Wednesday, July 9, 2025
Australia, China, Singapore, Germany, New Zealand, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Sweden and several other global leaders have secured positions among the world’s top 10 most accessible cities, according to a comprehensive accessibility index by the Smart City World Expo Congress. These cities were recognized for their outstanding commitment to inclusive urban living—offering barrier-free public transport systems, accessible tourist attractions, supportive housing policies, and digital tools designed for people with disabilities. Through universal design, innovative infrastructure, and smart city strategies, they are setting new global standards for travel, mobility, and equal access for all residents and visitors.
The World’s Most Accessible Cities: How Smart Urban Design Opens Travel to All
Travel is more than just visiting landmarks—it’s about experiencing the world. But for people with limited mobility, that experience can often be restricted. A new study by the Smart City World Expo Congress aims to change that perception by spotlighting the most accessible cities globally, using data to evaluate how urban centers are supporting inclusive mobility.
Building on the 2025 IMD Smart City Index, the research examined infrastructure like subways, attractions, and lodging, along with local government initiatives such as public subsidies for accessible housing renovations. It also assessed how well each city has integrated digital tools, like mobile apps, to help people with disabilities navigate services and public transport.
The result is a comprehensive index showcasing the top global destinations where accessibility isn’t an afterthought—it’s embedded in the city’s DNA.
Smart Cities: Where Accessibility Meets Innovation
The research revealed 25 cities that stand out for their commitment to barrier-free living. These smart cities boast subway systems with ramps, elevators, and tactile guidance for people with visual or cognitive impairments. Many also offer financial support to residents for home accessibility upgrades and are actively improving tourist sites to accommodate all visitors.
The overarching goal among these cities is clear: everyone should be able to participate fully in urban life, whether they live there or are just visiting.
Shanghai Tops the Global Accessibility Ranking
Shanghai, China ranks as the most accessible city in the world, thanks to its extensive, fully adapted subway system and modern infrastructure. Tourist destinations like The Bund and various museums are equipped with ramps and lifts, ensuring smooth access for people with reduced mobility.
However, the city has room for improvement when it comes to accommodation. Only about 15% of hotel options are considered fully accessible. Despite this, Shanghai’s commitment to inclusive public transport and infrastructure earns it the top spot.
China Dominates: Three Cities in the Top 10
China has made remarkable progress in accessibility, with Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong all appearing in the global top 10. Each city offers expansive subway systems and accessible public spaces, positioning the country as a regional leader in inclusive urban design.
Top 10 Most Accessible Cities in the WorldShanghai, China
Fully accessible subway network and modified public attractions.Singapore
95% of sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and transit stops are mobility-friendly, with subway systems offering tactile and braille features.Wellington, New Zealand
A wide variety of accessible lodging and fully inclusive tourist attractions.Munich, Germany
Offers 100% accessible open-air spaces and subway stations.Amsterdam, Netherlands
Features include 100% accessible metro stations and innovative wheelchair-accessible bike lanes.Hong Kong, China
Comprehensive accommodation accessibility and efficient public transport with lifts and escalators.Beijing, China
A fully accessible 24-line, 500-station subway network and inclusive tourist destinations.Prague, Czech Republic
About 77% of subway infrastructure is accessible, with ongoing urban upgrades.Stockholm, Sweden
Known for its “Easy Access” program and Vision 2030 plan to make the city center entirely inclusive.Canberra, Australia
Offers wide, ramp-friendly streets and tactile street guidance, with accessible tourism across the board.Why Inclusive Urban Design Matters
Accessibility is more than just compliance—it’s a measure of a city’s commitment to equality and inclusiveness. As cities grow smarter, the demand for thoughtful design grows stronger. By integrating ramps, elevators, sensory guidance, and support for private home modifications, cities demonstrate how public policy and innovation can align to empower every resident and traveler.
Australia, China, Singapore, Germany, New Zealand, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Sweden, and more have been ranked among the world’s top 10 most accessible cities, thanks to their inclusive infrastructure, accessible transport systems, and smart city initiatives that prioritize universal design and barrier-free living.
These cities are not only modern hubs of technology and culture but also examples of how thoughtful planning can make urban life accessible to all. The message is clear: in the smart cities of tomorrow, no one should be left behind.
