Zaragoza came out on top thanks to its strong governance and long-term commitment to sustainability, particularly its efforts to tackle growing climate challenges and build a more resilient city. The city has also developed a Green Infrastructure Master Plan, designed to connect green areas across the urban landscape.
The award comes with €600,000 in funding to support further environmental initiatives. Zaragoza faced competition from Aalborg in Denmark, Bielsko-Biała in Poland, Košice in Slovakia and Porto in Portugal.
For travellers, there’s plenty to discover beyond the city’s green credentials. Set along the Ebro River, roughly halfway between Madrid and Barcelona, Zaragoza is home to the magnificent Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks. Its historic centre, riverside setting and fantastic food scene make it an appealing alternative to Spain’s more heavily visited destinations.
But Zaragoza wasn’t the only winner announced. Benidorm in Spain and Estarreja in Portugal were jointly awarded the European Green Leaf 2028 title, which recognises environmental achievements in smaller cities. Benidorm was praised for managing the pressures of mass tourism while protecting its environment, while Estarreja was recognised for its transformation from an industrial centre towards a more sustainable future. Each city will receive €200,000 to support its green initiatives.
With Heilbronn in Germany set to take the Green Capital title in 2027, Zaragoza will have its turn in the spotlight the following year.