Are night trains sustainable?

Since night trains are seen as an alternative to air travel, they can definitely be considered sustainable. Of course, railways also impact nature, but compared to cars and air travel, trains are the more environmentally friendly solution.

• For instance, according to the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB), traveling by train from Zurich to Hamburg saves about 170 kg of CO2 per person compared to flying.
• According to its own figures, the European Sleeper is 12.5 times more climate-friendly than flying and 8 times better than driving on the route from Amsterdam to Berlin.
• Austria’s ÖBB night train (Nightjet) runs on 100 percent green electricity.
• The high comfort of new night trains (such as the new ÖBB Nightjets) with more space (= fewer passengers) and private bathrooms with showers is not necessarily an ecological plus, but it helps to make night trains attractive.
• Unlike cars and buses, trains do not emit microplastics into the air through tire abrasion. (There is not enough research on how harmful microplastics actually are, but it is clear that tire abrasion is the largest source of microplastic emissions).
• Night trains do not play a role in discussions and measures regarding noise pollution and noise emissions, as they are very quiet compared to freight traffic.

Night trains are growing in popularity

According to Tagesschau, in 2020 there were only 90 night train connections in Europe. In 2023, more than 200 connections. ÖBB recently announced that a further 24 Nightjets will be added by mid-2026.

The ÖBB Nightjet’s new night trains

At the end of 2023, the new ÖBB Nightjet trains started operating, offering even more comfort than the old ones and, above all, additional capacity! For us as passengers, this means more routes, more flexibility and more attractiveness. Reason enough for us to take a look at the facts:    

• The passenger cars for the 24 new trains will be developed by Siemens Mobility and delivered by mid-2026. They will be built in Vienna.
• The new trains are not intended to replace old trains, but to complement and expand new routes.
• New standards for smoothness, accessibility and bike transport.
• Another new feature are sleeping pods in the couchette cars, offering more privacy.
• Instead of 6 beds, there are only 4 beds per compartment in the couchette car.
• Each compartment in the sleeping car has its own bathroom with toilet and shower, which reduces the capacity considerably. Only 20 beds fit in a sleeping car.
• The new Nightjet trains are certified for a speed of 230 km/h. (This is slightly less than the speed of ICE high-speed trains, which travel at up to 300 km/h).

Why are night trains rightly becoming popular?

According to a survey conducted in 2024 by the German automobile club ADAC, 42 percent of Germans can imagine starting their vacation on a night train. The main reason: “Travel more relaxed and arrive refreshed.”

I’m a fan of night trains myself, and luckily I can sleep well anywhere. Personally, a night train has a touch of adventure to it and yes, I’m a big fan of “Tintin” (Les aventures de Tintin) where trains are often an important part of the adventure 🙂.

Another reason, of course, is sustainability, currently cited as one of the main reasons for the newfound popularity. This means that many travelers (like you?) prefer an environmentally friendly alternative to air travel. However, it is important to note that this is also supported by politicians. According to the Handelsblatt, ÖBB is profitable in Austria, but this was only made possible by subsidies from the Austrian government. The business is not considered “easy”. Deutsche Bahn, for example, discontinued its sleeping cars in 2016, and the French Thello night train followed suit in 2021. ÖBB is now filling the gap.

On the other hand, subsidies are also a problem when it comes to flying: while domestic and short-haul flights remain dirt cheap (due to factors such as a lack of taxation, etc.), a night train journey for the same route can quickly become very expensive.

New option: European Sleeper

In addition to the Nightjet, there is also the new European Sleeper. The initiative is organized as a cooperative and was launched in 2021 to great acclaim: the initial start-up capital of €500,000 was raised in just 15 minutes. There are now over 4,000 investors who have collectively invested more than €5 million. The European Sleeper already connects cities such as Brussels, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Prague—and more routes are in the pipeline.

In the next section, we take a closer look at what it’s like to travel through Europe in a sleeper car – with exciting night train routes and suitable sustainable accommodation.

“Traveling on our night train not only reduces your carbon footprint, but also gives you the opportunity to travel more slowly, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and connect with other travelers.” – European Sleeper

Across Europe by sleeping car – Four night train journeys + sustainable accommodation.

#1 By night train to Vienna (8 connections)

Vienna, the city of coffeehouses, parks and museums-a wonderful place for culture and surrounded by the most beautiful nature as well. Vienna is doing a lot when it comes to sustainability. The city aims to be carbon neutral by 2040 and is committed to zero waste, green mobility and sustainable construction. Due to its many parks, Vienna is also considered one of the “greenest cities in the world”.

Night train connections to Vienna

… on the Austrian Nightjet:

• Amsterdam – Münster – Nuremberg – Vienna
• Berlin – Dresden – Vienna
• Brussels – Cologne – Passau – Vienna
• Hamburg – Würzburg – Vienna
• Paris – Strasbourg – Passau – Vienna
• La Spezia – Milan – Vienna

… with the Polish PKP:

• Munich – Vienna – Warsaw

… or with Hungarian Railways MAV:

• Stuttgart – Vienna – Budapest

Sustainable accommodation near Vienna: Gut Guntrams 

Gut Guntrams is not in Vienna, but 60 kilometers away on the edge of the Bucklige Welt. However, the unusual floating accommodation is well worth a visit. Gut Guntrams is its own organic retreat with a small nature museum, crystal garden, farm shop and a farm specializing in the preservation of old fruit varieties. If you’re looking to relax in nature after a day of culture in Vienna, this is the place to be

To find out how to reach Gut Guntrams from the Vienna train station (continue to Pitten station), click here.

