🐾 Traveling to Russia with Pets
Pet-Friendly Russia
Russia is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly in major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg. Dogs are common in parks and public spaces, and many hotels and transport options accommodate well-behaved animals, though policies vary by region.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
International Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 5 days of entry, endorsed by official authorities.
Certificate must include proof of vaccinations and be translated into Russian if necessary.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Puppies under 3 months may be denied entry; ensure vaccination records are up-to-date.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Bring proof of microchipping; customs may scan upon arrival at airports like Sheremetyevo.
Non-EU/Non-Compliant Countries
Pets from countries without rabies-free status may require a 30-day quarantine upon arrival.
Apply for import permit from Rosselkhoznadzor in advance; processing takes 10-14 days.
Restricted Breeds
Certain fighting breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers may face restrictions or require special permits.
Muzzles and leashes are mandatory for large dogs in public spaces; check regional laws.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require additional CITES permits and health checks from veterinary services.
Ferrets and rodents need specific certificates; contact Russian embassy for detailed requirements.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Russia on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Moscow & St. Petersburg): Many international chains like Radisson and Hilton welcome pets for 500-2000 RUB/night, with nearby parks. Local hotels often allow small pets free of charge.
- Rural Dachas & Cottages (Golden Ring): Traditional wooden houses in areas like Suzdal welcome pets at no extra fee, with gardens for play. Ideal for relaxed stays with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb and local platforms frequently allow pets, especially in cities. Apartments provide space for pets to move freely.
- Resorts (Black Sea Coast): Sochi and Anapa resorts accept pets with fees around 1000 RUB/night, offering beach access and pet areas.
- Campsites & Glamping: Sites near Lake Baikal and in national parks are pet-friendly, with trails and fire pits. Basic facilities but scenic locations.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end hotels like Four Seasons Moscow provide pet amenities including walking services and gourmet treats for 3000+ RUB/night.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Forest Trails & National Parks
Russia's vast parks like Losiny Ostrov near Moscow allow leashed dogs on hiking paths.
Keep pets controlled near wildlife; entry fees around 200-500 RUB per person.
Beaches & Lakes
Black Sea beaches in Sochi have pet-friendly zones; Lake Baikal shores permit dogs off-leash in remote areas.
Check seasonal restrictions; water activities like boating often allow pets.
Cities & Parks
Moscow's Gorky Park and St. Petersburg's Summer Garden welcome leashed dogs; outdoor cafes often permit pets.
Red Square areas allow pets but require leashes; avoid crowded events.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Urban cafes in major cities provide outdoor seating for pets; some like in Moscow have water stations.
Ask permission before entering indoor spaces; pet menus are emerging in trendy spots.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Moscow and St. Petersburg accept leashed dogs; focus on historic sites.
Indoor museums like the Hermitage prohibit pets; opt for guided park walks.
Cable Cars & Lifts
In Sochi's Olympic Park, cable cars allow small pets in carriers for 300-500 RUB.
Mountain areas in the Caucasus permit dogs with leashes; book ahead for groups.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (RZD): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (50% fare) and must be muzzled/leashed. Allowed in most cars except restaurants.
- Metro & Buses (Urban): Moscow and St. Petersburg metros allow small pets free in bags; larger dogs 100 RUB with muzzle. Avoid rush hours.
- Taxis: Yandex Taxi and local services accept pets with notice; select pet-friendly options in apps for 200-500 RUB rides.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Hertz allow pets with deposit (2000-5000 RUB); clean thoroughly to avoid fees. Useful for Golden Ring trips.
- Flights to Russia: Aeroflot and S7 Airlines permit cabin pets under 8kg for 3000-5000 RUB. Book early and review carrier rules. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Aeroflot, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates accept small pets in cabin for 3000-6000 RUB. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics like Belvet in Moscow and St. Petersburg provide round-the-clock care.
Costs 2000-5000 RUB for consultations; carry international pet insurance for coverage.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Four Paws and Petshop.ru stock food, meds, and accessories nationwide.
Pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring prescriptions for specialized treatments.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban salons in Moscow offer grooming for 1000-3000 RUB; daycare 1500 RUB/day.
Book in advance for peak seasons; hotels often partner with local services.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local apps and services like Dogsy provide sitting for day trips at 1000-2000 RUB.
Concierge at major hotels can arrange trusted walkers and sitters.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and transport. Off-leash allowed in designated rural areas away from crowds.
- Muzzle Requirements: Large breeds need muzzles on public transport and in some parks; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up mandatory with fines up to 2000 RUB; bins available in urban parks.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pet beaches in Sochi; restrictions in popular spots during summer. Respect designated areas.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating common for pets; indoor entry rare. Keep pets calm and off furniture.
- National Parks: Leash required; some areas like Baikal prohibit pets to protect ecosystems. Check park rules.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Russia
Russia for Families
Russia offers families a mix of historic wonders, interactive museums, and natural adventures. Safe cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg feature child-friendly sites, while rural areas provide outdoor fun. Facilities include playgrounds, family restrooms, and kids' programs at major attractions.
