Two villages in Germany were recently rewarded with a special award: both communities can now call themselves the “best tourism village” in the world. But if you can not travel, we can send you on a trip to the next online casino.
The United Nations regularly awards the most beautiful travel destinations worldwide with the title “Best Tourism Village.? This time, the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) awarded two German municipalities the award “Best Tourism Village in the World.” Regions that meet the following criteria were able to participate in the competition:
- Small population (maximum 15,000 inhabitants)
- Characterized by the high importance of traditional activities (such as agriculture, livestock farming, fishing)
- Focus on the communal coexistence of the village community.
Best Tourism Village: Two Municipalities in Germany
“Best Tourism Villages” demonstrate how economic growth and sustainability can work together. The title “Best Tourism Village in the World“ will be shared, among others worldwide, by the two German municipalities of Bad Hindelang in the Allgäu and Schiltach in the Black Forest from October 17, 2025, as Merkur reports. The award presented by the UN primarily recognizes places about:
- Sustainability in terms of economy, infrastructure, and tourism marketing, cultural heritage, and social commitment, concerning inclusion and equality.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals provide the most important framework for the competition. Both award-winning locations in Germany demonstrate how sustainable tourism can work – even in rural areas.
Bad Hindelang im Allgäu (Bavaria)
The Allgäu is a true holiday paradise every season. Despite its tourist popularity, the municipality of Bad Hindelang remains true to its sustainability principles. The small community in the Allgäu offers sustainable holidays in the mountain region. In addition, the stay is particularly healthy due to the good air quality, according to the municipality’s website. For example, here you can:
- Hiking in a protected nature
- Cycling on the numerous cycle paths
- Skiing and snowboarding or tobogganing
- Discover local cuisine
- Visit baths and other leisure facilities
This is all about making tourism experiences sustainable: local food and family-run accommodation are highlighted by the municipality itself as a particular asset and are a firm anchor of sustainability principles in the region’s eco-model. The municipality has been striving to preserve local agriculture and nature since the 1980s. Thanks to its sustainable approach, the area remains as diverse and diverse as it was 30 years ago.
For sustainable tourism, the region also relies on cheap and well-developed public transport. This means that a vacation should be possible without a car at all.
Schiltach in the Black Forest (Baden-Württemberg)
Schiltach is known for its half-timbered houses. Schiltach is known as „the town of half-timbering, raftsmen and tanners“. The picturesque old town tells of the preservation of old traditions and customs. At the same time, Schiltach has also made a name for itself in the modern economy. There is also a lot to offer tourism:
- Recreation in a state-recognized climatic health resort
- museums
- Hiking and cycling trails
In terms of sustainability, Schiltach was particularly praised by the UN for its sustainable economy and the preservation of cultural facets. The small Baden-Württemberg community impressively demonstrates that tourism and innovation can go hand in hand with sustainability and the preservation of traditions.
By the way: You can easily travel by train in Germany to reach your holiday destinations. The tourist villages are therefore very suitable for a sustainable holiday in Germany.
How to gently travel
Tip 1: Think about what type of vacation you are.
What type of traveler are you?
Everyone has their own unique desires, and this also applies to vacations. Before you get into the concrete planning, consider what type of vacation you are. Is adventure tempting you? Are you one of those sun worshippers who immediately rolls out their beach mat? Do you value new cultures and want to get to know history, country and people? Or do you want to take action and get involved in a non-profit project on site?
If you know what you want, find out about suitable providers. For example, if you are interested in immersing yourself in local culture and traveling off the beaten track, there are tour operators that create tailor-made and customized trips, working closely with local agencies.
Such a sustainable approach not only promotes authentic experiences but also ensures local value creation. For example, the online tour operator FairAway Travel works according to exactly this approach under the motto “Experience more than just a vacation”.
Tip 2: Learn about sustainable accommodations
Sustainable Accommodation
Find out about certified accommodations, such as Iberostar’s 31 Earthcheck-certified hotels in Spain or the Travelife certification of the agencies FairAway works with. Look out for certified, sustainable accommodations. Does the hotel chain’s website provide information on sustainability commitment? What does this commitment entail? Here, the range extends from improved energy efficiency to sustainable cooking to saving water.
Iberostar and FairAway show how responsible tourism works. Although very different, the idea of making travel as sustainable as possible unites both.