Accessible Milan: How to Get Around in a Wheelchair in the Capital of the 2026 Olympics

Milan, a modern metropolis and economic engine of Italy, is also increasingly an accessible city. In view of the Winter Olympics and Paralympics Milan Cortina 2026, the Lombard capital is accelerating its path toward inclusiveness, offering Transportation and mobility services that are increasingly responsive to the needs of people with disabilities. But how do you really get around Milan if you are in a wheelchair? Here is a practical, up-to-date guide designed for those who want to experience the city without barriers.

Subway: accessibility on the rise

The network of the Milan subway, operated by ATM, is among the most extensive in Italy. Currently, not all stations are fully accessible, but improvements are continuous and significant, especially along the M1 (red), M2 (green), M3 (yellow) and the newer M5 (lilac) lines, fully accessible With elevators and tactile pathways.

  • On M3 and M5 lines, almost all stations are accessible.
  • For the M1 and M2, it is advisable to consult the ATM website or the official app to check the status of elevators in real time.
  • Le new stations under construction for the expansion of the M4 (blue) are designed from the beginning with criteria of universal design.

Buses and streetcars: low-floor vehicles

All the ATM city buses in circulation are equipped with electric or manual treadmill For wheelchair access. The drivers are trained To assist during the ascent and descent.

Some of the modern streetcars (such as the Sirius series) is affordable, but many historical vehicles, iconic of Milan, are not yet. It is advisable to plan your route using the ATM app, which points out accessible lines.

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Accessible cabs and dedicated services

Milan also offers a service of accessible cabs, equipped with platforms and space for a wheelchair. They can be reserved through:

  • Radiotaxi 02.4040 o 02.8585, specifying a request for an accessible vehicle.
  • Apps like Free Now or It Taxi, which allow you to select the "accessible" option.

During events such as the Paralympics, there will be enhanced service "Social Taxi" and free shuttles to/from Olympic sites, resorts and partner hotels.

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Sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and urban accessibility

Milan has made great strides in terms of architectural barriers. The historic center (Duomo, Brera, Castello Sforzesco) is largely wheelchair accessible, with lowered sidewalks and upgraded pavements.

Areas such as CityLife, New Gate e Navigli are designed with accessibility criteria in mind. However, some sections of the oldest sidewalks may still present obstacles.

Numerous museums, theaters and public libraries Are accessible and equipped with adequate toilets.

Maps and Apps useful for getting around in a wheelchair

  • Google Maps: now includes "wheelchair accessibility" option in routes.
  • Milan ATM App: Provides real-time updates on elevators and accessible lines.
  • Wheelmap.org: collaborative map that points out accessible locales and routes.
  • AccessWay e Village for All: resources for tourism facilities and barrier-free trails.

Practical advice

  • Avoid rush hours if possible for smoother mobility.
  • Contact hotels, restaurants or locations in advance to confirm accessibility.
  • In case of need, InfoPoint tourist or Olympic volunteers will be trained to offer targeted assistance.

Milan Waits for You, Without Barriers

Milan is still not a perfect city, but it is on the move. In every sense. The direction is one of inclusion, and the Olympics and Paralympics 2026 represent an extraordinary driver for accelerating urban accessibility.

Getting around Milan in a wheelchair is now increasingly possible: between advanced public transport, dedicated services and a renewing urban fabric, the Lombard capital wants to prove that welcoming starts with freedom of movement for all.

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