All the information you need if you want to travel to Paris in a wheelchair
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- France
- Culture and art
Information and advice for travelling to Paris in a wheelchair: accessible attractions, transport and recommendations for people with reduced mobility.
If you decide to travel to Paris in a wheelchair, you'll be pleased to know that the city has worked very hard to be an accessible destination. Certainly, the 2024 Paralympic Games held in Paris have helped, and a great deal, to make this city a more accessible place.
So, despite its historic architecture and cobbled streets, Paris has adapted many of its most iconic attractions to welcome visitors with reduced mobility. With the right planning, then, your trip to Paris in a wheelchair can be an unforgettable experience.
Accessible tourist attractions in Paris
The Louvre
The Louvre is one of the most accessible museums in Paris. It offers free, priority admission for people with disabilities and their companions. It also has lifts, ramps and wheelchairs available to hire at no cost.
Its facilities, moreover, let you enjoy its iconic works of art, such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is accessible up to the second level by lift. From the first level, with its glass floor, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Paris. Although the third level isn't adapted, the second level of the Eiffel Tower still offers an incredible experience.
In addition, visitors with disabilities or wheelchair users also enjoy reduced rates.
Musée d'Orsay
The Musée d'Orsay has ramps and lifts that let you explore its galleries devoted to Impressionist art. The guided tours and multimedia guides are also adapted.
Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité
Notre-Dame Cathedral reopened in December 2024 and the restoration has been used to incorporate accessibility features that will make visiting easier. In the meantime, the Île de la Cité has ramps connecting its points of interest.
Other accessible monuments and museums
- Grand Palais and Palais de Tokyo: Both have adapted entrances and lifts.
- Arc de Triomphe: Accessible by lift, with prior notice to the staff.
- Musée de l'Orangerie: Adapted with ramps and access to all the galleries.
- Palace of Versailles: The palace is accessible, although the gardens present some difficulties.
- Sainte-Chapelle: The ground floor is accessible and offers spectacular views of its stained-glass windows.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Access by lift from the rear.
- Moulin Rouge: Adapted seating.
- Place de la Concorde: Accessible paths for a comfortable experience.
Disneyland Paris
Finally, Disneyland Paris has been designed to be inclusive, with attractions adapted for people with reduced mobility. By the way, you can request an Easy Access Card, which lets you avoid the queues, and the staff are always willing to offer assistance.
In addition, some hotels within the resort also have accessible rooms as well as accessible transport.
It was my first trip by plane, and I chose the City of Light, Paris, as my destination. And it didn't disappoint. It was an incredible week, from the outward journey, in Seville, to the return.
Paris is a more welcoming city than some of us might think. I need to go back, because a week isn't enough time for everything.
A thousand thanks to Travel Xperience for choosing the accessible hotel, where the service was second to none, for the arrangements with the airline so that I could travel with my wheelchair without worry, and in general for all the follow-up and organisation of the trip.Read more testimonials from our travellers on our website
Accessible transport in Paris
Buses
Buses in Paris are fitted with electric ramps and low floors, making wheelchair access easier.
Metro and RER
Although the Paris metro isn't fully accessible, line 14 has lifts at every station. By the way, the RER network is another excellent option, as almost all its stations have adapted access.
Trams
Certainly, Paris trams are one of the best accessible transport options, with level boarding and spaces reserved for wheelchairs. Lines T1, T2, T3a and T3b are particularly recommended.
Wheelchair-accessible taxis
Although it isn't a service with many vehicles, there are some companies that offer adapted vehicles with ramps and drivers trained to help you get around the city comfortably. That said, you need to plan it and book in advance, as availability is limited.
Accessible airports in Paris
Both Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) have lifts, accessible toilets and assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility. The RER B connects these airports with the centre of Paris and has adapted carriages to make your journey easier.
On our blog you can find more information on how to fly if you use a wheelchair.
General recommendations for travellers with reduced mobility
Planning ahead
Research and book accessible attractions and services in advance to avoid surprises. By the way, some monuments and museums, such as the Palace of Versailles, require prior notice to organise suitable access.
Areas to avoid
Bear in mind that in areas such as Montmartre and Pigalle it can be difficult to get around on wheels because of their cobbled streets and steep slopes. So we recommend avoiding these areas without the help of a companion or a powered mobility device. Another option is to get there by public transport or by taxi.
Parks and public spaces
Parks such as the Bois de Boulogne and the Luxembourg Gardens are accessible and perfect for a relaxing stroll, with adapted paths and rest areas.
