In a world increasingly aware of the environmental consequences of travel, more cities are stepping up as pioneers in sustainable tourism. If you’re planning an adventure in 2025 and want to leave a lighter footprint, consider visiting cities that are walking the talk when it comes to sustainability. Here are five eco-conscious cities from around the globe that are doing it right—and worth every mile of your journey.

1. Freiburg, Germany

Nestled in the Black Forest, Freiburg is often dubbed Germany’s “greenest city.” With a public transportation system that runs like clockwork and neighborhoods designed for pedestrians and cyclists, Freiburg is a model of modern urban sustainability. The city also generates a significant portion of its energy from solar power and is known for its eco-architecture and green roofs.

2. Curitiba, Brazil

Curitiba has been leading sustainable urban development in Latin America for decades. Known for its innovative bus rapid transit system and massive green space per capita, it’s a city that prioritized the planet before it was trendy. Curitiba’s recycling initiatives and ecological preservation efforts make it an inspiring destination for green travelers.

3. Stockholm, Sweden

This Scandinavian capital blends beauty, culture, and serious environmental innovation. Stockholm was the first city to win the European Green Capital award and continues to impress with its clean public transport, extensive parklands, and commitment to being fossil-fuel-free by 2040. The city’s restaurants and hotels increasingly source locally and operate sustainably.

4. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is not only visually stunning with its mountains and coastline, but it’s also one of the leading cities in Africa pushing for environmental reform. After a serious water crisis in 2018, the city embraced aggressive conservation efforts. Today, many hotels and guesthouses use greywater systems, and the emphasis on preserving local biodiversity has made eco-tourism a growing trend.

5. Singapore

Singapore is a futuristic city-state that seamlessly merges urban density with nature. From vertical gardens to its massive Gardens by the Bay and “supertrees,” the city is redefining how modern cities can incorporate green design. It also boasts rigorous green building standards, a strong public transit network, and widespread use of smart energy systems.

As we look toward the future, these five cities show us that sustainability and adventure aren’t mutually exclusive. Whether you’re wandering through forest-lined streets in Freiburg or gazing at sustainable skyscrapers in Singapore, travel in 2025 can be both exciting and environmentally mindful.