Barcelona has become one of the highest regards in urban accessibility matters. Without a doubt, it has been improving the living standards of its citizens and visitors. From its efficient public transport to its iconic tourist spots, the city has introduced a great number of effective measures to guarantee that individuals with disabilities enjoy thoroughly the natural and cultural richness this city offers.
The Sants station is a perfect example of accessibility. Its services have been designed specifically for mobility challenged individuals. It is fully adapted for the use of wheelchairs, and staff is thoroughly trained to assist people with sight or hearing impairments. 46 million travellers circulate through Sants Station every year.
The Barcelona Underground will be completely accessible before the year 2025. Trains are equipped with wider doors and corridors. They offer four sensor-equipped spaces for people with reduced mobility and the doors closer to the visitor will open automatically at every stop.
The Seats reserved for people with disabilities are red instead of grey, alarm buttons –in case passengers need to alert the driver that they need more time to descend, for example- are placed in a lower height. Doors are also painted in red on the outside to make the contrast more visible.
These details –which might appear irrelevant- can be remarkably useful in the daily life of those who need them.
Adapted taxis are another outstanding option to move around Barcelona. A measure was launched in November 2022 that stated that 5% of the fleet, part of the Metropolitá de Taxi (IMT) -that depends on the Metropolitan Area of Barcelna (aMB)- had to be adapted. There should be full compliance, at most, by the beginning of May 2023. From our experience, we were able to hire an adapted taxi. We requested it one hour before the time we needed to leave, without complications. However, the stated measure will contribute, even more, for people with disabilities and mobility challenges to circulate freely around the city.
Streets in Barcelona are, generally speaking, flat and in a good state. The famous
La Rambla market and La Boqueria are located along flat, wide and uniform pavement. When visiting La Sagrada Familia, individuals with disabilities have priority access and accompanying people can enter free of charge.
Beaches in Barcelona are another icon of accessibility. There are wide ramps available in certain areas, such as the access, toilets and shops, which make it possible for people with disabilities to move freely from La Rambla to the beach level. Likewise many other destinations, access to the sand or seashore still requires consideration.
Nevertheless, gradually but steadily, steps are being taken to ensure inclusivity, such as the implementation of an assistance service to people with disabilities on some of the beaches in Barcelona.
