As the European Commission’s principal urban mobility policy conference, Urban Mobility Days (UMD) provides the ideal opportunity to network, debate, and exchange on key European urban mobility policy issues with policymakers, local authorities, NGOs, academics, urban transport practitioners, and the industry
This year’s event takes place from 30 September to 2 October in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania and European Green Capital 2025 award winner.
The UMD 2025 conference places urban mobility within the context of the new European Union priorities (“A new plan for Europe’s sustainable prosperity and competitiveness”, “Supporting people, strengthening our societies and our social model”). This will be highlighted by the cross-cutting topics of competitiveness, innovation, and tourism throughout the three days of the conference, each dedicated to urban nodes, cycling, and public transport.
The full conference programme will be published on this website at a later date.
Urban nodes as enablers for a well-functioning European transport network
Urban nodes are key locations along the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) where long-distance journeys start or finish. Ensuring a seamless connection between the TEN-T network and local and regional mobility systems is a priority for all stakeholders, as it directly contributes to the efficient functioning of the Single Market, the quality of life of EU citizens and European competitiveness.
European, national and local authorities are focused on implementing the TEN-T provisions on urban nodes. Sessions will be exploring the role of national SUMP contact points, the steps needed to prepare Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans and the collection of urban mobility data, amongst other topics.
Unlocking the power of urban cycling: from policy to practice
Cycling is not a mere lifestyle choice; it is a pillar of sustainable urban mobility and a viable element of the European economy. But how can we ensure cycling is seamlessly integrated into city infrastructure and urban logistics?
As progress on the European Declaration on Cycling takes centre stage, we explore how data-driven planning, policy, and investment can improve cycling conditions, tackle transport poverty, increase the competitiveness of the cycling industry and boost sustainable tourism in city destinations.
Public transport at the heart of the urban mobility system
Public transport plays a pivotal role in structuring and shaping urban mobility. In cities, public transport is one of the most visible and essential public services. Therefore, there is a constant need to bridge the gap between policy and daily mobility needs, balancing economic development, territorial and social cohesion, and environmental priorities.
How can we better support urban public transport and address transport poverty? Policymakers, along with local politicians and transport practitioners, explore the latest public transport trends and good practice on sustainable mobility solutions, integrated mobility and public procurement, to help foster the development of high-quality urban mobility for all and for the economy.
Creating visitor-friendly, green cities
As tourism in cities grows, so does the need for smart, sustainable and accessible mobility solutions that benefit both visitors and residents. Well-planned transport systems, promoting public transport, and active mobility and walking, can ease congestion, reduce emissions, and enhance the visitor experience, while supporting the local economy.
How can cities integrate tourism needs into urban mobility planning? From promoting active travel and public transport to ensuring seamless multimodal connections, this cross-cutting theme explores strategies that make destinations more accessible, sustainable and enjoyable for all.
Ensuring world-leading urban transport and mobility services
The urban environment is an essential setting for testing and deploying innovative mobility services to regain European competitiveness. The EC Competitiveness Compass shines a light on existing and future EU initiatives that stimulate economic growth for cities and regions and boost innovation in the EU.
How can EU initiatives and policy instruments support cities on the path towards competitive, sustainable and resilient transport? How can we reduce barriers to the procurement of clean buses? How can cities establish partnerships with innovative mobility service providers? Are we doing enough to attract and keep EU talent in cities, and provide employment and business opportunities in the urban transport sector? Are we making sure our start-ups and SMEs can succeed in the European mobility sector? Join us at Urban Mobility Days 2025 in Vilnius and be part of the discussion.
