Zaragoza, the second friendliest city in Spain in 2026, consolidates its position as a benchmark for quality of life and urban sustainability in Europe. According to a recent study conducted by the Remitly platform —based on surveys of more than 2,000 people measuring traits such as empathy, respect, patience, and everyday interactions— the Aragonese capital ranks second in the national friendliness index, with 72.34 points out of 100, only a few tenths behind Bilbao (72.53). Valladolid and Málaga tie for third place with 72.30.
This recognition is not anecdotal: it reflects a Zaragoza character that combines warmth without excessive effusiveness, respect for personal space, and a notable ability to make others feel comfortable, even newcomers. As Eva Borislavova, CEO of Remitly Europe, points out, “a kind gesture can completely change a day and make you feel more at home.” In Zaragoza, this translates to calm interactions in everyday life —in El Tubo with tapas, on the tram, or strolling along the Ebro— characterized by considerate treatment, low selfishness, and a minimal tendency to hold grudges over minor conflicts.
This podium in friendliness adds to other achievements that position Zaragoza as one of the most livable cities in Spain in 2026. The city was awarded the 2026 Accessible European City Award by the European Commission (Access City Award), highlighting its rights-based approach —inspired by the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities—. It features a 100% accessible tram, barrier-free pedestrian streets, inclusive housing (such as the Flumen project), certified websites and apps, and a Municipal Accessibility Office that coordinates cross-cutting policies. Additionally, in quality of life rankings —such as those from OCU or local perceptions— Zaragoza is close to the top spot due to its balance of public services, low stress, accessibility, and comfort, only behind Vigo in some studies.
But Zaragoza is not resting on its laurels: its future hinges on an ambitious commitment to sustainability and reconnecting with nature, embodied in the Huerva River Regeneration Project. This emblematic tributary of the Ebro, long degraded and semi-concealed as an “urban scar,” is being transformed into a vibrant and accessible green corridor. Funded by NextGenerationEU funds (through the Biodiversity Foundation of MITECO) and with a total investment of nearly 32 million euros, the project is divided into phases: the first (site preparation) is already completed, and the second —ongoing until the end of 2026— focuses on hydromorphological recovery, renaturalization, and the creation of public spaces.
The actions include:
- Elimination of invasive species and revegetation with native flora to create a riverside forest.
- Improvement of biodiversity and water quality using Krainer walls (flexible natural defenses).
- Creation of eight parks (five new and three renovated) along the urban watercourse.
- New pedestrian walkways, accessible trails, and calming of adjacent streets (such as Manuel Lasala or Marina Española).
- Integration with the Forest of the Zaragoza Residents and other green axes.
This project not only mitigates flood risks and enhances climate resilience —Zaragoza is part of the EU Mission 100 Climate-Neutral Cities by 2030— but also transforms the Huerva into a hub for urban regeneration: a green lung that fosters coexistence, outdoor leisure, and public health.
Meanwhile, the 2026 municipal budget allocates almost 235 million euros to the Environment and Mobility Area (a 5.63% increase from 2025), promoting sustainable mobility, cleanliness, playgrounds, and animal protection. These investments reinforce the vision of a livable, inclusive, and green city, where the friendliness of its inhabitants complements environments that invite people to stay.
In a European context where cities compete to attract talent and residents, Zaragoza demonstrates that true greatness lies in the human and sustainable: a place where you feel welcome, accessible to all, and prepared for the future. With the Huerva reviving and its welcoming spirit intact, the Aragonese capital stands out as a model of a friendly and resilient city for the next decade.
