In collaboration with German National Tourist Office, India.

Have you ever imagined a city escape that seamlessly blends the thrill of urban living with the warmth of conscious travel? Germany’s urban sprawl has more to offer than concrete jungles, including eco-friendly city tours, green transportation, and sustainable city experiences. In fact, the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is passionately championing sustainable travel across the country through its latest campaign, ‘Simply Feel Good’, which equips conscious travellers with practical tools and information to reduce their carbon footprint while they explore the many wonders of the destination.

Whether you’re planning to visit the capital city of Berlin or smaller towns and cities like Celle and Franconia, we’re here to prove that your urban adventures in Germany can be both urbane and enviably green. Hold tight as we unravel the secrets of the country’s urban landscapes, where every street tells a tale of sustainability with a side of metropolitan charm.

Discovering Green Havens

Germany’s cities have a wide range of lush escapes for every type of traveller. In Berlin, the sprawling Tiergarten takes centre stage, a city oasis boasting landscaped gardens, lakes, and inviting beer gardens. You can also head to the Berlin Botanical Gardens to explore the greenhouses and captivating displays. In Halle, the Bergzoo invites visitors to an enchanting world of biodiversity, blending conservation with recreation. This urban zoo not only showcases a diverse range of wildlife but also emphasises the importance of environmental education. Kassel, home to the Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, unfolds as a green marvel with expansive gardens, cascading water features, and the iconic Hercules monument. Essen, known for its industrial heritage, offers a unique green attraction at the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex. Here, visitors can explore the transformation of a former coal mine into a sustainable and culturally rich site, blending history with ecological awareness. Each city, with its distinctive green attractions, adds a layer of natural charm to the urban tapestry of Germany.

Trying Out Conscious Cuisines

Eating sustainably in Germany has never been easier. Whether you want to try out a vegan or vegetarian restaurant or wish to support local farmers by consuming seasonal produce, you’ll find fantastic options in every city. When in Berlin, you must visit FREA Bakery for a vegan breakfast. The bakery’s zero waste policies have won it a green Michelin star. Celle, a town with historic charm, embraces sustainability at farm-to-table restaurants like Schapers, where organic and regional ingredients take centre stage. Franconia, rich in culinary tradition, houses various culinary gems that are renowned for its commitment to locally grown produce. These cities collectively weave a narrative of conscious dining, where every bite is a celebration of both flavour and sustainable living.

Shopping Sustainably

Germany’s cities not only captivate with historic landmarks and green escapes but also offer a paradise for guilt-free retail therapy. A must-visit experience for shopping enthusiasts, Krämerbrücke in Erfurt stands as Europe’s longest bridge featuring a continuous line of houses hosting small galleries and boutiques that showcase a variety of regional handicraft products. The offerings range from indigo printing to Lauscha glass and local wines, providing visitors with an opportunity to engage in fair and sustainable shopping practices. If you’re passing by Freiburg, stop and explore the charming small shops in the Old Town. Berlin, a global fashion hub where ethical fashion meets style, has many options to choose from, including flea markets, boutiques like Loveco and Moeon, market halls like Markthalle Neun, and a lot more.

Travelling mindfully

Modern travellers are conscious of the impact of transportation on the destination they’re exploring. Travelling sustainably through Germany’s cities is an immersive journey that prioritises environmental responsibility. Efforts to minimise carbon footprints are evident in well-developed public transportation systems, encouraging eco-friendly mobility across urban landscapes. Walkable city centres and bike-friendly infrastructure foster sustainable exploration, allowing conscious travellers to connect with the vibrant pulse of each destination without compromising the environment.

So, let sustainability be your compass as you dive into the vibrant pulse of Germany’s urban landscapes—a journey where every step is a celebration of conscious travel.

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