#2 Awake in Munich (10 connections)

The Bavarian capital of Munich offers a combination of big city and nature. The Isar River flows right through the city and there is the famous English Garden. The historic old town, Marienplatz, Frauenkirche and Nymphenburg Palace are all must-sees. Unfortunately, Munich plans to wait until 2050 to become carbon neutral. But at least there are climate-friendly projects underway.

Night train connections to Munich with

… the Austrian Nightjet:

• Amsterdam – Munich – Innsbruck
• Brussels – Aachen – Munich
• Hamburg – Würzburg – Munich
• Milan – Padua – Salzburg – Munich
• Paris – Munich – Salzburg – Vienna
• Rome – Munich 
• Venice – Munich – Stuttgart

… the Hungarian Railway MAV:

• Budapest – Munich – Stuttgart

… the Croatian Railways HZ:

• Zagreb – Ljubljana – Salzburg – Munich – Stuttgart

… or the Polish PKP:

• Warsaw – Krakow – Vienna – Munich

Eco-friendly accommodation near Munich: Gut Sonnenhausen

Munich is home to the Ecological Education Center, but if you want to see the ideas put into practice, head to Gut Sonnenhausen (about 30 kilometers southeast of Munich). Here, eco-pioneer and art collector Georg Schweisfurth has transformed a 120-year-old stud farm into a unique hotel surrounded by nature. Gut Sonnenhausen runs its own organic farm according to permaculture principles and uses only organic produce in the kitchen. However, the estate is difficult to reach by public transportation, so you will probably need to rent a car in Munich. You can choose to drive an electric car, as there are two charging stations on the property’s parking lot.

#3 Sleeping car to Milan (2 connections)

From the two cities mentioned above – Vienna and Munich – you can sleep throught to Milan. Italy’s fashion capital also has many famous addresses for sustainable vintage lovers. There is the Bosco Vertikale (Vertical Forest) – a green skyscraper in the middle of the city that stands for modern urban greening and biodiversity.

Nightjet connections to Milan:

• Munich – Padua – Milan

European Sleeper connection to Milan:

• In planning

Sustainable accommodation in Milan: Hotel Milano Scala

The Hotel Milano Scala is located in the center of Milan (within walking distance of the famous La Scala Opera House and other attractions). It is the first zero-emissions hotel in Milan and powered by green energy from its own geothermal probes. The roof terrace is particularly beautiful, where you can enjoy a wonderful end to an eventful day.

By night train to Paris (2 connections)

The French capital has once again used the 2024 Summer Olympics as an opportunity to showcase its green initiatives – even cleaning up the water in the Seine, with new bathing-corners in 2025. You can now enjoy a relaxed (!) bike ride in Paris, with a 10-kilometer running route along the banks of the Seine. For an alternative Paris, Barbara Tascijevic-Porwoll, owner of Green Spirit Hotels, recommends a visit to the REcyclerie. A café, repair shop, gardening project and cultural center all in one.

The Berlin-Paris route is one of the brand new Nightjet routes launched in December 2023. Since then, you can wake up in France’s capital three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays). You board the train at 6:55 p.m. at Berlin Ostbahnhof or 7:08 p.m. at Berlin Hauptbahnhof and arrive at Paris Gare de l’Est at 9:38 a.m.

Nightjet connections to Paris:

• Berlin – Frankfurt – Paris
• Vienna – Mannheim – Paris
• Paris – Munich – Salzburg – Vienna
• Paris – Strasbourg – Passau – Vienna

Eco accommodation in Paris: Green Spirit Hotels

There are two Green PearlsⓇ accommodations in the lively 7th arrondissement: Hotel Le Pavillon and Hotel Amélie. These small boutique hotels are not only centrally located (the Seine, Eiffel Tower, etc. are within walking distance), but they are also ecological and individual. You can nevertheless enjoy your breakfast in the quiet inner courtyard.

By the way, Belgian reporter Tintin and his companion Snowy were also in Paris! So you have a good chance of experiencing an adventure…

This is an update from July 26, 2024.

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Paris is also planning multiple projects to increase green space in the city and to make main thoroughfares more pedestrian-friendly. In fact, Paris is currently ranked as the #1 greenest city in Europe based on air quality, pollution, green spaces, bodies of water, wildlife areas, and more.

Paris’s emphasis on sustainability and environmentally friendly advancements extends to its culinary scene. If you’re looking for local, sustainable, or vegetarian dining options in the city, you’ll have plenty of places to choose from.

Sustainable Dining in Paris and Benefits of Choosing Eco-friendly Dining Options

For foodies, a trip to Paris is a dream come true. Paris is one of the world’s great food cities. After all, France’s culinary traditions dominated fine dining around the world for decades, and its influence is still strong today. From the Latin Quarter to Saint Germain and everywhere in between, the city is known for its quintessentially Parisian cafes and bistros, Michelin-starred restaurants, and street food like crepes and sandwiches. None are better than the lesser-known haunts of Le Marais.

As an increasingly sustainable and eco-conscious city, Paris’s dining scene has also seen an increased focus on local products, sustainable practices, and plant-based options.

Choosing sustainable and eco-friendly dining options in Paris offers numerous benefits, both for you and the environment.

Of course, opting for sustainable dining helps reduce the environmental impact of food production and consumption. Sustainable practices such as organic farming, local sourcing, and minimizing food waste contribute to biodiversity conservation, soil health, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing eco-friendly dining options is also a great way to support local communities.

