Helsinki has clinched first place in the Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index for the second consecutive year, according to the latest rankings released on 23 September 2025. The Finnish capital topped the list among over 100 cities assessed, evaluated via 70-plus indicators covering environmental performance, destination management, social sustainability, and supplier practices.
Mayor of Helsinki Daniel Sazonov expressed pride in the city’s achievement: “Helsinki is investing in sustainable growth in tourism. Our aim is to make Helsinki a welcoming destination for a steadily rising number of travelers. Being the world’s most sustainable tourist destination for the second year in a row shows that our work for tourism and its sustainability is paying off.”
Tourism Director Nina Vesterinen highlighted the widespread uptake of environmental certifications: “Up to 99 % of the rooms of hotels with more than 50 rooms in Helsinki are environmentally certified. This level is significantly higher than in Europe in general. Similarly, more and more destinations, meeting and conference facilities, tour operators and others have environmental certifications.”
Guy Bigwood, CEO of the GDS-Movement, added: “Helsinki continues to raise the bar by defining the ‘next practices’ of regenerative destination management. Through bold climate action, pioneering sustainability strategies, and a steadfast commitment to transparency, the city demonstrates exceptional vision. Its recognition as the top-ranked destination in the 2025 GDS-Index – for the second consecutive year – is highly deserved.”
The city’s sustainability strength comes from collaboration across public institutions, tourism operators, and local residents. Key measures include highly certified tourism infrastructure, more climate-friendly energy for district heating and electricity, and ensuring transparency in sustainability efforts.
Despite this success, Helsinki acknowledges there is more to do. While international tourism nights are up 19 % in early 2025, the city is still working to reduce the environmental impact of long-haul travel. The goal remains that Helsinki becomes not only highly sustainable but also resilient, ensuring positive residual impact on residents, visitors, and the environment alike.
Helsinki Crowned World’s Top Sustainable Destination Again in GDS Index
