Liepāja - shortlisted in the 2025 Green Pioneer Competition - European Commission
Skip to main content
European Capital and Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism

Liepāja - shortlisted in the 2025 Green Pioneer Competition

Liepāja, Latvia, is working to preserve its environment and offer an interesting and inclusive tourism experience for visitors. With many innovative practices in place, it demonstrates the possibilities of sustainable and green tourism.

Towards a more sustainable future

In 2022, Liepāja was selected as part of the EU Mission: Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities, setting ambitious targets for reducing harmful air pollutants.The city is actively working towards creating a safer and greener environment. The municipality has already introduced many sustainable initiatives, such as an energy management system, an online monitoring system for energy consumption, as well as supporting programmes for improving energy efficiency in buildings. Together with students from the Liepāja Academy of Riga Technical University, the municipality is also introducing a resource-saving programme. 

Liepaja

Summer fun for all

During the summer, Liepāja offers several opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy the sea. A dedicated complex on the beach has been set up for disabled people and young families. It includes accessible showers, changing rooms and a wooden walkway leading to the sea, making it easier for wheelchair users and parents with pushchairs to reach the water. Audio booths have also been installed in the sea to assist blind people by providing signals that inform them of how far they can swim. Additionally, the city has created a ‘Hear, Smell, Touch Liepāja’ route, designed for blind and visually impaired visitors, and led by a trained guide.

Liepaja

Latest technology in tourism

The city has developed apps that digitally reconstruct buildings and sites destroyed during the wars, allowing visitors to visualise what the city once looked like in areas where historic structures no longer stand. The use of technology is also expanding opportunities for accessible tourism, as people with disabilities can now explore the city virtually via the Metaverse TIC platform. This platform allows guests from around the world to experience Liepāja through virtual guided tours, without needing to travel physically. Users can even purchase souvenirs and have them delivered to their homes.