10 Greenest Cities in Europe You Need to Visit in 2025

10 Greenest Cities in Europe You Need to Visit in 2025

Traveling sustainably doesn’t mean sacrificing adventure. In fact, Europe is home to some of the greenest cities in the world—places where eco-friendly living blends beautifully with culture, cuisine, and charm. Whether you’re an eco-conscious traveler or just someone who enjoys clean air and green spaces, this guide is for you.

Let’s dive into the 10 greenest cities in Europe to visit in 2025.

1. Copenhagen, Denmark

Why it’s green: Copenhagen is widely regarded as the most sustainable city in the world. Over 40% of residents commute by bike, and the city plans to be carbon-neutral by 2025.

• Extensive bike lanes
• Harbor clean enough to swim in
• Wind energy powers much of the city

Must-Do: Cycle along the canals, visit the CopenHill urban ski slope, and enjoy organic food markets.

2. Stockholm, Sweden

Why it’s green: Stockholm was Europe’s first Green Capital. With over 40% of its area made up of green space and a city-wide commitment to renewable energy, it’s a model of urban sustainability.

• Clean, efficient public transport
• Tons of parks and forest reserves
• District heating systems

Must-Do: Take a boat tour powered by renewable energy or explore Djurgården, the lush island park in the city.

3. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Why it’s green: Ljubljana won the European Green Capital award in 2016 and hasn’t slowed down. The city has a completely car-free center and runs electric taxis and buses.

• Over 70% of waste is recycled
• Public water fountains everywhere
• Extensive pedestrian zones

Must-Do: Stroll through Tivoli Park or kayak on the Ljubljanica River in the heart of the city.

4. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Why it’s green: Biking is king in Amsterdam. With a strong commitment to sustainable urban planning, the city continues to reduce car traffic while increasing green initiatives.

• 800,000+ bicycles
• Green roofs and solar energy
• Excellent public transport

Must-Do: Bike through Vondelpark, take a canal cruise, and enjoy vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

5. Vienna, Austria

Why it’s green: Vienna blends culture with clean living. Over 50% of the city is green space, and it boasts some of the best recycling and public transport systems in Europe.

• Free public transport for school kids and seniors
• Award-winning water system from the Alps
• Energy-efficient housing

Must-Do: Visit the eco-focused Hundertwasser House and relax in the massive Stadtpark.

6. Helsinki, Finland

Why it’s green: Helsinki aims to be carbon neutral by 2035 and has made huge strides in sustainable design, architecture, and green mobility.

• Smart public transport apps
• Sea water heating systems
• Forest parks within city limits

Must-Do: Explore the eco-friendly Oodi Library and take a ferry to Suomenlinna island.

7. Oslo, Norway

Why it’s green: Oslo has invested heavily in electric vehicle infrastructure and urban forests. It was named the European Green Capital in 2019.

• Over 60% of new cars sold are electric
• Urban bee projects and rooftop gardens
• Forested hills surround the city

Must-Do: Take an EV ride to Holmenkollen and hike through Nordmarka forest.

8. Freiburg, Germany

Why it’s green: Known as Germany’s “eco-capital,” Freiburg is a pioneer in solar energy and sustainable city planning.

• Energy-efficient buildings
• Solar-powered neighborhoods
• No-car zones in city center

Must-Do: Visit the Green City district of Vauban and hike the scenic Black Forest trails nearby.

9. Zurich, Switzerland

Why it’s green: Zurich combines nature with efficiency. Its air and water quality consistently rank among the best in the world.

• Hydro and solar energy use
• Integrated bike and train network
• Strict emission controls

Must-Do: Swim in Lake Zurich or explore Uetliberg mountain for panoramic views.

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

Why it’s green: Almost 100% of Reykjavik’s energy comes from renewable geothermal and hydroelectric sources.

• Clean, renewable energy everywhere
• Minimal light pollution
• Abundant natural landscapes

Must-Do: Relax in geothermal pools and take an eco-tour to waterfalls and volcanoes.

Why Travel to Green Cities?

Traveling to eco-friendly destinations means you're:

• Supporting cities that prioritize environmental health
• Breathing cleaner air
• Enjoying more green spaces
• Often finding cheaper, sustainable transit

Bonus Tips for Eco-Conscious Travelers:

• Bring a reusable water bottle
• Use public transportation or rent bikes
• Choose eco-certified hotels and tours
• Support local and sustainable restaurants
• Offset your flight’s carbon footprint

Q&A

Q1: Which green city is the most affordable for travelers?
A: Ljubljana and Freiburg are both budget-friendly while offering strong sustainability efforts.

Q2: Can I travel to these cities without renting a car?
A: Absolutely. All these cities have excellent public transportation and are walkable or bike-friendly.

Q3: Is it safe to drink tap water in these cities?
A: Yes! These cities offer some of the cleanest and safest tap water in the world.

Inspired to travel green? Share this list, plan your next eco-conscious trip, and help make travel better for the planet—one city at a time.