Many eco-friendly restaurants in Paris prioritize sourcing ingredients from local farmers and producers. By patronizing these establishments, you support local economies, strengthen community ties, and promote sustainable livelihoods for small-scale farmers and artisans.

Sustainable dining also often emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients that are minimally processed. Such foods tend to be richer in nutrients and free from harmful additives. They offer diners healthier meal options that can contribute to overall well-being and improved health outcomes.

Exploring Eco-Friendly Restaurants

If you want to experience some of the best food Paris has to offer while supporting sustainable dining, consider these Michelin-star options:

Le George – Housed within the Four Seasons Hotel George V, Le George offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu of light and flavorful dishes. Under Chef Simone Zanoni, the Michelin-starred Le George is dedicated to sustainable gastronomy. E. g. emphasizing seasonal ingredients grown in their own garden. The restaurant’s elegant setting provides a backdrop for its sophisticated yet environmentally-conscious cuisine. It aims to deliver a dining experience that is both luxurious and responsible.

Table – Table is a restaurant by renowned chef Bruno Verjus. It stands out for its commitment to showcasing sustainably sourced ingredients. Located in the 12th arrondissement, Table is celebrated for its direct approach to fine dining, focusing on the purity and quality of the produce. The menu is a reflection of the best available ingredients each season has to offer, often changing based on what is fresh and available.

Septime – Septime has a Michelin star and has been listed among the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. Led by chef Bertrand Grébaut, the restaurant has earned acclaim for its modern, seasonal, and sustainably sourced dishes. Septime’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere, coupled with its dedication to eco-friendly practices, has made it a must-visit for those seeking a dining experience that is both gastronomically exceptional and environmentally conscious.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options in Paris

Vegetarian and vegan lifestyles have slowly become more common in Paris. The People’s evolving preferences are reflected in the latest developments in the city’s cuisine.

Plant-based diets are increasingly popular not only for their health benefits but also for their benefits for the environment, as meat processing and production is a major contributor to pollution and climate change.

Great options for vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Paris include:

Le Potager de Charlotte – Le Potager de Charlotte is a pioneering vegan restaurant in Paris. It was founded by brothers David and Adrien Valentin. Their mission is to offer a cuisine that respects the environment, animals, and human health. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of organic, plant-based ingredients, emphasizing local and seasonal produce.

Le Grenier de Notre Dame – As one of Paris’s first vegetarian (and now offering vegan options) restaurants, Le Grenier de Notre Dame has been a source of eco-friendly dining since its opening in 1978. Located near the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, this restaurant prioritizes organic ingredients, with many dishes also suitable for vegans.

Le Potager du Marais – Le Potager du Marais serves up traditional French cuisine with a vegan twist, housed in a quaint setting in the Marais district. This restaurant is dedicated to sustainable dining, using organic, plant-based ingredients to craft its dishes.

Jah Jah – Jah Jah by Le Tricycle is known for its vibrant and health-conscious approach to dining, with a menu that features vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free Afro-Carribean options.

Boneshaker Donuts – Just because you’re vegan doesn’t mean you need to miss out on Paris’s celebrated bakeries. This American-style donut shop offers a selection of handmade donuts prepared with organic ingredients, catering to both traditional and innovative tastes.

Sustainable Dining Practices for Travelers

Earth-conscious travelers will find no shortage of choices for sustainable dining while traveling in Paris. To make the most of your eco-friendly Paris experience

• consider walking or renting a bicycle to explore the city up close while minimizing your carbon footprint.
• Visit local markets and producers to try fresh, local ingredients. Markets like Marché Biologique des Batignolles and Marché Biologique Raspail are great places to sample organic and locally sourced produce.

By following these tips, travelers can enjoy the rich culinary landscape of Paris in a way that respects the environment and contributes to the sustainability of the local food culture.

This is a guest article from Eating Europe

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When you are lying on the beach like sardines in a can or standing in a queue in front of the ice cream parlor for half an hour, when crowds are blocking the view of local sights, that is inconvenient and annoying, but not considered as something dangerous.

But: The infrastructures of popular cities are at their limits, as visitors crowd the streets, and the rents of residents increase immeasurably, because more and more housing space is used for holiday accommodations. Overtourism is a phenomenon that is certainly not relaxing. Just as these crowds of tourists strain your nerves, they strain the much-desired travel destinations, the nature as well as the people.

 

Two billion tourists expected in 2030

In 2017, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) released projections predicting 1.8 billion tourists worldwide in 2030, an unprecedented high. According to a press release issued by the Italian National Railway Company (FS) in 2023, it is now even expected that there will be 2 billion tourists in 2030.

 

According to the UNWTO, the main challenges facing global tourism include:

• Pollution
• Waste
• Explotation of labor
• Prostitution and child abuse
• Depletion of natural rescources

 

 

 

 

Travel must become more conscious in times of overtourism

Crowds of tourists also mean great amounts of waste. In 2016, the UNESCO considered including the Inka Mountain citadel Machu Picchu into the List of World Heritage in Danger. The reason: a waste management crisis. Around 2,000* tourists daily leave vast quantities of waste at Machu Picchu and its transport posed a huge logistical problem. Due to a waste compacting machine at Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel the crisis could finally be averted. The machine can process up to 14 tons of waste that is transported by train to recycling plants. For this initiative, Inkaterra received the German travel award “Die Goldene Palme”.

