Year after year, the number of tourists visiting Europe continues to increase. While this brings many positive impacts for the local economy, the surge of tourists also causes over-tourism problems in several cities.
To address this, some destinations have started implementing unique programs: giving rewards to well-behaved tourists, such as those who keep the environment clean and respect local culture.
This way, tourists not only enjoy their holiday but also help preserve the places they visit.
The Background of Reward Programs for Tourists
The main factor behind the emergence of tourist reward programs is the high phenomenon of over-tourism in various European cities. To tackle this issue, some cities have begun to adopt different approaches, such as fines, tourist taxes, and restrictions on visitor numbers in recent months. The reward program for tourists is a new and different step.
Starting in Copenhagen, Denmark, tourists who behave well and are environmentally friendly can receive rewards through the CopenPay program. The prizes can include free bike rentals, boat tours, or lunch for those who participate in gardening, picking up trash, or using public transport.
Since this program was introduced, several other European cities have also started to follow Copenhagen’s steps to help address the over-tourism problem.
European Countries with Tourist Reward Programs
Several countries in Europe are now implementing unique programs that reward tourists who behave well and act responsibly towards the environment, as listed below.
Germany
The city of Berlin in Germany plans to launch a program in 2026 that rewards tourists who; arrive by train, stay longer, eat plant-based food, and participate in eco-friendly activities.
The rewards include discounts on museum tickets, free meals, and free bike rentals. This program will use an app and a points system, working together with local businesses to help tourists act more responsibly.
Another city, Bremen, has also launched a campaign in collaboration with Deutsche Bahn to promote sustainable tourism, and is planning to develop the same program as CopenPay model. In this program, tourists who stay overnight and arrive by train will receive a goodie bag filled with small gifts and vouchers from local tourism businesses.
Finland
The city of Helsinki in Finland is also interested in following Copenhagen’s example by introducing its own version of the reward program. This program is likely to focus on regenerative tourism and the restoration of the Baltic Sea, in collaboration with other destinations in the Baltic and Nordic regions.
The program will also encourage tourists to use public transportation and bicycles, with rewards such as free meals, tour discounts, and other experiences.
United Kingdom
The city of London in the United Kingdom has actually had similar programs for years. For example, this past July, known as Plastic Free July, tourists and Londoners received free drinks for participating in cleanup activities.
Switzerland
In Switzerland, tourists traveling around the country by public transport can enjoy free access to more than 500 museums with the Swiss Travel Pass, as well as discounts of up to 50 percent on most mountain trains.
Sweden
Wild Sweden, an award-winning travel company, also offers free spa access and meals at Hotel Savoy in Luleå to tourists who come to Lapland, Sweden by train to enjoy holidays featuring the Northern Lights and wildlife experiences.
Normandy
Last spring, Normandy in northwestern France launched a low-carbon fare that gives at least a 10% discount for 90 tourist attractions and cultural sites.
This program applies to tourists arriving by bus, train, or bicycle, and can be used for visiting castles, museums, monuments, parks, as well as for bike rentals, canoeing, escape rooms, and various other activities.
It is very likely that many more European cities will implement these reward programs for tourists. For travelers, this is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a trip more responsibly—and of course, receive exciting rewards along the way.
Traveling to Europe More Safely and Connected with Global Komunika
Besides bringing a light suitcase and a camera to capture the beauty of classical architecture and the romantic city atmosphere, make sure your internet connection is always stable with eSIM from Global Komunika!
With Global Komunika eSIM, you can explore Europe without worrying about your network!
- Always online with ease – Find metro routes in Paris, check high-speed train schedules to Rome, or instantly upload photos of Amsterdam’s canals to social media.
- Save more without expensive roaming – Rates are much friendlier on the wallet compared to traditional roaming.
- Super quick activation – Just scan the QR code and you’re instantly connected as soon as you land at any airport in Europe.
- Perfect for multi-destination trips – From London, Paris, Barcelona, to Zurich, one eSIM is ready to accompany your entire journey.
Order your Global Komunika eSIM here, and enjoy your holiday in Europe with peace of mind—from classic cities to breathtaking natural panoramas, everything can be captured while staying connected anytime!
