When we first got Abby, we assumed getting around Geneva with a dog would be complicated. It is not. Geneva's public transport is surprisingly dog friendly, which helped a lot since we did not have a car and relied entirely on public transport to get Abby around the city.
The Basics
Dogs are welcome on TPG trams, buses, lake boats, and SBB trains throughout Geneva.
- Small dogs under 30cm at the shoulder travel free if carried in a bag or basket.
- Larger dogs need a reduced fare ticket
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times
- No muzzle is required in Switzerland, though you will need one if you cross into France
Tickets and Pricing
For larger dogs traveling on Swiss public transport, you will need a ticket. These prices apply across Switzerland, not just Geneva.
- Day Pass for Dogs — CHF 25, covers unlimited travel by train, bus, boat and most Swiss urban public transport for the entire day. The most cost effective option if you are out for the day.
- Monthly/Annual Dog Pass — CHF 60 or 350, linked to your SwissPass. Not transferable, so if you are a couple, each person who regularly takes the dog out will need their own pass. Valid in both first and second class as long as you hold a valid ticket for the class you are traveling in.
- Single trip — available on the SBB app under Shop & Services > Short-Distance and single ticket. Select the number of dogs under Who is travelling. Options are 10 minutes for CHF 1.80 or 1 hour for CHF 2.
*Prices shown are for Geneva zone and may differ in other cities, and at train stations the app usually only offers the 1 hour option.
Train Travel, SBB
Avoid busy commuting hours as it can get crowded and is not the most pleasant experience for you or your dog.
Abby took her first train ride at around 4 months old as part of socializing her to new environments. She was nervous at first but treats helped a lot. Now she gets excited on trains because she knows an adventure is coming.
If your dog is nervous or easily distracted, bring treats and start with short rides. It makes a real difference especially on the first few trips.
Trams and Buses, TPG
This is where we spend most of our time with Abby. TPG trams are generally quite comfortable for dogs as they are stable and smooth, similar to trains.
Buses are a different story. The movement is less predictable and the space is more limited, which makes it harder to find a comfortable spot for both you and your dog. Abby finds buses stressful and we try to avoid them with her when we can.
Same as with trains, we avoid busy stops and rush hours.
Lake Boats, Mouettes Genevoises
Dogs are allowed on the Mouettes, Geneva's little yellow lake boats. Abby has been on them and handles them well. Same rules apply, leash on and a reduced fare ticket for larger dogs.
We have not tried it on a windy day so I would say attempt that at your own risk.
The Salève Cable Car
The Salève cable car just across the French border allows dogs for €4 per trip. If you buy a book of 10 tickets, the dog ticket is included free. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the cabin and at the stations. We have not tried it with Abby yet but it is on our list.
*Certain breeds are not permitted including pit bull terriers, mastiffs and Japanese tosas.
Tips for First Timers
- Carry treats and start with shorter rides before building up to longer ones
- Travel during quieter times of day to build your dog's confidence before tackling rush hour
- The lake boats are a great first ride since they are short, open air and relaxed
- If your dog is nervous do not be discouraged, small improvements add up over time