Travel Xperience's adapted services in Paris
At Travel Xperience we offer services to plan a trip to Paris in a wheelchair and so that you can enjoy your experience in the City of Light.
Among other things, we take care of arranging your flights with the corresponding special assistance for you and your mobility equipment.
We also organise accessible transfers according to your needs, so that you travel comfortably from the airport to your accommodation. Speaking of accommodation, we'll make sure to book the accessible room you need so that you have a comfortable stay and can enjoy your trip.
We also coordinate private accessible tours and guided visits of the city. And if you need any additional mobility equipment, such as mobility scooters, hoists or commode chairs, we take care of hiring it for you.
In addition, we offer travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions, as well as detailed information on the accessibility of the places you'll visit.
Our 24/7 phone support is always available throughout your trip, to resolve any incident or answer your questions.
In short, we put all the adapted services you need at your disposal for a trouble-free trip.
Conclusion
Finally, with all this information at your fingertips, your trip to Paris if you're a wheelchair user or have mobility difficulties will have the adaptations the city offers. And with our help and good planning, you'll be able to explore the places in Paris that interest you.
We hope you enjoy your adventure in the City of Light! And if you need us, we'll be right here!
Frequently asked questions about travelling to Paris in a wheelchair
What are the best accessible routes for visiting monuments in Paris?
The best accessible routes in Paris include visits to the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral. These places have adaptations for people with reduced mobility and signposted routes to make access easier. There are also recommended accessible itineraries so that you can design your own accessible visit to Paris.
How can I get around in a wheelchair on public transport in Paris?
In Paris, by the way, some metro lines aren't accessible, but the bus and tram network has adaptations. In addition, the main RER train stations have lifts and wheelchair access. Before your trip, confirm which transport services you'll need, so that you can plan your visit.
What accessible tour options are there for people with reduced mobility in Paris?
In this city, there are several accessible tours that include guided visits in adapted vehicles and personalised routes through the historic centre, museums and other points of interest.
Thanks to the 2024 Paralympic Games, held in the city, enormous progress has been made in making all kinds of tourist services accessible.
How can I plan an accessible visit to the Louvre in a wheelchair?
The Louvre offers accessible tickets and routes for people who use a wheelchair. There are lifts, ramps and wheelchairs available free of charge. In addition, some rooms have priority access for visitors with disabilities.
What should I bear in mind when exploring the historic districts of Paris in a wheelchair?
When exploring historic districts such as Le Marais or Montmartre, it's important to bear in mind that some streets have cobbles and steep slopes. However, there are alternative routes and easier access points for enjoying the charm of these districts. You can also use public transport to get around and avoid the trickiest streets.
How can I get on a Seine cruise if I use a wheelchair?
Some cruises on the Seine are adapted for people with reduced mobility. The boats usually have access ramps and areas reserved for wheelchairs, so you can enjoy a comfortable trip along the river. Bear in mind that the only pier on the Seine that is accessible for people who use a wheelchair is the one close to the Eiffel Tower.
What should I do if I need medical assistance while in Paris in a wheelchair?
If you need medical assistance, Paris has hospitals and clinics that are accessible for people who use a wheelchair. There are also emergency services prepared to attend to people with reduced mobility in any situation.
If you've booked your trip with Travel Xperience, remember that you can call our 24/7 phone support and we'll help you with whatever you need.
What facilities does the Eiffel Tower offer for visitors in wheelchairs?
The Eiffel Tower has adapted access, with lifts that allow visitors in wheelchairs to reach the second floor. There are also accessible toilets at the base and on the platforms. Also bear in mind that, if you are a person with a disability, you can go in without queuing. Ask at the ticket office.
Are there wheelchair-accessible taxis available in Paris, and how do you book them?
Yes, Paris has wheelchair-accessible taxis equipped to carry wheelchairs. They can be booked through mobile apps, by phone or directly from the airport, where there are specific taxis for people with reduced mobility.
In any case, get advice beforehand and make sure you have the service you need booked and confirmed before your trip. Wheelchair-accessible taxis in Paris are scarce and in high demand.
What services does Travel Xperience offer for wheelchair users visiting Paris?
At Travel Xperience we offer personalised services for travellers who use a wheelchair, including planning accessible routes, booking accessible hotels, assistance with accessible transport, and organising guided tours of Paris.
We prepare the trip according to our clients' mobility needs.
Last but most important, we provide a 24-hour phone line so that you can turn to us with any incident, question or query.
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