In collaboration with German National Tourist Office, India.

The way we travel has changed drastically in the last few years. Modern travellers aren’t interested in ticking off destinations from their bucket list. Instead, they place a lot of importance on sustainable travel practices, shifting the spotlight towards untouched natural landscapes, utilising resources responsibly, supporting local businesses, and embracing a well-being-centric journey. If you’re looking for the ideal destination for your next green adventure, here’s why Germany should be your top pick. Beyond its iconic landmarks, the country offers a kaleidoscope of eco-friendly experiences, sustainable getaways, and responsible travel options, weaving a narrative of conscientious exploration.

Simply Feel Good: An Initiative by GNTB

Through its ‘Simply Feel Good’ campaign, the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is expanding its scope to champion sustainable travel in Germany. This initiative extends beyond mere rhetoric, providing conscious travellers with practical tools and information to reduce their carbon footprint throughout various stages of their journey. From the initial steps of booking transportation and accommodation to immersive local experiences, the campaign aims to empower travellers to make informed and eco-conscious choices.

The global campaign hopes to inspire a new era of conscious travel, invites travellers to explore a wealth of eco-friendly vacation experiences, and aims to focus on creativity, passion, and the environment.

Footprints of Change: Sustainable Travel Options in Germany

Want to reduce your carbon footprint while on the move? Ditching conventional modes of transportation not only allows you to travel greener, it also enables you to experience the destination more closely. You can choose to explore Germany’s cobblestone streets on foot, cycle through scenic routes, or even navigate waterways via canoe. The country’s commitment to sustainable tourism extends to public transportation, offering complimentary access with TouristCards in various regions. And if you wish to travel by car, you can opt for car-sharing apps which allow convenient rental of electric vehicles.

That’s not all. You can also calculate your journey’s carbon footprint using the myclimate.org CO2 calculator. By supporting certified carbon offset programmes worldwide, you can make your trip carbon neutral, contributing to a more relaxed and environmentally friendly holiday while supporting a social cause.

Eco-Conscious Stays and Local Culinary Delights

Picking out an eco-friendly getaway doesn’t mean you need to compromise on comfort. Germany boasts an array of green accommodations that align with the modern traveller’s commitment to eco-friendly travelling. From charming boutique hotels with solar panels to rustic eco-friendly lodges nestled amid nature, the options are diverse. Even large hotel chains in Germany are reducing their CO2 emissions by using modern technology and conserving resources through environmentally conscious management. The Atlantic Hotel Sail City in Bremerhaven has already reduced its CO2 emissions by 38 percent since 2013. Moreover, the hotel is home to several beehives on the rooftop, which produce honey for the fully organic breakfast menu.

Another way to explore Germany is through its unique food experiences and local culinary traditions. You can find a variety of innovative community projects, from a vegetable garden in Bremen’s industrial harbour district to a dairy farm-turned community centre in the heart of Munich.

Embracing a Zero-Plastic Lifestyle

Sustainability has been an intrinsic part of Germany for decades. The Germans famously lead low-waste and sustainable lifestyles, sharing a common passion for household recycling, choosing public transport over private vehicles, and a great love for the outdoors. One of the finest tips for an environmentally conscious holiday is to fill your water bottle for free from more than 6,000 public water refill stations instead of buying bottled drinking water. You can also ask cafes to serve you coffee in your own reusable cup—in fact, some places may even offer you a discount for this thoughtful practice. Fruits and vegetables are also available plastic-free, super fresh, and inexpensively at the many farmers’ markets around the country.

As you dream of Germany’s green wonders, let the idea of sustainable exploration linger. Embrace a journey where each footprint is thoughtful, eco-friendly, and simply feel-good.

To know more about travelling sustainably in Germany, click here.