The Most Accessible Cities in Europe | 2026

European cities are known for many things. Shaped by centuries of history, the culture, architecture, art, and food draw in millions of tourists each year.

One thing that cities built on top of thousands of years of civilization aren't particularly known for is their accessibility. Over the years, this has been changing.

Each year, the European Union (EU) awards the most accessible cities in Europe with the Access City Award.

This award is presented to a city that has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to renovations and optimizations for individuals with health conditions or impairments.

Since 2010, the EU has put a spotlight on cities dedicated to making their municipalities more inclusive, benefiting both residents and tourists alike.

The majority of the awarded cities span both the Schengen area and EU.

Zaragoza, Spain | 2026 Winner

Located in north-eastern Spain, Zaragoza is the 2026 winner of the Access City Award.

While it isn't the most popular destination in mainland Spain (think Barcelona or Madrid), it is a large city that sees over a million tourists every year.

Part of its draw comes from its unique mix of architecture, Greek and pre-Roman roots, and delicious cuisine.

Zaragoza wins in accessibility for its unwavering diligence to the rights of people experiencing disabilities.

The city has established an accessibility infrastructure with a clear strategy, rules, and plans to continue to improve in this area. The plans include distinct budgets, timelines, and governance with a formal Accessibility Board and Accessibility Office.

For tourists looking to travel to Zaragoza, according to the EU, you can expect:

• A fully accessible public tram network.
• Pedestrian routes that don't have stairs.
• Shops and banks that are accessible.
• Certified accessible websites and mobile apps.

Heading to Spain? Make sure to check out the latest Spain travel requirements.

Valencia, Spain

Situated on the eastern coast of Spain, Valencia came in as the runner-up for the 2026 award.

The third largest city in Spain, Valencia, is popular among visitors from all over the world and is famous for both its beautiful beaches and the locally spoken Valencian.

Valencia boasts, according to the EU:

• A 96% score in urban accessibility.
• Fully accessible metros and buses.
• Emergency preparedness, with police, firefighters, and other municipal staff specifically trained in accessibility emergency response.

Rennes, France

Rennes, a mid-size city in western France, came in third for the 2026 Access City Award.

Famous for its half-timbered medieval architecture, student life, and lots of museums, this city is a popular destination.

It came in third because:

• It has continued to make big strides in accessibility.
• Rennes offers door-to-door vehicle options.
• There are mobile apps to help guide travelers on stair-free routes.
• It has fully accessible buses and metros.
• Rennes has upgraded its streets to be wider with more benches and safer crosswalks.
• Accessible bathrooms are available throughout the city.
• Rennes is continuing to add ramps, accessible bathrooms, and elevators to attractions, such as museums.
• The city plans to have all public reception buildings accessible by 2027.

Vienna, Austria

The 2025 winner of the Access City Award, Vienna, is one of the most popular destinations in Europe.

Vienna is the largest city in Austria, and also its capital, and it's filled with incredible buildings, monuments, museums, and cultural events throughout the calendar year.

• As of November 2024, 95% of Vienna's bus and tram stops were fully accessible.
• Vienna has a project called the Inclusive Vienna 2030 Strategy. This project works directly with individuals who experience disabilities, helping to optimize and renovate the city to be more accessible.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg was the runner-up for the 2025 Access City award.

One of the quaintest cities in Germany, Nuremberg is known for its Roman roots, medieval history, Renaissance art, and annual Christmas market.

In 2025, the EU recognizes Nuremberg for its dedication to inclusivity, highlighting its progress.

• A dedicated disability council has been established.
• It is optimizing several areas for accessibility, including transportation, sports facilities, and leisure/attractions.
• An investment in training for coaches in adaptive sports, including inclusive swimming programs.

Planning a trip to Germany? Check out our guide that details everything you need to know about traveling to Germany from the US!

San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain

On Tenerife in the Canary Islands, San Cristóbal de La Laguna won the Access City Award in 2024.

San Cristóbal is a small city in the northern part of the island and is known for its UNESCO Heritage Site architecture, traditional Canary-style houses, and churches. It's also known for its close access to the beach and stunning mountain views. What more could a traveler ask for, really?

Those who travel to San Cristóbal de La Laguna will find:

• A fully accessible tram system.
• Audial traffic lights and tactile paving.
• Orange Point, a mobile space that offers accessible and inclusive resources during events and festivals.
• A dedicated disability council.

Skellefteå, Sweden

You may not have heard of Skelleftea, but it is a small town in north-eastern Sweden, often decorated in snow.

3rd place in 2020 and the overall winner in 2023, Skelleftea is a modern town that has heavily invested in inclusion.

You'll find:

• Accessible paygrounds, parks, and city streets.
• Apps available to assist individuals with vision impairments, helping them to traverse town safely.
• Buses with ramps, audio announcements, and visuals.
• The city also has workshops for young people with intellectual disabilities, helping them learn technology and master the skills necessary for independent living.

Previous winners of the EU's Access City Award

• Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
• Jönköping, Sweden
• Warsaw, Poland
• Breda, Netherlands
• Lyon, France
• Chester, England
• Milan, Italy
• Borås, Sweden
• Gothenburg, Sweden
• Berlin, Germany
• Salzburg, Austria
• Ávila, Spain