Ljubljana announced Hosting City of Urban Future 2026

‘The Better-Cities Event’ heads to Europe’s capital of bold, green moves

Ljubljana / Łódź, May 22, 2025 – After welcoming nearly 2,000 passionate city leaders and urban changemakers at UF25 in Łódź, Poland, Urban Future – Europe’s Better-Cities Event – is officially headed to Ljubljana, Slovenia in spring 2026.

Moving from a city known for bold industrial reinvention to one celebrated for transforming public space, Urban Future continues to spotlight cities where sustainability isn’t just a plan – but rather a practice.

In Ljubljana, that practice has meant putting citizens first for over a decade: strategically pedestrianizing the city centre, transforming former roads into vibrant public spaces, and becoming a hotspot for international travellers.

Hanna Zdanowska, Mayor of Łódź, passed the baton with pride:

“Hosting Urban Future 2025 was a powerful moment for Łódź – a city constantly writing new chapters of transformation. Ljubljana is a natural next stop. It’s a city many see as a role model and one that proves sustainable change isn’t only necessary – it’s possible, and it’s already happening.”

Ljubljana has become a European model for urban liveability, earning its European Green Capital title by backing bold ideas with action: from its expansive car-free zone and riverside promenades to deep commitments to circularity, climate adaptation, and community-driven planning.

Rok Žnidaršič, Deputy Mayor of Ljubljana, welcomed the move:

“Ljubljana proves that cities can be greener, safer, and more joyful – if you’re willing to be brave. We’re thrilled to host Urban Future and share the journey with thousands of CityChangers who are shaping a better urban future in cities across Europe and beyond.”

In 2026, Urban Future will again gather architects, planners, city staff, cycling advocates, mobility disruptors, and public sector pioneers – all united by one passion: making cities greener, more liveable, and more human.

About Urban Future

Urban Future is Europe’s Better-Cities Event. It brings together the most passionate ‘CityChangers’ who are driving urban transformation. Each year, the event moves to a different city that’s walking the talk, to spotlight real change and inspire more of it across Europe and beyond.

About the City of Ljubljana

The capital of Slovenia is a city with a green soul. Thanks to its exceptional environmental awareness, Ljubljana has managed to preserve its green character to the present day. It proudly holds the title of European Green Capital 2016 and a host of international awards.

See you in Ljubljana. Same Spirit. New Vibe.