New rules for visiting Machu Picchu in 2024

*While in 2018 there were still 2,000 tourists per day, now there are already 2,500 tourists per day. This means that the flow of tourists has increased by 25 percent in the last five years!

From 2024, visits to the ancient Inca city in Peru will be subject to new rules to protect the World Heritage site. These include:

• Plastic ban
• Ban of alcohol
• No smoking

Machu Picchu can only be visited on a guided tour, to control the flow of tourists and compliance with the rules.

Do it differently – with an increased awareness

Not leaving any waste behind would be even better. For example, using your own refillable bottle can help to reduce the vast amounts of PET bottles. In general, you should ask yourself on every trip: how does my behavior affect this place? And how can I make sure that the impact is not a negative one? A great way to counteract overtourism is discovering new places. For example, the Cloud Forest surrounding Machu Picchu is at least as spectacular as the mountain citadel itself, but certainly not as crowded. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel offers guided tours, where you have the opportunity to enjoy the peace of this natural wonder and learn a lot about the flora and fauna of this area steeped in history and the sustainability projects by Inkaterra Asociación (ITA).

Tourism in Thailand – the good and the bad

Thailand is one of the destinations that is still associated with images of beautiful nature overrun by tourists. For example, in our blog post Sustainable Travel in Southeast Asia, we described how overtourism has destroyed the coral on the Thai island of Ko Phi Phi Leh. The story began when the island was used as a location for the Hollywood film “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. After the movie was released in 2000, up to 5,000 visitors traveled to Maya Bay every day. In 2018, this mass influx was punished: 90 percent of the corals there were damaged. Subsequently, the bay was completely closed to visitors and only reopened in 2022 (after a four-year recovery period).

Our Green PearlsⓇ partner Zeavola is also located on the island of Ko Phi Phi Leh and is actively involved in the conservation and replanting of coral reefs. As a diver, you can even take an active part. And if you don’t already have a diving license, the resort offers certified PADI courses that not only give you a diving license, but also teach you a lot about Thailand’s underwater world.

Community-based tourism in Thailand

Thailand is one of the destinations that is still associated with images of beautiful nature overrun by tourists. However, numerous sustainable projects demonstrate that there is also another way of traveling. One of them is the village Tung Dap in Thailand. It has recently been recognized by Green Destinations as one of the top three in the “Best of Cities, Communities & Culture” category for its commitment to the protection of the local culture and tradition, the involvement of the local community into tourism and its efforts against exploitation, human rights violation and mass tourism.

Stop overtourism: Real-life instead of a show for tourists

Tung Dap is a rural homestay initiative, where visitors are welcomed into the village during the time of their stay, learn more about the country and its people, and get involved in the community’s daily life. Examples of these unique local experiences are cultural activities that allow being close to nature like fishing and vegetable growing. The award-winning community-based tourism initiative Andaman Discoveries organizes recommendable tours to Tung Dap. In our blog post Green Vacation in Chiang Mai – live like the locals! you can read more about community-based tourism in Northern Thailand.

Mass Tourism in Europe – Sights on the Limit

The world’s most visited: the Eiffel Tower

With approximately 7 million visitors per year, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of the most visited monuments in the world. That translates to about 20,000 visitors a day. Unfortunately, there are hardly any times when it is not crowded. So, if you really want to climb the Eiffel Tower, I recommend visiting at night – you will see Paris lighted up and be able to see that the city is star-shaped.

Fortunately, the city of Paris has already developed ambitious plans to become one of the greenest cities in Europe.

If you want to visit the metropolis, we recommend the small, sustainable Green Spirit hotels in the 7th arrondissement (not far from the Eiffel Tower). The Hotel Le Pavillon, the Hotel Marlar and the Hotel Amélie have all been created from old existing buildings and pay attention to organic and fair trade products as well as a healthy quality of air.

Read our blog post Green Christmas in Paris for more ideas on sustainable travel in France’s capital..

Just like a fairy tale, right?

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Germany. During the summer, the rooms that once belonged to only one person, King Ludwig II, are visited by over 6,000 people a day. It is up to you to decide whether you want to see the inside of the castle or whether a view from the outside will suffice (you can only see the whole building from a distance anyway).

Around the royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau, you will also find wonderful opportunities for gentle tourism. Hotel Das Rübezahl is now in its third generation of family ownership. It is committed to environmentally friendly transportation, green energy and waste avoidance. The hiking guide Basti explains the local flora and fauna to tourists and raises awareness for nature.

Avoid overtourism – what you can do

• Take action on Instagram: Some travel bloggers (e.g. from SoulTravel) have already criticized that posts like “why a trip to X will explode your Instagram feed” promote mass tourism. Such posts are only about the “shot” for more popularity and no longer about traveling itself. Instead, show Instagram something not everyone has seen. Without geotagging, of course! When consuming, you can also make sure to follow sustainable travel bloggers and influencers who advocate mindful travel.
• Travel in the off-season: Especially if you’re not tied to school vacations, it’s better to travel to popular destinations in the off-season. When it’s less crowded, you’ll have more time to enjoy yourself as well.
• Travel longer: Air travel produces a lot of CO2 and shouldn’t be booked for a short trip. By staying longer, the destination can profit more from you as a tourist..
• Choose lesser-known destinations
• Photograph respectfully and share your photos thoughtfully: This means: refrain from using geo-tags and exact names of places. If you visit attractions or sights that are affected by mass tourism, point out the problems this causes in your description (keyword: Venice).
• Engage with the culture of the country
• Visit/support local sustainable projects (e.g., environmental protection, animal welfare, social issues)
• Choose sustainable accommodations

“The vision of travel we are committed to is one that benefits not only the traveler, but also the places we visit.” – SoulTravel Travel Blogger

The future of traveling

Above all, community-based tourism means that instead of a staged show for tourists, you experience authentic local everyday life. At the same time, community-based tourism provides a source of income for the locals, thus improving their quality of life. We think: This should be the future of travel.

