Last Updated on 22 July 2025 by Vanessa
Welcome to this new edition of Cats Around the World. This is where we showcase YOUR travel pictures of cats.
Join us as we’re getting cozy with a furbal on “cat island” Gili Trawangan, traverse the cat-dotted alleys of Monemvasia, visit an animal welfare center in Thailand, relax on Muzhappilangad Beach in India, and so much more. In each of these destinations, our whiskered friends take center stage.
So, sit back, unwind, and enjoy the different places these cats call home.
Cats around the world: these are YOUR favorite travel pictures of cats!
Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
Gili Trawangan is not only known for its beautiful beaches, but also for being a cat island where dogs are not allowed.
The island has a large cat population that largely lives peaceful and happy lives with the help of local cat charities and due to the fact that there is no motorized traffic on the island. You will find cats all over Gili Trawangan, some of which have owners, but most of which just live their lives in freedom and are fed regularly by locals, restaurants, or one of the island’s two cat cafés.
This specific cat belonged to a beach bar that we visit a lot, so I’ve actually seen it several times. The cats are all very friendly, and this one didn’t mind being picked up and held.
Submitted by Victoria Heinz from the travel blog Guide Your Travel.
Kalithea, Rhodes (Greece)
One of the best things to do in Rhodes is a visit to Kallithea Springs. This location offers visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate in its stunning natural surroundings. As you explore the beauty of Kallithea Springs, take a moment to venture a little further and discover the heartwarming work being done by Kalithea Cats.
This non-profit organization not only provides food, shelter, and medical care to stray cats but also works tirelessly to find them loving forever homes. By supporting Kalithea Cats, you can help transform the lives of these adorable cats, providing them with a brighter future filled with warmth and happiness.
Submitted by Paulina from the travel blog UK Every Day.
Kas, Turkey
Turkey’s coastal town, Kas, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and numerous cats. Seeing cats across the streets and restaurants is a common sight. Some cafés and shops may also have resident cats treated as part of the community.
The presence of cats in the town is not only a natural part of the environment. It also reflects the country’s affection and affinity towards cats. These fluffy animals are well-regarded and often considered a symbol of good luck. You can find them everywhere. They are friendly towards humans, so you can touch and pet them without problems.
Submitted by Raksha Nagaraj from the travel blog Solo Passport.
Kishi Station, Japan
Nitama is the stationmaster at Japan’s Kishi Station – and a lot is resting on her furry shoulders.
Every year, 2.3 million people come to visit her, and she, and her predecessor, the original Tama, have virtually saved this line of the Wakayama Electric Railway that runs through this rural area in Wakayama prefecture near Osaka. If you go to visit her, you can ride a cat-themed train and drink hot chocolate with tiny paw prints on the top. Even the train station itself has cat ears.
The original Tama was a stray tortoiseshell who lived in the station when it was being built. The owners of the railway think she was sent from the Gods to help turn their fortunes around. There is a shrine to her on the station platform. You can easily visit Nitama on a day trip from Osaka.
Submitted by Helen at Japlanease.com.
Knysna, South Africa
This beautiful black cat lives in Knysna, a picturesque town on the Garden Route in the Western Cape of South Africa. Nestled between cliffs along the Indian Ocean, it features the scenic Knysna Lagoon and the iconic Knysna Heads. The area offers diverse outdoor activities, including hiking in indigenous forests, water sports on the lagoon, and visits to attractions like the Featherbed Nature Reserve and Knysna Elephant Park. With a mild maritime climate, a thriving tourist economy, and a rich historical background, Knysna is a popular destination for those seeking both natural beauty and recreational adventures.
Submitted by Jaunted.
Koh Lanta, Thailand
The island of Koh Lanta is a true highlight in the south of Thailand. There are stunning beaches, wonderful nature and on this island, you can encounter some adorable kittens. Worth a visit is the Koh Lanta Animal Welfare, a remarkable organization dedicated to the protection and care of dogs and cats. The organization plays a crucial role in the sterilization of stray animals and providing emergency care. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to volunteer, adopt a cat or a dog, or simply make a donation.
During a vacation on Koh Lanta, one can visit this organization and, if inclined, offer support. For instance, you can visit the cute Cat Café where you can play and interact with the kittens. With a purchase at the café, you are also directly contributing to the welfare organization. A fantastic initiative, not only for cat enthusiasts!
Submitted by Martina from the travel blog Places of Juma.
Lavonia, USA
My husband and I brought our house cat with us on vacation for the first time to visit my 90-year-old grandmother in Lavonia, Georgia. He has never been outside before because we live in a condo in St. Pete, Florida, but he finally got to experience the outdoors for the first time. This traveling cat loves to chill by the dock, listening to the fish splashing in the water nearby and to the birds.
Submitted by Kayla Fletcher.
Málaga, Spain
Some places are known as cat paradises, but sometimes you go to a place for sightseeing and happen to stumble upon a cute cat. Those chance encounters are even more special because they’re unexpected.
