Sweden is a stunning country known for its natural beauty, modern cities, and progressive values, including accessibility. With a commitment to inclusive design, Sweden offers a range of accessible attractions, accommodations, and transportation options. Here’s a guide with tips for wheelchair travelers visiting Sweden.
Top Attractions
1. Stockholm
- Vasa Museum: A maritime museum housing the Vasa ship, a 17th-century warship that sank on its maiden voyage and was salvaged in the 20th century. The museum features smooth, accessible pathways and elevators to all exhibition areas. Accessible restrooms are located throughout the museum. Wheelchair rentals are available at the museum entrance.
- Skansen Open-Air Museum: The world’s oldest open-air museum, showcasing Swedish history and traditional buildings. Paved paths and accessible ramps are available in the main areas. Some historic buildings may have uneven surfaces. Accessible restrooms are located at key points in the museum. Accessible trams within the museum grounds can help navigate the park.
- ABBA The Museum: A museum dedicated to the iconic Swedish pop group ABBA, featuring memorabilia and interactive exhibits. Smooth, accessible pathways and elevators. Accessible restrooms are available on-site. The museum provides accessible interactive exhibits and wheelchair rentals.
2. Gothenburg
- Universeum: A science center and aquarium featuring interactive exhibits and educational displays. The center has smooth, accessible pathways and elevators to all areas. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the facility. The center offers accessible exhibits and guided tours for wheelchair users.
- Liseberg Amusement Park: A popular amusement park with rides, games, and entertainment. Accessible pathways and ramps are provided throughout the park. Many rides are wheelchair-friendly. Accessible restrooms are available in the park. Accessible ride options and services are available.
3. Malmö
- Turning Torso: The tallest building in Sweden, known for its distinctive twisted design. The surrounding area is accessible, but the building itself does not offer public tours due to its office use. Accessible restrooms are available in nearby public facilities. The observation area and surrounding park are wheelchair accessible.
- Malmö Museum: A museum featuring exhibits on natural history, cultural history, and art. Smooth, accessible pathways and elevators to all floors. Accessible restrooms are located within the museum. Wheelchair rentals are available at the museum entrance.
4. Uppsala
- Uppsala Cathedral: A grand Gothic cathedral and one of the largest in Sweden, known for its historical significance. Accessible pathways are available around the cathedral, with smooth surfaces inside. Accessible restrooms are available nearby. The cathedral offers guided tours that can accommodate wheelchair users.
- Botanical Garden: A botanical garden featuring a diverse collection of plants and scenic landscapes. Accessible paths and ramps throughout the garden. Accessible restrooms are available on-site. The garden offers accessible viewing areas and seating.
Accommodations
1. Stockholm
- Hotel Rival: A stylish boutique hotel located in Södermalm with modern amenities and a central location. Accessible pathways and elevators throughout the hotel. Accessible restrooms available in rooms and public areas. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars.
- Scandic Continental: A contemporary hotel offering comfortable accommodations and convenient access to central Stockholm. Smooth, accessible pathways and elevators. Accessible restrooms in rooms and common areas. The hotel provides accessible rooms with roll-in showers.
2. Gothenburg
- Hotel Pigalle: A boutique hotel in central Gothenburg known for its elegant design and high-quality service. Accessible pathways, elevators, and ramps. Accessible restrooms available in rooms and public areas. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and other facilities.
- Scandic Opalen: A modern hotel with easy access to Gothenburg’s attractions and public transport. Accessible pathways and elevators. Accessible restrooms in rooms and common areas. The hotel offers accessible rooms and facilities.
3. Malmö
- Elite Hotel Savoy: A centrally located hotel with comfortable accommodations and convenient access to local attractions. Smooth, accessible pathways and elevators. Accessible restrooms available in rooms and common areas. The hotel provides accessible rooms with roll-in showers.
- Scandic Triangeln: A modern hotel in Malmö with a central location and a range of amenities. Accessible pathways and elevators throughout the hotel. Accessible restrooms in rooms and public areas. Accessible rooms with features like grab bars and roll-in showers.
4. Uppsala
- Clarion Hotel Gillet: A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities and convenient access to Uppsala’s attractions. Accessible pathways, elevators, and ramps. Accessible restrooms available in rooms and common areas. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers.
- Scandic Uplandia: A contemporary hotel offering convenient access to Uppsala’s cultural sites and public transport. Smooth, accessible pathways and elevators. Accessible restrooms in rooms and public areas. Accessible rooms with features such as grab bars and roll-in showers.
Transportation
- Public Transport: Sweden’s public transportation system is highly accessible. Most cities have low-floor buses, accessible trams, and elevators at major train stations. Stockholm’s metro and regional trains are fully accessible.
- Accessible Taxis: Taxis equipped with ramps or lifts are available through a few companies. Booking in advance is greatly recommended.
- Vehicle Rentals: Companies such as Hertz Sweden and Avis Sweden offer adapted vehicles for rental. Confirm specific accessibility features when booking.
- Tour Operators: Accessible tours and transportation services can be arranged through operators like, Ourway
Additional Accessible Features
- Wheelchair Rentals: Available at major attractions, airports, and some hotels. It’s best to check availability and book in advance.
- Assistance Services: Many public places and attractions offer assistance services for wheelchair users, including guided tours and personal assistance.
- Accessibility Maps: Cities and attractions often provide accessibility maps online or at visitor centers to help navigate easily.
