The fishing village of Porto Formoso (Ribeira Grande) on Sao Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal
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With the reality of climate change affecting the planet every single day — the need to protect our environment and work toward sustainability among the most important issues concerning us all — the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization has released its rankings of Europe’s Best Sustainable Destinations for 2025.
As environmental concerns now at the forefront of global discussions, including two UN global summits on the subject — the current biodiversity summit known as COP16 in Colombia considered the world’s most important event to conserve biodiversity and the upcoming COP29 climate summit in Azerbaijan to start next month — the concept of sustainable travel has never been more crucial.
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The new survey of Best Sustainable Destinations in Europe offers 10 alternatives for greener travel options at eco-friendly spots that combine natural beauty with responsible tourism.
“As travelers increasingly seek eco-conscious experiences, Europe’s leading sustainable destinations exemplify commitment to responsible development and environmental stewardship,” EBD explains.
“These areas prioritize nature, renewable energy and support for local communities through a green economy. Tucked away in pristine landscapes, they offer unique opportunities to engage with the environment whether through observing diverse wildlife, savoring local cuisine, exploring rich cultural traditions or discovering rare plants, pristine marine ecosystems and other adventures that respect the environment, ensuring that these beautiful destinations thrive for future generations.”
Portugal’s Azores Island, # 1 Sustainable Destinations in Europe for 2025
Pawel Kazmierczak – European Best Destinations
1. The Azores, Portugal
In the heart of the Atlantic, Portugal’s Azores archipelago consisting of nine exceptional islands — São Miguel, Santa Maria, Graciosa, Terceira, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores, and Corvo — has been selected as the #1 Best Sustainable Destination in Europe.
Known for its commitment to eco-conscious travel, the region offers diverse activities such as hiking through awe-inspiring, volcano-shaped landscapes, diving into deep, blue sea waters or swimming in natural thermal springs, while preserving its natural heritage.
A model of eco-conscious travel, the archipelago focuses on preserving its natural heritage for future generations, as Luis Capdeville Botelho, President of Visit Azores, explains: “The Azores are not only committed to protecting our environment today, but also deeply invested in shaping a sustainable future for generations to come. We want visitors to experience the authenticity of the Azores while knowing that they are contributing to the preservation of our natural and cultural legacy.”
Explore green tea plantations, indulge in Europe’s finest pineapples and rejuvenate in natural thermal springs. The Azores provide some of Europe’s most spectacular hikes, alongside natural pools, horseback riding, and wildlife experiences as whale and dolphin watching.
“Volcanoes, vineyards and pristine ecosystems await discovery, all while being embraced by the warm hospitality of the islanders, known for their deep connection to the land and their maritime heritage,” EBD says.
Faroe Islands archipelago, halfway between Scotland and Iceland
European Best Destinations
2. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Halfway between Scotland and Iceland in the Northeast Atlantic, the Faroe Islands or “sheep islands,” are an archipelago composed of 18 mountainous islands, a self-governing, autonomous Danish territory.
With a total land area of 1,399 square kilometers and a population of 50,000, the archipelago is a haven for nature lovers and selected #2 Best Sustainable travel destination.
There are 18 islands and many islets and reefs. The principal among them are Streymoy, Eysturoy, Vágar, Suduroy, Sandoy, Bordoy and Svínoy.
Said to be “the best-kept secret in Europe,” they are known for their dramatic volcanic landscapes and eco-friendly activities including birdwatching, hiking, and exploring iconic spots such as Mykines, known as “Puffin Paradise,” and Tindhólmur, often likened to a sleeping dragon rising from the sea. For the adventurous, the island of Kallur, nicknamed “James Bond’s Graveyard,” offers dramatic landscapes that feel cinematic in their grandeur.
The Faroe Islands’ secret is the deep commitment to sustainability shared by local officials and partners from hotels and restaurants to tour guides.
While their remote location presents some unavoidable challenges in terms of carbon footprint, the national airline has made ambitious strides in reducing its environmental impact, ensuring that your visit is as eco-conscious as possible.
“Visitors can also savor the islands’ unique fermented cuisine, making this an immersive eco-friendly journey into one of Europe’s most pristine ecosystems.” EBD advises.
Panoramic of waterfalls in Iceland
European Best Destinations
3. Iceland
A nature-lover’s dream and a sustainable travel haven, Iceland is famous for its awe-inspiring dramatic landscapes, volcanic natural wonders, glaciers and geysers.
Though popular destinations like Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon attract many tourists, the island’s vast wilderness offers peace and serenity for other ,more adventurous travelers.
For a truly sustainable experience, explore Iceland’s lesser-known regions, hiking the glaciers, witnessing volcanic wonders and soaking in natural hot springs, all while supporting the country’s sustainability initiatives by choosing eco-friendly accommodations, dining at restaurants that prioritize local, seasonal ingredients and sampling the wares from local microbreweries.
Due to the vastness of the island, the preparation required for certain expeditions and the high cost of guided visits, many casual tourists rarely venture beyond Reykjavik and the Blue Lagoon. The rest of Iceland’s majestic wilderness is open to true adventurers to explore.
The best way to experience Iceland, argues EBD, is by considering staying longer, traveling at a slower pace, visiting regions off the beaten path during the off-season and immersing yourself in its raw, unspoiled beauty whether trekking across glaciers, witnessing geysers erupt, or soaking in secluded hot springs.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
European Best Destinations
4. Lofoten Islands, Norway
An unforgettable sustainable adventure awaits you at the Lofoten Islands, an archipelago in Norway renowned for it breathtaking landscapes that draw travelers from around the globe searching for a true escape into nature.
The name “Lofoten” is derived from its unique shape, resembling the footprint of a lynx and the islands, located just 200 kilometers from the Arctic Circle. It promises an intimate connection with the elements and natural spectacles including the Northern Lights that can be seen from September to March.
The main islands are Austvågøya, Vestvågøya, Flakstadøya, Moskenesøya, Værøya and Røstlandet.
With spectacular mountains such as the Svolværgeita pinnacle jutting into the sky or the Himmeltindan Mountain on Vestvågøya Island and its arctic fjords, the archipelago also offers fine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and quaint fishing villages like Henningsvær, with colorful buildings lining its waterways that feel as if they’ve stepped out of a storybook.
Lofoten is a snowy paradise in winter and offers 24-hour-a-day midnight sun in the summer.
Uitdam, Netherlands, one of the most sustainable destinations to visit in Europe
Europen Best Destinations
5. Uitdam, The Netherlands
A hidden gem for nature lovers in the Netherlands, Uitdam is a village in the Dutch province of North Holland, part of the municipality of Waterland.
A short, 12-kilometer bike ride from Amsterdam, this unique strip of land appears to float on the shimmering waters of the IJsselmeer Lake, the largest lake in the country.
With its unspoiled natural beauty, Uitdam offers a serene escape into protected green spaces where visitors can breathe in the crisp, clean air while observing the local flora and fauna.
EBD particularly recommends the months of April, May and June to rent a bike for a visit to this small green oasis and also explore nearby Edam, famed for its delectable cheese, and the iconic windmills of Volendam.
“Don’t forget to include a stop in Amsterdam, one of Europe’s greenest capitals, and immerse yourself in sustainable urban living.”
The next five on the list are:
6. Zillertal, Tyrol, Austria
7. Gozo, Malta
8. Skellig Michael Islands, Ireland
9. Tatra Mountains, Poland
10. The Isle of Skyem Scotland
See all 10 Best Sustainable Destinations here.
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