On holiday: European escapes

Summer has almost arrived, which means it’s nearly holiday time. The perfect summer vacation doesn’t have to break the bank, we look at some of Europe’s most exciting, accessible and affordable destinations.

Credit @TurismoMilano on Twitter

We all deserve some time to relax, de-stress and have fun, a summer break is the perfect opportunity.

Organising a summer holiday that suits your needs shouldn’t leave you worrying about everyday obstacles. We’re jetting off around Europe dropping you off in France, Italy, Germany and more accessible destinations along the way.

LYON

In recent years France has made accessibility and equality a key focus in its local development plan. With Roman ruins, plenty of parks and the finest French cuisine, the country’s third largest city, Lyon, is not to be missed.

Before you start exploring head to the main tourist office for helpful information. The office is accessible, has a hearing loop, specialist advisors and can provide high-contrast maps for visually impaired visitors.

Credit @OnlyLyonTourism on Twitter

The Museum Miniature and Cinema is an essential stop to see some of the world’s oldest film props. The cinematograph – the first ever film projector – was invented in Lyon in the 1890s, making the city the perfect destination for film buffs.

Gaining the title of one of Europe’s best smart cities, in 2017 smart signage was installed on the streets. With the ability to communicate directly with visitors through a mobile app, the digital signs display directions, travel advice and the distance to the closest landmarks.

SALZBURG

Austria’s disability friendly city is the perfect destination to catch some summer sun, temperatures reach 25 degrees celsius throughout July and August. Spend the sunny mornings eating at one of the city’s charming cafes in the Getreidegasse, the heart of Salzburg’s Old City.

Mirabell and Hellbrunn palaces, along with Salzburg Zoo, make perfect spots to explore and discover more about Austria’s rich history.

After you have toured the palace gardens, take a trip to Mozart’s birthplace. Today the place where Mozart was born in 1756 is one of the most visited museums in the country.

Don’t get on the plane home without tasting some local apple strudel and wiener schnitzel: a piece of veal coated in breadcrumbs and fried. It is written into Austrian law that it must be made of veal or it can’t use the name.

The local residents create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. If you have questions about visiting the city you can contact the Salzburg Office for People with Disabilities for advice and information before your visit.

MILAN

If the local cuisine isn’t enough to attract you to Milan, the city’s dedication to making products and services accessible for all will. Since being awarded the Access City Award by the European Commission in 2016, Milan has adapted policy to make spaces inclusive for everyone.

The city has a rich heritage with plenty of historical buildings to explore, including the famous cathedral. Where older buildings are not accessible or cannot be adapted, separate entrances have been created to make the attractions accessible to all.

Credit @TurismoMilano on Twitter

Known as an architecture, fashion and business city, Milan has something to interest everyone with friendly locals willing to lend a helping hand wherever you go.

Milan’s public transport makes travel both accessible and affordable with discounted fares on the metro, bus and train network. Local museums and tourist attractions offer various levels of accessibility, outlined in the Where Milan accessible guide.

Germany

Germany has long been known as one of Europe’s most accessible countries. Many of its cities have become finalists for the European Access City of the Year award with Berlin winning the title in 2013.

The country is dedicated to creating equal access through resources like BarrierFree Germany, the tourist board’s guide to accessible tourism.

BERLIN

From bratwursts to the Brandenburg Gate and bears at the zoo, Berlin is bursting with culture and history. The urban city provides endless excitement with 170 museums and galleries, countless street food vendors, and a population of over three million.

Credit @BerlinTourism on Twitter

The welcoming atmosphere extends further than the usual tourist spots. The city’s great train network allows you to see all of the best sites with ease. If you need assistance or advice, simply call the Deutsche Bahn’s dedicated train mobility hotline.

Have a completely stress-free trip by using the accessBerlin app, which finds the best routes through the city for you and provides information on accessible tours of key tourist spots.

MUNICH

Southern Germany is becoming a favourite for disabled travellers and Munich is no exception. The city’s architecture and green surroundings will have any worries slipping away.

Located in the state of Bavaria, Munich shows a different side of Germany’s heritage and culture. Head to the centrally located art district to learn about the influence of Kings and dynasties, with many museums offering tours in sign language.

Don’t leave without trying the region’s wheat beer or heading to the entrance of the English Garden where you can watch surfers on the river. The green space is the largest inner-city park in the world, and is mainly flat and level making it the perfect place for a stroll in the summer sun.

Where are you jetting off to this summer? Let us know on Twitter and Instagram.

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