Wheelchair Accessible Rome: A Guide to Rome for Disabled Travelers

Rome, Italy is a unique blend of old and new all combined in a city that is vibrant and full of life. One may think that with such historic parts, that Rome would be a challenge to wheelchair users. I’m happy to say that Rome is quite accessible! Here is my guide to wheelchair accessible Rome, Italy.

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Is Rome Wheelchair Accessible?

As with many ancient cities, Rome will present some challenges to wheelchair users and people with mobility problems. However, you absolutely can visit Rome in a wheelchair and have a wonderful trip. This guide will give you what you need to know about how to make accessible travel in Rome possible. It will discuss wheelchair accessible things to do, accessible tour options, where to stay, and whether cruises to Rome are a good idea.

For more information on wheelchair accessible travel in Italy, make sure to check out my posts for Venice, Florence, Naples and my 10 day itinerary for Rome and the Amalfi Coast.

11 Things to Do in Wheelchair Accessible Rome, Italy

1. Colosseum

The exterior of the Colosseum in Rome in wheelchair accessible Rome Italy

Almost synonymous with Rome, the Colosseum was once home to fierce gladiators and was the central sports arena of its time. Now, you can tour the remains of this imposing place and learn about its history. An elevator makes the tour wheelchair accessible, and you have the option of renting an audio guide or booking a guided tour.

I thought the audio guide was very informative and interesting. It also allowed me to go at my own pace and not feel rushed, which was nice. During my time here, it was easy to imagine the crowds cheering on their favorite gladiators and how intimidating it must have been for the athletes entering the main floor.

Although much of the stone façade was removed and used for building of other buildings over the years, it is still an amazing site to behold. From the second floor, you could also get views of the nearby forum and the ancient ruins it contains.

2. Roman Forum

Adjacent to the Colosseum is the Forum, which was like the ancient city center. While accessible to wheelchair users, I’d highly recommend booking an accessible tour (which allows you to use a Jolette wheelchair for easier management of the ancient surfaces). It would definitely be more of a challenge to visit in your regular wheelchair as there are large cobblestones and uneven surfaces.

Some of the highlights in the Forum are the intricate arches which pay tribute to Roman soldiers that were successful in battles, the grave of Julius Ceasar, the house of the Vestal Virgins and many other ancient sites.

Visiting will be like taking a step back in time. It’s fun to try to imagine what life was like back then with its everyday hustle and bustle.

3. Piazza Navona

A sculptured fountain featuring titans in Piazza Navona in wheelchair accessible Rome

Piazza in Italian means square. This one is a pedestrian only area and features unique fountains and statues by the Italian sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Three of his fountains are featured in the piazza but the central one (Four River Fountain) being the focal point. Surrounding the piazza are colorful buildings with fragrant flowers hanging off their balconies as well as outdoor cafes and restaurants.

In addition to admiring the fountains, this is a great place to people watch as it’s a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike. This is where I had my very first gelato, a perfect treat for a warm day. It felt like pure heaven in a dish. It is common to mix flavors of this delicious cool treat, which is perfect for when you can’t decide on just one!

4. The Pantheon

Located near Piazza Navona is the Pantheon. This unique domed building (which was originally a pagan temple and now a church) is the burial grounds for Italian kings, queens and even the famous painter, Raphael. Originally built in the second century out of wood and suffering two fires, it was then rebuilt out of stone and has survived ever since.

One of the more interesting features of the domed ceiling is the hole in the top center, which allows light to pass in, as there are few windows. This marvel in engineering is a site to behold and tells of an interesting history. Visitors have the option of renting an audio guide or taking a guided tour. It is also fully accessible.

5. Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Almost as synonymous as the Colosseum is the Vatican and Sistine Chapel. There are few options that wheelchair users have for visiting this iconic destination. One can book a private guided tour through an accessible operator in Rome (the ones offered by the museum are not accessible), or you can tour the museums on your own.

People who are 75% or more disabled, can obtain free entry tickets and are entitled to skip the lines for entry. If you require assistance, then your carer can also obtain free entry. You can obtain an itinerary that shows accessible routes upon entrance to the museum.

Michelangelo's painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel inside the Vatican museums in Rome

Wheelchair Accessibility at the Vatican Museums in Rome

While many of the museums are accessible to mobility scooters and power wheelchairs, there are some areas where space is limited and will require you to transfer to a free manual wheelchair provided by the museum. The museum does offer an accessible tour of its gardens in its “Vatican’s Gardens without Barriers” tour. It is recommended that you contact the museum in advance to determine times offered and availability.

To visit the Sistine Chapel, there is a small lift that will take you up the stairs so that you may enter the chapel. For many, this is the highlight of the tour. While often crowded, you could spend hours taking in all the details of Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. I spent so much time looking at it, I ended up with a sore neck… but it was worth it as it is absolutely beautiful.

The other part of the museum that I really enjoyed was the Raphael rooms, which feature four of his paintings (which are more like murals). Each one tells a story with vivid colors and artistry. Again, much time could be spent looking for the meanings and significance of each piece.

