News of European City Centers

In a bold move toward a sustainable future, 12 Ukrainian cities are partnering with European counterparts to work toward climate neutrality – even as the war with Russia continues. Through the EU-funded SUN4Ukraine project, these Ukrainian municipalities will receive support from cities already part of the EU Mission for 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities. These partenerships will help Ukrainian cities…

While national politics can be slow or divided, local governments are acting quickly – using the tools they have to deliver aid, promote peace and stand up for human rights. Cities like Lyon (€50,000), Helsinki (€350,000), Oslo ( NOK 5 million), and Bordeaux (€20,000) have released emergency funds to support organisations like the UN, Médecins Sans Frontières, and the Red…

The city has taken a proactive and thoughtful approach to making life easier for people with disabilities, but also for anyone who might benefit from more accessible spaces – whether they are pushing a stroller, recovering from an injury, or simply visiting as a tourist. One area where Toulouse stands out is in sports. It’s one of the only cities…

On 16 October 2025, the Covenant of Mayors Ceremony will take place in Brussels, bringing together local and regional leaders from across Europe to reaffirm their commitment to a climate-neutral, resilient and fair future. Hosted at the European Parliament and opened by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, this flagship event will celebrate the vital role of cities, regions…

European mayors are raising the alarm over the worsening housing crisis in our city centers. This is the stark finding of the Eurocities Pulse Mayors Survey 2025, reflecting the priorities of 86 mayors across 26 European countries. As the new EU institutions set their course, city leaders are calling for swift EU action to tackle growing social inequalities and support…

From 17 to 19 June 2025, the city of Krakow hosted the Cities Forum 2025, a flagship event of the EU’s urban policy. Held in a hybrid format, the forum brought together policymakers, urban experts, researchers, and citizens to shape a shared vision for sustainable, inclusive, and innovative cities. Throughout the event, city centers emerged as central to the discussions…

Rethinking the Heart of the City What defines Bitburg’s city center today? What are its strengths, weaknesses, and future potential? To answer these questions, the City of Bitburg launched a collaborative project with its residents and key stakeholders. The goal: shape a future-oriented, vibrant city center grounded in the city’s identity and the voices of those who live and work…

If so, Coimbra might just be setting the standard. The Portuguese city of Coimbra has just earned a prestigious European certification for its strategy to promote cultural and animation activities—highlighting the essential role of culture in revitalizing and energizing urban life. This recognition is part of the EFFE Seal (Europe for Festivals, Festivals for Europe), awarded by the European Festivals…

📅 May 21 & 22, 2025 | Montpellier Over 700 participants gathered in Montpellier to attend the 19th National City Center Conference, organized by Centre-Ville en Mouvement in partnership with the City of Montpellier and Montpellier Méditerranée Métropole. Held under the theme “City Center : Beautify, Move, Refresh, Shine”, this edition featured inspiring presentations, constructive exchanges, and immersive visits, highlighting…

If so, European city centers are already leading the way. At the heart of the 15-minute city concept lies a powerful idea: urban life should be organized around proximity —residents being able to walk or cycle to essential services within a short timeframe. And where is this model already most visible? In our historic city centers. City centers, with their…