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Both together result in a major challenge that not only the fast-growing Asian, African and Latin American metropolises are facing, but also the European and North American cities. Thus, many urban developers (and ourselves) are looking at the task of making the growing urban spaces sustainable.

What is sustainable development?

Sustainable urban development aims to minimize the barriers for us residents to live an environmentally friendly and socially responsible lifestyle. This means, first and foremost, that infrastructure is designed for pedestrians and cyclists and that public transport is expanded so that it is easy to stop using the car.

Environmentally friendly projects are promoted and new green spaces are created, improving not only the microclimate and air quality in the city. You probably are familiar with this from your home town: These green oases also serve as meeting places and create space for a picnic with friends, for sports, music or simply for recreation.

Building affordable housing is also part of sustainable urban development, as is the efficient use of existing land. The latter prevents the city from expanding further into the surrounding countryside, which would destroy ecosystems there. This means that abandoned inner-city areas are used for new buildings and vacant buildings are converted. In some cities, especially in Asia, some buildings are even built on top of existing structures, e.g., housing on flat roofs of parking garages. When building new constructions, sustainable urban planning focuses on recyclable, preferably renewable materials. This avoids waste and protects the environment.

Cities of the future

Of course, there is much more to the sustainable development of urban areas than what we have touched on here. Where many people come together and face challenges, new ideas are born. Large cities and metropolitan areas have always been drivers of innovation and new developments, also in terms of sustainability. A sustainable city provides a high quality of life. But there is no such thing as a universal solution. Keep your eyes open at home. You’ll see that different approaches are being experimented with everywhere. Sometimes they are profound and overarching, sometimes they are individual actions, projects or places, and sometimes the future is already here. 

Sustainability on all levels in Milan

Porta Nuova with Bosco Vertikale

The Porta Nuova district has reshaped Milan’s skyline. On an industrial site that had long been out of use in the middle of the northern Italian metropolis, a completely new district was created that invites people to stroll, relax and socialize. The empty, crumbling factory buildings have been replaced by high-rises designed by various architects. Not very sustainable, you might think, except for the fact that they were built inside the city limits and not outside. But: one of these skyscrapers is a model for biodiversity in urban spaces: Bosco Vertikale, the vertical forest.

The twin towers are 110 and 76 meters high and completely covered with vegetation. In the photo, they look more like a photomontage, don’t they? Almost 800 trees, 4500 shrubs and thousands of other plants, specially selected and prepared for this project, green the skyscrapers and provide a habitat for birds and insects in the middle of the metropolis. They bind CO2 and dust particles from the air, generate moisture and produce oxygen. The plants also have a positive physical and psychological effect on the residents. A piece of nature in the middle of Milan.

The Hotel Milano Scala

On the roof terrace of our Green Pearls® partner Hotel Milano Scala you will also find a green oasis. Above the rooftops of the vibrant city, you can end the evening surrounded by fruit, vegetables and herbs.

Green roofs, rooftop gardens, balconies and the like improve the city’s microclimate in a similar way to the Bosco Vertikale and thus truly form a kind of oasis. By the way, staying at the Milano Scala does not produce any (pollutant) emissions that would have to be bound by the plants. The entire hotel is supplied with energy via heat pumps and geothermal energy.

Navigli Quarter

If you take the train from Milano Scala for about half an hour, you will find yourself in a different world. Everything is a little slower, a little quieter and a little more relaxed. The Navigli district slows down even the normally hectic Milanese and gradually draws visitors under its spell.

This part of Milan is characterized by the two canals, remnants of a time when Milan, like Venice or Amsterdam, was crisscrossed by waterways. Between them, artists and craftsmen, restaurants and bars have settled. Here you can buy souvenirs directly from the people themselves and thus support the local scene. The neighborhood is also known for its vintage and second-hand stores and markets. So even sustainable fashion fans get their money’s worth.

By the way, the Navigli district is only as tranquil as we have just described during the day. In the evening it turns into a party mile. We can only recommend that you spend the whole evening wandering from one bar to the next and at some point simply settle down by the canal to wait for the morning with a drink in your hand.

Best practice for sustainable urban development in Freiburg

The Vauban District

Similar to Porto Nuova, no new area was developed for Vauban, but an existing one was converted. The transformation of the former military site began in the early 1990s. In 2006, it was completed: the energy-autonomous, practically car-free and sustainable Vauban district. An active community is still working to incorporate and implement the wishes of the residents and to further shape the neighborhood. Participation is the norm, and even as a guest, you can sense this in the interaction between the residents.

The houses are all passive, low-energy or even plus-energy houses. Almost no one has a car, and if they do, it is parked on the edge of the area in the parking garage. Cars may only go in for loading and unloading. The connection to public transportation and the well-developed network of bike paths make a car expendable for most people anyway.

In Vauban, great attention has been paid to the efficient use of renewable resources. Together with the traffic concept and the energy-efficient buildings, a real jewel of sustainable urban planning and a source of inspiration for private builders has been created here. So if you are currently building a house, a visit is worthwhile in multiple ways.