6. St. Peter’s Basilica

Located in St. Peter’s Square, this is the heart of Vatican City (which is technically another country). You’ll find Swiss guards on duty throughout in their magnificent attire. The square itself is quite large and features beautiful fountains and even its own post office! For a unique souvenir, buy a postcard and send it to yourself or a loved one from the post office for a unique postmark.

At the end of the square, lies St. Peter’s Basilica, which is made accessible via ramps and elevators (there is a ramp near the metal detectors, an elevator near the gift shop and another ramp in the portico leading up to the church). There are some cobblestones in the square itself, but they are mostly flat and fairly easy to navigate. Once inside the church, it is a smooth flat surface without any steps, with the only place inaccessible being the scavi or excavation area underneath the altar.

What Can I See in Saint Peter’s Basilica?

As you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, you will be amazed at just how massive it is. Colorful mosaics decorate the walls and ceilings in intricate patterns and designs. To the right, you’ll find Michaelangelo’s “la pieta”, a sculpture depicting Mary holding Jesus after he was taken off the cross. It’s quite exquisite and looks as if it could come to life at any moment.

Moving farther into the church, you’ll find a statue of St. Peter, whom the church was named after. Many Christians rub his foot for blessings and good fortune. At the end of the long entrance, you’ll finally find the massive altar a work of art in and of itself. This is where many of the ceremonies are held.

For a great view of Rome, and access to the base of the dome of the church, ask staff to direct you to the elevator. Here you’ll get a chance to see some of the mosaic work up close. It will also give you a unique perspective of the Basilica itself.

To get the most out of your time here, I highly recommend renting an audio guide. It will give you so much more information and give you a different appreciation for what you are looking at.

A fountain flows in an open square with Saint Peter's Basilica in the background in wheelchair accessible Rome

Michaelangelo's sculpture of Mary holding Jesus after he's taken off the cross is called "La Pieta"

While the Pope is almost never present, in pre-covid times, he would offer a blessing from his apartments at noon on Sundays. You could also request tickets to his mass and Papal Audience (held on Wednesdays) by contacting your local Catholic Church.

7. Castel Sant Angelo

Castel Sant Angelo in wheelchair accessible Rome

This ancient building, finished in 139 A.D., has had many uses. From mausoleum to a military outpost to papal apartments to a jail to now a museum, it has had quite a history. You will see statues of the archangel Michael throughout, as it was said that he appeared to Pope Gregorio Mango to announce the end of the plague.

When you visit, you’ll see various signs of its long history, including military weaponry, Emperor Hadrian’s tomb, and famous frescos and other pieces of art. The Castel also offers splendid views of the city and the bridge beneath (Ponte Sant Angelo).

Due to its historic nature, this building was once inaccessible to wheelchair users. Now, however, there are tour companies that use specialized wheelchairs so that people of all abilities can visit. To book this 4-hour tour go to Accessible for disabled and seniors travel Castel Sant’Angelo – AccessTravels.

While you’re in the area, it would be a shame if you did not cross the Ponte Sant Angelo and admire the various angel statues which line it (all works of Bernini). Each statue is unique and represents something different. After you cross the bridge, it’s also a wonderful place to take photos of the Castel.

8. Trevi Fountain

The most famous fountain in Rome is a must see while you’re here. Although access is limited, it can still be viewed in its entirety. Steps are required to get to the base of the fountain, however, the fountain itself is so large that you can get good views from the top of the steps.

It does get very crowded however, so I recommend going in off peak times to get the best view (peak times are usually 12-5 pm). Cobblestones leading up to the fountain can also be a challenge.

Legend has it that if you toss in a coin and make a wish, it will lead to a speedy return to Rome, toss two coins and you’ll fall in love, three coins and you’ll be married. I always toss a coin in the fountain when in Rome because it’s safe to say that I fell in love with the city and with Italy in general and I always hope to return.

9. Spanish Steps

Before you think I’m crazy for mentioning steps in a list of accessible things to do, hear me out. Yes, the Spanish Steps consist of 135 steps, but they are one of the most popular gathering places in the city. You also don’t have to climb them to enjoy the beauty and buzz of the atmosphere.

The area at the bottom of the steps is paved and flat, making for easy navigation. The steps themselves also offer a great and iconic view of Rome. At the base is also a pretty fountain. It’s worth a quick stop, you can stay longer to socialize, or people watch if you wish and then you can continue to do some shopping in the area.

A wide stone staircase has people on it and leads to a white building with two small towers on top of its roof. These are known as the Spanish Steps in wheelchair accessible Rome

A large fountain with light blue water. In the fountain is a ship like structure that has water flowing up through a fountain and a pool of water in the base. The fountain is at the base of the Spanish Steps in Rome

10. Villa Borghese Galleria and Gardens

If you enjoy art, then this is a must visit attraction. Housing an ample collection of sculptures and paintings, this will surely delight any art lover. After taking in the art inside of the gallery, consider going out and enjoying the gardens as well to view the art of Mother Nature.

