For Americans, Europe is “across the pond.” The continent is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to its West and the Asian continent to its East. Europe contains 50 internationally recognized countries.
As is true with much of the world, accessibility is continuously improving in Europe. Each country and city is different in both the accommodations and challenges it presents to the wheelchair traveler. An accurate review of accessibility in Europe must take into account the fact that there are 50 countries each setting their own policy.
Use the destination guides linked below to plan your wheelchair accessible vacation in Europe. Each guide contains key insights I have learned from my extensive travels across the continent. Tour the Louvre in Paris. Sail across the Oslo Fjord. Admire the beauty of The Kremlin from Red Square in Moscow. You can do it all… even in a wheelchair. Let me show you how.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The 17th-century Golden Age is alive in Amsterdam, easily one of Europe’s most walkable (and rollable) cities.
Berlin, Germany
A city once decimated and divided by war, international politics and a wall, Berlin has risen from the ashes like no other city.
Bratislava, Slovakia
With one of the most charming and wheelchair-friendly Old Towns in Europe, the Slovakian capital city is a must-see.
Brussels, Belgium
Grand Place, the city’s central square, is the most picturesque in all of Europe.
Bucharest, Romania
Although accessibility is a challenge, this Eastern European city is a must visit destination.
Gibraltar
Take your wheelchair to the top of the Rock of Gibraltar, and meet wild monkeys in the process.
London, England
Accessibility in the British capital is constantly improving, making London a fantastic trip for wheelchair users.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg City’s medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is unmatched in beauty.
Madrid, Spain
Spain’s capital city is home to some of the world’s most renowned art museums, including the Reina Sofía, where Picasso’s “Guernica” is on display.
Moscow, Russia
Rolling your wheelchair into the Kremlin and Red Square need not be a dream anymore.
Munich, Germany
Get lost in the beer halls during the annual Oktoberfest celebration. Don’t drink too much, though, if you’re driving a wheelchair!
Oslo, Norway
The gem of Scandinavia will take your breath away with its natural beauty and old world charm.
Paris, France
The City of Lights won’t disappoint. Wheelchair users get free access to the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Musée de l’Orangerie, Palace of Versailles and more.
Prague, Czech Republic
Central Europe’s “City of a Hundred Spires” is much more wheelchair-friendly than you might expect.
Riga, Latvia
Located at the mouth of the Daugava River and Baltic Sea, Riga features a pedestrian-only historic city center.
Rome, Italy
The Eternal City boasts ancient Roman ruins, easy access to Vatican City and some of the best cuisine in Europe.
Tallinn, Estonia
Known for its well-preserved Old Town, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tallinn offers a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern amenities.
Vilnius, Lithuania
Located near the geographic center of Europe, Vilnius’ UNESCO-listed Old Town has existed for nearly a thousand years.