Written by Carrie-Ann Lightly, Updated 2020 for carrieannlightly.com
Barcelona’s wheelchair access is so good that some people say it’s the most accessible city in Europe. I often recommend a city break in Barcelona to first-time disabled travellers as it’s so easy to find wheelchair accessible Barcelona tourist information, Barcelona hotels with wheelchair access, and things to do in Barcelona with disabled access.
My accessible travel guide to Barcelona, with a focus on wheelchair users, covers accessibility in accommodation, attractions and restaurants to help you plan your wheelchair accessible holiday to Barcelona.
Getting Around Barcelona In A Wheelchair
Barcelona City Sightseeing Bus Tours are widely available, and wheelchair accessible. Concessions are offered to disabled travellers, although this seems to be at the discretion of the tour guide. Barcelona’s tram network has low-floor access from the platforms and ramps to the doors, as well as areas reserved for wheelchair users.
Barcelona tours for disabled visitors are available, as well as wheelchair hire in Barcelona.
Wheelchair Access at Barcelona Attractions
Disabled Access for Wheelchair Users at Barceloneta Beach
One of the most wonderful things about Barcelona is the proximity between the beaches and the city. Barceloneta beach has wheelchair ramps down to the beach, and a wide, smooth concrete walkway. There’s also a wooden walkway to the water’s edge, wheelchair accessible changing rooms and toilets, and preferential zones for disabled bathers. This means all you have to do is relax and enjoy the sunshine!
From June to September there is an assisted bathing service, including a hoist, amphibious wheelchairs, water crutches, and manual wheelchairs. For drinks and tapas, I’d suggest restaurants one or two streets back from the beach, as you will pay a premium for a beach view.
