wheelchair accessible train travel

The Man in Seat 61

Train travel in Europe for

People with special needs.

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If you're a wheelchair user, you can book a wheelchair space on Eurostar from London to Lille, Paris, Brussels or Amsterdam, then book an onwards wheelchair space on a train to other cities in France, Germany, Switzerland, Turin, Milan or Barcelona.  Or book yourself a wheelchair-accessible 2-berth couchette on the Nightjet sleeper trains from Paris or Brussels to Salzburg or Vienna.  On this page I'll tell you how to book a wheelchair space on these trains online, or if you'd rather talk to someone and have them book it for you, I'll tell you who to call.

I'm familiar with all the trains, but accessible travel is not something I'm really qualified to talk about, so I'd value your feedback.  If you can add more to this page, please get in touch !

Step 1, travel with disability in Britain

For travel within the UK, start with the National Rail site:  www.nationalrail.co.uk/ stations_destinations/ disabled_passengers.aspx .

You can book tickets as normal, then call to arrange a wheelchair space and assistance or do it through the Passenger Assist mobile app, or the assistance booking forms on every train operator's website.

Tip:   It can be better to book assistance and a wheelchair space first, then buy the tickets.

Step 2, travel with disability on Eurostar

You can travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Nord , Lille , Brussels Midi , Rotterdam Centraal or Amsterdam Centraal if you're a permanent wheelchair user or have other special needs.

Each Eurostar train has a wheelchair space in several 1st class cars, adjacent to a wheelchair-accessible toilet with push-button access.

There are special fares for people travelling in wheelchairs and one travelling companion, it's not a discount as such, you get 1st class travel with food & wine included at the 2nd class fare.

To book wheelchair travel online, go to www.eurostar.com and click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner.

This automatically alerts them that assistance is required onto & off the train, but you can always call them to confirm on 03432 186 186 or email them via www.eurostar.com .  For more information, see www.eurostar.com/uk-en/travel-info/travel-planning/accessibility .

You could also consider travelling by train ferry to Amsterdam, either London to Amsterdam by train & ferry , Hull to Rotterdam by P&O ferry or Newcastle to Amsterdam by DFDS ferry , contact the ferry operator ( www.stenaline.co.uk for Harwich-Hoek van Holland, www.poferries.com for Hull-Rotterdam or www.dfds.com for Newcastle-Amsterdam) for information about accessibility and wheelchair-accessible cabins.

How to change stations in Paris

Changing trains in Brussels, Amsterdam and Lille means an easy same-station change.

In Paris, changing from the Gare du Nord where Eurostar arrives to the Gare de l'Est for trains to Reims, Strasbourg, Frankfurt, Stuttgart and the Nightjet sleeper to Salzburg & Vienna means a 10-minute walk or wheelchair push.

However, journeys through Paris to the South of France, Switzerland, Italy & Spain usually mean changing stations from the Gare du Nord to the Gare de Lyon or Gare Montparnasse .  For this there's a pre-bookable wheelchair-accessible taxi service run by G7 Taxis, www.g7.fr .

To book, call +33 1 41 27 66 99 (English speaking line) or +33 1 47 39 00 91 , making sure you ask for a wheelchair accessible taxi.

There's a €5 booking fee, and bookings can be made from 7 days until 1 hour before you need the taxi.  Gare du Nord to Gare d'Austerlitz for example costs €13-€19 per taxi.  Feedback from users of this service would be very welcome!

Tip:  Sometimes they decline to pick up at stations.  If so, for pickup at the Gate du Nord suggest 'Boulevard de Denain' instead, this is the road immediately leading off in front of you when you leave the Gare du Nord's main exit.  You might want to call when you know you have arrived.

There are also wheelchair-accessible buses.  Bus 91 is wheelchair-accessible & links Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est, Gare de Lyon & Gare Montparnasse.  See www.ratp.fr .

Step 3, travel with disability beyond Eurostar

Once on the Continent, most modern daytime trains have space for passengers travelling in wheelchairs.  Some operators (such as SNCF in France, ÖBB in Austria) allow wheelchair users to book tickets with a wheelchair space themselves online.  Others require you to call them.

Incidentally, don't buy regular tickets online, then try to add a wheelchair space (as you would in Britain).  In many countries ticket purchase and the booking of a wheelchair space need to be done together as part of the same transaction.

For more about arrangements for travellers with disabilities in each country, start with the website of the relevant national train operator, see the list of websites on the useful links page .

Tip:   Free Interrail pass for a companion/carer :  Interrail passes can be great for a tour of Europe or even for a round trip from the UK to Italy, Spain, Austria & so on.  A little-known benefit is that if you use a wheelchair (or have certain other disabilities) you can apply for a free Interrail pass for a companion/carer.  See www.interrail.eu/en/support/travelling-with-reduced-mobility (please let me know if the link changes).

...to France

First look at the London to France page to see if you can travel to your French destination with an easy same-station change in Lille as this avoids having to change stations in Paris.  This is possible for many destinations including Nice, Marseille, Cannes, Bordeaux, Strasbourg, Toulouse, Avignon, Nantes, Nîmes & Montpellier.  At Lille Europe there are lifts & escalators to all four platforms.  All TGV trains have wheelchair spaces and wheelchair-friendly toilets.

For other destinations, for example Vichy, Clermont-Ferrand or Cahors, you'll need to go via Paris, see the info above about accessible taxis.

To work out your train times, first see the London to France page .

Then book from London to Lille or Paris at www.eurostar.com , just click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner on their home page.  This automatically alerts Eurostar to the need for assistance on and off the train.

Then book tickets from Lille or Paris to your French destination with a wheelchair space at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com .  For English, scroll right at the bottom and select Europe (other countries) .  Then click on the first traveller and tick the Disabled passenger and Wheelchair user boxes.  That'll book you a wheelchair space.

After booking, arrange assistance on and off the train by filling in the Access Plus form, see www.sncf.com/en/passenger-offer/travel-for-everyone/accessibility/special-assistance .  You will need to enter the 6-character reservation code from your ticket booking.

...to Switzerland

By daytime trains

Take Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord , with wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets on board. 

In Paris there is level access off the platforms straight onto the concourse and the street.  You will need to arrange transport from Paris Nord to Paris Gare de Lyon , for example using a wheelchair-accessible taxi . 

Then travel from Paris Gare de Lyon to Geneva , Lausanne, Basel SBB & Zurich HB by TGV-Lyria high-speed trains with wheelchair places and wheelchair-accessible toilets.

You can see suggested timings on the London to Switzerland page , but you'll need to allow longer between trains in Paris if you've a wheelchair.  I'd allow 2-3 hours.

Book from London to Paris at www.eurostar.com , just click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner on their home page.  This automatically alerts Eurostar to the need for assistance on and off the train.

Then book tickets from Paris to Geneva, Lausanne, Basel or Zurich with a wheelchair space at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com .  For English, scroll right at the bottom and select Europe (other countries) .  Then click on the first traveller and tick the Disabled passenger and Wheelchair user boxes.  That'll book you a wheelchair space.

By sleeper train

Take the 11:04 Eurostar from London St Pancras to Amsterdam Centraal , with wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets on board. 

In Amsterdam it's a same-station change onto the daily Nightjet sleeper train from Amsterdam Centraal to Basel SBB .  The Nightjet sleeper train has a wheelchair-accessible 2-berth couchette compartment, with adjacent accessible toilet, see the photos below the Austria section.  I'd allow at least 2 hours between trains in Amsterdam.

Book from London to Paris at www.eurostar.com , just click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner on their home page.  This automatically alerts Eurostar to the need for assistance on and off the train.  Allow lots of time in Paris, ideally 2-3 hours.

Then take the Nightjet sleeper train from Amsterdam to Basel.  You can book a couchette in the wheelchair-accessible compartment from Brussels to Vienna, Paris to Salzburg & Vienna, Amsterdam to Munich, Innsbruck & Vienna, or  Amsterdam to Zurich at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .  Select the first traveller, click Passenger with disabilities then tick the Wheelchair bay required box.

From Basel you can reach anywhere in Switzerland, Swiss trains have wheelchair spaces.

...to Italy:

Take Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris Gare du Nord , with wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets on board.

You will need to arrange transport across Paris to the Gare de Lyon, for example using the wheelchair-accessible taxi .  Then take a daytime TGV train from Paris to Turin & Milan as these have wheelchair places and wheelchair-accessible toilets, for details see the Italy page .

Then book TGV tickets from Paris to Milan with a wheelchair space at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com .  For English, scroll right at the bottom and select Europe (other countries) .  Then click on the first traveller and tick the Disabled passenger and Wheelchair user boxes.  That'll book you a wheelchair space.

You can see suggested timings on the London to Italy page , but allow longer between trains in Paris if you've a wheelchair.

After booking Paris-Milan with SNCF, arrange assistance on and off the train by filling in the Access Plus form, see www.sncf.com/en/passenger-offer/travel-for-everyone/accessibility/special-assistance .  You will need to enter the 6-character reservation code from your ticket booking.

Once in Italy, most fast trains including Frecciarossa , Frecciargento & Frecciabianca services between major Italian cities have wheelchair spaces and wheelchair-accessible toilets.  For train times and how to buy tickets, see the London to Italy page .  You can arrange assistance at stations and assistance on and off trains (and, I believe, get wheelchair spaces reserved on trains in Italy) at www.rfi.it/en/for-persons-with-disability.html .

...to Spain

You will need to arrange transport across Paris to the Gare de Lyon, for example using the wheelchair-accessible taxi . 

Then take a Paris-Barcelona TGV as shown on the London to Spain page , with wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets on board.

You'll then also find these facilities on the onward Spanish AVE trains from Barcelona to Madrid, Malaga, Seville, Cordoba, Alicante, Valencia and most other Spanish destinations.  However, there are no wheelchair facilities on the French overnight trains between Paris and Perpignan, Latour de Carol or the Spanish border mentioned on that page. 

To travel from London to Barcelona by Eurostar & TGV, first book from London to Paris at www.eurostar.com , just click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner on their home page.  This automatically alerts Eurostar to the need for assistance on and off the train.

You can see suggested timings on the London to Spain page , but allow longer between trains in Paris if you've a wheelchair.

lots of time in Paris, ideally 2-3 hours.

Then book TGV tickets from Paris to Barcelona with a wheelchair space at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com .  For English, scroll right at the bottom and select Europe (other countries) .  Then click on the first traveller and tick the Disabled passenger and Wheelchair user boxes.  That'll book you a wheelchair space.

After booking Paris-Barcelona with SNCF, arrange assistance on and off the train by filling in the Access Plus form, see www.sncf.com/en/passenger-offer/travel-for-everyone/accessibility/special-assistance .  You will need to enter the 6-character reservation code from your ticket booking.

There are also direct ferries from the UK to Spain, with disabled/wheelchair facilities.  See www.brittany-ferries.co.uk (Plymouth-Santander, Portsmouth-Santander & Portsmouth-Bilbao).

...to Germany

Take Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels Midi or Paris Gare du Nord , with wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets on board.

In Brussels it's a simple same-station change with lifts to/from all platforms.  In Paris, it's a 10-15 minute walk or wheelchair push from the Gare du Nord where Eurostar arrives to Paris Gare de l'Est where trains to Germany depart. 

From Brussels Midi , there are Eurostar (formerly Thalys) high-speed trains to Cologne all with wheelchair spaces and wheelchair-friendly toilets.  From Cologne, there are wheelchair spaces and wheelchair-friendly toilets on almost all the InterCity (IC) and InterCityExpress (ICE) trains to destinations all over Germany.  Boarding assistance can be provided at most major Germany stations.

From Paris Gare de l'Est there are TGV or ICE trains to Stuttgart, Munich , Frankfurt all with wheelchair spaces and wheelchair-accessible toilets.  For train times, fares & how to buy tickets, see the London to Germany page .  There is a handicap brochure with more information on the Germany Railways website, int.bahn.de .

You can see suggested timings on the London to Germany page , but allow longer between trains in Paris or Brussels.

First book from London to Paris or Brussels at www.eurostar.com , click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner on their home page.  This automatically alerts Eurostar to the need for assistance on and off the train.  Allow lots of time in Paris, ideally 2 hours.

If going via Paris, book tickets from Paris to Germany with a wheelchair space at the French Railways website www.sncf-connect.com .  For English, scroll right at the bottom and select Europe (other countries) .  Then click on the first traveller and tick the Disabled passenger and Wheelchair user boxes.  That'll book you a wheelchair space.

After booking Paris-Germany with SNCF, arrange assistance on and off the train by filling in the Access Plus form, see www.sncf.com/en/passenger-offer/travel-for-everyone/accessibility/special-assistance .  You will need to enter the 6-character reservation code from your ticket booking.

If going via Brussels, book by phone and arrange assistance by calling DB's mobility people: +49 (0) 030 65212888, fax: +49 (0) 30 65212899, email [email protected] Opening hours 06:00-22:00 Monday to Friday, 08:00-20:00 weekends and holidays.

...to Austria

Take Eurostar from London St Pancras to either Paris Nord , Brussels Midi or Amsterdam Centraal , with wheelchair spaces & accessible toilets.

Then travel by a Nightjet sleeper train from Brussels Midi to Vienna , Paris Est to Salzburg & Vienna , or Amsterdam Centraal to Munich , Innsbruck & Vienna .  Most Nightjets have a 2-berth accessible couchette compartment, adjacent to an accessible toilet, see the photos below.

You can find details of the timings via each of these routes on the London to Austria page .

Going via Brussels or Amsterdam means an easy same-station change from Eurostar onto the sleeper.  Going via Paris means a walk or wheelchair-push from the Gare du Nord to the nearby Gare de l'Est .

Book the Eurostar from London to Paris, Brussels or Amsterdam at www.eurostar.com , simply click Wheelchair under the passenger box on the journey planner on their home page.  This automatically alerts Eurostar to the need for assistance on and off the train.  Allow lots of time between trains, ideally 2 hours.

Then book a couchette in the wheelchair-accessible compartment from Brussels to Vienna, Paris to Salzburg & Vienna, Amsterdam to Munich, Innsbruck & Vienna at the Austrian Railways website www.oebb.at .  Select the first traveller, click Passenger with disabilities then tick the Wheelchair bay required box.

2-berth wheelchair-accessible PRM compartment on a Nightjet sleeper train.  Above left, the older type inherited from German Railways. Above right, the newer comfort type steadily replacing the older cars.  Photos courtesy of Andreas Pöschek, see @fuchur for travel inspiration...

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If you'd rather call someone

For journeys from London to France, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland & Italy, call International Rail on 0844 248 248 3   (lines open 09:00-17:00 Monday-Friday).

You can also try www.ffestiniogtravel.com on 01766 512400 (09:00-17:00 Mondays to Fridays, 09:00-13:00 Saturdays) or www.trainseurope.co.uk on 01354 660222 (09:00-19:00 Monday to Friday, 10:00-15:00 Saturdays & Sundays).

For journeys from London to Germany, Scandinavia, eastern & central Europe, call Deutsche Bahn's English-speaking telesales line, on 00 49 (0)30 311 68 29 04 (lines open 08:30-20:00 Monday-Friday, 09:00-13:00 Saturdays & Sunday, UK time).

DB can make arrangements to assist you at Paris East, Brussels Midi, in Germany and in other countries too, but you may also need to call Eurostar ( 03432 186 186 or email them via www.eurostar.com ) to arrange assistance at London St Pancras & Paris Gare du Nord.

I am familiar with all these agencies for the sale or normal tickets, but I have not had any feedback on how well they handle bookings for wheelchair users or travellers with disabilities, or how well they handle arrangements for assistance at stations.  So if you use them, do let me know how you get on !

Traveller's reports

Traveller Andrew Farrow went from London to Croatia by train in a wheelchair:   I’m a permanent wheelchair user, with a 'normal' manual wheelchair.  I need a ramp to get on to a train.  I can, with assistance, transfer to a normal seat and my wheelchair can be folded away - people with bigger or electric wheelchairs might have a different experience. Because of the hassle of sorting out ramps and assistance, I’d allow a minimum of at least 30 minutes to change trains at any station, preferably a lot longer. And despite the European Community supposedly being a place of common rules and regulations, this does not seem to apply to rail travel in a wheelchair, where each country has its own approach. Each country has different rules about companions or carers and a different mechanism for dealing with wheelchairs.  From my  experience so far, you need to be willing to be lifted in and out of trains, to accept not always being able to get to a toilet, to have to transfer from your chair and to have a lot of patience.  That said, because of my wheelchair we met far more people and had far more wonderful encounters with strangers than we would have done otherwise.  Everywhere people were enormously friendly and helpful: partly as a result of my London–Split trip, I’ve decided I will now travel in Europe only by train.

I booked my Eurostar ticket online, a very easy process. The Paris–Split travel was all arranged by Deutsch Bahn. However, Deutsch Bahn could only arrange assistance in Germany, not Croatia.

1. London - Paris:  Eurostar is wonderful for wheelchair users. There are only two wheelchair spaces in the entire train, so it’s worth booking early if you have to catch a specific train. Assistance does not need to be booked in advance, you don’t need to turn up especially early and you can check in at the normal check in desks. A (very grand) ramp is provided in both London and Paris (Gare du Nord).

2. Paris - Munich:  Following your advice, we caught the overnight train from Paris Gare de l’Est [sadly discontinued from December 2014], leaving at 20:05, arriving Munich 07:10. This was a fantastic journey: we had an entire compartment to ourselves, although others could access the toilet! Instead of a four person couchette, our compartment was a two person couchette with a lot of extra room for wheeling about. Similarly, the toilet was enormous, with huge amounts of room. With this level of luxury, I doubt whether they can accommodate more than one wheelchair user, so book early. You need to get to Gare de L’Est at least half an hour before the train leaves and go to the Special Assistance office to find a staff member who will then find a ramp for you. We had to wait in Munich for a little while for a ramp to be found.

3. Munich – Zagreb:  Deutsch Bahn wouldn’t allow us to catch the suggested 08:27 from Munich to Zagreb as they said that there wouldn’t be enough time to make the change from one train to another (That actually turned out quite well, because when we arrived in Munich, we discovered it was Oktoberfest, so had time to walk down to the venue and experience literally tens of thousands of Germans in lederhosen celebrating and sampling enormous quantities of beer). Instead, they booked us on to the direct train to Zagreb leaving Munich at 12:27 and arriving Zagreb at 20:53, no changes necessary. Getting on the train in Munich was fine. However, this journey would not be possible for someone who cannot transfer from their wheelchair: I had to transfer from my chair to a seat at the end of the compartment as the corridor was too narrow to wheel down. There is no separate wheelchair space, and my chair had to be folded up. Given this experience, I doubt whether the toilet was accessible (I didn’t check). It was a comfortable train though, and the conductor very helpfully brought food and beer to our seats.

