Disabled Holidays in Greece

Greece is a beautiful country to visit, but when it comes to accessible travel for wheelchair users, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. While major cities, tourist attractions, and some islands have made strides in improving accessibility, the terrain in many parts of Greece (especially on the islands) can be challenging for people with mobility impairments. That said, there are various destinations, services, and tips that can make a Greek holiday more enjoyable for wheelchair users.

Accessible Destinations in Greece for Wheelchair Users

• Athens

  • Accessibility: Athens is relatively accessible, especially around major tourist attractions. Many parts of the city center, including Syntagma Square and Monastiraki, are pedestrianized with smooth, even surfaces.
  • Attractions:
    • Acropolis Museum: Fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts.
    • Parthenon: While the Acropolis itself has some challenges with steep paths, the Acropolis Museum is very accessible.
    • National Garden of Athens: Offers wheelchair-friendly paths.
  • Public Transport: Athens has an accessible metro system, including stations with lifts and ramps. Buses and trams are also largely accessible.

• Thessaloniki

  • Accessibility: Thessaloniki has been making efforts to improve accessibility, especially in its city center. The White Tower, Aristotelous Square, and waterfront areas are mostly accessible.
  • Attractions:
    • Museum of Byzantine Culture: Wheelchair accessible.
    • Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki: Has accessible paths and lifts.
  • Public Transport: Thessaloniki’s metro and bus systems have accessible options, and there are taxis with lifts available for those needing extra assistance.

• Crete

  • Accessibility: Larger cities like Heraklion and Chania are relatively accessible, but many of the island's more rural or coastal areas may not be as easy to navigate.
  • Attractions:
    • Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Accessible with ramps and lifts.
    • Knossos Palace: While the archaeological site is ancient and not fully accessible, there is a wheelchair-friendly visitor center, and parts of the site can be accessed via a designated route.
    • Rethymnon Old Town: Some areas are accessible, but cobblestone streets can be tricky.
  • Beaches: Some beaches in Crete, like Agia Marina and Elounda, offer special beach chairs for wheelchair users, and there are also ramps for easier access to the water.

• Santorini

  • Accessibility: Santorini, known for its stunning views and cliffside villages, poses some challenges due to its steep terrain and steps. However, there are some accessible areas and services.
  • Attractions:
    • Akrotiri Archaeological Site: This site is relatively accessible with some ramps and flat paths.
    • Caldera Views: Accessible viewpoints in Fira and Oia can be reached by cable car, which is suitable for wheelchair users, though there may be a wait during peak season.
  • Beaches: There are some accessible beaches like Kamari (with beach chairs and shaded areas for wheelchair users).

• Rhodes

  • Accessibility: Rhodes has made significant efforts in improving accessibility, especially in its historical city center.
  • Attractions:
    • Medieval City of Rhodes: The newer parts of the city are wheelchair accessible, and some historical sites offer access with ramps.
    • Acropolis of Lindos: Not entirely wheelchair accessible, but some parts of the site have ramps.
    • Beach Accessibility: Several beaches in Rhodes have wheelchair-friendly paths, including Elli Beach and Faliraki Beach.

Accessible Beaches in Greece

Some Greek beaches have made strides to improve access for wheelchair users by providing special beach chairs and pathways leading down to the water.

• Mykonos: The beaches of Agios Stefanos and Ornos are wheelchair accessible with beach chairs and shaded areas.
• Kos: Tigaki Beach and Lambi Beach have accessible beach mats and special chairs.
• Corfu: Kontokali and Gouvia beaches are known for their accessibility.
• Zakynthos: Argassi Beach and Dionysios Beach have wheelchair access.

Transportation for Wheelchair Users

• Taxis: In many cities, taxis with wheelchair access are available, although they may need to be booked in advance.
• Public Transport: In Athens, the metro, buses, and trams are largely accessible, with many stops and stations equipped with ramps and lifts. However, in smaller towns and islands, public transport may not be as reliable in terms of accessibility.
• Ferries: Some ferry routes are equipped with ramps and accessible cabins, but these vary by operator. It’s recommended to inquire ahead when planning inter-island travel.

While Greece can pose challenges for wheelchair users, it also offers a range of accessible options for those who plan ahead. By choosing the right destinations and accommodations, it’s possible to enjoy the beauty and culture of Greece comfortably and safely.