Top 10 Tips for sustainable travel

Traveling in harmony with nature, leaving no trace, and keeping your carbon footprint as low as possible during your vacation has gained significant importance in recent years. From Italy to Portugal to Greece—Europe offers numerous cities and regions that make it easy for you to travel responsibly. If you want to travel in an eco-friendly and sustainable way, here are ten tips for sustainable travel that will help you explore Europe's most beautiful places while being mindful of the environment. Travel comfortably by train or bus, pack lightly, explore the first zero-waste cities in Europe, stay in sustainable accommodations, and sample regional specialties. 

1. Travel by train or bus 

Cruise ships and airplanes emit the most CO2 emissions compared to other forms of transport. Even more sustainable than a fully occupied car are buses and trains, which are the best ways to reach your destination. Nowadays, almost all major cities in Europe are easily accessible via an extensive and affordable network of trains and buses. While a train ride might take longer than a flight, the beauty of slow travel is that you get to see more of the landscape and better appreciate the journey.

You can travel comfortably by bus

 

2. Travel light

One general tip for sustainable travel is to travel with as little luggage as possible. The fewer pieces of luggage you bring, the lower the CO2 emissions from transportation. It helps to question whether you really need each clothing item and travel accessory. The "capsule wardrobe" principle is especially useful, as it allows you to mix and match a few versatile pieces to create multiple outfits.

3. Cycle in the Netherlands 

The Netherlands is a true paradise for cyclists, and even Amsterdam, a major city, is very bike-friendly. So why not explore the country on a bike instead of in a car? The cycle paths along the Dutch coast, over 610 km long, have much to offer. The circular route around the IJsselmeer takes you on a 400 km journey through classic Dutch landscapes and charming towns.

Environmentally friendly and healthy: Cycling through Holland

 

If a flight is unavoidable or you need to drive during your vacation, you can use various carbon offsetting programs. There are now several apps and websites that allow you to donate a certain amount to sustainable projects in different countries as compensation for your carbon emissions—like when booking a holiday home with Interhome, for example. 

5. Enjoy regional specialties instead of international fast food

Avoid eating fast food from international chains during your eco-friendly vacation. Instead, discover the delicious regional specialties made with passion by locals. By shopping at local stores or markets and choosing locally produced products, you're not only supporting local agriculture but also helping to reduce the need for imported goods. Plus, you'll learn more about your holiday region while shopping.

Fresh and regional - best to shop at the weekly market

 

Choosing your accommodation plays a key role in sustainable travel. In Portugal, for example, there are many options for enjoying an unforgettable vacation in harmony with nature. More and more farms are opening their doors to vacationers, allowing you to enjoy a nature holiday in an authentic atmosphere. There are also eco-apartments with features like closed water cycles or solar panels for generating electricity, both in the Algarve and Alentejo. Glamping and camping are also popular choices for sustainable stays in Portugal.

7. Eco-Friendly city break in Copenhagen 

Want to take a city break in one of the most sustainable cities in Europe? Then Copenhagen is the right destination for you. The city is a leader in ecotourism across Europe and aims to become completely carbon-neutral by 2025. In the bicycle capital, you can easily get around on numerous cycle paths, explore a wide range of organic stores, and enjoy the city's maritime flair at the beautiful harbor.

Discover sustainable Copenhagen by bike

 

The town of Capannori in Tuscany, Italy, is a true pioneer in waste reduction in Europe. Since 2007, it has steadily reduced its waste, even introducing a tax on waste produced. Capannori was the first zero-waste town in Europe. Back in the 1990s, the community sought to prevent the construction of incinerators in the region, so they came up with creative solutions. If you'd like to learn more about zero-waste and sustainability during your eco-friendly vacation, Capannori is the place to be. There are many small shops where you can buy items without packaging. Simply bring your own containers, and fill them with fresh pasta, oil, vegetables, and other household items.

9. Explore the climate-friendly island of Juist in the North Sea 

The German North Sea island of Juist aims to be climate-neutral by 2030. Local hotels and guesthouses offer travel packages that include rail transportation, and most of the electricity on the island is generated from renewable sources. If you arrive by car, you're asked to pay a carbon offset contribution. The island's restaurants also participate by offering only vegetarian dishes every Thursday.

Ideal for walks in dunes: Juist

 

Sustainable travel also means generating as little waste as possible while on vacation. To embrace a zero-waste lifestyle during your travels, it's worth planning ahead before you leave. Choosing accommodations with a kitchen allows you to prepare locally sourced and unpackaged products right there, avoiding supermarket packaging. Bringing your own refillable water bottle is also important, so you don't need to buy plastic bottles.