Both the gallery and the gardens are wheelchair accessible. To enter the villa, take the entrance to the right of the steps. There is a small elevator which will allow you to tour the second floor, but you will most likely have to transfer to a small wheelchair provided by the museum.

Entrance is free for you and a carer, but it is recommended that you reserve tickets in advance as there is a limit to how many people can enter at a time as well as a time limit on your visit. Guided tours are also available free of charge. To contact the museum and make arrangements prior to your arrival, email them at ga-bor.accessibilita@beniculturali.it.

11. Day trip to Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast

If your itinerary doesn’t include a stop in Naples, but you’d still like to see some of its historic sites, like Pompeii, then take an accessible tour as a day trip from Rome. Accessible tour companies will make all the arrangements, pick you up from your hotel and conduct an excellent tour.

Is Pompeii Wheelchair Accessible?

While a trip to Pompeii may present some challenges, there is an accessible entrance and pathway through the ruins that will allow you to see many of the highlights. Having a guide that can assist you, explain the significance of what you’re seeing and possibly even provide a wheelchair better suited to the terrain will be invaluable.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit here and combined it with a drive down the Amalfi Coast (which is gorgeous by the way). Visiting Pompeii with Mt Vesuvius looming in the background gives you an idea of what the people of that town experienced. The ruins are well intact for what they went through, and, in some buildings, you can still see the ancient frescos on the walls.

A day trip is a great option if you’d like to unpack once and stay in one place while still exploring other nearby sights.

A white, blonde haired woman is standing in front of a stone column and a red fresco piece of art in Pompeii

A large cobblestoned road is in between ancient ruins in Pompeii

Wheelchair Accessible Tours in Rome

Wheelchair accessible tours can be a fantastic way to see the city of Rome in a short amount of time. They can also help alleviate any stress or worries you have about navigating the city with mobility problems. Below are some companies that provide accessible guided tours in Italy.

Disabled Accessible Travel

Offering accessible shore excursions and guided tours throughout Europe, this company can help provide a variety of accessible tours in Rome as well as other Italian towns. They even have an emergency number to use in the rare event you need any assistance during your trip.

Rome and Italy Accessible Travel

Specializing in accessible Italian travel, this company can take care of all your accessible travel needs when visiting Rome and Italy in general. You will love their selection of tours and the availability of using specialized wheelchairs to make some of the most challenging terrain more accessible.

When Should You Visit

Many people choose to visit Rome during the summer; however, a more affordable and less crowded option is to visit during the shoulder seasons. The spring and fall months of May, June, September, October and even November are fantastic times to travel to Rome. The weather is pleasant, and the crowds have thinned out.

Pro Tip: Do not plan to visit during August, which is one of the hottest months and when many locals go on their own vacations, meaning shops and services could be closed or unavailable.

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What’s the Weather Like in Rome?

Spring (March-May)

The weather in spring is very pleasant with highs ranging from the low sixties to the mid-seventies. Average rainfall is 7 or 8 days out of the month.

Summer (June-August)

Temperatures range from low to mid-eighties with very little rain during this season. This will be the most expensive and crowded time to visit.

Fall (September-November)

Temperatures begin to cool off in the fall but are still very pleasant in the months of September and October. Highs range from the low eighties to low sixties. There is more rain than in the summer, but still averages about 9 days out of the month.

Winter (December-February)

Winter is the coolest time but also the least crowded. Temperatures remain fairly mild and range from the mid to upper fifties.

How to Get Here

The easiest and most popular way to get to Rome is to fly to Rome Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport. Alternatively, you could also choose to visit by cruise ship. Just be aware that if you are planning to cruise to Rome, the port is about an hour away from the city.

Should I Visit Rome on a Cruise?

If the only chance you have to visit the ancient city of Rome is on a cruise, by all means take it. However, just be aware that visiting Rome during a European cruise will have its limitations. For example, the port is about an hour away from the city and you will have very limited time to see all the wheelchair accessible sites that Rome has to offer.

Cruising to Rome is a great option, however, if you are worried about finding wheelchair accessible places to stay or accessible restaurants. Cruising will also allow you to potentially combine other accessible Italian cities or towns such as Florence, Naples, and Venice.

Pro Tip: When looking for accessible shore excursions, you can use any of the accessible tour providers mentioned earlier in this post.

Where to Stay in Rome as a Wheelchair User

To make getting around the city easier, make sure to choose a hotel that is centrally located. Popular areas to stay are near Campo de Fiori, and the Vatican.

Hotel Indigo Rome – St. George, an IHG Hotel

This hotel has a queen bedroom with a roll-in shower and is just steps away from Piazza Navona and just under a mile away from the Vatican. It has an onsite restaurant and free Wi-Fi.

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Aleph Rome Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located near the Spanish Steps, this hotel would also make for an excellent option. The bathroom has a folding grab bar near the toilet and a large roll-in shower. You will need to bring your own shower chair however, as there is not a built-in bench available. Free Wi-Fi, a daily breakfast buffet and parking are available. The hotel is also pet friendly.