Situated in the rolling hills of northern Portugal, Guimarães isn’t just any old town—it’s often called the cradle of the nation. You’ll find it a short train ride from Porto, in the Minho region. Locals take pride in their vinho verde and leafy landscapes. Guimarães is a walkable city, home to about 160,000 people, but it feels much cosier thanks to its medieval centre, winding lanes and lively squares.
Life here is that bit greener too—not just because of the parks that dot the old town, but because folks genuinely care about sustainability. It’s no wonder Guimarães was recently recognised as the European Green Capital for 2026. This new title has seen the city take centre stage for all things eco and forward-thinking, making it one of the most underrated cities in Portugal.
What is the European Green Capital Award?
The European Green Capital Award isn’t just a trophy for the mantelpiece—it’s a sign that a city is leading the way when it comes to environmental smarts and making urban life better for everyone. Launched by the European Commission back in 2008, the award encourages cities across Europe to clean up their act, tackle pollution, and bring in clever ideas for greener living. Every year, judges look at everything from air quality and waste management to local transport and how much nature is packed into city streets.
To win, a city needs more than recycling bins and a few flower beds; it’s about weaving sustainability into every bit of daily life. Imagine green public transport, cutting down emissions, and getting locals involved in planet-friendly projects. Past winners include the likes of Valencia, Grenoble and Lisbon.
Why was Guimarães named the 2026 European Green Capital?
Guimarães was awarded the 2026 European Green Capital title, not only thanks to its incredible air quality, but also its outstanding commitment to sustainability and environmental progress. The judging panel recognised the city for “continuous improvement regarding all sustainable challenges and developments,” as well as for its “comprehensive results in all seven environmental management areas.”
A closer look at Guimarães's green achievements:
- Sustainability is deeply rooted in the city’s identity, with strong engagement from residents, local academia, and the private sector.
- Guimarães demonstrated remarkable advances in areas like waste management, biodiversity protection, improved land use, and climate action.
- The city is known for initiatives aimed at achieving climate neutrality by 2030.
- Judges were impressed by Guimarães’ ability to bridge creativity, science, and data in its green projects.
- The “One Planet City” motto reflects its holistic approach and serves as an inspiration for other European cities to pursue ambitious sustainability goals
Key green projects and sustainable attractions in Guimarães
Guimarães isn’t just winning awards for its climate goals—the real proof’s in the projects you’ll spot as you head around town. The city has taken sustainability to heart, weaving it into daily life and public spaces.
Community gardens and urban agriculture
Locals are big on growing their own. There are public plots and allotments dotted around, so residents can get stuck in with everything from vegetables to wildflowers.
Renewable energy in public buildings
The city’s schools, sports halls, and municipal buildings are powered in part by solar panels, helping shrink the city’s carbon footprint year after year.
Ambitious waste management
Guimarães is investing in advanced waste-sorting and recycling schemes, making it easier for households to cut waste and for the city to reach its ambitious targets.
District C - a zero-carbon commitment
A flagship initiative that brings together residents, businesses, and local government in a joint effort to cut emissions to net zero, experimenting with greener energy, sustainable building practices, and climate-friendly transport.
EU Mission Label
Guimarães is part of the EU Mission for Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities.
Signatory of the Green City Accord
A Europe-wide initiative bringing together mayors who are determined to make their cities cleaner and healthier. By signing up, they agree to step up efforts in air and water quality, supporting nature and biodiversity, advancing a circular economy and better waste management, and reducing noise.
Discovering Guimarães: heritage, culture, and local life
You’ll quickly notice that Guimarães strikes a rare balance between its deep history and its fresh, youthful energy. The medieval centre—recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site—is a proper maze of cobbled lanes, shaded squares, and centuries-old buildings. Wander around Largo da Oliveira and you’re surrounded by local cafés, small shops, and lively chatter.
Art lovers get a kick out of spots like the Centro Internacional das Artes José de Guimarães, while fans of the outdoors are spoiled for choice with leafy city parks and hiking trails that thread into the nearby hills. Food is a highlight too. You’ll find everything from traditional tascas serving Minho classics like rojões and caldo verde, to smart new eateries with creative takes on local flavours.
And if you fancy something a bit quieter, Guimarães’ green spaces—like Parque da Cidade or the views from Penha hill—are great for a relaxed afternoon. You may be just visiting or thinking of settling in for a while, whatever brings you here, you'll always find something happening in this city that wears its heritage and its green credentials with pride.
Águeda and the European Green Leaf Award
While Guimarães takes the spotlight as Europe’s Green Capital for 2026, it’s worth noting that Portugal notched up another win in the same awards season. The nearby city of Águeda was named the winner of the 2026 European Green Leaf Award, which shines a light on smaller cities leading the way in sustainable urban living.
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