Bonjour! In this special guide, Elite Travelosopher Harry Wales visits Paris to discover just how accessible and wheelchair-friendly a destination it is and share with you his experiences and tips for a memorable and enjoyable visit for all.

Paris, often called the “City of Love” or the “City of Lights,” is a dream destination for many travellers. But what if you’re a wheelchair user? Can you experience the charm and beauty of Paris in a day trip? The answer is a resounding yes! Paris has made great strides in improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities, making it an inviting destination for all.

In this guide, I will take you on a journey through Paris, highlighting accessible attractions and practical tips to make your day trip an unforgettable experience.

Pre-Trip Planning

Before you embark on your day trip to Paris, a little planning can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Transportation

Start by researching accessible transportation options. Paris has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trams with low-floor entry and wheelchair ramps. The metro also has accessible stations, but not all are equipped, so plan your route accordingly.

Eurostar

Assisted travel on the Eurostar system is fantastic from Pre-Boarding support from the station assistance team to onboard the train – being in your own area to having access to a dedicated on-board train manager for even more direct support. You will also have in-seat power points for charging your mobility device.

Attractions

Make a list of the attractions you want to visit. Many of Paris’s iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, have made substantial efforts to improve accessibility.

Accommodation

If you plan to stay overnight, choose an accessible hotel or accommodation. Many hotels in Paris offer accessible rooms and facilities, so be sure to book in advance.

Exploring Paris

Now, let’s dive into your day trip itinerary.

Eiffel Tower

Start your day at the iconic Eiffel Tower. The tower has ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. You can enjoy breath-taking views of the city from the second level, which is wheelchair accessible. Be sure to book your tickets online to avoid long lines and arrive in plenty of time as it can be difficult to get towards the base of the tower at busy times. People just seem to stop dead in front of you and take photos.

Seine River Cruise

Take a relaxing cruise on the Seine River. Many boat operators offer accessible cruises with ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms, allowing you to admire Paris’s landmarks from a unique perspective.

Louvre Museum

The highlight of my trip and the reason I wanted to go – the world-renowned Louvre Museum, home to thousands of artworks, including the famous Mona Lisa. The museum is equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchair users can explore many of its galleries and exhibitions. A lot of planning needs to go into the route you will take as you do need to double back on yourself on many occasions as not all the routes are accessible.

I highly recommend paying the extra €5 to hire the audio system. It runs off a Nintendo DS so tracks your movement around the museum.

Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many accessible restaurants in the city. Parisian cuisine is renowned worldwide, so don’t miss the chance to savour some delicious French dishes.  Not all restaurants have wheelchair access. If you are happy to sit outside at one of the many terraces, the staff are only to happy to help.

Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe

Roll down the famous Champs-Élysées avenue and reach the majestic Arc de Triomphe. The avenue is wheelchair-friendly and you can admire this iconic monument from the outside. Again, plan in advance with a good “Google Street View” of the route you plan to take noting the drop down curbs and crossings.

Street Toilets

Fully wheelchair accessible and free to access – however there is a 15/20-minute wait in-between guests as they are self-cleaning.

Drop-Down Curbs

Sometimes hit and miss as you get off the main tourist roads and side streets.

Cobbled Streets

As you get off the main tourist streets and into the older part of Paris the screens and uneven and sometimes have large cobbles to negotiate.

Harry’s Final Thoughts

Paris, with its rich history and cultural significance, has become increasingly accessible for wheelchair users. While there may still be some challenges, a well-planned day trip can provide an unforgettable experience. Be sure to check the accessibility details of each attraction and transportation option before your visit.

With the right preparation, you can immerse yourself in the beauty and magic of the French capital, even if it’s just for a day. Paris welcomes all travellers with open arms, and it’s time for you to experience its charm first-hand.

Yours,

Harry Wales

Travelosophers by Harry Wales