I was unsure what would happen when we got to Zagreb or Split. Whilst I had found contact details for Croatian Railways and did have an email conversation discussing what train times and carriages I was in (“We need these details so we could be able to organized your transportation”), I didn’t actually have confirmation that assistance or ramps would be available. In Zagreb, a ramp was eventually found and we descended. It’s an accessible station with no steps.  We stayed the night in the Esplanade Hotel, about five minutes walk from the station and a glorious Art Deco hotel with very reasonable prices. It used to be the preferred venue for travellers stopping off en route on the old Orient Express leg from Istanbul to Zagreb apparently. This allowed us a morning to explore Zagreb, where there’s an original carriage from the Orient Express that’s been turned into a bar.

4. Zagreb – Split:  We left Zagreb at 14:04, arriving Split at 20:37. We arrived at Zagreb station 45 minutes before the train was due to leave and after a lot of confusion and discussion at the information desk, got taken to a side office and eventually a ramp was arranged. Again, I had to transfer from my wheelchair. Again, I doubt whether there were accessible toilets on board. At Split, no ramp but lots of strong helpful men to get me down. An accessible station, no steps.

Traveller Jill Lindenbauer travelled from London to Valencia by train with her young son who uses a wheelchair .  She reports:  "I feel so lucky to have Ebbsfleet International on my doorstep, and the staff which assisted William and I certainly made us feel like VIPs.  It was no trouble boarding the train and as William's carer we were privileged to sit in 1st class as this is where the wheelchair seating is situated, even though we only paid 2nd class fares.  Immediately we were asked if we wanted a drink, and a meal was provided, which I wasn't expecting. It certainly got the holiday off to a good start, and whilst travelling I received a call from the English-speaking G7 Taxi service in France to say that our wheelchair-accessible taxi would be waiting when we arrived in Gare Du Nord.  This is a quick and easy service to use and I booked our taxi in advance from the comfort of my own living-room.

When William and I reached Gare Du Nord that sunny evening there was the same buzz of activity as the ramp was prepared for the wheelchair, and a porter took my bags. I soon spotted my name on a white piece of card, but I'm guessing the taxi driver spotted my son and I as we made our way along the platform. The taxi driver took my bag and led the way to his vehicle outside. He swiftly organised the ramp and pushed William in his chair inside, where he secured William's wheelchair to the car floor with belts. The politeness and assistance of the taxi driver made our short trip effortless and at Gare D'Austerlitz he escorted us to the Information Office.  The taxi cost 40-50 euros, but the meter was probably running as we are leaving the train and as we are about the last to leave as we wait for special assistance this is a small price to pay.

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Traveling by train with a disability

I think trains are probably my favorite way to travel.

The world goes by at a brisk pace (usually) but you can still see it all.

I frequently take a commuter rail to New York City, and we live a short drive from the nearest train station.

I also will often take the train down a few stops to visit my mother, or a few more to visit my sister.

My other sister actually lives right by a commuter rail line to Philadelphia, and I’ve taken the train to her as well.

Trains are generally more reliable than buses in the sense that they are more likely to be on time and their routes are much less likely to vary over time.

If you have a very visible condition, be prepared for staring and possibly being asked inappropriate questions. This is a risk you take any time you are out in public, really.

If you have an invisible condition, be prepared for people to assume you are totally healthy and do not need any special treatment. It’s frustrating, but that is part of the reality of our current ableist culture .

If you have a condition that is only visible at times (like epilepsy or my type of Functional Neurological Disorder [FND] symptoms), be prepared for the possibility of people panicking and doing the least helpful thing at the worst possible time out of ignorance. 

Whatever condition you have, it’s best to anticipate people’s behaviors a bit so that you can try to protect yourself from the worst of the ignorance.

My local transit systems

New Jersey Transit has a large public transit system covering much of the state of New Jersey—it is made of buses, trains, light rails, and connections to the PATH (Port Authority Trans-Hudson) system as well as Penn Station in New York City. 

The PATH (light-rail system) goes into NYC and has branches in the larger cities in North Jersey. 

The New Jersey Transit light rail is found in two cities—there is a small system set up in the city of Newark, and another one that connects Trenton and Camden, near Philadelphia. 

Philadelphia’s transportation system ( SEPTA ) connects to New Jersey Transit’s end of the line in the city of Trenton. 

Each of these has a slightly different ticketing system and a slightly different set of rules for disability-based discounts . 

In many cases, pricing for public transit includes standard fare and a discounted fare for children, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. 

Sometimes the discounted fare is the same across the board, and other times the discounts are slightly different. 

The PATH doesn’t actually have a disability discount, NJTransit has its own disability application system (which gives you a fare-reduction card to display when asked), and the NY MTA has a reduced-fare card for people with disabilities—it is a replacement for the usual MetroCard and also functions as a photo ID.  

These sites may give you an idea of what to look for in your local area.

Know before you go

Before you take the train, be sure you know what the rules are for that particular transportation system, and that you know the schedule. 

The ADA provides protection for you as a passenger.

If you are a wheelchair user, you’ll also want to make sure that your particular stop/station is accessible, because some stations in a system may not be. 

For example, while many stops on my train line are accessible (the trains have mounting plates to bridge between the platform and the train), others aren’t.

The non-accessible stations are at ground level, and you need to climb several stairs in the train to get to your seating. 

These stairs are steep and require some upper-body strength to pull yourself up.

Ensuring that you are able to safely board the appropriate train varies in difficulty. 

The first consideration is the actual challenge of boarding (if you are a wheelchair user, you may need a small ramp to cross the gap between the platform and the station), and the second one is making sure you board the vehicle going in the correct direction that’s going to stop at your destination.  

Sometimes it’s super easy (platform for each direction and only one line with no expresses or anything), but other times it gets more complicated (many NYC subway stops may have multiple lines, some of which are express, on one set of tracks).

Depending on your condition, the challenges may be different, but often the simple things (like taking an extra moment to be sure you’re clear on exactly what you’re waiting for) will be helpful.

In NYC, only 29% of the stations are accessible , so you’ll need to plan every stop you may make very carefully. 

Also, be sure to think about your comfort on the train. 

Sometimes they run strong air conditioning and other times the cars are a bit warm or stuffy. 

It’s good to bring an extra layer of clothes with you just in case, especially if you are temperature sensitive. 

In the summer, I am more likely to wear a skirt or jeans and carry a light sweater or long-sleeve shirt even when it’s hot out so that I can comfortably handle the hour-long commute to the city.  

I try to ensure that there’s room in my bag to place that extra layer once I’ve arrived.

If you are dealing with balance or vertigo issues, where you sit may have a huge impact on your comfort on the ride.

You also may want to do a short “test run” before you commit to a longer trip, as the motion of the train may exacerbate your symptoms.

Accessible entrances and transitions

When my partner Al was using a cane , we would seek out elevators, escalators, and other alternatives to steps. 

Sometimes finding these seemed to take more spoons than simply doing the climb.

Each new stop that we explored was another place that we need to search for a usable elevator or escalator while fighting through the crowd. 

When he had a cane, people were more likely to give him space, and less apt to glare at us when we took the elevator. 

With how my symptoms have worked, most of the time I have generally found that seeking out the elevators and escalators is more work and stress than just climbing the stairs—for Al, the stairs were painful and exhausting, but the extra walking in search of those features was tiring too.

I have also found that the smells and tightness of the elevator tend to increase my symptoms—so going into New York City with Al was actually much more stressful for me than going in by myself. 

I only have to worry about finding a seat on the subway (as opposed to two next to one another) and I don’t need to worry about finding escalators and elevators (the exercise is good for me). 

If you’re lucky, the transit map will indicate which platforms are and aren’t accessible. And, if you are dealing with vision or hearing issues, those supports should also be indicated there.  

Like buses , most trains are supposed to have scrolling marquees or light boards indicating the line and stops, as well as audible announcements of every stop along the way.  

Like buses, the quality of these features are likely to vary.  

At least some of these transit systems will also have preferred areas for wheelchair users in particular to board—perhaps so that the employees are more likely to notice them and help them board.  

Safely boarding the train

When you travel by train, boarding and deboarding can be tricky for certain conditions. Since they use tracks, there will always be a gap between the platform and train.

Sometimes it’s negligible and a wheelchair can cover the distance—but more often a special ramp is needed to cross over.

When that’s the case, it’s often the responsibility of train employees to provide this bridge.

This means that for both boarding and deboarding, an employee has to notice you and take care of that need.

If you are dealing with any condition that’s sensitive to crowding(from claustrophobia to impaired mobility to sensory overwhelm), I recommend doing what you can to avoid travel during especially busy times.

I know that in my area, the trains are full of commuters from about 6:30–8:30 a.m. and 4:30–6:30 p.m.

Personally, I do my best to be settled somewhere during those times, and usually head into the city after 9 a.m. and head home later in the evening. I also try to avoid the last train of the night as it tends to have a lot of drunk folks aboard.

If you are not a wheelchair user but have strength, energy, or other mobility issues and are boarding or exiting at a station that isn’t labeled as accessible, it’s helpful to know why so that you can feel secure in your ability to handle it.

Accessibility features onboard

Generally, trains and subways will have designated accessible seating with the occasional space for a wheelchair.

The requirements for defining this seating are variable, but often they are near the doors to the car and sometimes they have extra space around them.

If you need an accessible seat, others are expected to get up and give you that or those seats.

Often accessible seats aren’t the first seats taken by random passengers, though I have noticed a tendency of people to put their luggage in the accessible seating that has a long space between seats.

For people with motion-related sensitivies, be aware that sometimes accessible seating doesn’t face the same direction as you are traveling.

I’ve noticed many trains have seats that constantly face the opposite direction from travel (generally because the train commutes in two directions without turning around, so half the seats always face the destination), and others have the seats positioned facing sideways.

Also, sometimes seats can be flipped to face the direction you are traveling (or to create a set of seats facing one another).

Anticipating your needs in this regard is important, as is being prepared for the possibilities.

If the seating you need is taken, you can ask the conductor for help or ask the people in the seat to move.

It’s often helpful to have something that backs up your statement (like a note from your doctor or a reduced-fare card ), but no matter what, you are entitled to that seating once you identify yourself as having a disability.

To be ADA compliant, your train should also have some form of announcement system to audibly notify you of your stop, and some form of light board or marquee to visibly signal the name of the next stop.

While these aren’t always maintained, they are legally required.

If your train doesn’t have these functions onboard, I encourage you to file a complaint about it—whether or not you specifically needed that resource. This way you can help your fellow disabled folks.

You also don’t need to file the complaint then.

Make a note to yourself and if possible grab a picture of the issue and/or identification number of the car you are in (or the time and route if it’s a train-wide issue) and use the organization’s website to file the complaint later.

Safely arriving at your accessible destination

When planning your trip, make sure that your destination is also accessible and that you have the assistance you may need to exit.

Apparently, folks get forgotten sometimes, especially when it comes to getting off at the appropriate stop, so wheelchair users may need to take steps like blocking the doors (which prevents the train from traveling) in order to get off the train at their stop.

Once you are off the train, there should be accessible options for you to continue on to your final destination.

Yes, you can travel safely on a train!

Depending on your condition, your challenges are likely to be different from mine, but I believe in your ability to use your local transit system!

Using my local transit system gives me a great deal of freedom and really lets me explore and travel. I love riding the train (and am very comfortable on the subway), and this is by far my preferred method to travel.

It’s well worth the effort to explore your local transit system and its rules before you use it so that you are prepared to make the best use of it and have minimal surprises on your journey.

There are ADA accessibility requirements that your transit system should be following, but older systems may not be as compliant, and sometimes accessibility features are out of order.

By studying your transit maps and other details, you should have a good sense of what stations are accessible for you.

There will also be features on board the train to assist you, such as accessible seating, light boards, and announcements of each stop.

Whatever rail system is near you, it’s well worth exploring to give yourself more freedom.

As a person with a sometimes-invisible illness that straddles neurology and psychiatry(Functional Neurological Disorder), I've dealt with a lot of the stigma surrounding physical and mental illnesses and both visible and invisible illnesses. I want to help other people with disabilities to regain perspective and control over their lives through manageable steps and make their lives better, one step at a time.

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The Able Traveler: Accessible Rail Tours Top Fall Travel Picks

By Candy Harrington

Barrier Free Travels

With unstable gas prices and long lines at airport security checkpoints, rail travel is making a comeback. Both Amtrak and Via Rail reported significant ridership increases in the past year, while private rail tours and historic trains are also gaining popularity. Variety is truly the keyword when it comes to rail travel; and fall is prime time to experience these wheelchair-accessible rail tours.

Grand Canyon Adventure

The first class and coach cars are the most accessible, as they can be boarded by a portable lift and they all feature wheelchair tie-downs, nearby companion seats and an accessible restroom. The parlor car and the observation dome can also be accessed by a portable lift; however they are more appropriate for slow walkers, as there are no wheelchair tie-downs in the parlor car and the observation dome has seven steps to the top.

The railway staff is very accommodating, with on-board attendants on hand to see to your every need. First class passengers are treated to a continental breakfast on the way up and appetizers and champagne on the return trip; while soft drinks are served on both legs in coach class. Roving musicians entertain passengers with songs of the old west during the entire journey

This historic train trip can be taken as a day excursion -- going up and back in the same day -- or as a package tour with overnight lodging at the Grand Canyon and in Williams included. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers are available on both ends, and the folks at Grand Canyon Railway are great at accommodating disabled guests.

Railing Through the Canadian Rockies

Another great accessible rail tour is offered by Rocky Mountaineer Railtours (tel. 877/460-3200 ; www.rockymountaineer.com ); where the focus is on the journey rather than the destination. Although the company offers a variety of Canadian rail tours, the Vancouver to Calgary Kicking Horse route, with an overnight in Kamloops , is the most accessible choice.

This multi-day, all-daylight excursion includes all on-board meals, ground transportation and lodging. Arrangements can also be made for accessible transfers to and from the Kamloops station, as well as an accessible hotel room with a roll-in shower in town.

A portable lift is available for boarding the domed Gold Leaf observation cars; and although there's a spiral staircase to the upper level, a small on-board lift is available for wheelchair-users. Because of the size of the lift, passengers have to transfer to an aisle chair for the ride up, and then transfer to a seat in the domed car. And although breakfast and lunch are served downstairs, arrangements can be made for meals to be served at your seat, if you can't make the trek to the dining area. An accessible bathroom is also located on the lower level.

The train travels through the heart of the Canadian Rockies before crossing the Continental Divide and rolling into Calgary . Wildlife sightings of moose, bear and elk are common along the way, and the on-board attendants provide a lively narration of the history of the region. It's just a very comfortable and accessible way to enjoy the Canadian Rockies.

Candy Harrington is the editor of Emerging Horizons and the author of 101 Accessible Vacations; Travel Ideas for Wheelers and Slow Walkers. She blogs regularly about accessible travel issues at www.barrierfreetravels.com .

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Tips for Wheelchair Accessible Train Travel in Europe

As you may have read in my recent blog posts , I have a love/hate relationship with trains. They are easily my favorite way to travel in Europe. The trains are fast and efficient, there is often free wifi, and they tend to be cheaper than flying. More modern trains have good accessible bathrooms, ample wheelchair accessible seating space, and are kept very clean. However, the nightmare comes into play when it comes time to get on and off the train. My anxiety pegs off the charts when it comes to arranging for ramps at stations and making sure I don’t get stranded on the train. Here are some of my accessible travel tips to help prevent a bad situation if you’re planning on using a train in Europe.

1. Learn about the rail systems in your country and/or city of origin and destination. Europe’s rail system is fast and efficient, but it’s also vast – and sometimes confusing. There’s a difference between Raileurope (a distributor of European rail products) and Eurail (the official distributor of Eurail passes) and Eurostar (a high-speed train system). Every country has its own train system, and sometimes several. In most European countries, you can usually find a rail company that’s faster and crosses the country and often international borders, as well as slower regional trains. Doing your research about a country’s rail service will help you determine the most efficient way to travel between locations.

2. Determine the accessibility of train stations on your route.  The vast majority of European rail stations in major cities are fully accessible, and many even have metro and bus connections within the same terminal that are also wheelchair friendly. However, if you are traveling to a more suburban or especially a rural area, you need to find out if those stations are as well. Regional train stations in rural areas in particular may not even be staffed, so you may not have a way to get off the train. Many rail companies have the accessibility of their various stations on their websites, but in some cases you may have to call.

3. You will likely have to purchase your accessible tickets over the phone. Not many rail companies sell tickets for wheelchair compartments online. The good news is you will likely have to pay a lot less for your ticket, and will often also get a discount for your companion. However, you’ll have to spend the money to make an overseas call if the rail company doesn’t have an office in the US (or whatever your home country is). I have been able to purchase many wheelchair compartment tickets via email, which I prefer for preventing miscommunication (due to language barriers) and getting a written purchase confirmation more easily, Don’t hesitate to email the rail company and ask if you can purchase tickets this way before you try to call.

4. Find out what the exact requirements are for boarding the train with assistance.  Unfortunately, this is by far the biggest hassle of train travel in Europe – and probably everywhere. Each rail line has different requirements for requesting wheelchair assistance for boarding their trains. Some only require one hour’s notice with a phone call to the train station, and others require up to 72 hours’ notice. In some cases, the local phone system for making these requests is in the local language only with no option for English (here’s looking at you, Amsterdam Centraal). You should be able to find the wheelchair assistance requirements on your rail service’s website. If not, just call or email their customer service department to inquire.

5. Show up at the train station EARLY. I can think of at least two times that showing up really early to a train station saved my hide. In one case, my scheduled train had gotten canceled and it allowed me the time to make alternate arrangements. On another occasion, my Polish-speaking guide spent an hour trying to find someone in the Warsaw main station who knew how I was supposed to board the train. It turned out each train had an electric lift built in, but I ended up missing my first train because the conductors didn’t know how to operate it. Fortunately the security officer stayed with me until the next train arrived and worked with them to board me using a manual ramp. Doing all of this would have delayed me much more had I arrived closer to my departure time. You may also need to check in at a Special Assistance office or desk to get help at certain stations. This requirement should be advised by the rail service when you purchase your ticket.

6. Take advantage of the special assistance on board. Even if you’re not seated in a first class or full-service car, frequently you can have meals or snacks brought to you. You should be able to get to an accessible toilet on board since you’ll be in a wheelchair compartment, but reaching the dining car may be impossible. The train crew know this, and will often take your order and deliver food to your seat. Every wheelchair space should have a call button with the wheelchair symbol on it for this purpose, and also to alert the conductor that you will be getting off the train at your designated stop.

