Lorraine Williamson
Spain has emerged as a European frontrunner in accessible urban design after three of its cities secured top honours in this year’s Access City Award. The recognition highlights a wider shift: accessibility is no longer viewed as a technical challenge, but as a cornerstone of social participation, digital inclusion and modern city planning.
The European Commission created the award over a decade ago to spotlight places where thoughtful design opens doors—literally and digitally—for residents and visitors with disabilities. This year’s competition drew more than forty submissions from across the continent, with the finalists gathering in Brussels to share projects that ranged from mobility solutions to inclusive cultural spaces. Spain topped the list, demonstrating how broad investment can reshape daily life.
Zaragoza tops the list
Zaragoza claimed first place after years of steady reform. The city has expanded its network of ramps, elevators and barrier-free pavements, creating streets that are easier to navigate for people with reduced mobility. Digital access has also moved to the foreground. Local apps and municipal websites are designed with user-friendly layouts, while adapted public transport ensures that buses and trams can be used confidently by all passengers.
Cultural life has been part of the push. Museums, theatres and public venues have been reimagined so that enjoying a performance or exhibition is no longer dependent on physical ability. The jury applauded Zaragoza for demonstrating that growth and inclusion can sit side by side when accessibility is built into planning rather than added afterwards.
Valencia’s beaches and historic heart earn second place
Valencia took the second spot with a programme that stretches from the coastline to the old town. The city has invested heavily in making beaches accessible with adapted walkways, shaded areas and clear signage. Parks and historic landmarks have been redesigned to welcome visitors with varying needs, reinforcing the idea that heritage sites should be open to everyone.
What set Valencia apart, however, was its inclusive emergency planning. The city has introduced evacuation and crisis-response strategies that specifically account for residents with disabilities. This approach goes beyond ramps and lifts, extending accessibility to the realm of safety and social responsibility. According to the jury, Valencia treats inclusion as a civic value rather than a technical tick-box.
Historic Cartagena completes Spain’s winning trio
Cartagena secured third place with a balance of preservation and innovation. The city’s compact historic centre—characterised by steep lanes and centuries-old buildings—has long posed challenges for mobility. Recent projects have introduced solutions that respect its Roman and maritime heritage while opening up access to public services, cultural spaces and key routes through the old town. For the jury, Cartagena demonstrated how even complex urban layouts can evolve without sacrificing identity.
A broader shift in Spanish urban policy
The strong performance of all three cities reflects Spain’s widening commitment to inclusive design. From Aragón to the Mediterranean, municipalities are investing in infrastructure that benefits not only people with disabilities but also older residents, families with young children and anyone navigating the city with limited mobility.
Zaragoza’s win validates decades of work, Valencia’s recognition cements its reputation for forward-thinking planning, and Cartagena’s award offers momentum for future improvements. Together, they show that accessibility is becoming a defining feature of Spain’s urban future—one built around participation, dignity and shared public life.
A new benchmark for European cities
Spain’s success raises the bar for next year’s contenders. As more European cities confront ageing populations, digital divides and the need for sustainable mobility, accessible design is likely to become a central theme in urban development. Spain has shown that when accessibility is treated as a social investment rather than an obligation, the results can reshape entire communities.
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