The Top 4 Most Accessible Landmarks in Germany
Whether you’re a native to the country or a tourist, there are so many hidden gems to find in Germany. With the country working diligently to remove barriers between disabled people and its cultural locations and landmarks, there are now more accessible tourist destinations across Germany than ever before. Together with the expertise of German stairlift suppliers, Acorn Treppenlifte, we highlight the best of the best!
Reichstag Building, Berlin
The Reichstag Building is home to the Bundestag, but it is also open to the public as a landmark to visit. It is certainly a worthy destination for tourists and German citizens alike, as the site boasts an array of tours and art exhibitions. The art exhibitions held at the Reichstag building include a number of works created by artists from the USA, France, Russia, the UK, and of course, Germany itself.
At the roof of the Reichstag Building is the Käfer Dachgarten Restaurant, which offers meals throughout the day to be enjoyed with the glorious panoramic view. The rooftop restaurant is wheelchair accessible.
Accessibility:
The majority of the German Bundestag, including the Reichstag building, is accessible for people with disabilities. The site also has a number of accessibility features, including:
· Wheelchair access to the Reichstag Building via ramps and dedicated disabled entrance
· Accessibility to the Deutscher Dom
· Wheelchairs on loan
· Induction loops for debates and lectures
· Sign language interpreters for groups of ten or more
· Braille labels and audio floor notifications in lifts
· Tactile models of the Reichstag Building and plenary chamber and dome
· Special tours for the blind and visually impaired available on request (minimum 10 guests)
Opening times:
Reichstag Building:
Mon-Sun: 08:00–23:59
Käfer Dachgarten Restaurant:
Mon-Sun: 09:00–14:30, 18:30–00:00
Address:
Platz der Republik 1
11011 Berlin
Steiff Bear Museum
The world-famous Steiff plush toys were created by Margarete Steiff. Originally designed as pincushions, her work quickly evolved into some of the highest-quality soft toys in the world.
Margarete Steiff contracted polio in 1847, which rendered the then-18 month old paralysed — both of her legs were paralysed and her right arm was crippled with pain. But she didn’t let this early misfortune stop here; Margarete went on to attend sewing school, and completed her tailor’s apprenticeship. Working as a seamstress, eventually, Margarete created the world’s first plush bear with movable arms and legs alongside her nephew, Richard Steiff. At the Steiff Museum, you can discover Margarete’s amazing life story and the unparalleled quality and craftsmanship of her teddy bears.
Accessibility:
The founder of Steiff was wheelchair-bound for her entire life, so it makes sense that the museum dedicated to her work would be accessible! With a large elevator to take wheelchair-bound guests comfortably from the lobby to the upper floors, you’ll have no trouble navigating this museum built with accessibility in mind.
Opening times:
Mon-Sun: 10:00–18:00
Address:
Margarete-Steiff-Straße 1
89537 Giengen an der Brenz
Andernach Geyser
The Andernach Geyser is the world’s highest cold-water geyser, with a spectacular display of water shooting up to 60 metres into the air around every two hours.
Take in the natural beauty of the area, then enjoy a little break in the Geyser Centre’s coffee bar. Pick from a range of delicious coffees, teas, and freshly baked cakes and pies as you recharge from your travelling among nature.
Accessibility:
The Andernach Geyser and its facilities are accessible for disabled people. For the most part, the exhibits are accessible to all. There are also visual and audio assistances available. For further information, consult the Andernach Geyser test report for guests.
Opening times:
Geyser Centre:
From March 31st 2019 – October 31st 2019
Mon–Sun: 09:00–17:30
Coffee Bar:
From March 31st 2019 – October 31st 2019
Mon–Sun: 09:00–17:30
Address:
Geyser Center Andernach,
Konrad-Adenauer-Allee 40,
56626 Andernach
Rhododendron Park Hobbie
If you’re looking for a landmark of sheer floral elegance, head to the Rhododendron Park Hobbie — Germany’s largest rhododendron park. Here, you’ll be greeted by a sea of beautiful, colourful blooms and a gorgeous old forest, along with plenty of wildlife.
At 70 hectares and with trees over 300 years old, this is truly a unique experience you won’t want to miss out on. And
Accessibility:
Blind and disabled persons are eligible for free entry to the park.
The majority of the park is accessible, though the forest areas do contain shredded paths that may be difficult for wheelchair users.
Opening times:
Open all year round, 09:30–19:00
Address:
Zum Hullen 3
26655 Westerstede
Lower Saxony