7. Make a loud fuss if necessary. One thing I love about European trains is how quiet and peaceful they are. Conversation, when it does happen, is usually very quiet and respectful. If you’re an American reading this, you never want to be “that American,” but there are two occasions when you should be. First, train passengers frequently have suitcases or strollers or bicycles with them. Guess where they love to store them? Yep, in the wheelchair compartment that you paid for. Usually the conductor who helped board you will take care of moving everything, but sometimes they’re rushed. Then t’s up to you to start making a ruckus for people to  move their crap stuff out of the way for you. The second occasion is when you’re pulling up to the station. Let the staff know with at least 10 minutes notice that you need help getting off the train at the next station. They should already know (with “should” being the operative word), but be prepared to make yourself heard if you feel you’re in danger of being left/forgotten on board .

Train travel can really be a lot of fun! you’ll enjoy some fantastic scenery and probably meet some cool people along the way. For wheelchair users, it does pose its challenges, but hopefully this guide will help you navigate them!

Are you ready to book a European rail adventure? Contact me at Spin the Globe/Travel and I can help you make accessible arrangements!

Good info. How did you get discounts on the trains? In Germany you absolutely don’t get any price breaks for transport unless you have the German-issued disabled ID card. Which trains or countries gave you a better price?

It totally depends on the rail service and country. I believe I got a discount on Thalys going between Amsterdam and Brussels, as well as the line between Vienna and Munich.

Good Email. As an Australian working in NL and travelling trains all the time, though not wheelchair bound myslef (and always help someone on or off) NL BE and France are hit and miss. Almost all the time someone will help even if the conductors are busy. I would not expect a 10 min request to someone by the door to help i case would be seen as any inconvenience. That being said however, I have seen some of the most arrogant in my life on same trains but would guess that is not exclusive to here.

I’m trying to buy a wheelchair ticket for the TGV from Paris to Bordeaux. The phone to SNCF is really difficult to use. SNCF can’t accept US-issued credit cards, only EU-issued credit cards. SNCF customer service told me that RailEurope is their US sales agent. Rail Europe has told me to phone SNCF. I’m writing this on the weekend. Once Monday rolls around, I’m going to try phoning a British travel agency that loco2.com recommended (Travel Bureau). So it goes.

[…] dispute, there are no flights at all from Spain. As a result, my best friend and I had to take several trains, several buses, and several taxis over the course of twelve hours just to reach the home of The […]

[…] absolutely love train travel, especially in Europe. Yes, it takes a bit longer sometimes than air travel, although often not much, and it’s […]

i’m traveling in a manual wheelchair pushed by my partner. if we use trains how would we push our one large suitcase ?

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Mobility-Friendly Travel Guide

Key takeaways.

• Accessible travel is vital for social inclusion, medical needs, and overall well-being, especially for older adults.
• More than 6.8 million Americans living outside of institutions use assistive devices to help them with movement. Around 1.7 million of those use a wheelchair or scooter, and the remaining 5.1 million use canes, crutches, and walkers.
• The Air Carrier Access Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations mandate accommodations in air and cruise travel.
• For road trips, safely stow mobility devices in the car and consider renting an accessible vehicle.
• Major train and bus lines offer accessible seating and facilities, but booking in advance is advised.
• Proper planning, including emergency preparedness and consulting with service providers, helps ensure a smooth travel experience for those with mobility devices.

Travel isn’t just a luxury; it’s a vital aspect of well-being, especially for older adults. Travel provides cognitive, social, and physical health benefits to older adults—a group that is more prone to developing difficulties in these areas. But for anyone who relies on mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, and canes, the idea of travel can seem daunting.

The good news is that accessible travel is not only possible but also increasingly more common and doable. Numerous blogs and services are dedicated to making travel accessible for everyone. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, family visits, or medical appointments, this guide aims to empower you with actionable information for a smooth and enriching journey that meets your mobility needs.

Planning tips for mobility-friendly travel

Proper planning is the cornerstone of any successful trip, and it’s even more crucial when you’re traveling with mobility aids. About 30% of Americans over the age of 65 living outside of institutions use assistive devices for mobility purposes, both inside and outside the home. Many use a wheelchair or scooter, while the greatest number use canes, crutches, and walkers. Traveling with mobility aids is possible, and can be done successfully by following a few planning tips :

• Research your destination: Before you book anything, research the accessibility features of your chosen destination. Look for hotels and rental properties with ADA-compliant rooms, and check if tourist attractions offer wheelchair ramps or other accommodations. Websites like WheelchairTravel.org provide valuable insight into the accessibility of locations.
• Consult your health care provider: Before embarking on your trip, consult your health care provider for a pre-travel check-up. Discuss your travel plans, and make sure you have enough medication and supplies for the duration of your trip.
• Communicate with transportation providers: When booking flights, notify the airline about your mobility device in advance. Most airlines offer assistance for boarding and deplaning, and narrow aisle wheelchairs are provided by the airlines to get you to your seat. If you’re traveling by train or bus, check their policies on mobility aids since they differ.
• Communicate with your accommodation provider: Call hotels or rental properties directly to confirm the availability of accessible rooms. Inquire about ramps, elevator access, door widths, roll-in showers, and other features that can make your stay more comfortable. Plan accessible ground transportation ahead of time from your accommodation to your planned activities. A hotel will often be able to book this for you.
• Get insurance: Invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies and the potential loss or damage to your mobility device.
• Mobility device maintenance: Check the condition of your mobility device and consider a tune-up before the trip.
• Set aside some break/rest days: You don’t want to tire or stress yourself out by overscheduling every minute of your trip, so be sure to schedule moments to recharge.

Traveling checklist

Packing these items will help ensure a smooth trip:

• Mobility aid: Choose a device that is compact, foldable, and will travel easily. The scooter or wheelchair you use at home may be too bulky. Consider renting a more portable chair or scooter. If you are bringing a new device, be sure to practice with it until you are comfortable. Don’t wait until the trip to learn how to use it.
• Chargers and batteries: Bring extra batteries or chargers for electric wheelchairs and scooters.
• Medical supplies: Ensure you have enough medication and other medical supplies.
• Documentation: Keep copies of prescriptions and any other medical documentation.
• Emergency contacts: Draft a list of local health care providers and emergency services at your travel destination.
• Accessibility apps and guides: Download apps and guides that can help you find accessible routes and services. Apps like iAccess Life will help you navigate accessible routes and locations. Google Maps also has an “Accessible Places” feature, which labels accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking. Additionally, Mobility International USA offers PDF guidebooks for accessible destinations around the world.

Air travel with a mobility device

Navigating the skies with a mobility device requires a bit more preparation, but it’s entirely achievable with the right knowledge and planning.

The Air Carrier Access Act

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a U.S. federal law, first enacted in 1986, which prohibits discrimination against passengers with disabilities in air travel. Under the ACAA, airlines must accommodate travelers with disabilities, including those who use mobility devices. This means airlines are required to provide assistance for boarding, deplaning, and making connections, as well as stowing your mobility device. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the ACAA to understand your rights and what accommodations you can expect.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a program called TSA Cares, which is a helpline that provides additional assistance during the security screening process for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other circumstances. TSA Cares is staffed to provide travelers information on what to expect during the screening process Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m.–11 p.m. ET and weekends and holidays, from 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ET.

A traveler may request the services of a TSA Passenger Support Specialist (PSS), who can provide assistance through security screening. A PSS is a TSA officer who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with people with disabilities or medical conditions, and travelers who need additional screening assistance. You may call the number above or fill out an online form to request a PSS.

Planning air travel with a walker or cane

Air travel with a walker or cane is generally straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:

• Stowing the device: Walkers and canes are typically folded and stowed in the overhead compartment or a designated area in the cabin.
• Mobility assistance: Airlines offer escort services to help you move through the airport and onto the plane. You may also request an aisle wheelchair for easier boarding.
• Call ahead: While not mandatory, it’s advisable to notify the airline in advance that you’ll be traveling with a mobility aid. This ensures the crew is prepared to assist you.
• Label your device: Be sure to put your name on your device so there is no confusion if it gets gate checked.

Planning air travel with a wheelchair

Wheelchair travel involves a bit more planning but is still manageable. Here’s what you should know:

• Advanced notice: Always give the airline advance notice that you’re traveling with a wheelchair. This allows them to make the necessary preparations for your journey.
• Types of assistance: Airports offer various types of wheelchair assistance such as escorting you through security and helping you board the plane.
• Your own device: You can generally use your own wheelchair or scooter up to the boarding gate. From there, it will be stowed in the cargo hold, and you’ll be transferred to an aisle wheelchair for boarding.
• Airport-issued wheelchair: Some travelers opt for an airport-issued wheelchair. If you choose this option, your personal wheelchair will be stowed immediately upon check-in.

Shannon MacDonald, an occupational therapist in Denver, Colorado, has guidance for navigating airports with mobility devices. Her number one recommendation is to plan ahead and not leave anything until the last minute. She tells her clients to take advantage of TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry in order to reduce delays. She told us you can now complete the TSA PreCheck application at any Staples store in the country.

Laurel McFarland of Parker, Colorado, is 75 years old and uses a cane after her double knee replacement surgery. She recently traveled through Denver International Airport (DIA), an airport that is notorious for long wait times. She wishes she had known about the Staples option mentioned above by MacDonald. She underestimated how long it would take to get through DIA’s security. She began the TSA PreCheck application online and planned to complete it at the airport, but found herself at the wrong end of the concourse without enough time to get to the other side. She was unable to complete or use TSA PreCheck and had to stand in a long, standard security line. She also wishes she had accepted the wheelchair offer at check-in. She told us, “Next time, I’m taking the wheelchair. Who cares what it looks like.”

MacDonald also recommends doing anything that helps conserve energy because airports can be exhausting for anyone—not just those with limited mobility. “Be sure to use any and all services available to you,” she said. “Call ahead to inquire what services the airport has. Don’t be afraid to ask people for help.” Some of her other recommendations are:

• Use crossbody bags or fanny packs to free up your hands
• Put your medications in carry-on bags
• Use Apple AirTags or Tile tags in checked luggage for easy trackability and peace of mind
• Take advantage of preboarding
• Start with shorter trips if longer ones seem daunting

MacDonald’s final words of advice were, “Don’t be afraid to travel—it’s so worth it!”

Airline policies for mobility devices

The ACAA requires airlines to have policies to accommodate travelers with limited mobility. Specific policy information by airline follows:

Car travel with a mobility device

Hitting the open road with a mobility device requires a combination of preparation and flexibility. Whether you’re traveling with a wheelchair, walker, or cane, a well-thought-out plan can make your road trip hassle-free. Here’s how to prepare for an extended car journey with a mobility device.

Safely stowing a wheelchair

• Manual wheelchairs: The trunk is usually the best storage option for manual wheelchairs. Make sure to fold the wheelchair and secure it with straps to prevent it from jostling around during travel.
• Electric wheelchairs: These are heavier and may require a car with a spacious trunk or a separate trailer. Some people opt for car-top carriers specifically designed for wheelchairs.
• Wheelchair lifts and ramps: If you’re using your own vehicle, consider installing a wheelchair lift or ramp for easier loading and unloading if you or someone you’re with is unable to easily lift the chair.

Storing walkers and canes

• Walkers: These can usually be folded and stored in the trunk or back seat. Like wheelchairs, they should be secured with straps.
• Canes: Canes are the easiest to store. They can fit in the trunk or even in the back-seat pockets. Just ensure they are within easy reach for when you need them.

Renting a wheelchair-accessible car

• Specialized rental companies: Companies like MobilityWorks and Wheelers Accessible Van Rentals specialize in wheelchair-accessible car rentals.
• Mainstream car rentals: Some mainstream car rental companies offer vehicles with hand controls and swivel seats but may not have fully wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Always call ahead to confirm availability.
• Insurance: Make sure your rental includes proper insurance coverage, especially for any specialized equipment.
• Test drive: If possible, test drive the vehicle to ensure it meets your needs.

Additional tips for a smooth road journey

• Rest stops: Plan your route to include accessible rest stops for bathroom breaks and stretching. Apps like iExit can help you find accessible facilities along your route.
• Emergency kit: Always carry an emergency kit that includes extra medication, basic tools for minor repairs to your mobility device, and essential supplies like water and snacks.
• Accommodations: If your road trip involves overnight stays, book accessible hotels in advance. Websites like AccessibleGO offer a directory of accessible accommodations, and Airbnb has an accessible housing feature.
• Backup plans: Always have a backup plan in case of unexpected issues like car trouble or inaccessible locations. This could be as simple as knowing the location of nearby hospitals or having a list of local taxi services that offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
• Local laws: Familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations concerning disabled parking and other accessibility issues in the destinations you’ll be visiting.

Train and bus travel with a mobility device

Traveling by train or bus can be a convenient and cost-effective way to explore new destinations. Bu, when you’re traveling with a mobility device, there are some things to keep in mind. Here’s how to make your train or bus journey as smooth as possible.

Planning train travel

• Advanced booking: Many train services offer the option to book a designated wheelchair space. Make sure to do this well in advance.
• Boarding assistance: Train stations often provide boarding ramps or lifts for wheelchair users. Always check ahead of time and arrive early to make use of these services.
• Onboard facilities: Modern trains usually have accessible restrooms and designated spaces for wheelchairs. Confirm these amenities when booking your ticket.

Planning bus travel

• Accessible buses: Many bus companies now operate low-floor buses or those equipped with lifts to accommodate wheelchairs.
• Seating: Buses often have designated disability seating. Make sure to ask about this when booking your ticket.
• Stowing mobility devices: Walkers and canes can usually be folded and stored in the luggage compartment. Always confirm this with the bus company in advance.

Tips for both modes of travel

• Tickets: Check if there are discounted fares for passengers with disabilities and their companions.
• Stop announcements: Modern trains and buses often have visual and audio stop announcements. If not, you can request the driver or conductor to inform you of your stop.
• Travel during off-peak times: If possible, travel during off-peak hours when trains and buses are less crowded, making it easier to board and disembark.

Major train and bus line mobility device policies

Cruise travel with a mobility device.

Modern cruise ships are increasingly accommodating, providing a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all. Here’s how to plan your cruise travel if you use a wheelchair, walker, or cane.

Finding wheelchair-accessible amenities

• Consult the accessibility department: Before booking, consult the cruise line’s accessibility department to discuss the offered amenities to ensure they meet your needs.
• Check the ship’s design: Newer, larger ships tend to be more accessible. They are often designed with accessibility in mind, as opposed to older ships that may have been retrofitted.
• Review onboard facilities: Look for features like ramps at bathroom entries, roll-in showers with fold-down benches, and designated wheelchair seating at theaters.

Booking a wheelchair-friendly room

• Early booking: Accessible staterooms are limited. Book at least a year in advance to secure the type of room you want, such as one with a balcony that is easily accessible.
• Check door widths: Ensure your scooter or wheelchair can fit through the stateroom door.
• Inquire about additional features: Some staterooms offer additional features like handheld showerheads and raised toilets.

Handling emergencies

• Emergency drills: Participate in the mandatory emergency drills and pay close attention to the procedures for those with mobility devices.
• Location of life jackets: Know the location of life jackets that are accessible to you. Emergency contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts and any other necessary medical information readily available.
• Onboard medical services: Inquire about the ship’s onboard medical team and the services they provide.

Choosing itineraries and excursions

• Tender ports: Some ports require the use of small boats, known as tenders, to reach the shore. These tenders may not accommodate motorized wheelchairs or scooters.
• Accessible excursions: The selection of wheelchair-accessible excursions may be limited. Some cruise lines may not post all accessible shore excursions until after you depart.
• Weather and tidal conditions: These can affect the ability to transfer from one moving vessel to another. Always check with the cruise line first.

General tips

• Travel agent: Consider hiring a travel agent who specializes in accessible travel. They can guide you through various cruise options tailored to your needs.
• Medical equipment: If you would like to rent medical equipment, make arrangements in advance.
• Transportation and excursions: Some cruise lines offer extra assistance with transportation and excursions for people that use wheelchairs.

Major cruise line mobility device policies

Ranking cruise lines accessibility.

You might be wondering which of the cruise lines on our list are the most accommodating to passengers with limited mobility and which might not have as many amenities. Ranking cruise lines based on their accessibility features can be subjective, as it often depends on individual needs and preferences. But based on general industry reputations and the range of accessible amenities offered, here’s a tentative ranking:

• Royal Caribbean: A cruise line known for its extensive range of accessible amenities, including spacious staterooms, roll-in showers, and a variety of accessible excursions. Their ships are often cited as some of the most accessible in the industry.
• Celebrity Cruises: A subsidiary of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises also offers a wide range of accessible features, including assistance with transportation and excursions. Their newer ships are designed with accessibility in mind.
• Princess Cruises: Offering a good range of ADA-compliant staterooms and public areas, they also provide detailed information on the accessibility of their ships and ports, making it easier to plan your trip in advance.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Providing accessible staterooms and visual and auditory aids, their range of accessible excursions may be limited compared to others on this list.
• Holland America: Known for their older demographic, they offer accessible staterooms and amenities, but their older ships may not be as accommodating as their newer ones.
• Carnival Cruise Line: While they do offer accessible cabins and public areas, their older ships may not be as accommodating as their newer vessels. Equipment rentals are included.

Other helpful resources

In addition to the websites already mentioned in this article, the following resources offer helpful information for those traveling with mobility devices:

• Scootaround : For renting mobility equipment
• Special Needs Group/Special Needs at Sea : Wheelchair, powerchair, and scooter rentals, especially for cruises
• Mobility International USA : Provides resources and tips for international travel with limited mobility
• Wheelchair Travel : Offers comprehensive guides and tips for wheelchair users who love to travel
• Disabled World : Provides a variety of travel resources, including airline and cruise information for travelers with disabilities
• Rick Hansen Foundation : Offers a variety of resources, including a section on accessible travel
• Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH) : Provides resources for planning accessible vacations, including travel agents specializing in accessible travel
• Paralyzed Veterans of America : Offers a variety of resources, including a section on accessible travel
• Travel For All : Global accessible travel specialists
• Easy Access Travel : Specializes in cruise vacations and packaged land tours to accessible destinations
• Wheel the World : Comprehensive travel guide geared towards older adults traveling with wheelchairs

Bottom line

Embarking on a journey with a mobility device may seem challenging, but with the right planning and preparation, you can experience a trip of a lifetime. From air travel and road trips to train journeys and cruises, many options are available to make your travels simple. The key is to research and consult with service providers well in advance to ensure all of your specific needs are met. Whether it’s securing an accessible room on a cruise ship or understanding your rights under the ACAA, knowledge is your greatest asset. So, don’t let mobility challenges hold you back. With today’s advancements in accessibility and a little proactive planning, you can set sail, hit the open road, or soar through the skies with confidence.

