Top 20 Cities for Sustainable Travel

As travellers increasingly prioritise eco-conscious destinations, determining a city’s green credentials before booking a trip becomes crucial. The Global Destination Sustainability Movement annually ranks the most eco-friendly cities, aiming to spotlight those evolving into more sustainable and resilient options for visitors. Here are the top 20 cities for sustainable travel.

Cities are assessed in four critical areas: environmental performance (comprising policies related to public transportation, carbon emissions, and renewable energy sources), social performance (evaluating personal safety and health), destination management, and the sustainability practices of the city’s suppliers, including airports, hotels, and restaurants.

The collective efforts of each city, encompassing climate action plans, educational initiatives, community involvement, diversity programs, and quantifiable progress, trigger a positive domino effect that inspires further improvements, both locally and globally.

In 2023, the list expanded to encompass 100 cities worldwide. Denmark leads with five of its cities featured among the top 20, followed by Sweden with three.

The following are the top 20 cities actively promoting regenerative travel and sustainable living:

1. Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg comes up number one in this list.  Discover Gothenburg, Sweden’s “second city” and a hidden gem for summer and beyond. Celebrate its 400th-anniversary festival, explore new attractions, and bask in the historic charm of the downtown area. With direct flights from Newark, Gothenburg offers a vibrant, crowd-free escape nestled between Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen. Beyond the city’s highlights, indulge in shoreline-to-timberline excursions, including scenic archipelago boat trips and idyllic countryside strolls. 

Explore pedestrian-friendly streets, like the Haga district, and savor a “fika” coffee break at chic cafes and vintage shops, epitomizing Gothenburg’s hip and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss the lush parks, iconic landmarks like Skansen Kronan fortress, and the vibrant blooms of the Botanical Gardens. Gothenburg awaits as your perfect Scandinavian getaway, offering a perfect blend of culture, relaxation, and unique experiences.

For six consecutive times, Gothenburg, Sweden’s second-largest city, has clinched the top spot in the Global Destination Sustainability Index. Adding to its accolades, Lonely Planet bestowed upon it the title of the world’s Best Sustainable City Stay in 2021.

Visit Gothenburg

2. Oslo, Norway

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

4. Helsinki, Finland

Welcome to the Helsinki region, a stunning expanse of greenery, open spaces, and lively vibes surrounding Finland’s capital! This unique area boasts world-class architecture and design, a sauna culture like no other, Nordic eateries offering a taste sensation, and charming villages that are nothing short of picturesque.

Encompassing the capital city and its metropolitan area, as well as some more distant towns and cities, the Helsinki region seamlessly blends nature trails with urban living. Whether you’re craving the tranquility of nature or the buzz of city life, both are just a stone’s throw away. Dive into a world where good food, superb design, captivating museums, and distinctive architecture abound.

What sets Helsinki apart is its strong commitment to ecological thinking, woven seamlessly into everyday life. The city places a great emphasis on fostering environmentally-friendly lifestyles, making it a haven for those who appreciate a harmonious balance between modern living and nature’s wonders. Join us on a journey where sustainability meets style in the heart of Finland!

Visit Helsinki

5. Bergen, Norway

6. Aarhus, Denmark

7. Aalborg, Denmark

8. Glasgow, Scotland

Immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of Glasgow, a city that effortlessly blends art, music, and diverse shopping experiences. Marvel at the stunning Gothic and Victorian architecture, from a landlocked lighthouse to the modern lines of the Zaha Hadid-designed Riverside Museum along the River Clyde. Delight in cultural treasures at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, where art and a stuffed elephant await eager exploration.

Embark on a walking tour along the Glasgow Mural Trail, revealing the city’s lively street art scene, and indulge in a culinary adventure at numerous vegan eateries. For the eco-conscious traveler, Glasgow offers 300km of scenic bike paths, paddle boarding adventures, and even a nightclub powered by the energy of its enthusiastic patrons. Glasgow is a feast for the senses, with each step uncovering a new facet of its artistic and sustainable spirit.

Visit Glasgow

9. Bordeaux, France

10. Stockholm, Sweden

11. Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast, once marked by a tumultuous history, has emerged as a captivating hub in Europe’s tourism landscape. From Game of Thrones allure to vibrant music festivals and captivating wall art, this compact city packs a punch in cultural offerings. Let’s delve into some highlights of Northern Ireland’s capital.