Green City Hotel Vauban

The Green City Hotel Vauban is located on the edge of the district, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the sustainable neighborhood on foot. Alternatively, get on your bike and follow the tour along the “Green Spots” (sustainable projects in Freiburg). Very convenient: The hotel is such a Green Spot, so you can start cycling directly from there.

The hotel itself is a prime example of sustainability in action. Architecturally, it relies on resource-conserving and green practices paired with a clean, no-frills design. Heating and cooling are designed to be energy efficient, and electricity comes from a photovoltaic system integrated into the roof. It is also an inclusive business: half of the employees are people with disabilities. In general, the training and further education of the team is of great importance. The focus is clearly on the social aspect, both within the company and with external suppliers and producers.

Keen for a sustainable city trip? Then have a look at our tips for sustainable city trips in Europe. And if you are looking for a certain city: In this article we took a closer look at Paris, Freiburg and Milan.

Micro forest and other plans in Erlangen

„Statt-Plan“ Erlangen

The city in northeastern Bavaria is working hard on its image of a sustainable destination. Initiatives such as “Fairlangen” and the “Education for Environment and Sustainability” network are making their mark on the scene with informational offerings, discussion groups and other events. These include Fairlangen’s FairFinder and the so-called Statt-Plan, an alternative city map that presents sustainable stores, restaurants, cafés and much more. On the back, you’ll find additional tips for an environmentally and socially responsible lifestyle. So if you’re in the mood for a different kind of tour through Erlangen, we can highly recommend the Statt-Plan. 

The garden of the Creativhotel Luise

The starting point for your excursion could be the Creativhotel Luise. Not only will you get a delicious, ecological zero-waste breakfast, you can also take a look at the hotel’s huge garden. On a part of the almost 1500 square meters large area, a so-called micro forest is being created based on the Japanese model. A wide variety of trees and other plants are growing in a very confined space and should develop into an extremely diverse habitat over the next ten years.

Since the 1980s, the Creativhotel has been operating according to ecological principles. Today, it is one of the first climate-positive hotel in Germany. In addition to the large garden, you can also relax on the green roof terrace and if you want, you can spend the night in a completely Regrowing Hotel Room®. Only natural and renewable materials were used for the interior design, thus demonstrating: It’s possible!   

Paris at the forefront of sustainable urban planning

Green architecture in the ÉcoQuartier Clichy-Batignolles

The Paris region has been strongly committed to sustainable development in the urban region, not just since the 2015 climate agreement. Environmentally conscious projects are promoted, social measures are taken and green building projects are supported. Among other things, there is the “EcoQuartier” quality seal, which focuses not only on the environmental friendliness of the neighborhood but also on the satisfaction of the residents. The development and construction of the corresponding urban area are monitored from the planning stage through the construction phase to completion and beyond, and are judged according to strict criteria.

One such EcoQuartier is the Clichy-Batignolles district, located in the northeast of the city and developed on a former railway freight yard. If you walk through the streets with an attentive eye, you will notice the different styles of the buildings (a must for all architecture fans!), which nevertheless create a harmonious overall picture. The facades are greened, made of wood or other resource-saving materials, and the houses all have a very low energy balance, some of which is comparable to that of passive houses. There are new metro stations and a large park in the center, providing a green balance for the residents. Besides, it was not only housing for the well-off population of Paris that was created here. Social buildings, residential and retirement homes, and public facilities were also built.

Other green building projects are in the pipeline, including the reinvention of the Porte Maillot transport hub with the glass and planted “Mille Arbres” building, reminiscent of a ship. Completion is scheduled for 2023, just in time for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

The green Hôtel Le Pavillon

But also outside the sustainable neighborhoods, there are still green havens. This definitely includes the Hôtel Le Pavillon, which is completely dedicated to sustainability. The former monastery offers a quiet retreat thanks to its somewhat hidden location, yet it’s right in the middle of the action. Eiffel Tower, Seine or Champs-Elysées, everything is within walking distance. The rooms are individually decorated and offer relaxation without disturbing electromagnetic radiation. Locally and organically produced food comes from the own small garden.

Our best practices show that sustainable urban development does not always happen on a very large (or high) scale. It can be driven by individual businesses as well as yourselves. A greened balcony makes for a better microclimate, supporting sustainable and regional stores and initiatives helps make it easy to create a low-impact lifestyle for all, and giving up your car means a reduction in environmental and air pollution. Our Green Pearls® partners are leading by example.

And you? How do you support sustainable development in your hometown or city? Tell us in the comments or on Instagram

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Green recreation

As you enter the small courtyard leading to the hotel, you forget that you are in the heart of Paris. You’d expect to find a green oasis like this in the country. The small garden with fig trees, herbs and its own tomatoes offers plenty of relaxation from the hustle and bustle of the city. Many plants and an old tree complete the beautiful outdoor area. In summer you can have breakfast in the courtyard.

A hotel with history

The German immigrants Barbara and Tomislav Tascijevik have lived in Paris for over 35 years. The Hôtel Le Pavillon belongs to the sustainable Green Spirit hotel group and is located in the rooms of a former monastery. You can still feel this special atmosphere there. The two hotel owners felt inspired to bring the old building out of its peaceful slumber. For this purpose, the rooms were renovated with great care. The protection of historical monuments has often set them limits, but this is exactly what makes the hotel so charming. There are a total of 15 individually designed rooms available, which are equipped with recycled furniture and a great love for detail. Three of the rooms are designed for electro-sensitive people. There is no electrosmog surrounding you.

