Wheelchair accessible cities

Unfortunately, Portugal is far behind the U.S. when it comes to accessibility. Cobblestones are the main material for sidewalks and elevators in public places have a tendency to break and not be fixed in a timely manner.

That said, I do see the occasional wheelchair and have a friend who has been in one for 18 months. So it is doable. Most apartment complexes have ramps as well as stair entrances and all the newer ones (past 40 years) have elevators if they are taller than 4 stories.

I would think the very small towns would be worse as far as ramps, etc.

if you want to avoid the heat, stick close to the coast. The further north, the cooler, at least a bit. I also hate the heat and find Cascais to be much cooler than Lisbon because we are so close to the sea. I have AC but use it 3-5 times a summer because of the cooling breezes. Some places along the Silver Coast might also be good. Caldas da Rainha is quite popular.

I spent the better part of 40 years providing for the creation of accessible accommodations. Not to fault Portugal at all, but Americans who rely on universal accessibility are in for a significant awakening when they get to Europe. The EU does have regulations, but they seem to be more centered on ensuring access to goods and services and not equal accessibility to goods and services. Big difference.

If I required accommodation I would not make the trip without first securing local support (a guide with knowledge of the means and methods employed locally … and some of these will exist in the cultural differences).

I am not familiar with Lisbon, so I will talk about where I live so you get some ideas of potential issues.

• Which metro stations have elevators (not all do).
• Which metro stations have escalators (not all do).
• Which restaurants have ground level restrooms (basement toilets are common).
• Where are the accessible public toilets located.
• Where are the public elevators (many exist, but they are not always easy to find).
• How do I get on a bus. (you can, but you have to know to catch the driver’s attention so he can lower the ramp)
• How do I get on a tram. (you can, the other passengers will lift you on … a cultural difference)
• Where can I cross the street (curb ramps are not common).

In other words get a guide to walk the path I advance and plan your trip accordingly. Then you hae a great time in a beautiful land.

Accessibility standards in the US have established expectations among Americans that rely on the standards and those expectations might surprise or maybe amuse those from outside the US. But I think its something the US has done exceedingly correctly.

Not sure if this is what looking for, haven't used their services, not making a recommendation just giving you the info.
https://www.adaptedtoursportugal.com/