Wheelchair Accessible Holidays: Plan Your Barrier Free Holiday

Booking a holiday should be fun for everyone, including wheelchair users and those with mobility aids issues. Travel accessibility has come a long way but finding truly wheelchair friendly destinations still requires some thought. This guide shares practical tips and insider knowledge to help you plan an amazing wheelchair accessible holiday that’s fun, stress free and full of memories.

Pick Your Wheelchair-Friendly Destination

Check out destinations that are wheelchair-accessible before making any bookings to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Research Accessibility Standards by Country

Countries have different accessibility standards. Countries with disability legislation have better facilities:

• UK: Protected by the Equality Act 2010, most tourist attractions, public transport and accommodation are accessible.

• Scandinavian countries: Norway, Sweden and Denmark have flat terrain in major cities and excellent public transport.

• Germany: With excellent public transport and accessible tourist spots, Germany—especially Berlin and Munich—is a great option for wheelchair users.

• Spain: Coastal areas like Barcelona have invested in beach accessibility with wooden pathways across sand and beach wheelchairs to borrow.

• Portugal: The Algarve region has made big improvements with accessible beaches and accommodation.

Think Terrain and Climate

When choosing your destination, consider:

• Flat vs hilly terrain: Cities like Amsterdam and Copenhagen are relatively flat, easy to get around by wheelchair.

• Cobblestones: While charming, historic European cities with cobblestone streets (like Prague or Rome) can be tough. Research accessible routes or consider power-assist wheelchair.

• Weather matters: Weather conditions can affect wheelchair users — extreme heat may be uncomfortable, and snow or ice makes getting around difficult.

Look for Accessible Cities and Beaches

Some destinations have gone above and beyond to be inclusive:

• Barcelona, Spain: Accessible beaches with amphibious chairs, accessible showers and ramps to the water.

• Berlin, Germany: Excellent public transport with accessibility information clearly marked.

• Sydney, Australia: Many beaches have beach wheelchairs and accessible pathways.

• Singapore: Has implemented universal design principles across the city.

Finding and Booking Accessible Accommodation

Your accommodation is the foundation of your holiday so get this right.

What to Look For in Accessible Rooms

Don’t just trust the “wheelchair accessible” label—ask specific questions:

• Door widths (minimum 80cm/32 inches for wheelchair access)

• Step-free access throughout the property

• Bathroom accesbility (roll-in shower, grab bars, lower sinks)

• Bed height (usually 45-50cm is ideal for transfers)

• Space beside the bed for transfers (minimum 90cm/3 feet)

• Accessible switches, thermostats and other controls

Specialist Booking Platforms

These websites specialise in accessible accommodation:

• Accomable (now part of Airbnb’s accessibility filters)

• AccessibleGO

• DisabledHolidays.com

• Sage Traveling (specialising in European destinations)

Ask the Right Questions

When booking, don’t be afraid to ask:

“I use a wheelchair that’s 65cm wide. Will I be able to access all areas of the accommodation including the bathroom and balcony?”

“Does the property have any steps at the entrance or internally?”

“Could you please share some recent photos of the bathroom, especially showing how the shower can be accessed?”

Many hotels now offer virtual tours or can send specific photos of accessible features upon request.

Wheelchair Transportation Tips

Getting around comfortably is part of the fun.

Flying with a Wheelchair

Plan ahead:

• Book assistance at least 48 hours in advance

• Consider aisle seats or bulkhead seats for easier transfers

• If using your own wheelchair, bring manuals and any specific tools

• Take photos of your wheelchair before check-in to document its condition

• Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights

• Label removable parts with your contact information

The Air Carrier Access Act (USA) and EU Air Passengers Rights are your friends.

Ground Transportation

Research at your destination:

• Public transport: Many cities have accessibility info on their transport websites, showing which stations have lifts or level access.

• Accessible taxis: Pre-book wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) rather than hoping to find one.

• Car hire: Companies like Hertz, Enterprise and Avis have hand-controlled vehicles in many locations, but book well in advance.

• Accessible tours: Companies like Sage Traveling and Barcelona Access Tours do accessible city tours.

Accessible Activities and Attractions

Holidays are all about having a good time!

Researching Accessible Attractions

Most places now have accessibility info on their websites but it’s worth:

• Calling ahead to confirm current accessibility

• Asking about quiet times to visit (less people makes navigation easier)

• Asking about skip the line for disabled visitors

Accessible Outdoor Adventures

Adventure holidays aren’t off limits:

• Beach wheelchairs: Many coastal places now have all terrain beach wheelchairs, often free

• Adaptive sports: Adaptive skiing, sailing and kayaking is available at holiday destinations

• Accessible trails: Countries like Switzerland and Canada have built accessible nature trails with hard smooth surfaces

Cultural Experiences and Tours

Specialist tour operators are making cultural experiences more accessible:

• Wheelchair accessible food tours in Barcelona, Paris and Rome

• Accessible museum tours with tactile elements for visually impaired visitors

• Virtual reality experiences at heritage sites where physical access is limited

Must Pack for Accessible Travel

Beyond the usual holiday packing, consider these accessibility specific items:

• Portable ramp (if you frequently encounter small steps)

• Universal power adapters for charging mobility equipment

• Spare parts kit for your wheelchair or mobility device

• Waterproof covers for equipment during unexpected rain

• Travel shower chair (if accommodation doesn’t provide one)

• Medical documentation translated into the local language

• Pressure relief cushion for long journeys

Financial Planning and Insurance

Accessible travel can cost more so budget accordingly.

Travel Insurance

Standard travel insurance doesn’t cover mobility equipment. Look for policies for disabled travellers such as:

• Fish Insurance (UK based)

• AllClear (specialises in medical conditions)

• InsuranceWith (covers pre-existing conditions)

Make sure the policy covers:

• Full replacement cost of mobility equipment

• Emergency assistance and repatriation

• Medical support related to existing conditions

Budgeting Tips

• Factor in costs for accessible taxis if public transport isn’t suitable

• Travel in shoulder season (May/September) for better rates and fewer crowds

• Look for disability discounts — many attractions offer reduced entry for disabled visitors and often a companion/carer goes free

Creating an inclusive Itinerary. 

It's important to create a balanced and enjoyable holiday.

Planning for rest days

Travelling with mobility more challenges can be tired.

• It's important to schedule for rest after travelling days.

• Take extra time after activities

• Don't make more plans in one day.

It’s good to have a backup plan

Alternative plan will not let you down:

• Choose some indoor games for bad weather.

• Research a list of nearest restaurants and cafes

• Install an application like AccessNow or Wheelmap for venues on the go