The majestic Black Mountain, dominating West Belfast’s skyline, creates a striking backdrop, while the iconic Cavehill, believed to inspire Gulliver’s Travels, is a testament to Belfast’s literary ties. Steeped in history, the city proudly showcases its past through iconic Black Cab Tours, offering a comprehensive view guided by knowledgeable cabbies.

As you navigate the cityscape, murals unfold stories of Belfast’s rich and complex history, reflecting both sides of the community. What was once a platform for political statements has transformed into a canvas for neutral, art-driven expressions. Dive into Belfast’s artistic transformation.

For Game of Thrones enthusiasts, Belfast is more than a city; it’s a realm of economic significance, with tours led by former show extras offering an insider’s perspective on Westeros. Witness the convergence of history, culture, and fantasy in the vibrant heart of Belfast.

Visit Belfast

12. Zurich, Switzerland

13. Lyon, France

14. Goyang, South Korea

15. Tirol, Austria

16. Middelfart, Denmark

17. Singapore

In Singapore, beyond the realm of world-class museums and galleries, the spirit of art pulsates through unexpected corners, turning the city into a canvas of creativity.

After immersing yourself in the National Museum’s grandeur and the National Gallery’s vast art collection, embark on an art expedition across the island. Discover street art at Gelam Gallery, seek out wall murals scattered around, or relish an outdoor performance at Esplanade – Theatres on The Bay with our dazzling cityscape as the backdrop.

Cultural events like the M1 Fringe Festival, Singapore Art Week, International Festival of Arts, and Writers Festival showcase diverse talents, providing a platform for fresh perspectives. Traditional celebrations, from the Dragon Boat Festival’s drum beats to Thaipusam’s religious fervor and the vibrant Chingay Parade, add a kaleidoscope of colors to our cultural tapestry.

Embracing the digital age, festivals like the Singapore International Festival of Arts have adopted exciting virtual formats, accessible to global audiences. Explore the interplay of old and new in districts like Tiong Bahru, Katong/Joo Chiat, and Kampong Gelam, where heritage meets modernity through charming architecture and vivid street art.

Witness the fusion of past and present at landmarks like Marina Bay Sands® and the lush Singapore Botanic Gardens. For an adventurous escape, set sail to offshore islands like Coney Island, Kusu Island, and Pulau Ubin, revealing Singapore’s diverse landscapes beyond the well-trodden paths.

Visit Singapore

18. Nyborg, Denmark

19. Kerry, Ireland

County Kerry, a globally acclaimed destination, beckons travelers with its enchanting landscapes, boasting Ireland’s highest peak, Carrantuohill, the picturesque Lakes of Killarney, sandy beaches, and rugged cliffs. To truly experience the essence of Kerry, embark on the panoramic Ring of Kerry drive along the stunning Iveragh Peninsula. This 65km journey winds through charming towns like Kenmare, Sneem, Waterville, Cahersiveen, Glenbeigh, and Killorglin.

Kerry, steeped in mystique, folklore, and history, invites exploration of Muckross House and Gardens, Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall, Ross Castle, and the scenic Dingle Peninsula. Immerse yourself in the heritage of Killarney by hopping on the Killarney Heritage Trail’s Hop-on-Hop-off tour bus, offering a glimpse of the town’s rich history.

Venture to Tralee, the host of the Rose of Tralee festival, and marvel at the iconic Blennerville Windmill. Discover Caherciveen’s Neolithic-Bronze treasures at the Heritage Centre, housed in a historic police barracks near the beautiful marina. Caherciveen boasts megalithic wedge tombs, standing stones, and a captivating history waiting to be explored.

Visit Kerry

20. Skelleftea, Sweden

Conclusion

Encouraging the support of sustainable cities is crucial while embarking on our travels. These cities play a pivotal role in curbing global emissions. From eco-friendly public transportation to the practice of urban farming, they demonstrate the key features that define sustainable cities and societies. They also highlight how any urban center can contribute to the well-being of our planet.  These cities showcase remarkable sustainability achievements, ranging from renewable energy and green building techniques to comprehensive recycling programs and eco-certified accommodations. They serve as leading examples of environmentally-conscious urban areas dedicated to preserving their natural surroundings and promoting responsible tourism.  So there you have theTop  20 cities for sustainability.  Which cities on the list have you visited?