How to Rent a Wheelchair in Rome: A Guide for Visitors

Visiting Rome, the Eternal City, is an experience filled with history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Rome always welcomes all kinds of people to visit. Rome is a very ancient city that attracts everyone to explore each angle. Because of this, millions of people come to visit Rome every year.

I have observed that among these visitors, some have physical problems and cannot move without a wheelchair. Moving in the ancient city would be very hard for visitors who have a problem in their movements. Therefore, in response, I am writing an article to help you with information about where and how you can easily rent a wheelchair. Wheelchair rentals are a big help in making sure comfort and enjoyment are part of your vacation.

This guide walks you through renting a wheelchair in Rome. These steps make your trip easier and more accessible. 

1. Plan Ahead

Book your wheelchair rental well before you get there. Book your spot and do your homework at least a couple of weeks before you head out to make sure there’s room when lots of tourists are around.

2. Investigate Rental Companies in Rome

Mobility device rentals are the specialty of several firms in Rome. Below are some trustworthy choices:

• Rome and Italy Tourist Services: This corporation is famous for their range of mobility aids, which comprises both manual and electric wheelchairs; they also provide delivery as well as pick-up services at your place of stay.

Website: romeanditaly.com
Address: Via Giuseppe Veronese, 50 00146, Rome, Italy
Contact: +39 06 44258441, +39 06 64691436
Email: info@romeanditaly.it

• Accessible Italy: This company provides a variety of wheelchairs and scooters for rent, with the option of airport delivery.

Website: accessibleitaly.com
Address: Via C. Manetti 34 – 47891 Dogana – Repubblica di San Marino
Contacts: +378-941111 or +378-0549-941111 (From Europe)
011-378-0549-941111 or 011-378-941111 (From US)
Email: info@accessibleitaly.com

• Motion 4 Rent: This company focuses on providing adapted mobility solutions for travellers with reduced mobility. They offer a variety of rental equipment, including manual and electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, and other technical aids.

Website: motion4rent.com
Contacts on WhatsApp: +34 931667077
Email: info@motion4rent.com

• Wheelchair St. Peter’s Basilica: The firm in this case focuses on providing services as well as rentals for wheel chairs so that one can go around Rome without difficulty particularly in places like the Vatican, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum. All these services are meant to help people with movement disorders visit historical sites without any hassle or pains.

Website: stpetersbasilicawheelchair.com
Address: Via Sebastiano Veniero, 21 00192 Roma, Italy
Contact: +39 3348898387
Email: stpetersbasilicawheelchair@gmail.com

• Vem Rent: It’s a company that specializes in rentals for mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters as well as other devices meant for individuals suffering from disabilities or limited mobility mainly founded on tourism basis in Rome focusing on improving the convenience factor while moving around town.

Website: vemrent.com
Address: Via Treglio, 5 00132 Roma, Italy
Contact: +39 06 929 39 343
Email: info@vemrent.com

3. Different Kinds of Wheelchairs

Three varieties or types of wheelchairs exist. Choose which one fits your requirements best:

• Manual Wheelchairs: These types are appropriate for those that have someone who can assist them in pushing it or for those people that are physically fit on top part of their bodies as they can independently maneuver.
• Electric Wheelchairs: These are suitable for people who want to maintain their independence but may have limited upper body strength
• Mobility Scooters: An additional choice for those who require more comfort and convenience over longer distances

4. Reserving Your Wheelchair

After selecting a rental company, the next step is to reserve your wheelchair through their website or by contacting them directly. Generally, here is the information required:

• Personal Details: Include your full name, contact details and where to around you stay.
• Duration of Rental: Mention the days during which you would like the wheelchair.
• Type of Wheelchair: Indicate whether manual, electric, or scooter should be chosen.
• Unique requirements: Let them know if there are any specific things that you would need like more accessories or adjustments.

5. Drop-off and Pick-Up

Most of the businesses that rent out wheelchairs will provide delivery service as well as picking it up afterwards from you. This means that one should always give all accurate information about their place of residence even if there are certain procedures to be followed while bringing something that has been ordered. Also confirm when exactly it will arrive so that you don’t find yourself without it when reaching home.

6. Price & Payment

In Rome, renting a wheelchair costs different amounts depending on certain factors such as this.

• Manual wheelchairs: €15-€30 per day
• Electric Wheelchairs: €30-€50 per day
• Mobility Scooters: €40-€60 per day

Payment methods typically include credit cards and, in some cases, cash on delivery. It’s advisable to check the payment terms and any potential deposit requirements.

7. Insurance and Damage Policy

Check out the websites of rental companies for their insurance and damage policies. Some of them include basic cover in the rental price, while others might make it an optional feature. Understand everything you need to know so that you can avoid incurring extra costs in case of damage or theft.

8. Accessibility in Rome

Rome has been taking significant steps forward in terms of accessibility, although there are still areas that pose a challenge because of the old infrastructure. The following tips may help:

• • Public Transport: Many buses and metro stations in Rome are accessible for wheelchairs. Check routes and station accessibility in advance.
  • Tourist Attractions: There are accessibility characteristics in major locations such as the Vatican Museums, Colosseum and Roman Forum. Their respective official websites would be quite crucial to visit for more information.
  • Walkways and the Streets: Don’t be surprised if you come across cobblestones and other rough surfaces. Plan your routes and consider using maps that highlight accessible paths.
  • Guided Tours: There are a few operators who provide guided tours that are wheelchair user-friendly. A few guided tours would be more comfortable and helpful during your stay.

9. Local Assistance

If any problem arises during your visit, you will find local help. You must not hesitate to contact the Hotel staff, the local tourist information as well as the rental company for help and solutions.

10. Accessible Accommodations

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable stay. Look for hotels or vacation rentals that offer accessible rooms with features such as:

• • Roll-in Showers: Essential for those who cannot use a bathtub.
  • Lowered beds and amenities: for easier access.
  • Wide Doorways and Hallways: To accommodate wheelchair movement.
  • Elevators: If the room is not on the ground floor.

Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb often have filters to help you find accessible accommodations.

11. Emergency Contacts

While traveling, it is good to be prepared for emergencies. Always have a note of some important contacts:

• Local Hospitals: Know local hospitals and emergency services in the area.
• Embassy or Consulate: Information about your own embassy or consulate in Rome.
• 24×7 Rental Company Support: Ensure that the company providing wheelchair rental services has 24×7 support in case of any help.

12. Useful Apps

Several mobile apps can assist with accessibility in Rome:

• • Google Maps: Offers information on wheelchair-accessible routes and public transport.
  • WheelMate: Helps find accessible restrooms and parking spots.
  • Jaccede: provides a community-driven guide to accessible places.

What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head out to explore Rome. Everything Rome has to offer awaits you. Have a nice journey.