DETUROPE - The Central European Journal of Regional Development and Tourism 2025, 17(3):150-163

Discrimination and Accessibility in Tourism – Exploring Barriers by Disabled Travelers in Hungary

Tibor Gonda^a*, László Csóka^a, János Csapó^a,b

^a University of Pécs, Faculty of Business and Economics, 7622 Pécs, Rákóczi út 80., Hungary

Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, Faculty of Central European Studies, Dražovská cesta 4,

^b 949 01 Nitra, Slovakia

^* corresponding author

Accessible tourism has historically been an under-researched area within tourism studies. However, over the past decade, growing recognition of its importance and the diverse range of stakeholders involved has led to a significant shift. As a result, an increasing number of international researchers have begun exploring this field. The Erasmus “Accessible” project has contributed to this momentum by conducting international research across four countries, aiming to better understand the current state and development potential of accessible tourism. A survey conducted among individuals with disabilities yielded several new insights into the travel habits of this target group. The study also examined how inclusive the social environment is and whether people with disabilities face discrimination while traveling. These negative experiences may affect their motivation and travel behaviours. By analysing awareness and the types of discrimination encountered, this research can help identify best practices and promote greater social inclusion.

Keywords: accessible tourism, discrimination, people with disabilities, social inclusion

Published: December 26, 2025  Show citation