is what it means:

• Dogs must be on leash and muzzled on public areas of ferries.
• Larger dogs prefer to stay in pet kennels or exterior decks.
• Smaller dogs may travel with their owners in pet carriers.
• Some companies offer pet cabins (limited availability—book early).
• Dogs are not allowed on interior passenger lounges or restaurants.
• Each ferry company (Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, etc.) has slightly different policies, so always confirm when booking.

Flying with your dog

If you’re flying within or from Greece, here’s what to expect:

Dogs under 8 kg (including the carrier) may travel in-cabin with most airlines. Larger dogs travel in the airplane’s cargo hold, in IATA-compliant crates.

All dogs must have:

• A microchip.
• An updated rabies vaccination.
• An EU Pet Passport (or Health Booklet for domestic travel).
• Airlines have the right to limit pet travel in heatwaves for safety reasons.
• Aegean Airlines and Sky Express both have clear and strict pet policies online—take a look before booking.

Reminders for pet-friendly summer

Whatever your destination, beach, village, or the islands, to travel with your dog in Greece is now as simple as it can be—but only responsibly. Ν. 4830/2021 was created for pet owners' protection of their rights and in consideration of the public and animals as well.

A quick checklist ahead:

• Pet ID and microchip.
• Vaccinations up to date.
• Travel crate or harness.
• Shade, water and waste bags.
• Respect to others.

And remember: your dog is your responsibility—at the beach, on transport, and all in between. Make memories together safely, with compassion.

For more travel tips and sitter help when you're away, visit mybestie.gr-we're here to help your pet travels, step by step.