Get inspired for the planet!
Ten tips for a climate-friendly and environmentally-conscious holiday in Germany.
1. Discover Germany away from the hotspots
Go on your own unique adventure instead of standing in line with other tourists. Find out more here on germany.travel or at the local tourist offices and discover romantic villages, untouched landscapes or extraordinary boutiques to suit your taste.
2. Plan your holiday to suit your arrival
A long journey can be exhausting. So if you are planning a long-distance trip, plan a longer holiday instead of two short trips and treat yourself to some relaxation when you arrive. The best way to travel within Europe is by train – so you can get to know the country and its people along the way.
3. Choose from certified providers and destinations
When choosing your holiday provider, it's good to distinguish between "greenwashing", and a genuine commitment to sustainability. The recognised certifications will provide you with the real thing. You can find a selection of certified accommodation in Germany on our interactive "Green Travel Guide".
4. Save money and packaging
Fill your water bottle for free and without hesitation from the tap or from the more than 6,000 public water refill stations around Germany, instead of buying bottled drinking water. You can also get your "coffee to go" in your own reusable cup in many places, and sometimes even get a discount. Fruit and vegetables are available plastic-free, super fresh, and inexpensive at the many farmers' markets, and also in some supermarkets. This way, you can protect the environment and save money in the process.
5. Experience your holiday destination up close
You can experience cities and natural landscapes more intimately and cheaply on foot, by bike or in a canoe than by car. Public transport can also be used free of charge with TouristCards in many of German's regions. If you can't do without a car, why not rent an electric car via a car sharing app?
6. Try the regional cuisine
Enjoy regional delicacies of responsible restaurants and their seasonal creations. Explore new taste sensations while reducing the environmental impact thanks to shorter transportation routes and low-impact production methods. Incidentally, Germany now has a large selection of vegetarian and vegan restaurants as well.
7. Take part in local life
Meeting the locals is what makes every holiday a special experience, so don't be afraid to approach people and take part in the festivals and events at your holiday destination. This will give you the best insight into local traditions and life.
8. Look out for unique souvenirs
Unique souvenirs are best found in local craft stores, at flea markets or in upcycling boutiques at your holiday destination. Support local crafters and give those at home a real treat by buying originals instead of cheap imitations.
9. Travel light
No matter how you travel – heavy luggage increases fuel consumption and is awkward to carry. So think about what you really need on holiday and leave the rest at home. For even less stress when changing trains, the Deutsche Bahn luggage service will bring your luggage to your hotel in comfort.
10. Travel with a clear conscience
Every journey comes with emissions. By choosing climate-friendly transport options such as bus and train, you minimise your carbon footprint. If flights or car journeys can't be avoided, you can use our CO2 calculator to determine the CO2 emissions of your trip. By supporting global compensation schemes, you can make your holiday climate-neutral.
Protect the planet with just a few clicks!
With myclimate's CO2 calculator, you can determine the CO2 emissions of your journey by plane or car and offset them by supporting certified climate protection programmes worldwide.
Make your journey climate-neutral – for a relaxing and environmentally friendly holiday!