The Most Sustainable Cities In The World.

The Top Three Most Sustainable Cities,
Where To Stay, And What To Do In Each One.

In a study conducted by Arcadis in 2016, 100 of the most prominent cities from around the world were evaluated and ranked on the state of their sustainability efforts. The study looked at the quality of life of their inhabitants, their environmental impact or 'green factors', their economic health and stability, and how these elements complement one another. The results, which aimed to indicate areas of opportunity for cities worldwide, were well documented and carefully articulated to provide the average person with a better understanding of these cities and their efforts toward sustainability. You can access the full report here.

Photo by MARKTgasse

The World's Most Sustainable City: Zurich

Switzerland's most populated city, Zurich, tops the index with a balanced score across all evaluated factors. This Swiss city is dedicated to tackling climate change and is leading by example in its commitment to energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable buildings, and public awareness. For nature dwellers and city slickers alike, this is a must-visit.

Photo by MARKTGasse

Where to Stay: MARKTGASSE Hotel

Marktgasse 17 CH-8001, Zürich, Switzerland

This 600-year-old building, refurbished into a boutique hotel, has just 39 rooms and is your go-to for a good night's sleep in Zurich. The building is under the protection of the Supervisory Board of Monuments and Arts, and there were certain restrictions they had to adhere to while designing the hotel, resulting in uneven floors and slightly slanted ceilings that add to the character and charm of this 15th-century building. Inside the rooms, you can find sustainable products by Aesop. 

You can book here and receive a complimentary cocktail at the bar.

Where to Eat: The Artisan 

Nordbrücke 4, 8037 Zürich, Switzerland

This urban garden cafe is a naturalist's dream. Along with an on-site urban plot for garden-to-table service, the restaurant is committed to using fresh ingredients from local farmers. The interior design is simple and filled with lush greenery. Try the quinoa-lentil burger with corn!

What to Do:  Lake Zurich

Spend the day exploring the edges of Lake Zurich on foot or by bike. Immerse yourself in the depths of 15,000 rose bushes with over 600 unique rose varieties in Rapperswil's public garden. The lakeside promenade has an old-town Mediterranean charm. You are bound to fall in love with the picturesque atmosphere of this relaxing harbor.

Photo by @muenchmax

The Second Runner Up: Singapore

My husband and I lived in Singapore for a year when we were first married. The memories from that year will stay with us for a lifetime. From adorable corner cafes to swanky nightlife, there is always something going on in this thriving city-state. There is no question that Singapore made it to the top three most sustainable cities list. Everywhere you look, you'll find lush greenery and impeccably clean surroundings. There are numerous nature reserves for hiking, kayaking, and biking.

They offer housing benefits for their lower-income citizens and subsidized food centers for inexpensive meals.

With one of the best public transportation systems in the world and a gateway to Southeast Asia, it will be in your best interest to plan a few days in Singapore before visiting one of the neighboring islands, like Bali!

Where to Stay: ParkRoyal Pickering  

Photo by @ssnnas

This photo speaks for itself. This beautifully designed building is the height of sustainability. Along with a Zero Energy Sky Garden, the hotel harvests sunlight and rainwater to conserve all possible energy.You can check their availability here 

Where to Eat: Open Farm Community

“Our vision is to bring to life the impact of urban farming in Singapore and in doing so, strengthen our understanding and respect for food and its origins". - OFC

This beautiful space offers locally sourced, seasonal, and innovative dishes. They also curate a local farmers market to spread knowledge on sustainable eating. Their focus is on nourishing the body and providing the eyes with a 'visual feast'

130E Minden Road, Singapore 248819

What to Do: Visit As Many Nature Parks as Possible! 

Singapore has a plethora of nature reserves to suit your outdoor needs. First and foremost, you must visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The Garden is one of the most diverse, well-maintained botanic gardens and maintains free entrance. Fort Canning Park has what you need to quench your history thirst, and MacRitchie Reservoir's tree-top walk will play to your adventurous side.

You can view a full list of Singapore's Nature Parks here.

Tree Top Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir

Third Prize Goes To: Stockholm 

When we talk about sustainability, nobody can deny that Scandinavia takes ownership. They are a green factor powerhouse. For example, in Stockholm at the Central Station, the city uses a geothermal system to gather the body heat of the 250,000 daily commuters. They harness that energy to warm the water they use and provide further heat to nearby buildings. They also cool the building by using the nearby lake. Talk about using your surroundings.

Where to Stay: Ett Hem

This immaculate, private residence, was built in 1910 and transformed into a hotel in 2012. Filled with a stunning collection of furniture and Scandinavian antiques, it is a piece of art unto itself. Let's consider this a bed and breakfast but on superfoods (the steroids of sustainable people). The owner wanted to keep the charm of the original building, so she enlisted the help of Ilse Crawford for the interior design. 

The dining menu is decided each morning by the chef. They use only the freshest, in-season ingredients, helping to reduce daily waste. Once you enter Ett Hem you instantly feel like you've entered your best friend's house, naturally comfortable and at ease. Take a look at the beautiful photos from the House & Gardens Tour. 

You can book your room here to receive a complimentary bottle of wine with your stay.

Photos by Paul Massey for House & Garden - Book your stay here 

Where to Eat: Oaxen Slip

Their Philosophy is to be as close to nature as possible. "You walk in with empty hands to the kitchen, you walk out of the kitchen with empty hands. There is no evidence of you being there, everything is consumed and gone." Chef's Magnus Ek and Agneta Green have created a culinary masterpiece here.

*no longer in existence.

What to Do: South of Folkungagatan 

IIf you're into vintage clothing, then head South of Folkungaganton to Söder for a day of exploration. You can fill all your second-hand needs here: fashion, music, books, jewelry, and designer decor. With restaurants, bars, cafés, and galleries, this area has everything you need for a great day in Stockholm. Have your Fika here!