Your Ultimate Guide to Eco-Responsible Travel in Germany

Plan a responsible and guilt-free vacation to Germany with these travel choices.

In collaboration with German National Tourist Office, India

Germany, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, is also leading the way in eco-responsible tourism. As the world becomes more aware of the need to protect our environment, sustainable travel has never been more important. In Germany, this approach is not just a trend but a way of life, with countless opportunities for travellers to explore the country while minimising their ecological impact. Whether you’re cycling through countryside vineyards, enjoying a sustainable meal, hiking in the breathtaking landscapes, or simply exploring the German cities, Germany invites you to do it all with a clear conscience.

To help you navigate, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to eco-responsible things you can do as a tourist in Deutschland!

1. Opt for Green Transportation

Want to reduce your carbon footprint while on the move?As an eco-responsible traveller, using the country's efficient public transport system is one of the most impactful choices you can make. The Deutsche Bahn (DB) network connects the entire country with electric trains that run on renewable energy and is committed to sustainability, with a long-term goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050. You can also choose to explore Germany’s cobblestone streets on foot, cycle through scenic routes, or even navigate waterways via canoe or e-boats.

(DZT/Jens Wegener)

For instance, if you are travelling to explore the Uckermark Lakes Nature Park, you can board a regional train to Templin, Fürstenberg, Zehdenick, or Prenzlau, from where local buses or the Uckermark Shuttle can take you around the park. For those wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, regional passes such as the Bavaria ticket or the Länder ticket offer an affordable way to travel sustainably by rail. Germany is also one of the most bicycle-friendly countries in Europe, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing systems in cities like Berlin, Munich, and Cologne. Rent a bike or an e-scooter to explore the city at a leisurely pace. If you prefer a private vehicle, consider renting an electric car. Germany is home to numerous charging stations, particularly in major cities and along highways, making it an easy choice for eco-conscious travellers.

2. Taste Local Food at Sustainable Eateries

The farm-to-table movement is thriving in Germany, where many chefs and eateries prioritise locally grown, organic ingredients. Whether you’re dining in a high-end restaurant or a quaint countryside café, you’ll find a growing emphasis on sustainable sourcing and eco-conscious cooking. The Slow Food movement, which champions local, seasonal ingredients, is particularly popular, with many restaurants like Restaurant 1950 in Hayingen, Seven Swans in Frankfurt, HAPPA in Berlin and more committed to reducing food waste and supporting small-scale farmers.

(Chef Simon Tress, DZT/Florian Trykowski)

Germany’s eco-conscious mindset also extends to its wine regions, where vineyards are adopting organic farming practices and producing biodynamic wines with minimal environmental impact. Don’t miss out on Germany’s famous beer culture either—many local breweries are switching to sustainable brewing methods, using renewable energy and recyclable materials. You can find the best breweries in Bavaria and the island of Rügen.

3.Stay at Eco-Friendly Hotels

(DZT/Florian Trykowski)

Germany is home to a range of eco-conscious hotels that adhere to sustainable practices, from energy conservation to sourcing local, organic food. For a truly green stay, look for “Bio-Hotels,” which follow the highest standards of ecological and organic practices. These hotels emphasise natural construction materials, energy efficiency, and offering organic meals. You’ll find Bio-Hotels across the country, especially in areas like Bavaria and the Black Forest. Check for sustainability certifications like Green Key, EU Ecolabel, and the German "Viabono" when booking accommodations. These labels ensure the hotel complies with environmental guidelines, offering everything from water-saving devices to eco-friendly cleaning products.If you’re heading into the countryside, opt for farm stays that focus on sustainable farming practices. Many rural inns use locally sourced ingredients, have small-scale organic farms, and offer activities like foraging or hiking that help you connect to nature. For a complete natural experience, you can consider staying in wine barrels that have been converted into heated bedrooms and living rooms.

4. Cycle To Explore The Country

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in Germany’s natural beauty and reduce your carbon footprint is by cycling. With over 320 long-distance cycle routes and six CycleTravelRegions certified by the German Cyclists' Association, there's a route for every type of cyclist. In Chiemsee-Chiemgau, for example, take a leisurely ride around the 60-kilometre Chiemsee cycle path, which circles the “Bavarian Sea,” or challenge yourself with mountain biking on its 600 kilometres of trails. Don't miss the themed routes like the Farm Safari or the archaeological circular route for an immersive experience.

