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Europe’s ancient cobbled cities are not necessarily renowned for accessibility, but if you know where to look, Paris has reliably accessible places to visit. The bus system is fully accessible, with frequent services to most areas in the city. Many of the major activities or venues in the city have elevators, ramps, and staff more than willing to help. Plus, most of the museums and cultural activities in the city are available for free or at a heavily discounted rate for people with disabilities and their caregivers.
The biggest challenge for travelers with disabilities visiting Paris tends to be with accommodation and restaurants. Although some places will have accessible rooms or entryways, the care doesn’t always extend beyond that to bathrooms or public areas. Below, we’ve rounded up a list of the best accessible addresses in Paris, to ensure you have a safe trip.
The best accessible restaurants and bars in Paris
Le Reflet
The quaint Parisian establishment Le Reflet has a curated, unique menu that’s affordably priced. Natural decor, locally sourced produce, and comforting dishes like moussaka and fresh basil pesto pasta make Le Reflet feel like a warm hug. The staff here are equally welcoming, and accessibility is built into the restaurant’s ethos—half of the staff are individuals with Down Syndrome, so the restaurant walks its talk and is a leader in providing opportunities to individuals with differing needs.
Quelque Part
Chef Florian Barabot’s Michelin-starred Quelque Part is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Paris has a lot of excellent award-winning restaurants, but this one stands outnot only for the fact that every aspect of the seafood-centric menu is so thoughtfully presented and delicious tasting, but also because of it’s dedication to accessibility. The restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible, and staff are well equipped to help Disabled travelers with extra requests or requirements. You won’t be disappointed by either the service or the culinary artistry on display here—this experience is truly a delight for all the senses.
Le Sof’s Bar
Located on a quiet street in the city’s2nd arrondissement, Le Sof's Bar is a firm favorite with locals. If you’re looking for a great way to round off a day spent traversing Paris, this is the place to go for a refreshing drink with a chatty, lively group of patrons. This little spot has step-free access and the staff will be more than willing to help you maneuver around tight spaces by moving chairs and stools. It’s a friendly hole in the wall that’s well worth visiting.
Café Signes
This quaint Parisian café is a great place to stop for a quick drink to spend a little downtime with fellow travelers. They’ve got a variety of beverages on offer, from teas, beers, coffee and lemonade, so there’s something for everyone. Located in the 14th arrondissement, it’s a wonderful stop if you’re visiting the catacombs or Montparnasse cemetery. All the staff at Café Signes are fluent in sign language, so for people with auditory needs, this café is a must-visit. The café itself has step-free access, and there’s a lovely seating area for those who wish to eat outside.
Bar 8
If you’re looking for a classier affair for a drink, head to Bar 8 at the Mandarin Oriental. It’s got a reliably delicious craft cocktail menu that is frequently updated in keeping with the seasons, so if you’re a regular Paris visitor, there’s always something new to keep cocktail hour exciting. Large windows flood the space with lots of natural light during the day, and the walls are inlaid with Lalique crystals which gives the bar an opulent, starry vibe at night. The bar is fully wheelchair accessible and staff are happy to cater to any accessibility requests.
The best accessible hotels in Paris
Four Seasons Hotel George V
The rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel George V have that dreamy, romantic Parisian feel, with rich linens and bay windows for guests to sit and soak up the beautiful views. Close by many of the city’s major attractions, it’s an unbeatable location and has unparalleled guest service. There are multiple accessible rooms to choose from, some of which have an Eiffel Tower view. Rooms are large for wheelchair users, there are continuous hand rails throughout the space, pictogram signs, adapted keypad lifts, and no obstacles at eye level.
Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs-Elysées
If you want to stay in an authentic Parisian building with traditional stonework, floor-to-ceiling windows, and beautiful balconies for cityscape views, then Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs-Elysées is a great option. It’s also near several major attractions and well-connected to transit lines. These furnished apartments in the centre of Paris have executive and one-bedroom suites that are wheelchair-friendly. They also have additional family-friendly items available, like welcome kits and curated family activities.
Pullman Tour Eiffel
The Pullman Tour Eiffel has large, fully accessible rooms that are wheelchair friendly. Some of the hotel’s accessible rooms even have uninterrupted views of the Eiffel Tower – an amenity that’s not available in accessible rooms of many hotels. There aren’t as many touristy things to do in the 15th arrondissement, so the hotel has less ambient street noise at night than in more popular districts, which might better suit travelers who struggle with overwhelm or overstimulation. Contact the hotel in advance to request an Eiffel Tower room if you’d like one, or if flashing lights are triggering for your medical condition, let them know.
The best accessible things to do in Paris
The Louvre Museum
At the world’s most visited museum, you’ll be able to see treasures from around the world, from 18th-century artwork to French masterpieces by the likes of Poussin, Ingres, Delacroix, and, of course, Da Vinci. Visitors with accessibility needs can skip the line at the Mona Lisa, the most hallowed piece in the museum, so you can get close enough for an unobstructed view without having to jostle for space. Disabled visitors can source accessibility maps for the museum, alongside free mobility aids to use around the space (including seated walkers and manual wheelchairs). Pre-book your tickets online because the museum is often sold out, even in off-peak times.
Musée D’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is another great accessible gallery option for Disabled travelers. Elevator access can be a bit of a challenge, as non-disabled people often use them, but walkers and manual wheelchairs are available for rent. Be aware that the slants on the bottom floor of the sculpture gallery can be difficult to navigate, but museum staff are more than willing to help and push you if needed. The rest of the museum is fairly flat and easy to get around.
Cité de L’Architecture et du Patrimoine
Here, travelers can catch a glimpse of France’s most amazing architecture without stepping foot outside of Paris. This museum has casts of all the major architectural wonders from around the country, all compiled in one place. The thoughtfully curated temporary exhibitions are some of the best in Paris—and, as an added bonus, the museum is fully accessible, with elevators and accessible washrooms.
Musée de L’Orangerie
A must for any first-time visitor to Paris, Monet’s iconic waterlily paintings can be found in Musée de L’Orangerie. The lift at this museum is tiny, but it’s hidden so that mainly visitors with accessibility needs will be using it. Ask at the front desk to let the staff know that you have mobility needs, and they will assist you. For visitors who need sign language tours, the museum can provide this—just make sure you book in advance.
Jardin du Luxembourg
The beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg is wheelchair accessible and has plenty of places to sit and soak up the sights for those with mobility issues. It’s one of Paris’ best outdoor activities, with 50 acres of gardens, sculptures, orchards, and fountains to admire.
Opéra Garnier
The former Parisian opera house is an incredible place to witness the glory of 19th-century architecture. With gilded interiors and awe-inspiring design, guests can book to explore inside and learn about the building’s history. It’s fully accessible with wheelchair-accessible restrooms on each floor, and there are also visio-guides available with overlay in French sign language and audio guides with volume control.
A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
