10 best sustainable and eco-friendly travel destinations

June 25, 2025

Ticking off your bucket list trips can be rewarding, but even more when doing so while leaving a lighter footprint on the planet. With sustainable travel coming more and more into the spotlight of today's travel experiences, we curated a list of the 10 best sustainable and eco-friendly travel destinations to help you explore the world responsibly. From destinations powered by renewable energy to cities with green architecture and community-driven conservation, eco-conscious travel offers unforgettable experiences that respect both nature and local communities.

As you plan your next adventure to one of these sustainable travel destinations, don’t forget an essential part of your journey: reliable protection. Our award-winning SafeTrip travel insurance can help protect you from the unexpected, whether it's a trip cancellation, medical emergency, trip delay, or lost baggage. With this backup, you can focus on what really matters: exploring responsibly and traveling with purpose.

Journey to eco-friendly and responsible destinations

For those now looking to embark on their eco-friendly travel adventure, these 10 destinations lead the way in sustainability¹. Each one stands out for its commitment to growth with environmental stewardship and community wellbeing, making them ideal choices for responsible travelers. Here are the top eco-conscious places to add to your travel list:

1. Helsinki, Finland - Helsinki is a city that seamlessly blends urban life with nature, thanks to its extensive green spaces and commitment to renewable energy. The city aims to be carbon neutral by 2035 and offers numerous eco-friendly activities, such as exploring the Sibelius Park and visiting the Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden².
2. Gothenburg, Sweden - Gothenburg is a leader in sustainable urban planning and public transportation, with a focus on reducing its environmental footprint. The city's extensive network of bike lanes and electric buses makes it easy for visitors to get around while minimizing their carbon emissions.
3. Copenhagen, Denmark - Copenhagen is famous for its cycling culture and green initiatives, making it one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world³. The city also boasts numerous parks and green spaces, and it is home to innovative projects like the CopenHill waste-to-energy plant, which doubles as a recreational facility.
4. Singapore - Singapore is a city-state that prioritizes green building and urban sustainability. The city's Gardens by the Bay and the Singapore Botanic Gardens are prime examples of its commitment to green spaces, while its strict environmental regulations and innovative urban planning make it a model for sustainable living.
5. Sydney, Australia - Sydney is renowned for its conservation efforts and eco-friendly attractions. The city's iconic Bondi Beach and the Royal Botanic Garden are just a few of the many places where visitors can enjoy nature. Sydney also has a strong focus on sustainable practices, such as recycling and energy efficiency.
6. Bordeaux, France - Bordeaux is committed to sustainable wine production and tourism, with many vineyards adopting organic and biodynamic farming methods. The city also offers eco-friendly tours and activities, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts who want to support sustainable practices.
7. Glasgow, Scotland - Glasgow is focused on reducing carbon emissions and promoting green tourism. The city has set ambitious targets to become carbon neutral and offers a range of eco-friendly attractions, such as the Glasgow Science Centre and the Botanic Gardens⁴.
8. Zurich, Switzerland - Zurich is known for its efficient public transport and green spaces. The city's tram and bus network is powered by renewable energy, and its numerous parks, such as the Zurichsee and the Uetliberg, provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities.
9. Paris, France - Paris is implementing numerous sustainability initiatives, including green roofs and bike-sharing programs. The city's efforts to reduce pollution and promote green spaces, like the Jardin des Tuileries and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, make it a great destination for eco-conscious travelers.
10. Victoria, Canada - Victoria is a destination that emphasizes environmental conservation and community engagement. The city's commitment to preserving natural areas, such as the Butchart Gardens and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, is matched by its focus on sustainable practices and local community involvement.

These eco-friendly destinations offer a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainable practices, making them perfect for travelers who want to make a positive impact on the places they visit. Whether you're exploring the green spaces of Helsinki, cycling through Copenhagen, or enjoying the eco-friendly attractions in Sydney, these destinations provide a model for sustainable and responsible travel.

Travel insurance for sustainable travel

Before you embark on your eco-friendly and responsible travel adventure, securing travel insurance like SafeTrip International Travel Medical Plus is essential to help create a smoother journey. SafeTrip plans offer comprehensive coverage for unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, enabling you to fully enjoy your destination. By safeguarding your travel investment, you can concentrate on making a positive impact and supporting responsible travel practices, giving you the added confidence to embrace your eco-friendly adventure with enthusiasm.

Sources:

1. www.gds.earth/blog/top-40/
2. https://carbonneutralcities.org/helsinki/
3. https://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagen/activities/what-makes-copenhagen-worlds-most-bicycle-friendly-capital
4. https://carbonneutralcities.org/cities/glasgow/