The two hotel owners are committed to climate and environmental protection both privately and professionally. In the kitchen, regional products are used whenever possible and plastic packaging is avoided. Also in the bathroom, you will find shower gel, shampoo and soap in refillable containers. Your stay should be a source of inspiration. Change, Barbara and Tomislav find, begins in each and every one of us.

Experience authentic Paris

The Hôtel Le Pavillon is located in the immediate surroundings of the Eiffel Tower and therefore in the heart of the city. Many of the famous sights such as the Champs-Elysée, the Cathedral of the Invalides or the Louvre can be reached by foot. In general, we recommend that you explore the city by walking. Discover traditional bakeries, small alleys or individual fashion shops. Stroll up and down the nearby Seine. After all, there is always plenty to see on the river – in and around the water.

Finally, we have a secret tip from Barbara for you: Visit the Pierre-Emmanuel natural garden, at the foot of the Père-Lachaise cemetery. In the green area, which was created in 1995, native wild plants grow and a pond provides a home for frogs, sea lilies, and newts. The best way to reach the garden, which is open daily, is via the Alexandre Dumas metro station.

If you are interested in city trips, this article is also worth reading!

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A city break not only gives visitors a completely new feeling for time but also the opportunity to immerse themselves in city life. Not only will you do something good for the environment, but you’ll also get to experience what real life is like in your chosen destination. You can discover unique, urban places, marvel at unique paintings in museums until the last minute, and enjoy the day until the last ray of sunshine.

On foot through the city of love

The sustainable Hôtel Le Pavillon is located in the middle of Paris, on the Rue Saint-Dominique. The street invites you to wander and explore its many boutiques and specialty shops, for example for delicious macarons! Only a stone’s throw from the hotel you’ll find the Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous sights of the City of Love. Once you arrive at the Tour Eiffel, we recommend a walk along the Champ de Mars, a large green area that spreads out like a carpet in front of the Eiffel Tower. Here you can get in touch with local Parisians, maybe even play a game of boules. But there is more to discover: From the hotel, walk along the banks of the Seine towards the large entrance gate of the exhibition grounds of the 1899 World Fair. The 15-minute walk will take you past several cafés and restaurants, both on land and in cozy boats on the water. You will also find the beautiful Swan Island – Ile de Cygne. The many benches on the island invite you to take a short break and admire the passing houseboats decorated with flowers. If you need something a little more active, you can enjoy climbing one of the outdoor climbing walls. A highlight is located at the end of the island: a replica of the famous New York Statue of Liberty, with a height of only 11.5 meters. Barbara, the owner of the Hôtel Le Pavillon explains that it was a gift to the city in 1889 from the American population living in Paris and was originally intended to be placed directly opposite the Eiffel Tower. Another insider tip from Barbara: on Thursdays and Saturdays, the Breteuil Market offers a wide variety of fashion and delicious food including tasty French specialties. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a moment, you will find an enchanted herb garden at Hôtel Le Pavillon where you can relax and unwind – the perfect blend of exciting city life and the tranquillity of nature.

Sustainably through Freiburg

For nature and culture lovers among us, we recommend Freiburg, the city with the most hours of sunshine in Germany. From the inclusive Green City Hotel Vauban, its only 10 minutes by tram to the city center; a route that could quite easily also be taken by foot. As soon as you arrive in the city center, it is best to buy a ticket for all Freiburg museums, and then you are ready to go! At Münstermarkt, where the weekly market takes place, you will find the cathedral “Unserer Lieben Frau”. From the church tower, you have a fantastic view over the whole city. In the Museum of City History in the Wentzingerhaus at the bottom of the square, you will learn all you need to know about Freiburg’s history. Katharina from the Green City Hotel Vauban recommends all those with a sweet tooth to try Stefan’s cheesecake at the weekly market afterwards. After a stop at the Augustinian Museum with its renowned art collection from the Middle Ages to the 19th Century, it’s time for a well-deserved break. So it’s off to the castle mountain railway and up to the castle hill. According to Katharina, above the Greifenegg Castle, you will find “one of the most beautiful beer gardens“. Up here there is also the Dattler Restaurant, which not only offers a fantastic view over the city but also fine dining and exquisite cuisine. It is best to reserve a table in advance as the restaurant is very popular. The Green City Hotel Vauban is happy to recommend tours through the surrounding countryside for all hiking and forest lovers, the perfect complement to the excitement of the city.

Green vacation in the northern Italian metropolis

Dreaming of a getaway to the Italian fashion capital of Milan? The sustainable Hotel MilanoScala is perfect for a car-free stay in the Italian metropolis. All cultural hotspots, restaurants and the famous shopping streets are just a few minutes’ walk from the zero-emission hotel. In less than 10 minutes you can find yourself at one of the most famous landmarks of the city: the Milan Cathedral. Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the interior and enjoy the view from the Cathedral Terraces. Afterwards you can take a leisurely stroll through the many shops and restaurants that surround the cathedral.

Be sure to also take some time to relax in Parco Sempione. Covering almost 390,000 square meters, the green area in the north-west of the old town is the largest park in Milan. Here you will also find the beautiful Castello Szforsesco, which is an absolute must for museum lovers!

Bosco Verticale and Santa Maria delle Grazie

For a spectacular showcase of sustainable architecture in the city, be sure to visit the “Bosco Verticale” (vertical forest). The greened outer wall of two high-rise buildings is intended to have a positive influence on the microclimate in the surrounding area. More information about the project can be found here.

