Latest news with #EuropeanGreenCapital
National Geographic
04-08-2025
- Business
- National Geographic
Car-free streets are popping up in cities around the world
Once an area of soulless parking lots and bygone shipping yards, San Francisco's newest neighborhood, Mission Rock, just south of downtown, is now a waterfront work-live-play district. Here, open views of the Bay Bridge and Oracle Park are only outshined by pedestrian plazas, wide streets, and eight acres of green space, offering something rarely found in urban centers: breathing room. The 28-acre locale is a result of a years-long, multi-phase partnership between the San Francisco Giants, the Port of San Francisco, Tishman Speyer, and CMG Landscape Architecture. The goal? To reimagine what an urban neighborhood could feel like. With the San Francisco Bay Trail curving around waterfront China Basin Park, car-free thoroughfares speckled with 'street rooms'(usable street art for eating, climbing, or chilling), and outposts of some of the city's hottest eateries (looking at you, Arsicault Bakery), the approximately 500 new apartments in two eye-catching buildings filled quickly, with residents eager to plug in to communal work spaces, or take advantage of the easy access to buses, trains, trams, and ferries connecting to Silicon Valley and the broader Bay Area. (You can walk across San Francisco in a day. Here's how.) 'COVID made us reassess what we value in open space and what the idea of city life can mean,' says Corbett Belcher at CMG. 'We created a structure for a lively neighborhood that focuses on social and ecological well-being, a place where cars don't dominate, people do.' The need for reduced emissions and desire for enhanced quality of life in urban settings isn't unique to this West Coast city. Across the country and around the world, car-free is having a moment. Vilnius, Lithuania Vilnius was named European Green Capital for 2025, thanks in part to the city's investment in an eco-friendly public transportation system, which includes electric buses and trollies. Several new routes will be added by 2028 to widen car-free access, while roughly 62 miles of new bike lanes have been added since 2016. The sustainability-minded city makes it easy for visitors to explore miles of pedestrian paths and designated routes leading to gardens, monuments, and museums on foot. Vilnius has also reduced pedestrian wait times at traffic lights to make foot-friendly commutes more efficient for residents. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Philadelphia might be America's most walkable city, but it's also home to one of the country's largest trail networks, spanning more than 400 miles (and growing), and connecting parks, job centers, suburbs, and rural communities. Visitors can roll or stroll along the Schuylkill River Trail (SRT) to beloved spots like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Valley Forge National Historical Park. Free yoga classes are sometimes offered on the Race Street Pier along the Delaware River in Philadelphia. Photograph by Dina Litovsky, Nat Geo Image Collection Indego Bike Share operates 250 stations and has 2,000-plus bikes across the city, with 40 new stations being added in 2025. Earlier this year, Mayor Cherelle L. Parker reclassified more than 35 miles of curbside lanes and all bike lanes as no-stopping or parking zones. Paris, France In March, Parisians voted in favor of the "garden roads" project, which will pedestrianize 500 streets over the next several years. Previous initiatives, championed by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, have rerouted traffic to main avenues, leaving side streets car-free and more pleasant for walking and dining al fresco. Visitors will also notice vehicles are absent along the Seine River quays, turning them into a haven for walkers, joggers, picnickers, and apéro hour pop-ups. Bike lanes are ubiquitous, well-marked, and heavily used, and with 1,480 docking points on the city's Vélib bike share system—and more on the way—two-wheeling around the City of Light is safe, economical, and enjoyable. Dubai, UAE Approved by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2024, the Dubai Walk master plan has big pedestrian plans for the city of four million, including an integrated network of more than 4,000 miles of walkways featuring air conditioning, shaded spaces, and interactive digital screens, allowing for year-round use. (Welcome to the adventure hub of the United Arab Emirates, where mountains, sea and desert collide) Among the first being created are the 9.3-mile Al Ras Historical Route in Ras Al Khaimah and Al Souk Al Kabeer, and the Future Loop project, an elevated, climate-controlled pedestrian path that will connect 10 key landmarks including the Dubai World Trade