European Mobility Week 2026: making room for every generation

One route, different needs

The European Commission campaign promotes sustainable urban mobility, including walking, cycling, public transport and other clean and intelligent transport solutions. Its main programme concludes with Car-Free Day. Local authorities can also use the campaign to test transport solutions and collect residents’ views.

A convenient journey may mean a fast bus connection to one person and a safe crossing, room for a pushchair or a place to rest to another. Streets and transport services are shared spaces that should be usable regardless of a person’s age or mobility.

See the neighbourhood through someone else’s eyes

There is no need to wait for a major infrastructure project to notice what makes a journey easier or harder. Walk a familiar route with an older person, a child or a parent using a pushchair. High kerbs, a lack of seating, a short green signal or unclear information at a stop may create barriers that are easy to miss during your own daily journeys.

How can you take part locally?

Cities, organisations and individuals are invited to participate, but the details of any local programme depend on the relevant municipality. Check the official website of your city or local authority and current notices from the local transport operator. Do not assume that a particular event is taking place until an official source confirms it.

• Plan one shared journey on foot, by bicycle or by public transport.
• Ask someone from another generation what makes it most difficult for them to get around.
• Compare several ways of reaching the same destination.
• Check the latest timetable and service notices before setting out.
• Report a barrier to the authority responsible for the road or transport service.

You could choose a library, park, market or another public place and compare access on foot, by bicycle and by public transport. Record the number of changes, whether directions are clear and whether the route would work for a person with limited mobility. This is not a professional audit, but it is a practical way to start a conversation about the everyday environment.

Mobility can bring people together

The week does not have to be only about modes of transport. It can be an opportunity to show someone a favourite walking route, help them use a new service for the first time or plan a journey that suits people of different ages. The campaign’s official website provides participation information and materials prepared in a range of European languages.

Before making a plan, review local announcements and choose one realistic, safe and accessible activity. The aim is not to travel the longest distance, but to understand how urban spaces can enable more people to take part in everyday life.

A shared route, clear boundaries

Choose a public place and agree in advance on the meeting point, duration and way home. Conversation can start with a question about the easiest part of the route or information missing at the stop. If interest is mutual, suggest coffee or another short walk only as an option. Accept a no immediately, keep your own return plan and do not share private details under pressure.