Copenhagen’s Sustainable Travel Initiative Sets the Stage for BerlinPay: A New Global Tourism Concept to Reward Eco-Friendly Travel Choices

Published on December 4, 2025

In an era when sustainable travel is becoming more important, Copenhagen’s new global tourism initiative, DestinationPay, has received a lot of attention. The innovative programme rewards tourists for making environmentally conscious decisions while travelling, and Berlin, Germany, is considering implementing a similar model called BerlinPay in the summer of 2026. In an era when sustainable travel is becoming more important, Copenhagen’s new global tourism initiative, DestinationPay, has received a lot of attention. The innovative programme rewards tourists for making environmentally conscious decisions while travelling, and Berlin, Germany, is considering implementing a similar model called BerlinPay in the summer of 2026.

What Is Copenhagen’s DestinationPay?

Launched by Wonderful Copenhagen, the initiative aims to encourage visitors to adopt more sustainable travel habits. Copenhagen has long been celebrated for its efforts in promoting eco-friendly tourism, and DestinationPay is the latest addition to these efforts. This programme rewards tourists for taking actions that help mitigate their environmental impact, such as travelling by train rather than flying, using bicycles instead of cars, or picking up litter in parks.

The rewards come in the form of various incentives that enhance the overall visitor experience. For example, tourists who choose to travel to Copenhagen by train can enjoy free bicycle rentals for exploring the city or benefit from discounted entrance fees to some of the most iconic attractions. These small but impactful actions encourage visitors to be more mindful of their environmental footprint while enjoying all that Copenhagen has to offer.

Berlin’s Interest in the Program: A Step Towards Sustainability

Berlin, the bustling capital of Germany, has taken a keen interest in Copenhagen’s sustainable tourism initiative. With an emphasis on eco-consciousness and community-driven initiatives, the German capital sees the potential of adopting a similar scheme tailored to its own unique environment. Tentatively named BerlinPay, the model would reward tourists for engaging in positive actions that benefit both the city and its residents.

The idea behind BerlinPay is to provide incentives for visitors to make greener choices while experiencing the cultural and historical richness of the city. By encouraging the use of public transport, such as the subway or trams, over private vehicles, and promoting cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transportation, BerlinPay would offer a way for tourists to contribute to the city’s sustainability efforts.

How Copenhagen’s Program Works

Copenhagen’s DestinationPay has been operational since 2024, rewarding tourists for making simple yet impactful choices. The city’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the variety of activities available for visitors to engage in. Beyond transportation, the programme also incentivizes tourists to reduce waste and support local initiatives. One such action is collecting rubbish in public parks, which can earn visitors rewards like cultural experiences or free drinks at local cafes.

By choosing sustainable travel options, tourists can not only enjoy the beauty and charm of Copenhagen but also actively participate in the city’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact. These initiatives have proven successful in attracting more tourists who value sustainability, and they have further cemented Copenhagen’s reputation as one of the most eco-friendly destinations in Europe.

What BerlinPay Could Look Like

If Berlin decides to implement BerlinPay, the program could mirror Copenhagen’s model but with a few unique adaptations. Similar to Copenhagen, Berlin would offer incentives to visitors who choose greener travel options, such as biking, using public transport, or avoiding single-use plastic. Additionally, visitors who volunteer for community-driven environmental initiatives, such as litter collection or tree planting, could also be rewarded.

Berlin’s bustling urban landscape, rich in history and culture, provides the perfect backdrop for a sustainable tourism programme. With its extensive public transportation network, including buses, trams, and trains, Berlin is already well-positioned to encourage tourists to adopt more eco-friendly travel practices. A programme like BerlinPay could help boost tourism while promoting sustainability at the same time, making it a win-win for both the city and its visitors.

Plans for BerlinPay Launch in 2026

While the programme is still in its early stages, BerlinPay is expected to launch as early as summer 2026. The Berlin tourism authorities are currently in talks with stakeholders to finalize the details of the programme and ensure that it aligns with the city’s broader sustainability goals. The launch of BerlinPay would mark a significant step forward in the city’s efforts to become a more sustainable destination for travelers.

Berlin has already been making strides towards sustainability in recent years, with initiatives such as the Berlin Green City Action Plan and the promotion of electric vehicles. A programme like BerlinPay would further support these initiatives and encourage tourists to embrace the eco-conscious ethos that the city is striving to promote.

The Global Impact of Sustainable Tourism Initiatives

Sustainable tourism has become a major focus in many parts of the world, as destinations recognize the need to protect the environment while still attracting tourists. Copenhagen’s DestinationPay has proven to be an innovative and effective way to promote sustainable travel, and BerlinPay could be the next step in the global push for eco-friendly tourism.

Cities around the world are beginning to see the benefits of incentivizing sustainable travel choices. By rewarding visitors for making environmentally conscious decisions, these initiatives not only help reduce the negative impacts of tourism but also create a sense of community between tourists and locals. Tourists who are rewarded for their sustainable actions are more likely to spread the word and inspire others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect that can have a positive impact on the environment.

The Future of Tourism: A Greener Path Forward

As the tourism industry recovers and expands, sustainable travel will play an important role in shaping the future of global tourism. DestinationPay and BerlinPay are leading the way, demonstrating that tourism can be both environmentally friendly and enjoyable. By incorporating sustainability into the travel experience, these programmes pave the way for a future in which tourism is about more than just discovering new places but also preserving them for future generations.