Centre, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Museum of the Future, and nearby metro stations. Tampa, Florida 'Our goal was to bring people closer to what matters: Their home, offices, parks, restaurants, and entertainment,' says Josh Taube, CEO of Strategic Property Partners, the developer behind Water Street Tampa. Residents and visitors enjoy outdoor dining, concerts, and farmers' markets in shady parks, yoga studios and gyms, and trendy hotels, like the Tampa EDITION, home to one of the city's first Michelin-starred restaurants. Adding to Water Street's easy living is the free TECO Streetcar that makes stops at Amalie Arena, Ybor City, Tampa's busy cruise ship port, and other popular downtown destinations. Bogotá, Columbia Bogotá is home to what might be the original pedestrian-friendly event, the perennial Ciclovía, which celebrated 50 years in December. What started as a citizen protest of the takeover of cars in the city has turned into an every-Sunday affair, when approximately 75 miles of streets are closed to vehicles and opened to an estimated 1.7 million people who walk, cycle, skate, and jog around the Colombian capital. Not only is it more popular than ever, Ciclovía has become a model for similar events around the world, such as CicLAvia in Los Angeles. New York City, New York The High Line is a 1.45-mile-long park built on a section of abandoned railway track in New York City. Photograph by Diane Cook and Len Jenshel, Nat Geo Image Collection Bryant Park is often cited as a catalyst for New York City's pedestrian-focused renaissance, revitalized to award-winning status in the 1980s by the Bryant Park Corporation and CEO Dan Biederman. Biederman is also involved in New York's Future of Fifth, a pedestrianization plan to begin in 2028 that will remove two lanes of traffic and widen sidewalks along Fifth Avenue between Bryant Park and Central Park. No one appreciates an urban repurpose like a New Yorker, including The High Line, the former elevated railway transformed into a 1.45-mile greenbelt on Manhattan's West Side that attracts an estimated eight million visitors each year. Little Island, the 2.4-acre park built on stilts over the Hudson River, opened in 2021 and draws more than one million annual visitors (70 percent from outside the city) to its lush walking paths and robust summer performance calendar. 'People leave with a more favorable impression of a place if they have a pedestrian experience,' says Biederman. Kimberly Lovato has written about travel news, food, lifestyle, and hotels for prestigious publications including National Geographic Traveler, Travel + Leisure, Virtuoso: The Magazine, AFAR, The Saturday Evening Post, and The Christian Science Monitor. She is also the author of a travel-themed children's picture book. Follow her on Instagram @KimberleyLovato
Associated Press
08-07-2025
- Associated Press
Baltic Travel Company Clarifies Why Slovenia Has a Reputation as a Secret Destination for Avid Travellers
07/08/2025, Richmond TW9 2JA // PRODIGY: Feature Story // Today's tourism sector has seen a shift in consumer priorities, with many turning to knowledgeable, independent providers like the Baltic Travel Company to access unique, memorable and customised travel experiences away from the packed resorts and crowded beaches. The firm has recorded ongoing changes to the types of destinations and activities guests consider most valuable, including a gradual but noticeable uptick in enquiries about short city breaks, lakeside retreats and extended tours of Slovenia, a country now thought of as something of a hidden gem. Statistics and Facts About Slovenia as a Tourist Destination Much of the renewed demand for Slovenian holiday experiences followed the publication of updated safety data by the Global Peace Index. This index ranks countries in terms of their safety and ensures travellers make informed decisions about whether or not to visit locations with elevated risks of crime or civil unrest. Slovenia was ranked the 9th safest country internationally in 2025 and has retained a spot among the most peaceful nations for years. Visitors benefit from high levels of travel security, minimal medical risks, and a strong track record of road safety. As a quiet, unassuming, yet incredibly beautiful country, Slovenia hadn't previously been considered one of the most desirable eastern European destinations, especially given its proximity to Italy. However, having been noted as among the ten safest countries in the world—and given rising concerns about the safety of global travel—this has started to change. The country has a small population of 2.12 million, but its large expanses of land comprise stunning mountain ranges and miles of dense forests, which is part of its appeal. Most people live in the