Plan ahead for a smooth trip
Much of Estonia is open for exploration to travelers with mobility issues, although some places are more accessible than others. The best approach is to call ahead to ensure that the required accommodations and facilities will be available when you arrive. The Estonian Chamber of Disabled People website also provides information about discounts available to individuals with disabilities.
Getting to Estonia
Air travel and airports
The Tallinn Airport website has all the essential contacts for flight planning. Larger airports in Estonia such as Tartu, Pärnu, Kuressaare, and Kärdla, also offer professional assistance for those with special needs.
Boat travel and ports
Staff at major ports, for instance the Port of Tallinn, are trained to assist individuals with mobility issues and other functional needs. Port displays provide boarding instructions, and larger domestic ferry lines, including those to Saaremaa and Hiiumaa, offer similar information. Be aware that smaller ports don’t always have this information available.
Passenger decks on larger Estonian ferries, such as those traveling between Helsinki and Tallinn, have elevators, and many ships offer platform lifts for wheelchair users.
Getting around Estonia
Trains and train stations
Elron trains and most passenger train platforms are wheelchair accessible. Trains have priority seating marked with an international handicapped symbol for individuals with limited mobility. The wheelchair spots in the C wagon are equipped with safety belts, SOS buttons, and an accessible restroom.
Long-distance buses and bus stations
Travelers with mobility issues should notify bus personnel of their needs at least 36 hours before departure and arrive at the bus station 60 minutes early. Major bus stations, including Tallinn Bus Station and those in larger towns, are accessible to all.
Urban transport
Not all city buses and trams in Estonia are wheelchair accessible, but all Tartu city buses are low-floor models. Low-floor buses and trams are underlined in the schedules. If buses don’t stop at the curb, you may need boarding assistance. Drivers can help, and buses have spaces for wheelchairs and priority seating for individuals with disabilities.
Taxis
When booking a taxi, inquire whether the company provides accessible vehicles, as few do. Special taxis for wheelchair users should be reserved 12 hours in advance. In Tallinn, Tulika Takso AS and Forus Takso offer accessible services.
Car rental
Some rental companies, for example Sixt, offer vehicles equipped with hand controls.
Nature awaits!
The Estonian Forest Service (RMK) has made nature exploration more accessible for wheelchair users by installing wide wooden boardwalks on some of the most popular hiking trails. Their website provides a good overview of accessible hiking trails and camping sites. Look for more accessible nature trails on the Mapeirons website.
