Get the Buzz on Accessible Travel in Berlin
Our accessibility ambassador Debbie North, founder of Access the Dales, Cabinet Office ambassador for accessibility to the countryside, and wheelchair user, visits the German capital to experience it for herself.
This is a feature from Issue 22 of Charitable Traveller Magazine.
Earlier this year I went to Berlin to explore both accessible and sustainable tourism in the city. My journey unveiled a blend of innovative features and inspiring initiatives; here’s what I learnt:
Transport and accessibility: The city airport is served by train services, which take 45 minutes to reach Berlin’s central station. Travel cards, essential for exploring the city, were easily obtainable at the tourist information centre located within the airport. As a wheelchair user, navigating Berlin’s overground and underground train system proved relatively straightforward, although occasional out-of-service lifts at certain stations necessitated some flexibility (visit BVG.de, brokenlifts.org or call +49 30256 34567 for info on lift failures).
Accommodation and sustainability efforts: My stay at Hotel Rossi, 10 minutes from the central train station, gave me some insight into its inclusive employment practices and emerging sustainability initiatives. Despite the hotel’s lack of a formal sustainability policy, efforts were underway to promote eco-friendly practices, including locally sourced food options, zero-waste tableware, and environmentally conscious toiletries in guest rooms. Additionally, the hotel’s involvement in community projects, such as SOS Kinderdorf (a non-profit that supports children without parental care), underscored its commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.
Exploring Berlin’s attractions: A stroll along the East Wall Gallery to admire the vibrant graffiti is a must-do experience. Likewise, a leisurely walk along the river, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Reichstag building, the Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie, offers a glimpse into Berlin’s rich history and culture. But beyond these traditional tourist landmarks, I also explored some of Berlin’s newest attractions. A visit to the Futurium, an interactive museum dedicated to exploring the future of humanity, nature and technology, provided an enriching experience that transcended mere entertainment. Immersed in its thought-provoking exhibits and engaging displays, I gained some enlightening insights into our world. From interactive installations thoughtfully crafted for wheelchair users to its use of sustainable energy sources (solar and geothermal) powering the museum’s operations, Futurium epitomised inclusive and eco-conscious design principles at their finest. Futurium positions itself as more than just a museum; it’s a dynamic hub with lots going on for all ages and backgrounds, encouraging all visitors to join its journey of inspiration, enlightenment, and transformation. And it’s free. Venturing slightly off the tourist map to the south of the city, I found the former Tempelhof airport, accessible by subway and bus. One of the first airports in Berlin, it was transformed into a sprawling public park in 2008. Spanning 386 hectares, kite surfers and inline skaters replace airplanes on its vast runways. The park’s rich history and expansive landscapes make it worth a visit.
Spanning 386 hectares, kite surfers and inline skaters replace airplanes on the former Tempelhof airport's vast runways.
Berlin nightlife: For an authentic Berlin variety show experience, I highly recommend a visit to the Wintergarten theatre, which first opened in 1887. Renowned for its lavish settings and captivating performances, it didn’t disappoint. As you enter, a grand marble staircase descends from the foyer to the newly crafted subterranean realms. Adorned with a resplendent white Bechstein grand piano, plush velvet-covered stools and an elegant champagne bar, it’s an opulent lounge. Moreover, the Wintergarten theatre has gained numerous awards for its commitment to sustainability. From eco-friendly lighting installations to costumes crafted from recyclable materials and innovative repurposing of old items, the Wintergarten demonstrates a steadfast dedication to environmental stewardship while delivering topclass entertainment.
Exploring Berlin on wheels: During my two days, I covered an impressive 32km of wheeling and navigating its streets in a manual wheelchair was manageable. My trip left me inspired by the city’s commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and cultural enrichment. From accessible transportation networks to innovative cultural institutions and revitalised public spaces, Berlin sets a remarkable example for cities worldwide aspiring to create inclusive and ecoconscious destinations.
Feeling inspired?
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This is a feature from Issue 22 of Charitable Traveller.
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