small, staggeringly gorgeous capital city of Ljubljana, the European Green Capital of 2016, but the country's emergence as a new tourist destination has seen a record-high six million visitors heading there in 2023. Efforts by the Slovenian Tourist Board have also contributed to promoting the country to travellers looking for a holiday off the beaten track who want the opportunity to explore historic and natural landscapes that are a world away from anything they have seen before. Reflecting on the Increased Interest in Slovenian Travel Experiences Birthe Nielsen, Managing Director of the Baltic Travel Company says, ' It's fair to say that Slovenia has long been one of those destinations we as travel professionals adore—but that many guests might not have heard of, or be unfamiliar with the climate, scenery, and amazing heritage. Over the last few years, we've seen a step change in traveller requirements. Many are tired of repeating the same experiences or heading to the same resorts, creating a gap for special and distinctive countries like Slovenia to step forward and offer something new. Safety is, of course, a big part of that. Concerns around stricter passport controls, immigration policies, political tensions and numerous conflicts across Europe and the Middle East mean guests need absolute confidence that when they board a plane, they will have a relaxing break. However, it's also about the drive for authenticity, culture, and a truly unforgettable experience. With a number of airlines offering accessible direct flights to Slovenia, it has become considerably easier to consider this an alternative to more conventional resorts.' Highlights and Attractions Drawing Global Travellers to Slovenia Slovenia's capital city, emerald-green lakes and coastline are equally wonderful places to spend quality time, with intricate cave systems, winding rivers and snow-capped mountains that tower above the scenery. Ljubljana has a vibrant cultural scene with museums, galleries, and excellent Baroque architecture. It also offers a busy calendar of festivals and celebrations that make the walkable, canal-side city a great place for a city break. The countryside in Slovenia is equally remarkable, with the Julian Alps and Lake Bled among the best places to enjoy skiing and hiking, water sports and sailing, or nature watching in the tranquillity of a peaceful rural hotel or wilderness resort. Birthe goes on to add, 'Guests interested in learning more about Slovenia or wanting to compare holidays, packages, and itineraries can find all the information they need through the Baltic Travel Company website. Options like our Wonders ofSlovenia holiday, a week-long guided group tour with wine tastings, a trip to Ljubljana castle and stops in Piran, the Soca Valley and Bled, or the 11-night Slovenia & Croatia Combo, which takes guests along the Dalmatian Coast are fantastic ways to explore all this exceptional part of the world has to offer.' Read more about Baltic Travel Company- Established Travel Professionals at the Baltic Travel Company Reflect on Greenland Tourism Upticks About Baltic Travel Company We specialise in crafting unique, tailor-made travel experiences that showcase the diverse wonders of Europe and the Baltic region. With over 15 years of experience, our dedicated travel experts are committed to providing exceptional service and unparalleled expertise to ensure your Baltic adventure exceeds your expectations. From cultural city breaks to the inspiring northern lights and breathtaking natural landscapes, our carefully curated itineraries highlight the very best of the Nordic Region, Scandinavia, The Baltic Region, Poland, Slovakia and more. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, embark on a journey of discovery with Baltic Travel Company – your ultimate travel partner in exploring the hidden gems of the Baltics. Media Contact: Birthe Nielsen Baltic Travel Company Tel:+44 (0)2082332875 Source published by Submit Press Release >> Baltic Travel Company Clarifies Why Slovenia Has a Reputation as a Secret Destination for Avid Travellers
Gulf News
28-04-2025
- Gulf News
Why Lithuania is your perfect summer escape for quiet luxury
