Benidorm, European Green Pioneer Destination 2025
Benidorm has been recognised by the European Commission as a European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2025, a prestigious award that recognises cities that excel in sustainability, innovation and accessibility in the field of tourism.
What does this recognition mean?
The European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism is awarded annually by the European Commission to a city that demonstrates exceptional commitment to sustainable and smart tourism.
The award highlights innovative destination strategies that aim to minimise the environmental impact of tourism while optimising the experience for visitors and residents.
Winning cities must demonstrate excellence in key areas such as:
✅ Environmental sustainability: preservation of biodiversity, efficient water management and reduction of CO2 emissions.
✅ Sustainable mobility: infrastructures that favour public transport, cycling and traffic reduction.
✅Energy efficiency: use of renewable energy, efficient lighting and reduction of energy consumption.
✅ Universal accessibility: adapted environments so that all people, regardless of ability, can enjoy the destination.
✅ Sustainable economic and social development: strategies to ensure that tourism benefits the local community and promotes quality employment.
Award-winning cities in previous years
In the 2025 edition, Benidorm competed for this recognition against other European destinations that have also demonstrated a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation in tourism. These include Aveiro (Portugal), Jūrmala (Latvia), Liepāja (Latvia), Nea Propontida (Greece), Panevėžys (Lithuania), and Sliven (Bulgaria).
How did Benidorm achieve this recognition?
Thanks to its vertical urban model, the protection of natural spaces such as the Sierra Helada, the efficient management of the water cycle and the promotion of sustainable mobility, Benidorm has proven to be an innovative, sustainable and future-proof tourist destination.
Read on to find out why Benidorm has been chosen by the European Commission for 2025.
