Best practise

Hospitality without Barriers

Breaking Barriers: Bergamo’s Pioneering Approach to Accessible Tourism

In 2023, the picturesque city of Bergamo, Italy, embarked on an ambitious journey to redefine the landscape of accessible tourism. Through the innovative “Hospitality without Barriers” project, LYNKS, a consortium of local entities including Alchimia Coop. Soc., Coop. Soc. Bergamo lavoro, Coop. Kite, and Coop. Ruah set out to create an inclusive, barrier-free hospitality experience. This initiative underscores a commitment to welcoming tourists with disabilities, the elderly, families with small children, and their carers, catering to their unique needs and ensuring a memorable visit to Bergamo

A Collaborative Vision for Inclusion

The project’s foundation lies in collaboration among diverse stakeholders, harnessing the strengths and resources of social cooperatives, local businesses, and public bodies. By uniting these forces under the “Hospitality without Barriers” banner, Bergamo aims to position itself as a beacon of accessibility in the tourism sector. The initiative strategically leverages the city’s accessible location and rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive destination for a wide audience

Empowering Operators and Enhancing Accessibility

A key aspect of the project involves empowering accommodation providers and tourism operators with the tools and knowledge to serve guests with various accessibility needs. Services offered include comprehensive accessibility consulting, tailored training programs for staff, and creative solutions to enhance the physical accessibility of facilities. Operators are also provided with promotional support to increase their visibility among target demographics, further amplifying the impact of the project.

Enriching the Tourist Experience

Beyond infrastructure improvements, “Hospitality without Barriers” seeks to enrich the tourist experience through a curated selection of accessible cultural and recreational activities. From guided tours that cater to specific needs to sensory-friendly exhibitions and workshops, the project aims to showcase Bergamo’s cultural wealth in a manner that is inclusive and engaging for all visitors. These initiatives not only enhance the visitor experience but also foster a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage and natural beauty

Driving Economic and Social Impact

The project’s broader vision extends to driving positive economic and social impacts. By attracting a more diverse tourist population, Bergamo anticipates a boost in local businesses and job creation, particularly in sectors directly or indirectly related to tourism. Additionally, “Hospitality without Barriers” serves as a model for social inclusion, demonstrating the profound impact of designing services and spaces that accommodate everyone’s needs.

As “Hospitality without Barriers” progresses, its leaders remain focused on expanding its reach, continuously improving accessibility standards, and inspiring other destinations to adopt similar approaches. The initiative represents a significant step toward a more inclusive and accessible tourism industry, where the beauty and culture of places like Bergamo can be enjoyed by all, without barriers.