As the Gulf sun beats down, many travelers seek a retreat that offers both tranquility and contrast. Lithuania, a serene and green gem nestled in Northern Europe, is quickly becoming the perfect escape for Gulf visitors in search for an authentic experience. Lithuania offers a fresh, cultured, and luxurious getaway that promises an unforgettable journey. With direct flights from Dubai to Vilnius, or via major European hubs, Lithuania's charming capital is just a few hours away. Lithuania will welcome you with lush forests, pristine lakes, historic cities, and a touch of quiet luxury in every detail. As Ramūnas Davidonis, Lithuania's Ambassador to the UAE, puts it, 'Lithuania is where nature, culture, and innovation meet. For visitors from the Gulf, it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the refreshing beauty of Europe, far from the crowds, and experience warm hospitality in a refreshing climate. Whether you're seeking wellness, heritage, or new adventures – Lithuania invites you with open arms.' Europe's cool secret Ranked as the 2nd best destination in the world by Lonely Planet for 2025, Lithuania is gaining recognition for its vibrant cities, untouched landscapes, and unwavering commitment to sustainability. Summer here brings long, sunlit days, mild temperatures (20–25°C), and lush, green surroundings. Whether hiking through serene national parks, exploring medieval castles, or enjoying a quiet coffee in one of Lithuania's charming squares, the country's tranquil energy quickly captures the heart. It's the ideal blend of natural beauty and cultural allure. Vilnius: Green, smart, stylish, and luxurious Vilnius, named the European Green Capital for 2025, stands as a testament to Lithuania's commitment to sustainability and green living. With over 60% of the city covered in green spaces, it's a rare fusion of urban luxury and natural beauty. For a unique perspective, take to the skies in a hot air balloon – Vilnius is one of the few European capitals where this experience is possible. For those in search of the finest luxuries, Lithuania is an ideal destination. Stay in 5-star hotels, indulge in exclusive spa retreats, and savor world-class Michelin-starred dining. Lithuania's blend of rich cultural heritage and contemporary luxury ensures a premium experience that rivals the best of Europe's celebrated capitals. The culinary scene is flourishing, with Lithuania's debut in the Michelin Guide in 2024, boasting four Michelin-starred restaurants and over two dozen culinary gems. Expect inventive menus, local ingredients, and impeccable service – perfect for those with a taste for the finest things in life. A country of celebration and character Lithuania is a land of festivals and traditions, with celebrations sprinkled throughout the year. From Midsummer bonfires to the iconic pink soup season, Lithuania is a place where culture comes alive. Explore vibrant street art trails, quirky neighborhoods like Užupis, and picturesque lakeside villages. Every corner of Lithuania offers something personal, making it the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers.
Forbes
07-04-2025
- Business
- Forbes
3 Award-Winning European Green Cities To Watch In 2025
Vilnius, Lithuania The European Green Capital Awards recognized Vilnius, Lithuania, as the winner of the 2025 European Green Capital. Treviso, Italy, and Viladecans, Spain, received the European Green Leaf Award, celebrating their achievements in the smaller cities category. The European Commission launched the European Green Capital Awards in 2008, an initiative honoring cities with populations over 100,000 that demonstrate outstanding leadership in sustainable urban living. The prize is €600,000. Since its launch, Tallinn, Helsinki, Riga, Berlin, Warsaw, Madrid, Ljubljana, Prague, Vienna, Kiel, Kotka, Dartford, Tartu and Glasgow have received the award. Both winners and finalists now collaborate through the European Green Capital Network, brought to life by Copenhagen in 2014. Network members discuss best practices, challenge each other and help each other find solutions to sustainability issues. Old town in Vilnius with the Cathedral of the Theotokos, Lithuania "Achieving the title of European Green Capital is more than just a prestigious recognition for Vilnius—it's a pledge to a sustainable future. Through continuous efforts to reduce emissions, expand green spaces, and promote sustainable urban living, the city actively involves its residents in building a cleaner, greener environment," said Dovile Aleksandraviciene, CEO of "Go Vilnius," in an email interview. Vilnius earned to be the European Green Capital 2025 for its many initiatives. The city has cut greenhouse gas emissions by shifting to solar power and upgrading outdated heating systems. Subsidies like the €40 million aid announced in March 2024 support residents in adopting renewables like rooftop solar. Vilnius is overhauling its public transport with 297 new electric buses and trolleybuses to replace its aging fleet and reduce fossil fuel use. The city already maintains an approx. 