Valencia has become the new Green Capital of Europe for 2024

Valencia, Spain has been announced as the new Green Capital of Europe 2024. This popular tourist center on the Mediterranean coast has rightfully earned such an honorable title. It demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental innovation, progress in sustainable tourism, and an inclusive transition to a green economy.

In particular, Valencia received an award from the EU Mission for Climate Neutral and Smart Cities for its plans to achieve climate neutrality by 2030. The so-called missionaries also include other major centers of Spain – Madrid, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Valladolid, and Zaragoza.

 “We are about to begin a year in which more than 400 events will take place, where Valencia will become a beacon of green policies in Europe to build a more humane, sustainable and climate-ready city.” — said the mayor of Valencia Maria José Catala.

Valencia has over 200 hectares of gardens, making it a popular tourist destination. Just 10 kilometers from the center is the Albufera Natural Park, a protected area with wetlands and coastal lagoons. Tourists can explore both the city itself and its surroundings in the most environmentally friendly way – by bicycle. The total length of bicycle paths here is 190 kilometers.

In 2024, Valencia is ready to introduce 3 new routes to its guests to demonstrate its advantages and environmental progress. The first is the Green River. It covers 9 kilometers of the Jardín del Turia, one of the largest parks in Spain, and runs along the former bed of the Turia River. The second passes through the city center’s squares and pedestrian streets. The third route covers the main natural treasures of Valencia: a suburban orchard, a fish-filled Mediterranean coast, and Albufera with its surrounding rice fields.