Have questions about this article? Email us at [email protected] .

• Global Coalition on Aging. Destination Healthy Aging: The Physical, Cognitive, and Social Benefits of Travel. Found on the internet at https://globalcoalitiononaging.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/destination-healthy-aging-white-paper_final-web.pdf
• Sehgal, Mandi, et al. Mobility Assistive Device Use in Older Adults. American Family Physician. June 15, 2021. Found on the internet at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34128609/
• Adaptive Living Guide. 10 Tips for Travelers with Limited Mobility. Found on the internet at https://www.mobility-advisor.com/travelers-with-limited-mobility.html
• U.S Department of Transportation. About the Air Carrier Access Act. Oct. 2, 2023. Found on the internet at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/passengers-disabilities

Italy Train Travel: Wheelchair Access

This article on Italy train travel is based on trips we’ve taken in 2014, 2012, 2009, 2006, 2005 and 2003.  In 2014 and 2012 Howard traveled in his Permobil , which weighs around 325 pounds (148 kg) and is around 26 inches (66 cm) wide and with the footrest in the shortened position, 48 inches (1.22 meters) long.  Howard is 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall and, when seated in his Permobil he’s 57 inches (1.45 meters) high.  On our previous trips Howard used a Quickie P110 power chair that weighed around 100 pounds (45 kg) and had manually adjustable footrests.

Italy has an extensive system of intercity passenger trains serving major cities, medium-sized ones, and even small towns, with coverage far more extensive than in the United States.  Trenitalia is the national intercity train operator.  The equipment ranges from sleek, modern, high-speed Eurostar and Frecciarossa coaches to clunky, antiquated, slow trains serving regional routes.  Train travel in Italy for passengers in wheelchairs has been steadily improving, although of course there are still limitations and obstacles.  Making the system accessible to passengers who use wheelchairs is a complex challenge considering how extensive the system is; how long it had been in place before widespread awareness of the need for wheelchair access; and the complexity, variety and age of the trains, stations and other infrastructure, especially the fact that the platforms are low while the trains and their doorways are high.

Our train travel has been of two types:  sightseeing day trips without luggage, where the consequences of a glitch are fairly minor; and trips with luggage to get from one city where we’ve stayed to another.  We’ve certainly had more stressful situations and frustrating moments then we wished, but despite them, taking the train is a fast, economical (considering the cost of car rental and gas), reliable, pleasant and often scenic way to travel from city to city.  Navigating the train system in a wheelchair takes planning, patience and flexibility, but things keep improving – each trip has been smoother than the previous ones.

In 2014 we took the Frecciarossa from Naples to Florence, and from Florence to Rome.  From Naples to Florence took just under three hours, and from Florence to Rome an hour and a half.  Speeds reached close to 150 mph, and the ride was scenic, enjoyable and impressively smooth.

Reservations, Ticketing and Accessible Routes

Wheelchair passengers must reserve an accessible space on the train at least 24 hours in advance by email, phone or in person at the “ Sala Blu ” ( Blue Room ) (marked with the blue wheelchair logo) at the departure station.  Stations in 14 major cities have Blue Rooms.  The Blue Rooms are operated by RFI , a contractor, not directly by Trenitalia.

It’s important to be aware that reserving a seat (in the case of a wheelchair passenger, a space) on a particular train isn’t the same as purchasing a ticket.  When you check in at the Blue Room at your departure station (see below), you must have tickets in hand, so unless you’ve already purchased them, you need to arrive more than 30 minutes before departure in order to go to the ticket counter and purchase your tickets.  Usually, passengers in wheelchairs are allowed to go to the front of the line, but don’t count on it.  Sometimes in smaller cities we’ve been able to purchase tickets at the Blue Room and didn’t need to go to the ticket counter, and other times a Blue Room employee accompanied us to the ticket counter and helped us buy tickets.  In 2014, for the first time ever, we were able to reserve seats and purchase tickets online, but only for the Naples to Florence trip.

If your plans are solid and you are able to reserve seats and purchase tickets in advance, that’s the best way to go.  There is no penalty for canceling a seat reservation.  We don’t know about ticket refund or exchange policies.  But even if you don’t purchase tickets in advance, whether because of the limitations of the system or because you don’t want to commit funds, it’s highly advisable to reserve seats.

In 2014 the reservation and ticket purchase process was the smoothest ever.  Months in advance of our trip, we emailed the Naples Blue Room to reserve seats from Naples to Florence, and the Florence Blue Room to reserve seats from Florence to Rome.  We were able to do this because we had our hotel reservations in each city and our plans were definite.  The Naples Blue Room advised us first to go on the Trenitalia website and set up an account, which Howard did.  The program is called CartaFRECCIA , and it’s easy to sign up in English.  For certain fields, such as address and telephone number in Italy, Howard made something up.  You will receive a “personal code,” which is an account number.

After setting up the account, Howard emailed the Naples Blue Room and told them his personal code.  They emailed back to confirm the seat reservation and instructed him to go on the Trenitalia website, where he logged on and found that the seats had been reserved under his account, and he was then able to purchase and print the tickets.  This was set up in English, and it was easy to do the transaction.  So when we arrived in the Naples Blue Room on the travel date, we had our printed tickets and didn’t have to buy them.  On the train you will need to have your tickets available to show the conductor.

Interestingly, the Florence Blue Room was unaware of this procedure.  They confirmed the seat reservation by email but told us it was impossible to purchase tickets for wheelchair seating in advance.  So we purchased them at the Florence train station on the travel date.  Howard was taken to the front of the line.  We didn’t get the advance purchase discount, but we were charged a second-class fare for first-class seats.  (If you’ve reserved a wheelchair space but haven’t purchased tickets in advance, as in this case, the space will be held for you and not assigned to anyone else.  If you change plans, it’s important to cancel your reservation so the space can be made available to another wheelchair user.)

Seat reservations are required for passengers in wheelchairs because not all trains have spaces for wheelchairs (over 350 trains do, according to the Trenitalia website), and those that do have only a few because only certain cars have wheelchair spaces.  The trains with no wheelchair spaces are mainly the slower regional and local ones.  On trains where the only accessible cars are in first class, which seems to be the case with the Frecciarossa and Eurostar trains, wheelchair passengers are charged a second class fare.  Seating for one companion is available next to the wheelchair space; when reserving a wheelchair space, you can also reserve a companion seat.  The discount for the wheelchair passenger is also available for the companion.

To sum up, there are two types of discounts.  First, there is a discount for passengers in wheelchairs (and their companions) when the only accessible car is in first class.  (We don’t know the extent of disability required to qualify; for example, whether someone using crutches would be eligible.)  Second, a discount is available to anyone who purchases tickets in advance.  In 2014 we were able to get both discounts for the Naples to Florence trip, which amounted to huge savings, but only the wheelchair discount for the Florence to Rome trip, which was still a significant savings.

Understandably, if you are traveling with a third person, they aren’t eligible for a companion discount.  Immediately after we received our reservations for Howard and Michele’s seats, we went on the Trenitalia website and purchased a seat in the same car for our traveling companion, which was expensive because it was a first-class seat at a regular price.  But his ticket was eligible for the advance purchase discount, and reserving his seat ensured that we’d all be in the same car.

Italian travel agencies sell train tickets, so theoretically you can reserve a wheelchair space and purchase tickets at a travel agency anywhere in Italy, but we’ve tried this and the travel agencies didn’t know how to handle accessible seating.  It’s best to avoid travel agencies for train reservations.

It appears from our research that all or almost all of the fast trains between major cities have accessible spaces.  But many of the trains serving smaller cities and towns are not accessible – for some places, only a subset of the trains is accessible.  This is a major drawback because it means that passengers in wheelchairs have only a limited choice of departure times available to them.  In 2009 we took day trips from Bologna to Ravenna, Ferrara, and Parma, and for all three cities had to choose between leaving Bologna at 9 AM or close to noon.  There were departures between those times, but those trains were not equipped with wheelchair spaces.  These limitations also preclude flexibility and spontaneity on these types of routes, making it difficult or impossible to change plans at the last minute (other than canceling a trip).

In other places, the train station isn’t accessible, so none of the trains is available to passengers in wheelchairs.  We’d heard that a day trip to Orvieto from Rome is worthwhile and enjoyable, but Trenitalia told us the Orvieto station is not accessible.  (Ironically, the funicular in Orvieto does appear to be accessible.)  Similarly, only the central train station in Pisa is accessible, not the one close to Piazza dei Miracoli , where the Duomo, Leaning Tower, and Camposanto are located.

Passengers in wheelchairs must check in at the Blue Room at least 30 minutes before departure, tickets in hand.  An employee will accompany you to the tracks.  Always check in at the Blue Room; don’t just show up at the tracks and assume someone will be there to help.

In Rome, Naples, and some of the other large cities, the main train station (e.g. Roma Termini and Napoli Centrale ) is a terminus and all of the tracks can be reached directly from the station lobby without an elevator.  But in some of the smaller cities there is a passageway under the tracks; depending on one’s train, it may be necessary to go through the passageway to reach the particular tracks.  In these stations, there are elevators from the front of the station down to the passageway and throughout the passageway to each set of tracks.  In our experience, the elevators have never been out of service.  Depending on the station and the time, some elevators are open to the public and others are operated only by Trenitalia employees.  But because wheelchair passengers must check in at the Blue Room and be accompanied to the tracks by an employee, the elevator will be operated by an employee regardless of what time it is.

Wheelchair passengers are boarded from the platform to the train by a motorized lift.  Another reason reservations are required is so Trenitalia can ensure the availability of the lift and employees to operate it.  In large cities where the station is a terminus, getting on and off the train isn’t rushed, but in small ones, the train stops for only a few minutes and the process can be quite harried.  Be sure to organize and watch your luggage.

The lift is on wheels and the employee moves it along the platform, aligning it with the train door.  There is a folding ramp at each end of the lift – one is used to mount/dismount the lift from the platform, and the other to enter/exit the train.  According to the Trenitalia website, wheelchairs up to the following dimensions and loaded weight can be accommodated:  27½ inches (70 cm) wide, 47.2 inches (120 cm) long, and 440 pounds (200 kg) loaded weight.  (These dimensions are per the ISO 7193 standard.)   But some of the lifts we encountered from 2003 through 2009 were narrower and shorter than the stated dimensions.  Often there was almost no room to spare on the sides or lengthwise, and Howard’s footrests had to be shortened to the shortest position.  We took several trips from Bologna in 2009 and lifts of different sizes were used, which created some difficult situations.

In 2012 we were concerned that Howard’s Permobil wouldn’t fit; it’s slightly longer than the maximum prescribed length and, including Howard’s weight, heavier than the maximum weight (we won’t say by how much!).  But in the event, weight was not a problem.  When we departed from Rome the lift was adequate size, but when we returned to Rome there was a different lift and Howard’s wheelchair just barely fit with no room to spare, his tires scraping the sides of the ramp.  Both times in Naples the lift was brand-new and wider, and there was plenty of room.

In 2014 there was plenty of room for Howard’s Permobil on all of the lifts – in Naples, Florence and Rome.  Weight was never a problem; the lift motor did not seem to be straining.  It appears that the older, smaller lifts are being replaced with larger ones throughout the system.

Although many years ago we had heard that passengers in electric wheelchairs are required to transfer to a train seat or a manual wheelchair on the train, Howard has never been asked to do this, always remaining in his wheelchair.  First class is very spacious; second class, while not quite as large, had ample room for his wheelchair.  In both classes there is always a medium size accessible bathroom near the wheelchair space.

Conclusion and Information

In conclusion, procedures vary from one station to another and even from one employee to another.  This is Italy, after all, so actual practice isn’t necessarily the same as official policy.  It’s essential to check everything carefully.  Be patient and allow plenty of time.  While there is sometimes disorganization and inconsistency, the fortunate bottom line is that Trenitalia is committed to wheelchair access, the employees are doing their best, everything works out in the end, and things are continually improving on the major routes and in the major stations.  The main drawbacks are that the stations in many of the smaller cities and towns are inaccessible, and for the smaller cities and towns that do have accessible stations, only some of the trains are accessible.  These conditions are likely to improve only slowly.

Trenitalia has an English-language website with detailed information for passengers with disabilities.  From the homepage, go to “Information and Contacts” at the top of the page and PRM (passengers with reduced mobility) is one of the choices on the dropdown menu.  Or go to “Before Travelling” at the bottom, and “Assistance to PRM” is one of the categories.  From the PRM homepage there is a link to “Sala Blu” with contact information for disability services for stations throughout Italy.

We should mention that, over the course of planning trips over many years, we’ve always received prompt email replies in English from Trenitalia and the Blue Rooms, typically within 24 hours. This webpage is in English for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).

The Italian language webpages have more detailed access information.  Find PMR ( persone a mobilita ridotta ).  Wheelchair is sedia a rotelle .   Here is a link to the page with information about wheelchair dimensions.   Trenitalia national helpline for disabled passengers (from within Italy only):  Phone: 199-30-30-60.  General passenger information (from within Italy only):  199-892-021.   Rome Blue Room can provide information by phone about access throughout the system.  From abroad call:  +39-06-4730-8579.

Howard Chabner is a disability rights activist and retired lawyer who has FSH muscular dystrophy (FSHD) and uses a power wheelchair. Michele DeSha is a ceramic artist and painter. They have written numerous articles about wheelchair accessible travel in Italy, France, Spain and Israel. For several years Howard has been working with Context Travel to help make their walking tours more disability accessible. Michele and Howard live in San Francisco. Howard is a docent at San Francisco's beautiful Beaux-Arts City Hall.

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We will be in Italy in April-May, 2019. My husband has cerebral palsy and uses a small mobility scooter to get around. He also has crutches and and can walk onto a train if needed. We will be traveling from Milan to Como, Como to La Spezia, La Spezia to Montecatini Terme, Montecatini Terme to Florence, Florence to Rome. We hope to take trains to all these destinations. I’m not too worried about the larger cities but have concerns about the small towns where the stop is very short. (When we took the train from Rotterdam to Paris we had …  Read more »

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Travellers with Disabilities

A child is between the ages of 4 and 11 years.

Many trains in Italy and beyond offer a discounted fare between 30% & 50% off the Adult fare for Children.

The child offer is now extended to children ages 4 to 14 years when traveling on high-speed Frecciarossa, Frecciabianca, Frecciargento, InterCity, InterCityNotte, EuroCity, and Thello trains. Your child will be assigned his/her own seat and children must be accompanied by an Adult when traveling on this offer.

Regional trains will still offer discounted fares for children ages 4 to 11 years.

Infants & Children 3 & under travel for free and will share a seat with the adult companion.

This option is for customers that have already purchased a Eurail Pass or InterRail Pass and wish to reserve seats or sleeping berths. Learn more about rail passes.

Most high-speed and long-distance trains require seat reservations. The fare rules for each train indicate whether seat reservations are necessary.

Note: An ItaliaPass does not entitle customers to use of passholder fares.  Roundtrip tickets are not available using a Eurail Pass or InterRail Pass.

By clicking the "I ACCEPT" button below you acknowledge that passholder fares may only be used in combination with a valid Eurail Pass or Interrail Pass.

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Assistance for Train Travelers with Disabilities in Italy

Assistance is available to customers with disabilities during the main phases of train travel. Support is provided by The Blue Hall, known as 'Sala Blu' in Italian, of RFI — Rete Ferroviaria Italiana . The Blue Hall is the reference point for all the travel needs of customers and where the services are coordinated. This special facility is available in 14 main stations, and can be coordinated from 251 stations across Italy.

Help is Addressed to People with Reduced Mobility

Support is available for train travelers with disabilities, including individuals in a wheelchair because of illness or disability, and people with limb problems or with difficulty walking. Aid is also available for elderly people, pregnant women, blind or visually impaired people, deaf or hearing impaired people and people with mental handicaps.

Services Offered in Blue Hall Train Locations in Italy

The services offered include information, seat bookings and wheelchair bound customer support. It also offers wheelchair bound customers an escort to the chosen train, aid for connecting services and hand luggage service help free of charge, upon request.

Assistance Onboard Italian Trains

Two equipped spots are reserved for wheelchair passengers on the medium and long-distance trains. Also, on the trains marked with a special sign, you can obtain extra help getting on and off.

You can request RFI's assistance by going to the Sale Blu directly, calling the RFI National Telephone Number - 199 30 30 60, or by contacting Trenitalia's Call Center:199 892021 option 7 or 06/3000 for users not enabled to call 199.

There is a minimum time for service request observing the notice periods indicated by RFI.

ITALY-WIDE HELPLINE for disabled passengers: 199-30-30-60 is available all days (holidays excluded) from 7 am until 9pm. The tariff for landlines (cost to caller- VAT included): 6.12 euro cents at reply and 2.63 euro cents for every minute of conversation. The tariff for mobile networks varies according to mobile operator. As an indication, costs vary between 12.40 and 15.49 euro at reply and between 24.17 and 48.00 euro for every minute of conversation.

Photo credit: Olga1992

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Accessible Train travel in Spain

Traveling by train in Spain will give you the option to explore so many beautiful cities and villages. Book your wheelchair-adapted train seats tickets with us and enjoy your vacation without any limitations.

The Spanish high-speed train network is the second-largest in the world after China, and the first in the world if considering the distribution of the high-speed rail network by the total country’s population. It already connects all major towns and cities, and it continues its expansion in order complete the connection between all major cities in Spain by 2030.

AVE trains are the fastest trains in Spain operating on a track of over 4000km up to 310 km/h. This large network makes traveling on land convenient and more accessible. You can see on the map below the current high-speed rail network in Spain:

Renfe’s AVE Trains can take you from Madrid to Barcelona in just 2,5 hours, from Madrid to Toledo in 30 minutes, or from Córdoba to Seville in 45 minutes. Moreover, the train network also connects Spain to France (Paris, Lyon, Marseille) using high-speed trains.

AVE trains feature two wheelchair spaces located in Second Class car number 8 (the H-seat), where you can stay seated in your wheelchair. In case you have a folding wheelchair you can also choose to travel in any regular seat. Besides, the staff will always be available during the journey to assist you with any needs. The Station assistance service can be requested at the Assistance Point up to 72 hours or 30 minutes before your journey, depending on the station you depart from.

The Avlo trains are a high-speed low-cost Renfe option for travelers between Barcelona or Valencia and Madrid. There is only a Standard Class available and no Onboard service or café. Avlo trains are fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility. The trains feature H-seats, where you can travel in your own wheelchair. Furthermore, the entrance to the train’s coaches is floor-leveled. Besides, you can request assistance services upon your journey.