An absolute highlight is the “Santa Maria delle Grazie”. In the Dominican Church, you can admire Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous mural, “The Last Supper”. Here we strongly advise you to buy your tickets in advance, because the church is very popular with tourists.

Read more: Vertical and urban gardening: Hotel Milano Scala

Read more: Active inclusion and comprehensive sustainability: Green City Hotel Vauban

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Freiburg

Who already visited Freiburg, knows that the city itself is a rare treasure: the half-timbered houses covered with tendrils, the small shops, the attitude to life and the continuous murmur of the Bächle. Though the well visited Augustinian’s place in the heart of the town itself is not a confidential tip, but the nearby Bistro and Café Manna – die Spezerei, which was recommended by Patricia from Green City Hotel Vauban. A specialty is the home-baked bread, which is baked after an original recipe. With its tasty crust and great spreads – or just butter – it is a highlight for all bread lovers! One gets coffee and cake also – of course home baked;)

You find Manna – die Spezerei  in Salzstrasse 28 in Freiburg

Cusco

To understand the Peruvian attitude towards life, Claire from Inkaterra recommends to stroll along the streets around the Hotel Inkaterra La Casona when visiting Cusco for a city trip: historical buildings, cobblestones, churches with frescoes and paintings, museums, cafés, restaurants and an active nightlife distinguish the town in the midst of the Andes. Especially the many small artist and craft shops in the lively streets reflect the Peruvian culture of the former Inca culture and later the colonial empire. To feel the vibes of Cusco you should plan sufficient time. Another must: the San Pedro market – a great opportunity to admire regional goods and meet locals. Staying there over Christmas should not miss the Santiranticuy market on Christmas Eve where hundreds of art craftsmen from the region offer their handmade, traditional products.

Erlangen

Erlangen often is associated with beer and of course you can drink beer here. But there is more to explore. Laura from Creativhotel Luise has provided some green, fair and sustainable insider tips when visiting Erlangen:  When looking for fair produced clothes, you make a find in the GreenVolution store. Here you get fair bio-clothes as well as an individual consultation. Loving Upcycling the way we do, then Sine is a must: the small workshop produces purses, bags, and a lot more from old bicycle tubes, jeans, tarpaulins and other old materials here .

For nature lovers manager Ben Förtsch recommends the botanical garden bordering the castle garden. From here just a stone- throw away you run into the Bio-Restaurant Muskat (another confidential tip from the Creativhotel 😉 ).

Nevertheless, for more green tips for the Fairtrade city of Erlangen have a look here: www.fairlangen.org

Paris

Most cities miss green areas, although it is so beneficial for us to be outdoors in nature! Hence, Barbara, the owner from the Hôtel Le Pavillon recommends three green unknown places in Paris, even to most local residents: Without noting, most visitors run past the Jardin de la Nouvelle-France, although it is located centrally between the Invalid Bridge and the Champs-Elysées. Among the rest, the English style garden accommodates a pond with waterfall and is for animals and people alike a retreat in the heart of Paris. At the foot of the Père-Lachaise Cementary you’ll find another insider tip: the garden Pierre-Emmanuel is a real nature reserve in the midst of the town. Here local plants, trees and animals can develop without (almost) interventions of people into an oasis. Moreover, just a stone throw away is the Rue Oberkampf known for its numerous bars. Nevertheless, it is worthwhile to stroll in the green small roads admiring the historical and blossoming facades. Three real confidential tips for nature in the heart of Paris!

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Urban gardening – green capital

Fighting climate change, Paris has an ambitious aim: Greenhouse gases shall be reduced by 50% by 2030. In order to reach this goal, renewable energies are installed and the city is being greened by planting roofs and house façades. Additionally, you can find more and more public gardens such as Jardin Partagés or Jardin de l’Aqueduc. The charming café La Recyclerie is contributing to making Paris greener by growing their own vegetables and fruits, offering homes to bees, and chickens. Another kind of green oasis can be found at the Hôtel Le Pavillon, a stone’s throw away from the Eiffel Tower. The small and delicate Hotel, formerly a cloister, has a charismatic and familiar atmosphere. In its herbal garden, you can relax and forget about the hustle and bustle of the city. The owners care a lot about organic and fair trade homemade and regional dishes.

Sustainable treats

You can also find sustainable treats in Paris. For instance, you can order Slow Food, which is mainly prepared with organic regional and seasonal ingredients, and do something good for the environment at the same time (certified as “Des produits d’ici, cuisinés ici”, English: Regional products locally produced). For green tourists like you, food trucks are highly recommended, selling slow food dishes on the street (certified as “Ici, la cuisine est dans la rue”, English: Regional products served as Street Food). If you see a restaurant or a food truck labeled with either certification, you can indulge yourself without any remorse, since food and drink keep body and soul together (German saying). Besides, more than 15 organic restaurants are located in Paris, and you can visit various markets, which are opened almost every day. Some are even characterized as “Marché biologique” (English: organic market) where you can buy organic goods from local producers.

Green mobility

Like the capital Vienna, Paris recommends in an exemplary manner sustainable ways of traveling. First of all, arrival by train, of course and in the city, you may either rent electric cars, or use the excellent suburban railway network Métro. Since few years, people are more and more experiencing the city by bike. There is a special app for Paris’ public bike rental, “Vélib’”. Ideal conditions for your sustainable city trip!

Find more exciting insider tips in this blog post: 

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