In the past, wheelchair users have been put off travelling overseas because of the lack of wheelchair access in many cities, and the problems in getting on and off transport. Here in the UK, accessibility is built into every new building, hotel or transportation network, and many of our European neighbours are wheelchair-friendly too. Some cities do better than others though, so if you are travelling with a wheelchair user in the future, what should be top of your list for potential city break destinations?

Berlin

The German capital regularly tops the lists of the most accessible European cities and the German authorities have spent millions of euros to improve the city’s infrastructure with the needs of people with a disability in mind. Pavements have been widened, pedestrian crossings redesigned with the needs of blind visitors in mind, and both the bus and underground network is fully accessible to wheelchair users. While in Berlin your “must see” attractions include the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag building, Checkpoint Charlie and the section of the Berlin Wall which remains standing.

Stockholm

Sweden’s capital is often ranked just behind Berlin in the polls of most accessible cities. Swedish laws ensure that all hotels and tourist attractions have to cater for visitors with a wide range of disabilities. All underground stations have lifts as well as escalators, and the bus network makes travelling in a wheelchair very simple. Stockholm has a reputation for being expensive, but use a budget airline to get you there from the UK, and don’t miss the ABBA museum or the Drottningholm Palace.

Rome

Cities with ancient sites and medieval architecture aren’t known for their accessibility, but the Roman authorities have invested heavily in wheelchair ramps to allow access into public buildings and the most important historic sites, museums and galleries. Public transport has all been adapted to be wheelchair friendly, and with a little planning of routes, most areas of Rome can be explored by all visitors. Try to avoid the most crowded areas at peak times, and remember that cobbled streets and wheelchairs aren’t a great mix.

Health Considerations for Disabled Travellers

Historically, one of the main barriers to travel for people with a disability was getting adequate travel insurance. If cover was available at all, it was hugely expensive. EHIC cover means that anyone who is permanently resident in the UK can apply for an EHIC card which will allow them to use the state healthcare systems in the countries of the EU, plus Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. These rights extend to people with pre-existing medical issues or disabilities, so if someone falls ill overseas and needs to see a GP or go to hospital, they will be treated either free of charge or at a nominal cost. The EHIC arrangements have slashed holiday costs for many thousands of UK citizens and are allowing them to explore more of Europe than ever. Just remember that you have to be organised and apply for your EHIC online before leaving home, and take the card with you when you travel.