One of those lucky cat encounters happened on my last trip to Málaga in the South of Spain. I was walking to a viewpoint near the Alcazaba de Málaga, a historic palace on top of the hills in the old town of Málaga, when I saw this adorable cat, lying down and enjoying the sunshine. It’s almost like she was sunbathing! She seemed to love being petted by tourists. I couldn’t resist giving her a few strokes myself, and now this cat will forever be a part of my holiday memories.
Submitted by Tina Riegelnegg from the travel blog Veganderlust.
Monemvasia, Greece
I definitely fell in love with Greece from the moment I arrived, and a lot of that had to do with all of the cats that provided endless hours of entertainment.
This cat was wandering around the town of Monemvasia in Laconia, Greece. Its the site of an ancient medieval fortress, and if you’re a photographer, you will enjoy the endless photo opportunities. It’s a great place to wander and see where the moments (or the cats) take you.
Submitted by Valen Dawson from the travel blog This Way to Paradise.
Muzhappilangad Beach in Kannur, India
Muzhappilangad Beach in Kannur is famed for its pristine sands, blue waters, and breathtaking sunset. Notably, visitors can drive or ride along the coast, a unique experience that sets it apart and is one of the best things to do in Kannur.
As we awaited the sunset at a local eatery, a heartwarming scene unfolded with a mother cat and her playful kitten joining us. The kitten, fuelled by boundless curiosity, explored its surroundings, delicately touching every leaf and blade of grass on the floor, providing delightful entertainment as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Submitted by Raksha Nagaraj from the travel blog Solo Passport.
Rome, Italy
One area in Rome where you are 100% sure to spot dozens of cats is the Largo di Torre Argentina, an important archaelogical site infamous for being the location where Julius Caesar was killed.
These ruins are also home to the famous Torre Argentina Cat Sanctuary, which explains the large number of cats among the ruins and in the surrounding streets, since the organization feeds and cares for them all.
Both the sanctuary and the ruins are open to the public without charge. However, if you want to delve deeper into the history of Largo di Torre Argentina and its feline inhabitants, a guided tour (which you can reserve here) is recommended.
Submitted by Gilles Vranckx.
Rovinj, Croatia
With its picturesque harbor along the Adriatic Sea, it’s easy to see why Rovinj is referred to as the “Venice of Istria.” A few centuries of Venetian rule has left its mark on the city’s architecture, and its close proximity to Venice has led to a steady flow of ocean traffic between the two cities. In fact, it makes great sense to book a stay in Rovinj and combine it with a day trip to Venice.
Rovinj and the Istrian peninsula are a fascinating part of Croatia. Its history represents many layers from different eras. You will find yourself within easy reach of dinosaur footprints, prehistoric cave and mound sites, Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, and, more recently, the summer residence of one of the old stalwart communist rulers.
For cat lovers, it’s also a dream come true. Rovinj is home to an unbelievable number of stray cats,which you are more than likely to encounter in your travels. They will beg for their supper every night in front of the local cafes and block your way on the street to get your attention.
Submitted by vicca.
Sevastopol, Crimea
This beautiful kitty lives in Sevastopol, a port city in Crimea that became a focal point of controversy after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. The majority of the international community, including Ukraine and most United Nations member states, considers Crimea to be part of Ukraine, and they do not recognize the legitimacy of the annexation. However, Russia asserts that Crimea is now part of its territory. The situation remains complex and is a source of ongoing tensions.
Submitted by Burshtyna Pick.
Sharjah Art Area, United Arab Emirates
We have a huge stray cat problem in the UAE. Although numerous shelters exist, they’re overflowing. Fosterers often can’t take any more.
One reason is a transient community. While many expatriates plan ahead with pet relocation funds, others don’t. Sadly, this means many pets get left behind. Another reason is people buying cute kittens without lifelong commitment.
Many people have “garden cats,” who just turn up and move in. I have three. Two, I believe, were abandoned. One was a kitten left by his mother.
Homeowners often feed, water, vaccinate, and neuter garden cats, and some local businesses feed strays. The cat in this photo lives in a Sharjah art gallery courtyard, and the staff feeds him.
Attempts to resolve the problem include municipality TNR programmes, vet discounts for TNR and volunteers seeking homes for abandoned cats and young kittens.
On a happier note, some rescued cats jet off to start a new life with adoptive families in Europe.
Submitted by Alison Watt of the travel blog Glimpses of the UAE.
Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri, Rwanda
Mountain gorilla trekking is the big draw at Volcanoes National Park in Ruhengeri, because this is where Dian Fossey (Gorilla’s in the Mist) did her famous research. But the park’s charm goes way beyond that. It covers 160 square kilometers of lush rainforest and five mist-covered volcanoes. There are golden monkeys, countless bird species, and… housecats.
Submitted by Noël Taylor.
Conclusion – Cats around the world
Did you like seeing these travel pictures from all over the world? What’s your favorite?
If you want YOUR travel photos to be included in the next batch, why not share them with us on Twitter or Facebook, or by email? We’d love to feature your cats!
