In an era where 74% of American travelers express concern about the impact of overtourism, the global travel landscape is witnessing a shift towards environmentally conscious practices. Countries worldwide are taking measures to combat overtourism’s environmental effects by introducing fees for visiting major destinations. Tripadvisor, in collaboration with the Global Destination Sustainability Movement, recently evaluated 100 destinations, focusing on sustainability indicators and traveler reviews to identify the world’s most sustainable cities.

Addressing the growing concern over overtourism and its climate impact, Tripadvisor’s assessment covered a 12-month period from October 1, 2022, to September 30, 2023. The rankings considered destinations with a four-bubble rating or higher, utilizing traveler reviews containing terms like “environmentally friendly,” “eco-tourism,” and “waste reduction.”

In a surprising turn, no American cities made it to Tripadvisor’s inaugural list of the most sustainable destinations. Montreal, Canada, stood out as the only representative from the Americas.

Securing the top spot as the most sustainable destination in the world for 2024 is Copenhagen, Denmark. Renowned as one of Europe’s oldest and cleanest cities, Copenhagen has set an ambitious goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2025. Over two-thirds of the city’s hotels boast eco-certifications, and innovative initiatives, such as vending machines that reward users for recycling, contribute to its sustainability profile. With more than 200 miles of bike paths and extensive train lines, Copenhagen showcases a commitment to sustainable transportation, even as its bustling airport remains a key hub in the Nordic countries.

The Top 10 Sustainable Destinations:

Securing the second position, Stockholm, the capital city of Sweden, has set an ambitious target of becoming fossil-free and climate-positive by 2040. With around 60% of Sweden’s national energy supply derived from renewables and a top-ten ranking on the Environmental Performance Index for its environmental performance, Stockholm exemplifies a dedication to sustainable practices.

As travelers become increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their journeys, the spotlight is on destinations that prioritize sustainability. Copenhagen’s recognition as the most sustainable destination for 2024, along with the notable efforts of cities like Stockholm, underscores the global shift towards eco-friendly travel experiences.