(DZT/Jens Wegener)

In the Inn-Salzach region, explore charming riverside towns, castles, and breweries along 1,500 kilometres of bike paths. Additionally, the EuroVelo network includes several scenic routes through Germany, such as the Rhine Cycle Route and the Danube Bikeway. These paths offer you the opportunity to traverse rolling hills, charming villages, and vibrant urban centers. In cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, cycling infrastructure is robust, with bike-sharing programs, dedicated lanes, and bike-friendly public transport options.

5. Go Plastic Free While Travelling

Fill your water bottle for free and without hesitation from the tap or from the more than 6,000 public water refill stations around Germany instead of buying bottled drinking water. You can also get your "coffee to go" in your own reusable cup in many places. Fruit and vegetables are available plastic-free, super fresh, and inexpensive at the many farmers' markets and also in some supermarkets.

6. Explore Nature with Respect

(Tourismusverband Erzgebirge e.V./Uwe Meinhold)

As an eco-responsible tourist, your time spent outdoors can be both enriching and sustainable if you stick to a few simple principles. Germany is a haven for nature lovers, with over 200,000 kilometres of well-maintained hiking trails across the country. When hiking in national parks such as the Bavarian Forest National Park or the Saxon Switzerland National Park, make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles—dispose of waste properly, stick to marked trails, and respect wildlife. Germany's wildlife reserves, such as the Wadden Sea National Park, also offer unique opportunities for bird watching and exploring coastal ecosystems. If you’re into boating, Germany’s many waterways offer eco-friendly options. Opt for solar-powered or pedal boats to explore lakes like Müritz in the Mecklenburg Lake District. The shimmering Lake Constance, bordered by Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, is also ideal for boat trips.

7. Visit the Green Spaces

(PMSG Potsdam Marketing und Service GmbH/André Stiebitz)

Germany’s cities have become beacons of sustainable urban living. Freiburg, often dubbed the green capital of Germany, is a prime example. Known for its commitment to sustainability, this charming city prioritises energy-efficient buildings, green public transport, and urban green spaces. It is also home to numerous eco-conscious initiatives, including green roofs, solar-powered buildings, and the Mundenhof Animal Park, which is run on sustainable principles. You can go on a city Spree Cruise on a Solar Catamaran in Berlin and glide past the iconic East Side Gallery, Oberbaumbrücke, Molecule Men, Treptower Park and landmarks like the Archenhold Observatory and Plänterwald. In Munich, discover the green spaces like the English Garden, where you can paddleboard on the lake or simply enjoy a walk through its sprawling pathways. In places like the UNESCO-listed Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam or the historical town of Bamberg, the emphasis is on preserving the past while promoting sustainable tourism. Many sites have developed eco-tourism initiatives, such as minimising energy usage and promoting walking tours to reduce carbon footprints.

8. Shop for Sustainable Souvenirs

(LTM/Olaf Malzahn)

If you’re looking to take home something unique and eco-friendly, Germany’s artisan markets and local craft shops are the perfect place to find sustainable souvenirs. Shop for handcrafted items made by local artisans, such as ceramics, textiles, and wooden crafts. Many markets prioritise locally produced goods, from handmade pottery and textiles to organic chocolates and eco-friendly cosmetics. Additionally, in cities like Berlin and Cologne, you’ll find shops that specialise in sustainable fashion, organic beauty products, and environmentally friendly home goods.

9. Participate in Eco-Tourism Experiences

(Berlin Museum of Natural History, DZT/Dagmar Schwelle)

Eco-tourism in Germany is about connecting with nature in meaningful ways, all while respecting the environment. You can participate in conservation efforts during your trip. Some eco-tourism organisations offer volunteer opportunities to help with environmental restoration, wildlife conservation, or organic farming. You’ll also find the Solar Decathlon Europe in cities like Frankfurt, where universities compete to build the most energy-efficient houses. You can also visit museums like the "Museum für Naturkunde" (Museum of Natural History) in Berlin and the "Deutsches Museum" in Munich, which offer educational exhibits on environmental science and sustainability.

To know more about exploring Germany sustainably, click here.

Cover Image: (DZT/Jens Wegener)