Madrid – Guadalajara – Calatayud – Zaragoza – Lleida – Tarragona – Barcelona

Madrid – Cuenca – Requena-Utiel – Valencia

Renfe’s ALVIA trains can run up to 250 km/h and is able to switch between the trails of the high-speed lines and regional lines. Therefore, it creates fast connections to more remote locations in Spain. ALVIA trains offer H-seats, where you can travel in your own wheelchair, as well as adapted toilets with support rails. Besides, you can request assistance services upon your journey.

Alicante – A Coruna/ Gijón

Madrid – Valencia/ Cádiz/ Bilbao/ San Sebastián

Barcelona – Pamplona/ Bilbao/ Irún/ Gijón

OUIGO is the second low-cost high-speed train option in Spain. Hence, it also features solely the Standard class with comparable less leg space than in the AVE. At OUIGO in Spain trains feature wheelchair-adapted seats located in coaches 1 and 9 by the lower florr, without lift access to the Bar area located in the second floor. You can choose to travel in your own wheelchair (H-Seat) or on a fully adapted seat provided. In addition, the seats feature a call button connected to the Service Crew. Besides, the trains have adapted toilets.

Iryo is one of Spain’s very affordable train services and offers a comfortable, quick connections between some of the most important cities. The Iryo experience is just as good as on Renfe, and in a few ways even a bit better and more modern. IRYO trains offer H-seats, where you can travel in your own wheelchair, as well as adapted toilets with support rails. Assistance services can be requested online up to 48 hours before your journey.

Generally speaking, yes you can! However, there are some rules to be aware of:

Maximum dimensions of both: width 700 mm, depth 1,300 mm, and height 1,400 mm (Royal Decree 1544/2007 and R.D. 537/2019)

If you are traveling on a normal seat (not an H-seat) your wheelchair and scooter must be foldable for convenient transport.

These measurements apply to both train providers, Renfe and OUIGO.

Yes, assistance, support, or guide dogs are welcome on board and can travel for free in the Renfe, as well as OUIGO trains. Please make sure to carry the relevant documentation of their duty with you.

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Wheelchair Accessible Train Travel in the UK

As a disabled individual, you undoubtedly know that you face extra challenges when travelling. Even in the UK, which is one of the most accessible countries for travel as a disabled person, there is still a long way to make it a comfortable and empowering experience.

In the UK, we’re lucky to live in one of the most accessible countries for travellers in the world. However, even in a country like the UK, challenges remain. In 2019, it’s estimated that disabled adults made 26% fewer trips than those without a disability. The gap is even more significant for the elderly aged 65+.

Not only do disabled persons face challenges when it comes to a lack of accessible equipment and infrastructure, but also information and personal aid (when required).

Why travel is important

If it’s so much harder to travel as a disabled person, why bother with it at all?

Well, first of all, travel is an incredible opportunity to take a break and get out of your typical routine. If you plan ahead, it’s a chance to push aside your day-to-day worries and focus on enjoying the moment. Not only can it be a delightful experience, but it can also refresh you to take on the daily grind with renewed vigour.

Secondly, travel can be a fantastic way to challenge yourself and exercise a greater degree of independence. This is especially true if you make arrangements for accessible transport services and accommodations.

How accessible is train travel in the UK?

The Equality Act of 2010 requires all railway stations to take reasonable steps to ensure non-discrimination against disabled people. Operators must comply with a disabled people’s protection policy (DPPP) established by the Office of Rail and Road (ORR) to obtain their license.

According to the NTS, up to 92% of trains were accessible by December 2019.

Rail Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (RVAR) have applied to all new stations that came into operation since 1998. Amongst others, these layout rules for:

• providing access for wheelchair users
• the size and location of handrails, handholds, and control devices
• providing passenger information systems and other equipment
• Acceptable gaps between train platforms and the trains themselves

These are vital for individuals who use wheelchairs to manoeuvre safely and efficiently.

Railways also have measures in place to be more accessible for sensory-impaired users. This includes door warning systems for the visually and audibly impaired.

There are many different train operators in the UK, and each may have variations in their accessibility policies. However, most can accommodate wheelchairs that are 70cm in width and 120cm in length. A small minority of operators only support wheelchairs up to 67cm in width.

On the National Rail Enquiries website, you can find more information and even video guides on their accessibility measures.

Travellers that hold a Disabled Persons Railcard can enjoy a discount of up to 33% of their ticket fare (for adults). And, if another adult is accompanying you, they may be eligible for the same discount.

Today, you can even book in-person assistance via the Disabled Persons Railcard website. This will ensure that you receive the necessary aid, regardless of which operator you end up travelling with. This is useful because you don’t have to check and contact each operator on your journey.

In-person railway assistance usually involves assisting you in embarking and disembarking the train, handling luggage, and helping you to your point of transfer.

In an NTS study, 80% of disabled respondents indicated that they were satisfied with the level of accessibility on UK trains.

Still, there might be some difficulty in liaising with multiple operators, mainly if there are delays or last-minute itinerary changes. However, several apps have emerged to help persons deal with these issues, such as Transreport and Scotrail .

What are the most Wheelchair-friendly destinations in the UK?

Especially by international standards, most major cities in the UK are considered relatively wheelchair-friendly today.

In London, for example, nearly all taxis, buses, and tourist attractions, such as the London Eye , today provide wheelchair ramps. Many cities have even started to eliminate cobblestone sidewalks which are uncomfortable to ride on with a wheelchair. It’s also fairly common for hotels and other accommodations to reserve up to 5% of their rooms for disabled guests.

For this reason, the UK is often regarded as one of the top 5 countries for disabled travellers.

That being said, here are several popular travel destinations in the UK for travellers who use wheelchairs:

• Wakehurst Royal Botanical Gardens Kew – Haywards Heath, Sussex: Aside from wheelchair-friendly facilities, Wakehurst even offers all-terrain wheelchairs for public use. This allows wheelchair users to enjoy and explore every inch of the sprawling terrain.
• Ability – Shetland, Scotland: An island might not be the first destination that comes to mind when talking about wheelchair accessibility. However, you won’t miss out on any activities thanks to being supplied with MT Push wheelchairs and Mountain Trike lever-drive wheelchairs.
• Bodnant Garden National Trust – Conway, Wales: These magnificent gardens feature passable terrain and wheelchair-friendly walkways. However, they also offer various push and all-terrain wheelchairs for use.
• Brogdale Collections – Faversham, Kent: This charity in Kent provides public access to the National Fruit Collection, perfect for a fun and delicious fruit-picking adventure.
• Kenilworth Castle English Heritage – Coventry, Warwickshire: Despite being a castle with a 900-year history, this attraction features modern accessibility features for wheelchair users. All-terrain wheelchairs can also be provided to more easily explore every nook of this sprawling keep and its surroundings.

Also, see our list of 5 accessible attractions & cities in England

Unfortunately, attractions typically only provide a handful of wheelchairs for public use. That means you may be left wanting if you happen to visit on the same day as others that need them.

A list of all wheelchair accessible attractions in the UK would be enormous. However, here are some of the most famous wheelchair accessible attractions in London:

• British Museum
• National Gallery
• Tower Bridge
• Buckingham Palace
• Madame Tussauds
• ZSL London Zoo

If you’re looking for an accessible room in London, have a look at our list of 10 Wheelchair Accessible Hotels in London .

Why should you hire a wheelchair or mobility scooter for your travels?

Nothing can derail your travel plans more than a lack of accessibility features. While most of the UK is relatively accessible for disabled users, it’s better to come prepared for anything.

There are also many other reasons why you might want to rent mobility equipment for your travels:

• Your home mobility equipment is not suitable for travel. For example, your wheelchair may be too heavy or bulky to carry and store easily.
• Your home mobility equipment might not be the correct dimensions to use with your transportation mode.
• You may be planning to move around a lot, in which case motorised equipment will be more suitable. It can be extremely tiring to self-propel your wheelchair or have someone else push you for an entire day of travelling, particularly if you’re going somewhere with challenging terrain.
• You may lack specific equipment that you’ll need, such as a ramp or hoist. If you already have your home set up for wheelchair accessibility, it’s more economical to rent than to purchase items you won’t use any time soon.
• You may be carrying heavy luggage (or tonnes of souvenirs!), in which case you need mobility equipment that makes handling items easier.

In short, renting the right equipment can make your travels a much more comfortable and stress-free experience. It can help ensure you’re prepared for any eventuality without having to buy new equipment you don’t need at home. See top 5 mobility aids to rent for your next holiday .

What’s more, we’ve designed our service to be as convenient as possible. That’s why our moto is: Strive Mobility – The simple way to rent mobility equipment online. All you have to do is search for the ideal mobility equipment on our website and place your order. We’ll package and ship it straight to your location in time for your departure.

Once you return from your travels, you can simply box it back up and notify us to collect it. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3.

Compared with many other parts of the world, we’re fortunate to live in a country that prioritises the inclusion of disabled persons. From our transportation to one-off attractions to whole destinations – wheelchair travel is not only possible but can be a highly empowering and enjoyable experience.

That being said, you should still do your due diligence and ensure that you have the right mobility equipment. That will allow you to enjoy your travels worry-free as well as experience every bit of what your destination(s) have to offer!

For more information about  Strive Mobility  and to rent equipment, visit our  online mobility store .

Please note, this information was gathered through online research, including blogger reviews and the attraction’s websites, but we haven’t physically visited each venue

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/972438/transport-disability-and-accessibility-statistics-england-2019-to-2020.pdf

https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/passenger-assist.aspx

Written on behalf of Strive Mobility

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What's New? Accessible Adventure: Travel for People with Disabilities

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Accessible Adventure: Travel for People with Disabilities

Packing and preparing for a trip is often stressful. For people living with disabilities, the additional pre-planning requirements to ensure accessible accommodations and transportation can feel daunting. But with tourism on the rise, it doesn’t have to. 

So how can you have an accessible adventure? Read on for tips and tricks to practice when readying to travel experience for people with disabilities. 

Planning an Accessible Trip: How Do People with Disabilities Travel?

Just as any initial planning stage begins with research, so does planning for an accessible trip — only more of it. 

Whether you are choosing a bucket list destination or a location known for its accessible tourism, you will need to do your own research to ensure there are accessible routes and accommodations throughout your stay. 

Hotels and destinations may boast about their accessible accommodations. Read reviews online and speak to people within the disability community to get a better understanding of your destination options and insider travel tips upon arrival. You can also ask the accommodation if they know any activities for people with disabilities to book on your trip. 

Once you have decided where you will travel, the pre-trip planning begins. Ensure your travel documents are up-to-date and include necessary information about you or your loved one’s health conditions. 

Speak with your doctor if you need specific medical documentation for your travels. You may also consider additional medical and travel insurance for people with disabilities. It’s always better to plan and not need these things to find yourself in an unfortunate situation. 

Transportation Tips

While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that travellers must be provided with adequate, accessible information and assistance, travelling with disabilities can still be challenging. 

When booking your flight, call the airline and alert them that you will require accessible travel options, such as booking an on-flight wheelchair if the one you use is too large to fit down the airplane aisle. (Remember to double-check dimensions to avoid disappointment later.)

Reserve time for early boarding, which is protected under the ADA. Here’s an air travel tip: if possible, book an aisle seat so that you are easier able to move in and out pre- and post-flight. 

Research your destination’s airport to find out if there is available ADA complementary paratransit service upon arrival.  

If you are travelling by bus or train, the same advanced planning is necessary. Call the transportation company in advance to find out about wheelchair-accessible options. 

Some people will require more seating space for a disability. You must request this priority seating in advance — it should be with no extra wheelchair travel charge. 

Accommodation & Accessibility

Travel for people with disabilities does require more pre-planning. And though preparing for accessible journeys is more time-consuming, the benefits outweigh the costs. 

If you are researching your trip online, you may notice the hotel website says “ADA” or “ADA room.” This is a good sign, as it ensures there are proper accessible accommodations for people living with disabilities. Remember though, not all places define accessible the same way.

Elements of an accessible hotel room should include: 

• Automatic doors
• Wider doorways
• Lower light switches 
• Lower work surfaces and countertops
• Roll-in shower with grab bars
• Shower chair 
• Toilet seat with comfortable height level 

Calling the hotel or rental venue in advance of your stay to discuss their accessible features for people living with disabilities can also provide you with additional information. This will also give you a chance to ask questions you may have, such as what their backup plan is in case there are service interruptions to the elevator during your stay. 

First-hand knowledge is also a valuable resource. Read reviews on travel websites and other community posts from other travellers with disabilities. You should also consider the hotel’s location in terms of where you will be spending your time and how easy it is to navigate. 

Being in close proximity to restaurants, tourist destinations and other important sites can make your adventure that much more accessible. 

Packing Essentials Checklist 

You never want to be away from home and realize you have forgotten a critical item, such as medication or a travel walker. 

Make a list of all your priority items you use on a daily basis. This should include your medications, personal care and health-related items. For daily medications, consider packing an extra few days’ worth in case of a change in plans or you accidentally drop or misplace a pill. 

Consider the climate you are travelling to and pack accordingly. Choosing easy-to-wear items, such as adaptive clothing for people with disabilities can reduce the amount of stress and time used in getting ready. Whether you are travelling independently or with a caregiver, bringing comfortable clothing can make a big difference in your mood and ease of travel. 

You want to spend your vacation enjoying the sights, not battling your clothes. For people living with lowered hand dexterity, arthritis clothing is made with adaptive clothing closures to reduce strain when getting dressed. 

Clothing for wheelchair users offers people adaptive clothing features that make toileting and other daily tasks much easier.

You should also pack any adaptive devices or adaptive equipment you use regularly. This may include a lighter walker that is easier to travel with or a special pair of adaptive walking shoes that you find most comfortable. 

Extra Tips for a Smooth Journey

A little extra planning really goes a long way to having a successful accessible adventure, especially if you’ve taken the time to learn how to help someone with a disability . 

Once your trip is booked, begin to prepare for the day-to-day travel life, such as managing health issues and ease of communication. 

Managing Health Issues While Traveling

You don’t want to be away from home and realize you need a different medication or notice a change in symptoms. Planning a pre-travel visit to your health provider for an updated health assessment before you depart is a great way to assess your current health and update medications as needed. 

Your doctor may also provide you with additional tips for managing your health while travelling. 

For chronic conditions such as edema or arthritis, packing proper adaptive footwear can provide your body with the relief needed to enjoy your trip. 

Before you leave on holiday, make note of local hospitals and medical services near your travel destination in case of emergency. 

Communication & Staying Connected 

Travelling abroad is exhilarating, but language barriers can be frustrating. This becomes even more true if you are a traveller with a language disability, such as vocal decline. 

There are numerous translation apps such as Google Translate or Duolingo. You can also install a translation dictionary app on your phone or to your adaptive communication device to assist when travelling. 

Including a list of emergency contacts and emergency numbers on your phone is also advised.

Accessible & Safe Travels with Silverts

Accessible tourism is on the rise. With advanced planning and patience, you can plan a wonderful and successful trip when travelling with disabilities. 

Enhance your accessible travel experience with adaptive clothing from Silverts, making everything from accessible transportation to accessible tours all that more enjoyable. 

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30 Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access

Travel is possible for everyone; however, it presents more challenges for wheelchair users and people with mobility problems. It often leaves people asking what the best vacations for wheelchair access are. This post will cover these destinations and so much more, so keep reading.

This post contains affiliate links. When you click on them and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Planning Your Next Wheelchair Accessible Trip? Make Sure to Use The Travel Resources Below!

Travel Insurance: Insure My Trip Accommodations: Expedia Flights: Skyscanner Tours & Activities: Viator

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in North America

Hawaii is one of the best vacations for wheelchair access as it offers something for everyone. From gorgeous beaches to lush mountains, volcanoes, culture, and scenery Hawaii has it all.

In addition, since it’s part of the United States , they have to follow ADA laws. All four islands have accessible transportation options, tours, accessible hotel rooms, and a plethora of fun things to do.

For example, you can do some adaptive surfing or swim with the manta rays on Oahu , go whale watching and drive the road to Hana in Maui , see erupting volcanoes on the Big Island , and go on an accessible helicopter ride over Waimea Canyon or head to an accessible beach in Kauai . There are so many fantastic accessible things to do, I couldn’t possibly list them all here. In fact, the most difficult thing about planning a trip to Hawaii will be choosing which island(s) to visit!

➡️ Each island also has beach wheelchairs available so you can enjoy a day of relaxation. ➡️ Help prepare for your trip by following this Hawaii Packing List !

To get in touch with the wild wilderness, head to Alaska. During your trip, explore rainforests, watch glaciers calving, be amazed at impressive mountains and so much more. Much of Alaska is accessible to both wheelchair users and people with limited mobility (thanks to ADA laws).

You can choose to do a road trip , take a cruise, or explore the state by a domed train. Whichever way you choose to see this great state, you are sure to have awe-inspiring moments.

Alaska is home to 8 national parks, some of them being very remote and are only reached by plane or hiking, making them tough to visit for people with mobility problems. However, parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Glacier Bay are easily accessible and likely to leave you awestruck.

Animal lovers will also enjoy searching for Alaska’s wildlife. Look for Humpback Whales, Orca, puffins, seals, moose, caribou, sheep, and more during your trip. Seeing these animals in the wild is sure to be memorable and on the top of everyone’s Alaska bucket list .

➡️ Thinking about a cruise to Alaska? Check out my Alaska Cruise Tips and read all about my Princess Alaska Cruise Tour Review to help you plan your trip!

3. U.S. National Parks

The U.S. National Parks are one of the best vacations for wheelchair access because they strive to make nature accessible for everyone. While not all parks are accessible, the majority of them have at least partial accessibility.

When you visit the U.S. National Parks, you get to surround yourself with giant trees, majestic mountains, and babbling brooks, and explore cool caves. You can even get a chance to camp under the stars . What’s more is if you are a US resident and have a permanent disability, you get free entry into these gorgeous parks with the Access Pass .

There are currently 63 national parks across the 50 states and US territories. Many people (like me) have a goal to visit as many as possible. Additionally, there are numerous other national sites (i.e. historic sites and lakeshores) that can also be visited for free with your access pass.

Some of my favorite parks and sites I’ve visited so far include:

• Acadia National Park (Maine)
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (where I got to try a Tracks Chair ) (Michigan)
• Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
• Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Idaho, Montana)
• Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)
• Gettysburg National Historic Battlefield (Pennsylvania)

Make sure to check out my national parks page to get all the information you need to help you plan your national parks trip !

