Accessible hotel checklist: questions to ask before you book
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Why ask directly
Accessibility labels on booking sites can be broad. Contact the property and ask specific questions, then keep the answers in writing.
Getting in
Is there step-free access from the street to reception and the lift? Are there ramps, and how steep are they? Is parking or drop-off close to the entrance?
Inside the building
How wide are the lift and room doors? Are corridors level? Can you be guaranteed an accessible room rather than requesting one?
The bathroom
Is there a roll-in shower or a bath? Are there grab bars and a shower seat? What is the height of the toilet and bed?
Other needs
Ask about visual alarms, hearing loops, allergy-friendly rooms or service-animal policies as needed.
Confirm
Request photos of the room and bathroom if possible, and reconfirm a few days before arrival.
Before booking
Contact the hotel directly to confirm accessibility features, as online descriptions can be vague. Ask for photos or measurements of doors, bathrooms and the route from the entrance.
Room features
Check for step-free access, door widths, roll-in showers, grab bars, bed height and space to manoeuvre.
Public areas
Confirm access to the entrance, reception, lifts, breakfast area and any facilities you plan to use.
Location
Consider the route from public transport and the terrain of the surrounding area, such as hills or cobbles.
Other needs
Travellers with hearing or visual impairments can ask about visual alarms, vibrating alerts or accessible information.
Questions to send the hotel
A short, specific message usually gets the clearest answer. For example: Is there step-free access from the street to reception and to the room? What is the clear width of the room and bathroom doors? Is the shower level with the floor, and is there a fold-down seat? How high is the bed? Is there space beside the bed for a wheelchair or mobility aid? Is the lift large enough for a wheelchair, and does it reach all floors? Keep the reply in writing so you can refer to it at check-in.
Getting around the city
Accessibility of public transport varies widely between European cities and even between lines. Many metro systems publish maps showing step-free stations, and some cities offer accessible taxis that can be booked in advance. Old towns with cobbled streets and steep hills can be challenging, so choosing a hotel close to accessible transport often matters as much as the room itself. Official tourism websites frequently have dedicated accessibility pages.
Travelling with equipment
If you need to hire equipment such as a shower chair, hoist or mobility scooter, some local suppliers deliver to hotels. Ask the hotel whether they can receive deliveries and store equipment, and whether there are charging points for powered wheelchairs or scooters.
FAQ
Are accessible rooms guaranteed when booked?
Not always. Confirm directly with the hotel.
Do historic buildings have lifts?
Not always. Check carefully.
Can I request an accessible room on arrival?
It is safer to request it when booking.
Are accessible rooms more expensive?
Usually not, but availability can be limited.
What does 'accessible room' usually mean?
There is no single European standard. It often means step-free access and an adapted bathroom, but features vary, so always ask for specifics.
Can I bring an assistance dog to a hotel?
Assistance dogs are widely accepted, and many countries protect access by law. Inform the hotel in advance.