87 miles of bike lanes and plans to add 12 miles by 2030. Row of bicycles to parked on a square in Old Town in Vilnius, Lithuania. Vilnius already has 926 miles of footpath and a network of walking trails, including 24 leisure trails and 16 everyday routes. Green spaces cover 61% of Vilnius, supported by community-driven initiatives like the "Green Wave," focusing on tree planting and improving biodiversity. Lithuania's beverage container deposit system recycles 90% of bottles and cans annually. In 2020, Lithuania had the highest rate of plastic usage in the European Union. But the country turned it around. After the new legislation banning single-use plastic took effect on July 1, 2023, single-use plastic bag use dropped fivefold within a week, reported by European Supermarket Magazine. "Vilnius invites visitors to immerse themselves in the city's eco-friendly initiatives firsthand," says Aleksandraviciene. Visitors can cycle around the city to visit its famous sights. There are three bike-sharing services: Bolt, CycloCity and Scoot 911. Vilnius offers plenty of activities through its extensive walking trail network for travelers looking to experience nature as part of urban life. The newest edition to it is a dedicated forest bathing trail set to open in April 2025. Walking along the river in Vilnius, Lithuania. "Vilnius is not only surrounded by trees, but by clean waters," says Aleksandraviciene. Two rivers flow through the heart of the city, offering opportunities for kayaking and riverside swimming. Saunas along the Neris River are the way for locals and tourists to unwind at the end of the day. Vilnius has four Michelin-starred restaurants and a growing number of cafés and restaurants serving seasonal, locally sourced dishes. Pilies Street in the old town of Vilnius Complementing the above, the European Green Leaf Award, launched in 2015, celebrates smaller cities with populations ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 and excelling in environmental innovation and sustainability practices. The prize is €200,000. Similar to the European Green Capital Network, The European Green Leaf Network was launched to help the collaboration among past and present winners, as well as shortlisted cities of the European Green Leaf Award. To date, 23 cities have joined the network, including Bistriţa, Cornellà de Llobregat, Elsinore, Gabrovo, Galway, Gavà, Horst aan de Maas, Joensuu, Lappeenranta, Leuven, Limerick, Ludwigsburg, Mechelen, Mikkeli, Mollet del Vallès, Nyborg, Ringkøbing-Skjern, Torres Vedras, Treviso, Valongo, Växjö, Velenje and Winterswijk. City Council in Viladecans, Spain. Viladecans has launched over 30 climate initiatives (from banning single-use plastics to promoting biological pest control) to cut emissions and boost sustainability. Its focus is on solar energy, urban greenery and water efficiency. Its bold mission is to become carbon neutral by 2030 and climate negative by 2050. Its flagship ViuVerd program plans to achieve a 30% canopy cover per district and a green space within 980 feet of each residence. The city aims to plant 30,000 trees by 2030. Now, how do Viladecans want you to experience the city? Through exploring the organic farmland in the Baix Llobregat Agrarian Park, the protected wetlands of Remolar-Filipinas and the pine forests along the Mediterranean coast. The wetlands of Remolar-Filipinas near Viladecans, Spain. Families and small groups can book activities like guided bee farm visits, organic farm tours, or sunset cycling through the Llobregat Delta. Viladecans also invites visitors to enjoy farm-to-table dining in one of its many community-rooted restaurants. History enthusiasts can journey back to the 19th century at Ca n'Amat Museum. Visitors can take any character they like and experience its life through audiovisuals and augmented reality. Botteniga river canal in Treviso, Italy Known for its canals, medieval charm and proximity to Venice, Treviso was recognized for its commitment to sustainable urban living. The air quality in Treviso continues to improve year after year, driven by a suite of sustainable urban initiatives. Electric mobility is gaining traction, with four electric buses already operating downtown and an anti-smog plan set to introduce 30 additional hybrid and electric vehicles. Currently, 81 green vehicles handle recycling collection—accounting for 87.5% of total waste. In the city center, 126 public water fountains provide clean drinking water, while reusable thermoses have been distributed to young residents to curb single-use plastic consumption. Treviso plans to create 18 new green spaces, adding over 24,000 plants to the 22,100 already rooted across the city. Although the official opening ceremony will not take place until January 2026, the European Commission already announced next year's winners. Guimarães in Portugal received the 2026 European Green Capital, while Águeda in Portugal and Vaasa in Finland received the European Green Leaf Award, succeeding Vilnius, Treviso and Viladecans. Furthermore, cities can already apply for the 2027 European Green Capital Awards until April 15, 2025.