4. Playa de Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen, Mexico is a popular tourist destination that has made efforts to become more accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair users. In recent years, some of the hotels and resorts in Playa del Carmen have added accessible rooms and amenities, including roll-in showers and grab bars.

Additionally, many tour operators in Playa del Carmen offer tours that are accessible to wheelchair users, including snorkeling and diving tours. There are also a number of cultural attractions that are accessible to wheelchair users, including the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Mayan ruins at Tulum (although the ruins will present some challenges due to steep ramps and gravel or rocky pathways).

Visitors can even enjoy accessible beaches, such as the one in front of Park Fundadores, that provide beach wheelchairs and assistance to visitors with disabilities. The other accessible beach is on the far northern end of town.

5. Banff National Park, Canada

Iconic snow-capped mountains and surreal blue alpine lakes await you at Banff National Park. Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility can experience much of what the area has to offer.

Enjoy a ride up a gondola to appreciate the enormity of the mountains, go out onto a glacier, enjoy a scenic drive, and go on an accessible hike. If you want a more adventurous hiking experience, consider using a joelette wheelchair with Rocky Mountain Adaptive .

When looking for accessible accommodations, be sure to contact the property in advance to discuss your specific needs, as some label themselves as accessible when in reality they are better suited for people with limited mobility.

6. Cruising

Cruising North America (or the world) is a fantastic and accessible way to travel. It’s perfect for people who want to get a taste of a destination or to see multiple places in one trip. Most major cruise lines have accessible cabins and facilities onboard the ship and may even offer accessible excursions.

While there are some specific tips on booking a wheelchair-accessible cruise , it is a relatively easy process, and you are guaranteed an accessible cabin if that’s the type you choose to book. In addition, cruising is a pretty affordable way to travel since it includes room, meals, transportation, and entertainment. You can save even more money by following the suggestions in my cruising on a budget post.

If you’re looking for a North American cruise, popular itineraries sail to Hawaii, Mexico, the California Coast, Alaska, New England, and the Caribbean. Of course, there are European cruises and other destinations to choose from as well.

Search for Cruise Deals Now by Clicking Here!

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Europe

London is very wheelchair accessible offering accessible public transportation, taxis, hotels, and plenty of attractions. Although they may not appear accessible at first, many restaurants have portable ramps to allow wheelchair users to enter.

During your stay, choose to visit some of the many museums, take a ride on the London Eye, attend a play or performance, tour royal castles, and palaces, and tour West Minster Abbey. For the ultimate tourist experience, make sure to watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

London also offers a variety of accessible day trips from the city. Marvel at Stonehenge’s engineering, wander around Windsor Castle or explore the city of Bath. Harry Potter fans will also love doing a studio tour which is just outside the city.

So, whether you have two days in London or a week, you will find plenty of things to do and find it easy to get around the city.

8. Barcelona

Barcelona is considered to be one of the most accessible cities in Europe. It offers accessible public transportation, hotel accommodations, and attractions. It also offers some of the best art museums in Europe .

Art lovers are drawn to Barcelona to explore the architectural works of Anthony Gaudi who designed the famous Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and other buildings within the city. Indoor art museums include the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia, and the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art to name a few.

Other popular accessible attractions in Barcelona are the Magin Fountain which offers light shows at night, the Montjuïc Cable Car which gives visitors spectacular views of the city and ascends to the partially accessible Montjuic Castle, going to a wheelchair-accessible beach, and attending a Flamenco show.

Additionally, there are accessible day trip options from Barcelona if you want to escape the city for a little while. For example, you could head to Montserrat Monastery.

This monastery is famous for its stunning location and its Benedictine monk community, as well as for its historical and religious significance. It is also home to the Black Madonna, a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary that is considered to be a significant religious artifact. Visitors can explore the monastery’s beautiful architecture, art, and artifacts, as well as enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

With so many amazing things to do as well as accessible ways to get around and places to stay, it’s easy to see why Barcelona is one of the best vacations for wheelchair access.

Check out this post on how to spend a day in Barcelona .

9. Amsterdam

Famous for its houses, canals, and tulips in the spring, Amsterdam is a wonderful wheelchair-accessible city to visit. They have combined historic places and innovative technology to try to make the city accessible for everyone.

Wheelchair users can enjoy an accessible canal cruise, several famous art museums, and even the Anne Frank House (thanks to a virtual reality tour). Additionally, several options for accessible day trips are available.

The biggest challenge you will face is navigating the sidewalks. This is not because they lack accessibility but rather because they are often blocked by bikes, cars, and strollers. Transportation around the city is also mostly accessible with buses having accessible entrances and spaces for wheelchairs.

Want to know more about accessible Amsterdam? Check out my posts on wheelchair-accessible hotels in Amsterdam , how to spend 4 days in Amsterdam , and the most popular Amsterdam tourist attractions !

Despite its ancient history, accessibility in Rome isn’t horrible. While there will certainly be cobblestones to navigate, they can vary in size, and they weren’t impossible to roll over. Additionally, you can find accessible hotel rooms and places to eat.

Furthermore, many of the most popular sites are wheelchair accessible. Places like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and more welcome wheelchair users. They may even offer discounts or free admission.

There are also accessible tour companies that offer tours within the city as well as day trips. This makes Rome a great base for exploring the region. You could even choose to combine your trip to Rome with the Amalfi Coast .

11. Florence

Surround yourself with gorgeous artwork and delicious food when you take a trip to Florence, Italy. Situated in the stunning Tuscan countryside, surrounded by beautiful hills, vineyards, and olive groves, Florence is a beautiful city to visit and makes a great base to journey to surrounding Tuscan towns as well.

It is known for its delicious cuisine and world-renowned wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Visitors can also indulge in traditional Tuscan dishes such as steak florentine, ribollita, and pappa al pomodoro, and enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many wine bars and enotecas in the city.

Additionally, Florence has a rich history and culture, with many historic landmarks and cultural events to explore. Visitors can take a stroll through the Piazza della Signoria, where they can see a copy of the famous David statue by Michelangelo and the beautiful Palazzo Vecchio or attend the world-famous Florence Biennale art exhibition.

Art lovers will remember that the city is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is home to some of the world’s most significant art and architecture. While here, you can explore the Uffizi Gallery, which houses one of the most extensive collections of Renaissance art in the world, and the iconic Duomo, with its stunning dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.

Accessibility in Florence is quite good as well. There are some buses and taxis that are wheelchair accessible to help you navigate the city. In addition, many restaurants offer wheelchair access, and some hotels have wheelchair-accessible rooms. There are also accessible tour companies to help you plan your stay and that offer adapted tours within the city and to nearby areas.

Step back into time and tour ancient civilizations as you travel through Athens, Greece. While accessibility in Greece will pose some challenges (mainly due to hills and uneven terrain) it is definitely worth a visit.

Amazingly, places like the Acropolis are wheelchair-accessible (thanks to an elevator). Additionally, you can go to some of the museums to see the artifacts, relax in some of the squares, and take a ferry to nearby islands.

If you need a break from the city, traveling to islands such as Corfu, Rhodes, and Mykonos can offer a relaxing retreat.

Finally, consider some tips for traveling to Greece with mobility issues such as planning ahead and considering using an accessible travel company to make your trip accessible and stress-free. While these companies may not always be the cheapest way to travel, there are certain destinations where the cost may be worth it.

A religiously significant country that draws people from multiple faiths has done its best to accommodate people with mobility problems and wheelchair users. While small alleys and cobblestones will pose some challenges, many of the significant religious sites offer some accessibility.

The two most popular cities (Tel Aviv and Jerusalem) offer accessible hotels and tours. Visitors can relax on accessible beaches, say a prayer at the Wailing Wall, ascend to the top of Mount Olive, and roll part of the path that Jesus walked on his way to be crucified.

Other areas of interest may include the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and more. Israel for All is a good resource that offers accessible tours and can advise you on the best places to stay and help create your ideal itinerary.

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

If you love nature and relaxation then Iceland is the perfect wheelchair-accessible vacation destination. You can find accessible hotel rooms in the city of Reykjavik, which makes a good base for exploring the area.

During your visit, you’ll find plenty of wheelchair-accessible things to do in Iceland . Make sure to take a golden circle tour where you will see geysers, waterfalls, and where the tectonic plates separate Europe from North America. Additionally, if you visit during the colder months of November – March, you also have an excellent chance of seeing the northern lights.

When you need a break and a chance to relax, make sure to stop at the Blue Lagoon which is fully wheelchair accessible with accessible changing rooms and a ramped entrance into the lagoon. Pool noodles are also available to help with steadiness.

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in South America

15. costa rica.

Explore lush jungles while you look for adorable wildlife, learn about a new culture, and take in the beautiful scenery as you tour Costa Rica. Accessible travel companies such as Wheel the World and il Viaggio Travel will make planning a trip here seamless and ensure accessibility.

There are a number of incredible (and accessible) experiences you can have here including adaptive surfing, hiking (using a special wheelchair), adaptive zip-lining, and relaxing in a hot spring. Whether you like beaches, the mountains, the jungle, or something else, Costa Rica has it all.

On an adapted, accessible tour, you won’t have to worry about getting from place to place or finding an accessible hotel room. In addition, you will have a knowledgeable guide to teach you all about the area.

Want to go on a small group tour to Costa Rica? Email me at [email protected] and I can connect you with a fabulous tour!

16. Cusco, Peru

Believe it or not, wheelchair users can go to Machu Pichu! While Cusco and the surrounding areas will undoubtedly present some challenges, there are travel companies that design tours to the area for wheelchair users. They even provide specialized adapted equipment and helpers to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Just imagine learning about Inca culture and seeing the impressive ruins of their once-thriving civilizations. Visit local museums that feature artifacts and the beautiful Incan gold that unfortunately made these natives a target of the greedy European invaders.

Larger hotel chains and brands are in the area and are the best bet for finding a wheelchair-accessible room to stay in during your trip.

17. Galapagos Islands

Get up close to the famous Galapagos Turtles! This destination is perfect for people with an adventurous spirit as you can go rafting, kayaking and even snorkeling during your trip.

While managing a trip to the Galapagos Islands on your own will prove challenging, companies such as Latin America for All will ensure you have the most accessible trip possible. They know the most accessible accommodations, offer accessible transportation, and will assist in transfers to make tours as smooth as possible.

So, if you’ve always wanted to connect with nature while living a little on the “wild side”, then the Galapagos Islands will surely fit the bill.

18. Patagonia Chile

Okay, so Patagonia is a region and not isolated to a specific city or small area. Instead, Patagonia makes up most of Chile as well as parts of Argentina as well.

In the Chilean region, it is known for the stunning Andes Mountain range, gorgeous fjords, glaciers, and wildlife. Santiago is a major gateway for exploring the area but to truly experience Patagonia you will need to move to several towns.

One of the easiest ways for wheelchair users to experience the fjords is to take an accessible cruise. Popular and major cruise lines will have varying itineraries but most sail through Glacier Alley on the way to the southernmost city of Ushuaia.

Holland America adds scenic sailing through some of the other fjords as well. However, most ports or stops along the way are tender ports which makes them inaccessible to full-time wheelchair users.

Popular towns to visit within the Chilean Patagonia include Santiago, Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabucco, and Ushuaia (which is technically in Argentina).

19. Iguazu Falls

Experience the over 270 waterfalls that make up Iguazu Falls . This mighty collection of incredible waterfalls borders the countries of Argentina and Brazil, and visitors can take in the views in both countries. Most of the pathways and overlooks on both sides are wheelchair accessible and the Argentinian side has special wheelchairs for those with limited mobility.

For a really special experience, choose to stay inside the national park at the Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel . This beautiful property has views of the falls and everything you need onsite. It is also close to the trails allowing you to get an early start and beat the crowds.

Even if you don’t have time to dedicate a few days to Iguazu Falls (which is highly recommended) then consider taking a day trip to Iguazu Falls from Buenos Aires . It will be a long day, but one you’ll never forget.

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Australia

Sydney is home to some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. These sites are not just visually stunning but also offer unique experiences like crossing the bridge or watching a performance at the Opera House.

The Opera House has wheelchair access and offers audio descriptions and tactile tours for visitors with visual impairments. In addition, the Harbor Bridge has elevators so that wheelchair users can enjoy a scenic roll across this landmark. Unfortunately, the bridge climb is not accessible.

Other wheelchair-accessible things to do in Sydney include the Taronga Zoo, Sydney Tower Eye, Darling Harbour, and Bondi Beach. In fact, Bondi Beach has a beach wheelchair available for hire and offers accessible changing rooms and showers. A day trip to the Blue Mountains is also another fantastic option.

Have you ever wanted to see the Great Barrier Reef? Cairns makes for the perfect accessible base for not only going to this famous reef but other wonderful sites like the nearby rainforest as well.

During your stay, make sure to take a wheelchair-accessible cruise to a permanent platform situated in the Great Barrier Reef. While some of your activities on the platform will be limited and depend on your abilities, they have a motorized chair that will allow you to get in the water and snorkel over the reef.

Alternatively, you could choose to take a short cruise to Green Island where there are accessible pathways and where you can see the world’s largest crocodile. If you have some limited mobility, you can then take a glass-bottom boat tour or a quick helicopter ride.

Additionally, your Cairns itinerary should include a train ride aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the village of Kuranda. Once there, there are several activity options such as Rainforestation where you can learn about Aboriginal culture, cuddle with a koala, feed kangaroos, and more. When you’re ready to return to Cairns, take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to get a different perspective.

22. Melbourne

While the city of Melbourne has plenty of wheelchair-accessible things to do, it is also a gateway for the Great Ocean Road. This popular scenic drive takes guests to the 12 Apostles which are a series of limestone formations that emerge from the ocean.

Other popular stops and overlooks along the drive include Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, Port Campbell, and Apollo Bay. Accessibility at these points varies and may be limited, however, they each offer fantastic views.

On the other hand, if you prefer to stay within Melbourne, make sure to check out the Melbourne Museum, Royal Botanic Gardens, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck 88, National Gallery of Victoria, and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel which are all accessible. Of course, Melbourne has more to offer but this gives you a general idea of what you can do.

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Asia

23. singapore.

Singapore is a city that combines nature with modern elements. It is truly a unique place that offers a lot to visitors of all abilities. Furthermore, being a more urban city, it has made great efforts to be accessible.

The majority of buses and trains are wheelchair accessible with designated spots and ramps or lifts to board. Additionally, you can book an accessible taxi service. There are also several hotels that offer fully adapted rooms for you to choose from.

During your time in Singapore, make sure to check out Gardens by the Bay which highlights flora and fauna from around the world, the Singapore Zoo which has over 300 species of animals, and the National Museum of Singapore to learn more about the history and culture of the city.

24. Bangkok, Thailand

While accessibility in Thailand does exist, it can be very hit or miss. As a result, you are better off sticking to major cities such as Bangkok during your visit. This city will still pose several challenges but I put it on the list of best vacations for wheelchair access as it is a beautiful country and can be possible with a lot of planning.

Major obstacles you will encounter include high curbs, blocked sidewalks, and limited accessible transportation. More modern mid-range hotels will offer accessible rooms, but it’s best to contact them in advance to ensure they will meet your needs.

For the most stress-free vacation consider hiring an accessible travel company that specializes in Asia travel. Planet Abled is a fantastic option. They will evaluate your needs and take care of all the logistics allowing you to experience the city with ease.

25. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is known for being one of the most advanced and modern cities in the world, and this is reflected in the city’s infrastructure and facilities for people with disabilities. Many public transportation options, including trains and buses, have wheelchair accessibility features like ramps and lifts. Accessible taxis are also available.

Additionally, many newer buildings are designed with accessibility in mind, and many older buildings have been retrofitted to include wheelchair ramps and accessible entrances.

Tokyo also has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions and activities that are accessible. For example, the Tokyo Skytree Observation Tower has elevators allowing for easy access, and many museums and cultural sites also have wheelchair accessibility. Other must-see things in Tokyo include the Jindaiji Temple, Ueno Park, Tsukiji Honganji, the Imperial Palace, and Odaiba Seaside Park.

Moreover, Japan has a culture that values respect and hospitality towards guests. This means that you may find that people in Tokyo are generally friendly and accommodating towards visitors with disabilities and that staff at hotels, restaurants and other establishments are often willing to go out of their way to ensure that your needs are met.

Get a taste of Tokyo before or after your trip with a Tokyo Treat Box . You can order yours by clicking here .

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Africa

26. south african safari.

Few things are more exciting than going on a fully accessible South African safari and searching for wildlife. Can you imagine getting a chance to see the big 5 (lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and buffalo)? It’s truly an incredible experience.

Thanks to companies like Epic Enabled and more, wheelchair users can have the full safari experience. Accessible vehicles are used for game drives and accessible lodging is available in places like Kruger National Park .

If you want to go on a safari but don’t want the hassle of planning, come join me on a wheelchair-accessible South African safari small group tour !

27. Morocco

You may not think of Morocco and accessibility going together; however, it can be a very accessible country when you use the right travel company. While adapted and accessible infrastructure may be limited, companies such as Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants aim to ensure everyone can experience the beauty of Morocco.

Guests can choose from four different tours which vary in length and places they visit. So whether you want to ride a camel through the Sahara Desert, roll through the famous spice markets, or admire the architecture, there is something for everyone. You will also have the peace of mind that the accessibility has been reviewed and guaranteed for your trip.

History lovers will have a trip of a lifetime when visiting ancient Egypt. From standing in awe at the base of the Great Pyramids, to marveling at artifacts and mummies in the museums, Egypt is a dream destination for anyone who is mesmerized by ancient cultures.

While many of the famous attractions in Egypt aren’t designed for people with mobility problems to enter (i.e. the pyramids) they are still amazing sites to see from the outside. Additionally, there are accessible tour companies that will show you the best accessible routes and take care of all the planning of your trip.

These accessible itineraries allow you to take a cruise down the Nile River, see the Sphinx, Pyramids, and places like the Valley of the Kings. They will ensure you get accessible hotel rooms and provide adapted transportation.

Hiking through the dense jungle and up a mountain to reach a family of gorillas doesn’t exactly sound accessible. However, wheelchair users and people with limited mobility can do just that on a trip to Uganda.

Bwindi National Park (which organizes the gorilla treks) hires reformed former poachers (so they can make a legitimate living) to assist people in the trek. They use either a stretcher or a throne chair to carry people through the forest until they reach the gorillas.

You will then have an opportunity to watch these critically endangered species in their natural habitat and take pictures. Afterward, you will be carried back to where you started.

Tour companies such as Native Escapes can help you make all the arrangements and book accessible hotel rooms for your stay. Please be aware that you will pay an additional cost for the use of the throne chair and assistance (on top of the gorilla trekking permit) but it will allow you to see these amazing gorillas.

