Welcome to a world where sustainable travel is not just a trend, but a lifestyle. At Biliki.AI, we are passionate about exploring the globe while preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Join us on a journey to discover the top 20 sustainable cities of 2023, curated by the Global Destination Sustainable Movement (GDSM). These destinations, ranging from bustling metropolises to serene havens, offer eco-conscious travellers a unique opportunity to experience the world in a whole new light.

The Global Destination Sustainable Movement (GDSM) has a mission to create a more sustainable future for tourism. GDSM works to raise awareness, provide resources, and facilitate collaboration to drive progress towards greener travel worldwide.

Sustainability isn’t just about protecting the environment—it’s about creating vibrant, livable communities for everyone. Eco-friendly cities prioritize clean air and water, efficient transportation, green spaces, and renewable energy. By embracing sustainability, cities can reduce pollution, combat climate change, and enhance the well-being of residents and visitors alike. Simply put, sustainable cities are the key to a brighter, greener future for all.

Let’s explore the top 20 sustainable cities acknowledged by the GDS-Index and plan your eco-friendly adventure with Biliki.AI!

We have designed one-week tour itineraries for each of these destinations, filled with sustainable experiences and eco-friendly accommodations.

Click the names of the cities to explore the trips.

Gothenburg, Sweden

Gothenburg is a world leader in sustainability and has won numerous awards for its efforts. They are working towards achieving smart accessibility and mobility with renewable energy, sustainable tourism, and a more circular economy.

Oslo, Norway

Oslo is a sustainable destination, recognized worldwide as the European Green Capital of 2019. It’s a city where people and businesses are committed to promoting eco-friendly solutions for a healthy environment.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen’s ‘Tourism for Good’ strategy, launched in 2018, promotes sustainable tourism through broadening tourism, emphasizing responsible choices, forming partnerships, and setting an example. It won the ICCA Innovation Award in 2018 and led to the first DMO to receive the Green Tourism Organization certification in early 2019.

Helsinki, Finland

Helsinki strives to be a pioneer in sustainable tourism and events. Sustainability is a priority in all its activities, and the city’s tourism industry, including events, is performing well in terms of sustainable development.

Bergen, Norway

Bergen has been awarded Innovation Norway’s label for Sustainable Destinations, which recognizes destinations dedicated to sustainable development. Bergen is committed to creating a sustainable and profitable destination for both visitors and inhabitants.

Aarhus, Denmark

Aarhus aims to be CO2-neutral by 2030. The city recycles waste, uses renewable energy, and has good public transportation. Hotels and conference venues promote sustainability.

Aalborg, Denmark

Aalborg promotes urban sustainability through the “Aalborg Charter”. This initiative was approved at the first European Conference on Sustainable Cities & Towns held in Aalborg in 1994. Today, over 3000 local authorities from more than 40 countries have signed the Charter, making it Europe’s largest sustainability movement. Every year, Aalborg hosts a sustainability festival week to showcase sustainable projects in the city and surrounding area.

Glasgow, United Kingdom

Glasgow plans to be the first carbon-neutral city in the UK by 2030 and a world leader in sustainable policy and innovation. It has ranked in the top 10 of the GDS-Index since 2016.

Bordeaux, France

For years, Bordeaux has been committed to sustainable tourism in efforts to improve their quality of welcome and promote sustainable development. Bordeaux aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 by using 100% renewable and recovered energy, and reducing pollutant emissions by 50% in its new Climate Plan.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm stands out as a sustainable tourism destination due to its innovative approach to urban planning, extensive public transportation network, and commitment to environmental protection. The city aims for a net zero carbon footprint by integrating green spaces, promoting eco-friendly practices, and encouraging the use of renewable energy, setting a global example for sustainable urban living.

Belfast, United Kingdom

Belfast has emerged as a sustainable tourism destination by revitalizing its urban spaces and promoting green initiatives. The city focuses on preserving its rich historical and cultural heritage while implementing modern sustainability practices, such as developing eco-friendly transportation options and enhancing public parks and green areas. Belfast’s approach to sustainability is inclusive, aiming to improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors.

Zurich, Switzerland

Zurich stands out as a sustainable tourism destination due to its efficient public transportation, extensive green spaces, and strong commitment to preserving natural resources. Its clean, safe, and environmentally friendly urban environment makes it an ideal place for eco-conscious travellers.

Lyon, France

Lyon has been awarded the European Capital of Smart Tourism 2019 by the European Union. Lyon launched one of the first Ecological Charts in 1992 to pioneer social action for environmental preservation.

Goyang, South Korea

Goyang City is a green city in Korea that won the gold medal in the ‘Sustainable City’ category at the General Assembly of WeGo in 2017. The city has plenty of green areas, resulting in relatively low pollution levels.

Tirol, Austria

Tirol, in the Alps, has beautiful natural scenery and generates 45% renewable energy. The region is renowned for its lush greenery, fresh air, and mountain spring water, which all contribute to a high quality of life.

Middelfart, Denmark

Middelfart shines as a sustainable tourism destination through its remarkable commitment to environmental conservation and green initiatives. This picturesque town, nestled by the Little Belt Bridge, is renowned for its innovative approaches to sustainability, such as its investments in renewable energy, extensive cycling paths, and conservation areas that preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore stands out as a model for sustainable tourism, recognized for its harmonious blend of urban development and environmental stewardship. This city-state has crafted an impressive green canvas amidst its skyscrapers, with initiatives like the iconic Gardens by the Bay and the ambitious Singapore Green Plan 2030. A robust public transport system, rigorous environmental regulations, and a strong push for water conservation and carbon emissions reduction are pillars of its sustainability efforts.

Nyborg, Denmark

Nyborg has earned recognition as a sustainable tourism destination for its commitment to environmental protection and cultural preservation. This historic city emphasizes green initiatives, and sustainable urban development, and actively promotes the use of renewable energy sources, making it a model for sustainable living and tourism.

Kerry, Ireland

Kerry stands out as a sustainable tourism destination, renowned for its commitment to preserving its breathtaking natural landscapes and cultural heritage. Through its promotion of eco-friendly practices and support for local communities, Kerry offers visitors a unique and environmentally responsible travel experience.

Skellefteå, Sweden

Skelleftea is a sustainable destination with 100% renewable energy, proximity to nature, and companies leading recycling, automation, electrification, and green building. This city is a pioneer in green technology, offering visitors an eco-friendly experience amidst its stunning natural beauty.

By choosing eco-friendly travel options and supporting sustainable destinations, we can make a positive impact on the planet and create a brighter future for generations to come.

So, pack your bags, use Biliki.AI, and let’s embark on an adventure that’s not only memorable but also sustainable.

Together, we can unlock the wonders of the world while preserving its beauty for future explorers.

Use Biliki.AI to save time, budget and the planet.