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.

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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

1. Hawaii

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!

2. Alaska

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

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

7. London

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!

10. Rome

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.

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.

12. Athens

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.

13. Israel

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 worldonwheelsblog@gmail.com 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

20. Sydney

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.

21. Cairns

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.

28. Egypt

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.

29. Uganda

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.

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?

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?

Airlines

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.

Cruising

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!