Can Wheelchair Users Go to Antarctica? (30)

Yes! Wheelchair users can go to Antarctica . There are affordable Antarctica cruises that won’t break the bank and allow people with mobility problems to travel to the White Continent.

I was lucky enough to visit in January 2023 and had a fabulous time. You can read more about my journey in my Antarctica trip review . There are so many wonderful reasons to visit Antarctica , I know you’ll have an unforgettable trip.

Wheelchair Accessible Travel Tips

While there are so many accessible travel tips I could give (sign up for my newsletter to get weekly tips delivered straight to your inbox), here are my top 5.

*Plan Travel Early

Accessible rooms, cabins, tours, and more are limited, and can book quickly. The best way to combat this is by planning your trip as soon as possible. I always start planning my travels at least a year in advance.

The other advantage to planning early is that it will give you plenty of time to research accessibility and decide what you would like to see and do during your trip.

*Confirm Accessible Hotel Rooms

Finding and getting an accessible hotel room is one of the biggest challenges in accessible travel. If there are no pictures online, contact the hotel prior to booking to confirm the room will meet your needs.

Then after you book, call, and confirm that they are aware you booked an accessible room (if possible, ask for a specific room number you’re assigned to). Finally, call again about 1-2 weeks prior to your trip to ensure that they still have you booked in a mobility-accessible room.

*Figure Out Transportation Options

Assuming you’re not doing a road trip , you will need to figure out what accessible transportation options are available. This will include how to get from the airport to the hotel as well as how to get to the attractions you have on your itinerary.

Sometimes, accessible transportation (if not public) needs to be booked in advance. Additionally, researching available options will give you an idea of how much of your budget you will need to allot to this category.

*Consider Accessible Tours

Some destinations will be more challenging than others in arranging everything you will need. In those cases, you may want to consider booking an accessible tour (either private or small group) to make the trip hassle-free.

Examples of destinations where accessible tours may be beneficial include Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Patagonia, Cusco, Galapagos Islands, Thailand, Greece, and Costa Rica.

*Research Cruise Ports

While cruises themselves are pretty accessible, the ports they visit can be hit or miss. Before you depart on your cruise, look to see whether any ports are tender (which are generally not accessible), how far the town is from where the ship docks, whether there is accessible transportation (like a shuttle to town or accessible taxis), and if there are any accessible things to do in the area.

Check out my posts on cruising for more information and tips.

Accessible Vacations FAQ’s

Can i travel if i have mobility issues.

One of the goals of this blog is to show you that you can travel with mobility issues. There are so many possible destinations and experiences you can have around the world that are accessible, so it would be a shame not to allow yourself to experience them.

That being said, there is definitely more work to be done to make the world a better and more accessible place for everyone. Each destination will present unique challenges for accessible travel that need to be overcome.

So, it’s important to understand your abilities and weaknesses so that you can choose a destination or form of travel that is best for you.

What Countries are Best for Wheelchair Users?

Many countries have made progress in recent years in terms of accessibility for wheelchair users. However, some countries are generally considered to be more accessible than others. Here are my top picks.

• United States Many cities and attractions in the United States are wheelchair accessible, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that public places are accessible including national parks.
• United Kingdom The UK has made significant progress in terms of accessibility, and the Equality Act 2010 ensures that public places are accessible to wheelchair users.
• Germany Germany has a strong commitment to accessibility, and many cities have made significant efforts to improve accessibility in recent years.
• Australia Many of Australia’s most popular cities have good wheelchair access. Additionally, they are working on expanding the use of changing rooms which are fully accessible and have large beds or tables to allow for adult changing use.
• Japan Japan has made significant efforts to improve accessibility, especially in the lead-up to the 2020 Paralympic Games. Cities such as Tokyo are at the forefront of this movement.

Is Europe Wheelchair Friendly?

Europe has made significant progress in recent years in terms of accessibility for people with disabilities, including wheelchair users. However, accessibility can vary widely depending on the country, city, and even specific location within a city.

However, some European countries and cities have put more effort into creating accessible environments than others. For example, cities like London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Barcelona are considered to be quite accessible, while other cities may have more challenges.

Overall, it’s important to research and plan when traveling to Europe as a wheelchair user . Many cities and tourist attractions may have information available online or by phone about their accessibility features. Accessible travel blogs (like this one) are another good resource. In addition, it’s always a good idea to contact hotels or other accommodations in advance to ensure that they can accommodate your needs.

Can You Tour Italy in a Wheelchair?

I am happy to say that Italy is wheelchair accessible! While every destination will pose some challenges to wheelchair users, Italy is definitely worth visiting.

They somehow manage to balance historical sites with accessibility features. Did you know, for example, that there is an elevator in the Colosseum??

So, whether you want to see the famous artwork in Florence , roll along the canals in Venice , visit historic sites in Rome , or enjoy the Amalfi Coast (and more), Italy has an accessible vacation option for everyone.

Where Can I Travel on a Budget?

Since accessible travel can cost double the price (often more) than traditional travel, one of the primary concerns for people living with a disability is how much a trip will cost. This is often referred to as the “disability tax”.

However, the good news is, there are ways to save money on travel. Additionally, there are many popular destinations that can be visited on a budget. In fact, I dedicated a whole post to the subject. Make sure to read my post on the best holidays for people with limited mobility on a budget for more information.

When is the Best Time to Travel?

Choosing the best time to travel will depend on several factors. First, the destination that you choose. For example, you don’t want to travel to Asia during the monsoon season.

Second, your budget will also be a factor. Traveling in the shoulder season (or non-peak tourism season) can often save you money on hotel and airfare. Additionally, lines at attractions will be shorter as well.

Lastly, it will depend on when you have time available to travel. Many people are only able to travel when the kids aren’t in school or when they can take vacation time from work.

Ultimately, whenever you have time and financial means to travel is the best time.

How Do Wheelchair Users Get on an Airplane?

Since unfortunately, wheelchair users are unable to stay in their wheelchairs during a flight, they must transfer to a regular airplane seat. To accomplish this, the airlines use an aisle wheelchair to assist passengers down the narrow aisles of the plane.

Staff can assist with transfers. However, if you have sensitive areas or want a smoother process, it’s a good idea to bring a sling with you that staff can use to assist you.

You will go through the same process when disembarking the plane and your regular wheelchair should be waiting for you at the door of the aircraft.

Can You Travel Independently as a Wheelchair User?

Most airlines have a policy that if you cannot safely evacuate yourself in the event of an emergency you will need to travel with a companion. Whether the airlines enforce this policy is another question. Ultimately, there have been instances where wheelchair users traveling independently have been denied boarding.

Additionally, some airlines have policies where they will not transport a power wheelchair over a certain weight.

It is always recommended that you check with the accessibility department at each airline to find out what their rules and regulations are and for guidance, so you don’t show up at the airport only to be disappointed.

Most cruise lines (but not all) allow people in wheelchairs to sail without a companion to assist them. However, you will need to be able to handle all your activities of daily living (eating, showering, dressing, going to the bathroom, etc.) on your own.

Are There Wheelchair Accessible Travel Companies?

There are several companies that exist that specialize in wheelchair-accessible travel and provide tours. You can find the providers that I have personally used and recommend on my wheelchair-accessible providers’ page .

Additionally, there are travel agents that specialize in accessible travel that can assist you in planning a perfect trip.

How Do I Decide Where to Travel?

One of the great challenges for any traveler is deciding where to go. While some people throw darts at a map, this strategy doesn’t work well for people with mobility problems.

Instead, I recommend creating a bucket list of your dream destinations. Then, prioritize the ones that are most important to you. Next, do some research to get an estimated budget for those destinations and learn a little more about how accessible they may be (blogs like this one can often help with your research).

Pro Tip: Use my Accessible Vacation Destination Inspiration Page to help see what destinations are possible (listed by interests).

Finally, when it comes time to pick your next trip, set a budget and look at which items on your bucket list fit not only your interests and priorities but what you can afford to spend as well.

What Are the Biggest Challenges in Wheelchair Accessible Travel?

Unfortunately, there are several challenges that come with wheelchair-accessible travel.

First, is finding an accessible hotel room (and actually getting the one you booked). When traveling outside of the United States, many hotels do not show pictures of their accessible rooms online. Additionally, (whether it’s in the US or abroad) you can think that you booked an accessible room only to show up and find out that they have none available. Or staff assigns you a hearing-accessible room vs a mobility-accessible room.

Second, there is the chance that your wheelchair or mobility device will get damaged by the airline when you fly to a destination. This is a daily occurrence that happens way too often. While there are steps you can take to protect your device, airlines need to do better as well.

Third, finding accessible transportation is not always easy. While some cities do an amazing job at providing this, many do not. This often results in travelers having to book private transportation and/or tours just to get to where they want to go (at a significant cost).

Lastly, there is the cost of accessible travel. I mentioned earlier that it can cost twice as much (often more) than traditional travel. This is due to the fact that there is often a lack of accessible public transportation, accessible group tours, and limited companies that offer accessible services.

Conclusions on Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access

My hope is that this post has not only shown you that it is possible to travel as a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility but given you an idea of the best vacations for wheelchair access. While traveling with a disability can be challenging, it is also extremely rewarding. So, go ahead and get planning to check more destinations off your bucket list!

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I'm Kristin and I was born with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy, which impacts my mobility and breathing. Despite this challenge, I have travelled across the United States and abroad and want to share my accessible travel information with others.

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I’m a wheelchair user: How easily can I travel around Moscow and St. Petersburg?

Ok, so my plane has landed. Should I start to worry?

Waiting area in Pulkovo airport, St. Petersburg

No way. Actually airports in Russia are probably the most disabled friendly areas – there are even special waiting rooms.

When you check in at the airport before boarding the plane you should tell the staff about your needs: They will organize everything at both ends, so when you land in Russia there will be someone waiting for you to drive you to the luggage collection etc.

Sheremetyevo airport, Moscow

All airports in Moscow and St. Petersburg have special services assisting passengers during all stages of travel. When you fly back you can request special services in advance by phone or by submitting an application on the airports’ websites: Sheremetyevo , Domodedovo , Vnukovo and Zhukovsky in Moscow and Pulkovo in St. Petersburg.

How can I get from the airport to the city?

Aeroexpress train

The easiest way to get to Moscow from Vnukovo, Domodedovo, and Sheremetyevo is the Aeroexpress, a train that sets off from the airport and arrives in the city center 30-45 minutes (depends on the airport) later. You can request a personal assistant on their website . “All the trains are equipped with special carriages, adapted for physically challenged passengers in wheelchairs,” the website says.

Zhukovsky Airport has no Aeroexpress as of yet, so the best way is to order a taxi (read below). The airport's employees will help you to get to where the taxi pulls up. At the moment there aren’t very many flights to Zhukovsky so it’s unlikely you’ll need this info.

All the buses traveling between St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo Airport and the city are equipped with special ramps to help people in wheelchairs get on and off.

Is it possible to use the Metro? I’ve heard it’s beautiful

Passenger Mobility Centre staff

Yes , the Metro is frequently called an underground museum and it’s also quite a friendly place for disabled people. New stations (that are mainly on the outskirts) are equipped with special lifts. But in the center where most stations were built from the 1930s to 1950s it can be a bit challenging getting around in a wheelchair or on crutches.  

But there is a service (that’s not very well known): It can help you get into the Metro, explain how to buy tickets, plan your journey, etc. If you speak Russian you can make an online application on the website or via its mobile app . If you only speak English, dial these numbers for free +7 495 622-73-41 or +7 800 250-73-41.

All the stations of St. Petersburg’s Metro are equipped with special lifts for the less able bodied . There is also a special escort service that can be booked for free via phone on +7 800 350-11-55. For more information and photos of the equipment, visit the St. Petersburg Metro ’s website.  

What about other public transport?

A driver checks the operation of a wheelchair ramp

Not all overground public transport is adapted for people with special needs. Yes, there are now lots of new city buses equipped with ramps, but still not everywhere. While the most popular forms of transport in the center are trolleybuses and trams, some of them have no ramps. In this case the driver should assist people with special needs. But we can’t guarantee this.

Can I get a taxi?

Most taxi services arrange not only transfers but also guided tours

Most services offer door-to-door escort, climbing and descending stairs, including in houses without elevators, though some taxi companies can ask for extra payment in some cases. It’s always better to order these taxis in advance (ideally several hours before your journey).

In Moscow there’s a city's social taxi (link in Russian) service – you can email [email protected] or call +7 495 951-77-68. It's even available for a group of people with limited mobility.

There’s also the Invataxis service that even provides a wheelchair free of charge. You can order online or call +7 495 580-60-64 or +7 495 504-39-90 (available for English speakers). Invataxi also arranges guided tours in English for disabled people (both for groups and individuals). The price is flexible depending on the circumstances, transfers from the airport costs 4,000 rubles ($70).

In St. Petersburg there are also several taxi services for people on wheels and groups with disabilities.  By the way Invataxis is available in St. Petersburg too.

Taxovichkof taxi service has a website in English, so you can easily book online or call +7 812 330-00-02, there is a range of services drivers offer. The price starts from 1,200 rubles ($21).

There is another taxi operator, Glavtaxi (website in Russian), you can book online, download the app, or call +7 812 338-82-12. You can also ask for an English-speaking driver. The price starts from 1,300 rubles ($23).

Is it possible to travel around the streets on my wheels?

Both Moscow and St. Petersburg have many pedestrian zones

There are many pedestrian zones in both cities. There is a website offering a map of Moscow’s barrier-free streets, restaurants, cultural sights, public toilets, and more. Unfortunately for now it’s only in Russian, but anyone in the street will usually be happy to point on the map where you need to go.

St. Petersburg offers special guided tours for low mobility tourists. While the whole of Nevsky Prospect is a wheelchair friendly zone.

Are there museums I can visit without problems?

A charitable guided tour hosted by the State Russian Museum on the Day of Disabled Persons

All the main museums are equipped with everything a wheelchair needs to get around easily.  

In Moscow you can visit the Tretyakov Gallery (both the old building on Lavrushinsky Lane and the new building housing 20th century art on Krymsky Val). By the way read our article about 10 must-see paintings exhibited in the gallery if you are short on time .

The Museum of Moscow, Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center, Planetarium, Bulgakov Museum, and others are well equipped for wheelchair users.

St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, State Russian Museum, and Faberge Museum are also decked out with ramps and elevators.

Ok, good news about the museums. But what else can I do?

Lots of theaters, cinemas, and restaurants are disabled-friendly

Thousands of disabled tourists visit Moscow and St. Petersburg each year, and the cities are becoming more and more wheelchair friendly. Most cultural institutions and tourist facilities are trying to install the necessary equipment for people with special needs.

So it’s now possible to visit lots of theaters, cinemas, and restaurants. If you want your tour to be comfortable and hassle free it’s always better to plan in detail and contact the organizations you want to visit in advance, making sure they have everything needed to give you a warm welcome.

Looking for something original and unique to bring home from your trip to Russia? Here are 10 souvenir ideas for those tired of matryoshka dolls.

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The Ultimate Guide to Accessible Anaheim

What's ahead, about accessible anaheim, why travel to anaheim.

• When to Visit Anaheim
• Season Recommendations
• Where to Stay in Anaheim

Transportation in Anaheim

Top 10 things to do and their accessibility.

• Accessible Restaurants Recommended by Our Community
• Accessible Tips from Our Community

Wheelchair Repair Shops

Whenever you are planning a holiday or day trip, finding information on accessibility is an essential task. But even in today's world of greater inclusivity, this information can be tricky to locate. Luckily help is at hand.

If you are planning a trip to Anaheim and need to know all the key information relating to accessibility, you have come to exactly the right place. This article contains details of the best Anaheim attractions for wheelchair users to visit, information of how to find your way around the city, and recommendations and tips on where to eat and sleep.

Compared to many US cities, Anaheim is extremely accessible for wheelchair users. There are very few steep hills, most of the walkways are wide and well-paved, plus the majority of popular venues in the city are wheelchair friendly.

As such, the feedback from our Wheel the World community is overwhelmingly positive from Anaheim. The urban areas are described as well-maintained and generally accessible for wheelchair users. Of course, there will inevitably be areas of the city with uneven surfaces and inclines, but these are relatively few and far between.

As for Disneyland, the main areas of the Resort rate very highly for accessibility. The walkways are well-paved, as are the attraction areas. There are also plenty of ramps and designated areas for people with mobility issues.

Both the city and Resort have a multitude of accessible restrooms, so wherever you are in Anaheim, you should not be too far from a suitable restroom.

Disneyland is, without a doubt, the most famous tourist attraction in Anaheim. But, downtown Anaheim is full of impressive-looking modern buildings and fabulous shops. For those looking for something a bit quirkier than your usual city center, the historic Center St Promenade is a district full of small restaurants, independent shops, and lively street vendors. Alternatively, the Anaheim Packing House district has a selection of modern, artisan outlets, including foods from all over the world.

The craft beer revolution has firmly landed in Anaheim. The city has an ever-growing collection of independent bars and breweries, many of which stock beers from award-winning local breweries. If you love craft beer, you'll certainly have a good time in this city.

The Anaheim House of Blues has hosted world-class rock and blues music acts for over 25 years. Famous names as diverse as BB King, Skid Row, and Imagine Dragons (just to name a few) have performed at the venue, which is still going strong. The venue has ADA seating and easy access for wheelchair users.

When to visit Anaheim

Anaheim has some wonderful attractions available throughout the year, but choosing the best time to visit the city comes down to your personal preferences. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best time to visit Anaheim: What will the weather be like? How busy will it be? Will everything be open? Here are the answers to those vital questions:

This time of year is generally more suitable for wheelchair users — the temperatures are lower (highs are between 68°F to 77°F) and there is often a nice breeze to reduce the humidity levels. Perfect if you are planning on spending most of your time outside.

Similar to the Fall, Spring is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Maximum temperatures sit between 68°F to 77°F and will get warmer as the season progresses. Be aware though that sporadic rain is common, especially in the early months of Spring.

As you would expect, July and August are typically the hottest months (with little rain) in Anaheim, with temperatures regularly reaching 86°F and occasionally reaching 95°F. With no cooling ocean breeze to help matters, this can make things uncomfortable if you spend too long outside.

The winter months are cooler (highs of 59°F to 68°F and lows of below 50°F) and there are occasional rainy days (something that is extremely rare for the rest of the year). Nevertheless, the majority of winter is mild, and suitable for outdoor activities.

Anaheim is usually a warm (or even hot) city. So whilst you may wish to pack a light coat or jumper, it is generally advisable to wear light clothing. This is especially true if you are visiting Disneyland or any other city attraction, as these visits are likely to involve plenty of wheeling.