Top Family Attractions
Gorky Park (Moscow)
Vast park with rides, playgrounds, ice skating, and outdoor cinemas for all ages.
Free entry; activities 200-500 RUB. Open year-round with seasonal events.
Moscow Zoo
One of Europe's largest zoos with pandas, polar bears, and interactive exhibits.
Tickets 500-800 RUB adults, 300 RUB kids; family packages available.
Hermitage Museum (St. Petersburg)
World-class art collection with kid-friendly tours and palace gardens.
Tickets 500 RUB adults, free for kids under 16; audio guides in English.
Grand Maket Russia (St. Petersburg)
Miniature model of Russia with moving trains, cities, and interactive elements.
Tickets 500 RUB adults, 300 RUB kids; engaging for children 5+.
Trans-Siberian Railway Experience
Family train journeys with stops at historic sites and scenic views.
Tickets from 5000 RUB; book family compartments for comfort.
Sochi Olympic Park
Winter sports venues with summer activities, fountains, and kids' zones.
Free access; rides 300-600 RUB. Year-round family entertainment.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Russia on Viator. From Kremlin tours to Baikal adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Moscow & St. Petersburg): Chains like Novotel offer family rooms for 5000-10000 RUB/night with cribs and play areas.
- Resorts (Sochi): All-inclusive family hotels with kids' clubs and pools for 8000-15000 RUB/night. Entertainment programs included.
- Rural Homestays (Golden Ring): Traditional houses with family activities like baking and crafts for 3000-6000 RUB/night.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering options with kitchens ideal for families, 4000-8000 RUB/night in cities.
- Youth Hostels: Budget family rooms in hostels for 2000-4000 RUB/night with shared facilities.
- Palace Hotels: Luxury stays like Astoria in St. Petersburg for fairytale experiences at 15000+ RUB/night.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Moscow with Kids
Red Square, Kremlin Armory, planetarium, and VDNH exhibition center with rides.
Boat rides on Moscow River and puppet shows add magic for children.
St. Petersburg with Kids
Peterhof fountains, Oceanarium, toy museums, and canal boat tours.
White Nights festivals and circus performances entertain families.
Sochi with Kids
Black Sea beaches, SkyPark aerial adventures, and Riviera Park zoo.
Winter skiing and summer water parks for year-round fun.
Lake Baikal Region
Ice walking in winter, boat trips in summer, and Olkhon Island hikes.
Seal watching and easy trails suitable for families with scenic views.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Kids under 5 free; 6-10 years 50% off on RZD. Family cars with space for strollers available.
- City Transport: Moscow Metro family tickets 200-300 RUB/day. Stations have elevators for strollers.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (500-1000 RUB/day); book ahead for families.
- Stroller-Friendly: Major cities have ramps; attractions like Kremlin offer parking for strollers.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer blini, pelmeni for 300-600 RUB. High chairs common.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Cafes with play areas; markets like Danilovsky in Moscow for variety.
- Self-Catering: Supermarkets like Perekrestok stock baby food and diapers.
- Snacks & Treats: Pirozhki and ice cream from street vendors keep kids happy.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, museums, and stations with nursing areas.
- Pharmacies (Apteka): Carry baby essentials; English-speaking staff in cities.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange for 1500-2500 RUB/hour via agencies.
- Medical Care: Pediatric clinics in cities; international hospitals for emergencies.
♿ Accessibility in Russia
Accessible Travel
Russia is improving accessibility in major cities with ramps, elevators, and adapted transport. Moscow and St. Petersburg offer good facilities at key sites, though rural areas vary. Tourism resources provide accessibility guides.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: RZD provides wheelchair spaces and assistance; book 48 hours ahead for ramps.
- City Transport: Moscow Metro has elevators at major stations; low-floor buses in cities.
- Taxis: Yandex offers accessible vehicles; standard taxis fit folding wheelchairs.
- Airports: Sheremetyevo and Pulkovo have full services including priority assistance.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Palaces: Hermitage and Kremlin have ramps, audio guides, and elevators.
- Historic Sites: Red Square accessible; some cobblestones in old towns challenging.
- Nature & Parks: Gorky Park fully accessible with paths and viewpoints.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide doors.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-August) for mild weather and outdoor fun; winter (December-February) for snow activities and holidays.
Shoulder seasons (May, September) milder, fewer crowds, and lower costs.
Budget Tips
Family tickets at attractions save 20-30%; use Moscow Pass for discounts.
Picnics and markets keep costs down for family meals.
Language
Russian official; English in tourist areas and apps like Yandex Translate help.
Basic phrases appreciated; locals welcoming to families.
Packing Essentials
Warm layers for variable weather, sturdy shoes, and rain gear.
Pet owners: familiar food, leash, muzzle, waste bags, and documents.
Useful Apps
RZD for trains, Yandex Maps, and 2GIS for navigation and pet services.
Moscow Metro app for real-time updates.
Health & Safety
Russia safe for tourists; drink bottled water outside cities. Pharmacies abundant.
Emergency: 112 for all services; travel insurance recommended.