Season recommendations

Still not sure when to visit? Well, let's cover some of the main interests and events that might help make your decision easier.

• If you want to avoid big crowds (often a key consideration for wheelchair users), then you should probably stay away from Anaheim during the summer recess and public holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• The majority of attractions in Anaheim, including Disneyland, are open throughout the year. However, during the peak summer months of June to August you will find that the prices of these attractions, plus those of hotels and even restaurants, can rise. It is also important to factor in your travel prices — which can also be higher during the summer months.
• The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to early November , are typically the best times to visit the city if you want good weather AND smaller crowds. Not only that, but big discounts are usually on offer.
• December to February though colder, are very popular times. It's very busy so booking in advance is essential. However, this is a great time if you want to get into the festive spirit or have children to bring along.

Where to stay in Anaheim

All wheelchair users know that accessibility is the single most important consideration when looking for an appropriate hotel to stay in. The good news is that Anaheim has an excellent selection of suitable hotels for wheelchair users . These hotels offer indoor swimming pools with lifts, accessible car park access, reserved parking spaces, roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs, and more.

The Hilton Anaheim offers 4-star luxury accommodation in the heart of the city. Conveniently located next to the Anaheim Convention Center, the Hilton is equipped with accessible rooms containing either bathtubs or roll-in showers, both of which are equipped with grab bars.

If you are heading to Disneyland Resort , then the Disneyland Hotel is the place to stay. As the name suggests, the hotel is located right next to the resort, perfect for giving wheelchair users hassle-free access to the park. The hotel itself has accessible rooms, all of which have step-free access, roll-in showers (complete with handrails and a shower seat), assistive listening devices, and a mobile key entry system.

Additionally, the Good Neighbor Hotels are a very good option if you're planning to go to Disneyland Resort. These provide accessibility features, are within walking distance, and are quite affordable . Here is a list of some of those hotels:

• Anaheim Marriott Hotel - roll-in shower (or bathtub option), shower grab bars, toilet grab bars, and more. Located roughly 1/2-mile to 1 mile from Disneyland.
• Candlewood Suites Anaheim - spacious rooms with a roll-in shower, grab bars, and shower seat. Equipped with a kitchenette. Located roughly 1/2 mile to 1 mile from Disneyland
• Desert Palms Hotel & Suites - equipped with roll-in showers, grab bars, and shower seat. Roughly a 1/2-mile walk from Disneyland.

Another option close to city center is Anaheim Hotel . This inclusive 3-star city center property has accessibility features throughout its communal areas. These include accessible public restrooms, gardens, and restaurants. The heated pool and spa are also equipped with ADA lifts. However you look at it, the Anaheim Hotel really pulls out the stops when it comes to accessibility, making it one of the best budget options for wheelchair users visiting the city.

Few hotels in Anaheim are as welcoming for wheelchair users as the Hotel Fera . In addition to a selection of rooms with roll-in showers and step-free access, guests at the hotel can also benefit from toilet grab bars (in rooms and public restrooms), accessible routes throughout the hotel, and excellent parking facilities. The hotel is situated in close proximity to the freeway and is just a short distance from the city's main shopping area. In short, it is the perfect location for wheelchair users looking for a spot of retail therapy in Anaheim.

If you are traveling with your family to Anaheim and operating on a relatively small budget, then the Holiday Inn Express could be the perfect choice. The hotel boasts an accessible suite, suitable for six guests.

Accessible, wheelchair-friendly transport is essential if you are visiting Anaheim, and we are happy to report that the city is well-equipped in this area. Of course, for the majority of visitors to Anaheim, their first transportation issue involves getting from the airport to the city.

Getting to/from the Airport

Anaheim is served by multiple international airports. The John Wayne Airport Orange County(SNA) is the closest airport to the city and the most popular arrival point for visitors. Located just a few miles outside the city, John Wayne Airport offers an array of accessible options for getting to your desired Anaheim location. There are shuttle buses provided by (among others) Prime Time Shuttle and Super Shuttle, as well as taxi and rental car options. All of these services are located close to the baggage reclaim area and are easily accessible via wheelchair. Booking ahead to ensure accessible transport is advisable.

Alternatively, you may arrive at the smaller Long Beach Airport . Although this airport is slightly further out of town, it is still relatively easy to complete your transfer to Anaheim. There are rental services and taxi ranks just outside the airport, plus shuttle options. Again booking ahead is recommended.

The rapidly growing Ontario International Airport is located 35 miles (56 km) outside Anaheim. This airport boasts three terminals and is serviced by a huge range of domestic and international airlines. Unsurprisingly, the airport has a multitude of public transport links, including shuttle buses to and from Anaheim. Alternatively, you can pick up a taxi, hire a car, or even use a rideshare app to specify that accessible transportation is needed. A company to consider for this is Butterfli , an on-demand assisted transportation company with trained staff.

Regardless of which airport you arrive at, Wheel the World provides adapted transport options to help wheelchair users travel to the city, so if you have any concerns regarding your airport transfer, please get in touch.

Getting Around Anaheim

Anaheim has an extensive network of public transport links, many of which are suitable for wheelchair users. Knowing what these are and how to access them all is a must before you travel here.

Anaheim Regional Transportation (ART) is a network of 19 bus routes that run seven days a week. Designed to service Anaheim's many attractions, the services start an hour before the Disneyland Resort opens and continue until at least 30 minutes after it closes. All ART services can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, and they connect hotels, and shopping malls with the major tourist attractions.

Additionally, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) operates a bus service that runs throughout the county. Neighborhoods are connected via various routes that include stops at popular destinations such as the Disneyland Resort, and the Anaheim Convention Center. All buses have wheelchair ramps and designated accessible seating.

If you are planning to travel further afield, then the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodel Center (commonly known as ARTIC) provides rail, bus, and taxi services from Anaheim to Los Angeles and other parts of California. The majority of ARTIC services are wheelchair friendly.

Amtrak and Metrolink trains are also available in Anaheim. Trains are fully accessible and have designated areas for wheelchairs and scooters.

Options like Uber and Lyft operate in the area for added convenience. Both have accessible vehicles available through the Lyft Access and UberACCESS functions in the respective apps. These vehicles have ramps, lifts, and trained drivers to assist those with mobility needs.

While Anaheim is primarily focused on Disneyland, there are many other things to do. We're on hand to help you make the most of your trip, and can help you get day tickets to Disneyland, or hopper tickets for both Disney parks. For the full Disney experience, opting for a multi-day vacation package that includes Disney, accommodation, and transportation, (focused on accessibility) then we can help organize that as well.

But, what else is there to do aside from Disney?

1. Disneyland / Disney California Adventure Park

No visit to Anaheim would be complete without a trip to the Disneyland Resort . Right across the way is also California Adventure , another exciting theme park that offers more thrilling rides and attractions.

You can book single tickets for either park or opt for the Park Hopper , which allows guests to go back and forth between both parks during the day.

These world-famous theme parks attract an incredible number of visitors all year round and is home to a huge array of fantastic rides and attractions. The resort also provides some superb facilities for wheelchair users. There is a large reserved parking area close to the main entrance, dedicated loading and unloading areas to help wheelchair users access attractions, and even bespoke devices to help you get on and off rides. Throw in some special cushions to optimize your comfort plus a wheelchair rental service, and it is clear to see that Disneyland is dedicated to helping wheelchair users get the most out of their visit.

If you want to get the best possible experience from your visit to Disneyland, you can request to utilize certain programs:

• Disability Access Service - intended for individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism or a similar disorder.
• Location Return Time - for individuals who use mobility devices, this program allows them to request a return time for attractions and rides without having to wait in line. The designated return time will be similar to the current wait time.

2. Disneyland Downtown Disney District

This vibrant district is located right next to the Disneyland resort and contains a rich variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The majority of these venues have ramp access and other suitable facilities for wheelchair users.

3. Anaheim Packing District

The Packing District is an historic venue full of quirky shops and local food vendors, plus artisan restaurants, and a host of other fun venues. The district hosts regular events, like live music, and is regarded as one of the best venues in the city for wheelchair users. There are ramps and elevators throughout the district, as well as plenty of accessible restrooms and other facilities.

4. Angel Stadium of Anaheim

MLB franchise, the Los Angeles Angels play their home games at Angel Stadium , whilst the venue also plays host to a variety of concerts throughout the year. The good news for anyone looking to go to a game is that Angel Stadium has some excellent facilities for reduced mobility fans. This includes designated seating areas, complete with spaces for companions, a large reserved parking area, plus numerous ramps and accessible elevators.

5. Honda Center

The Honda Center is home to the NHL franchise the Anaheim Ducks. To many people, the Ducks are best known for being the inspiration behind the hugely successful Mighty Ducks movie, but today they are a successful hockey franchise who have won six Pacific Championships, and the Stanley Cup.

The Center has extensive facilities for wheelchair users. These include designated, easy-access seating areas (including spaces for companions) and large reserved parking areas.

6. Anaheim Garden Walk

This outdoor shopping complex offers a relaxed, spacious environment for shoppers looking to browse and hopefully pick up a bargain. Visitors with reduced mobility are catered for thanks to conveniently located ramps and elevators.

7. Adventure City

Visitors with young children will love a trip to Adventure City . This smaller theme park is an exciting venue full of fun rides, shows, and other family attractions. Many of the rides have designated spaces for wheelchair users, plus there are ramps and wide communal areas throughout the venue.

8. Yorba Regional Park

Yorba Regional Park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Anaheim with its series of 4 lakes, greenery, and many paved trails that wind through the 140-acre park. The trails are generally flat with only minor inclines, making them accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. The park is used for picnics, biking, fishing, paddle-boarding, and much more.

9. Anaheim Trails

Explore the great outdoors in and around Anaheim. There are many different trails with various lengths and difficulty, so click here to view trails all around the area that are considered wheelchair-accessible.

10. Center Street Promenade

This vibrant and trendy district in Anaheim offers a mix of boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and a weekly farmers market that takes place every Thursday from 11am to 3pm. There, visitors can stroll and take a gander at some of the local businesses, which is always fun to see whats available.

Accessible restaurants Recommended by our Community

Anaheim has a host of fantastic restaurants, and we are happy to report that many of these eateries are geared up for customers with mobility issues. Thanks to our growing Wheel the World community, we're able to list some of our favorites. All of them come with accessible features such as accessible restrooms, access ramps, wide aisles, open spaces, and more. Have a look below and choose the restaurants that suit your palette.

• Roy's Restaurant: renowned Hawaiian fusion offering high-end, contemporary food on West Katella Avenue .
• The Ranch : Michelin-listed meat lovers' paradise offering large-format meat dishes, all created with exceptional attention to detail. It's found on Ball Road .
• Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill : Popular casual dining restaurant serving tacos, burritos, and a host of other Mexican delicacies in Disneyland California Adventure Park .
• California Fish Grill: Premier fish restaurant for casual diners that serves charbroiled and fried seafood, as well as an array of meat dishes. Located on La Palma Avenue Anaheim Hills .
• Tony Roma's: Family-friendly restaurant that's home to some of the best ribs around, as well as a selection of other tasty dishes. Find it on S. Harbor Blvd .
• McCormick & Schmick's Grille : High-class seafood and steak chain, renowned for offering a relaxed, but high-end eating experience on Gardenwalk .
• Poppy & Seed: SoCal vibe with a huge outdoor area, complete with flowers, herbs, and trees on S. Anaheim Boulevard .
• The Cheesecake Factory : Famous dessert restaurant located on W Katella Avenue .
• P.F. Chang's: Family-friendly Asian restaurant offers a vibrant menu and can be visited on W. Katella Avenue .

Accessible tips from our community

Finding bathrooms.

Due to the nature of Disneyland Resort and parks, it's typically very easy to find an accessible restroom when you need one. The parks, in particular, make it very easy with strategically placed, clearly labeled accessible restrooms. Not only are they easy to spot, they have wide doors, high toilet seats, and grab bars.

Within Anaheim itself, accessible restrooms can be found in shopping malls, and restaurants. Most have the international accessibility logo displayed. Impressively, Anaheim considered accessible restrooms to be a basic amenity, and, as such, they feature prominently as part of the general infrastructure ensuring comfort and inclusivity are maintained to the highest degree.

Packing list

Planning ahead can help to make a trip run smoothly. Here are some of our suggestions for packing essentials.

• Wheelchair battery charger
• Footrest and/or shower chair
• Service dog essentials (if applicable)
• Disability documents and identification
• Converters if you live outside the USA

If disaster strikes and your wheelchair develops a fault, don't panic. There are two wheelchair repair shops in the city:

• National Seating & Mobility — 1650 Sinclair St, Anaheim, CA 92806, United States
• Aero Rehab — 1001 N Weir Canyon Rd, Anaheim, CA 92807, United States

Both are centrally located and offer an extensive range of repair services.

Anaheim is a relatively safe city, but you should still exercise caution when out and about, especially at night. It is also essential that you use the harnesses and belts provided when traveling on public transport.

Finally, make sure you have contact details for Wheel the World on you at all times, as we will be able to assist should you encounter any issues on your trip. Not only that, but we can also help you plan your trip from start to finish should you need it.

Travel With All the Accessibility Details You Need.

Accessible hotels, things to do, transportation, and vacation packages

Ethan Godard

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Moscow Public Transportation

The public transportation system in Moscow is moderately accessible, much to the surprise of many. Use of this transportation network will require some planning for disabled travelers, especially those in wheelchairs. An ability to understand and recognize the Cyrillic alphabet will also make its use much easier for travelers of all abilities. The city’s subway system is not accessible to wheelchairs. The vast majority of city buses and trolley buses offer step-free access.

Metro Subway

The Moscow Metro Subway is spread across 12 lines and serves 196 stations throughout the city. While some stations have recently had elevators installed, the system cannot be considered wheelchair accessible. Large gaps of up to 6 inches exist between the subway train and station platforms. Trains are often not level with the platform and require a step up of a similar distance.

Stations without elevators require travelers to ascend or descend long flights of stairs. I strongly recommend that you use the accessible city bus network and avoid the subway.

City Bus and Trolleybus System

Moscow is served by an increasingly modern city bus system with hundreds of routes/lines. Every major city street is served by at least one bus line. Busses are numbered and lettered with route information. The network consists of normal, gas-powered city buses and the largest electricity-powered trolleybus system in the world.

The majority of city buses and trolleybuses now have lowered floors and are wheelchair accessible. The door at the center of the bus is equipped with a manual ramp which the bus operator will extend for wheelchair users. These ramps can be quite steep, but the bus operator can assist with pushing the wheelchair up the ramp. Wheelchair accessible buses are equipped with a securement space for wheelchairs with tie downs/straps and a seatbelt. Priority reserved seating is available for seniors and persons with disabilities.

All wheelchair accessible buses are marked with the international symbol of access (the wheelchair icon) at the center door or on the front of the vehicle. Wheelchair entry is possible only through the center door, where the retractable or fold out ramp is located. Wheelchair travelers ride the city bus and trolleybus free of charge. You should flag down the approaching bus if wish to ride, so that the operator can maneuver the bus close to the curb for ramp deployment.

On-street rail trams

The City of Moscow is served by 44 on street tram lines, which run on recessed rails and are powered by electricity. All trams require riders to climb several steps in order to access the passenger cabin. There are no implements which make wheelchair access possible. Disabled travelers should plan to avoid any routes which require the use of a tram. City buses adequately serve all parts of the city in which the trams operate.

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-on/off Tour Bus

Although it is not managed by the city, the City Sightseeing Moscow tour bus travels to all of the major sights in Moscow and allows patrons to hop-on and hop-off at nearly 40 stops. The bus stops at or near all of the sights I have reviewed on this website. The next bus is available 30-40 minutes after the one before and the entire route circle takes 60 minutes to complete. Buses are wheelchair accessible, with fold-out ramps at the rear doors. One dedicated wheelchair space is available on each bus.

Passengers are provided with a set of headphones which can be plugged in to the at-seat ports. An audio guide is available in multiple languages, including English. Tickets for adults, good for 24 hours from the time of purchase, are available for 700 RUB. They can be purchased online with credit card, or onboard the bus with cash.  Tickets are provided free of charge to wheelchair users and for other persons with proof of disability. Discounts are also available to seniors with identification. For additional information on the Moscow City Sightseeing Bus or to download route maps, visit  city-sightseeing.com .

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Wildlife Prairie Park’s iconic train is now wheelchair accessible

H ANNA CITY, Ill. (WMBD) — The iconic train at Wildlife Prairie Park is now wheelchair accessible, giving anyone the chance to “get on board.”

Officials at the park in Hanna City held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday to unveil the new car. The first passenger was the father of one of the train’s engineers.

Roberta English, the park’s CEO, said Wildlife Prairie Park is offering free rides on the Prairie Zephyr train, the park’s most popular attraction, all weekend to celebrate.

“We are so excited that the community came together and made this important advancement towards inclusivity possible,” she said.

English said donors contributed nearly $100,000 to purchase the ADA accessible train car and lift. The car itself was built in Wichita, Kan. and was shipped here to be completed by park train volunteers. The lift came from Canada, according to the park.

For her, the new car is more than just allowing anyone to ride the train. It’s really expanding the experience for everyone, she said.

“A lot of people have grown up with the park and they want to enjoy the park for their whole lives. And in order to really be a park for all, you have to have things for all people,” she said. “And my God, the train is our most popular attraction. So to not be able to take someone on a wheelchair on the train, that’s been a hardship. And we want everybody to enjoy this.

“You want all people to enjoy your park. We want more people to come to this park and we don’t want any barriers for them. We want them to be  able to come out here,  have fun, just like everybody else,” English said.

The accessible car is part of their overall campaign, dubbed “Park for All” which includes a new hayrack ride that is also ADA accessible, and a map which will help people with mobility challenges learn the easiest way through the animal trails.

Already added are an ADA-accessible fishing dock. The next project are the playgrounds.

“Our playgrounds are old, outdated, and definitely not ADA accessible,” English said. “We want to give children an experience that makes them want to keep coming back to the Park.”

The Park celebrated 46 years on Sunday and is raising money to transform all three playgrounds, starting with the CEFCU Heritage Playground. The new playground will have inclusive play options, including zip lines.

Over the next few years, all three playgrounds will be updated. Thanks to a lead gift from CEFCU and other generous donors, the Park is getting close to raising the $140,000 needed to redo the first playground.     

“We`d like to raise another $25,000 for this project to meet our goal and cover any surprises,” English said.   

Donations can be made to the Park for All campaign on the park’s website . English says future plans include making the animal trails easier to walk and push strollers and acquiring equipment to amplify sound for the hearing impaired.

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