Camping holidays are becoming increasingly popular. They represent something a little different to the conventional beach vacation or city break, giving people a chance to connect with nature on a personal level and enjoy a more rudimentary lifestyle, if only for a few days.
People usually think of camping holidays as being reserved for staycations and holidays close to home. However, we’re seeing more people pack up their tent and sleeping bag and head for the European countryside or mountains, eager to experience a different camping culture and some truly fantastic scenery. We’ve rounded up four of the best European countries for camping, check them out below.
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France
France has proved to be a popular destination for international campers for a number of years. It has numerous campsites set in some incredible locations, with campers able to take a short walk into quaint French villages to sample the fantastic local foods and wines.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous camping experience, the French Alps are simultaneously beautiful and foreboding. Towering, snow capped peaks loom over lush green valleys, offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Some of the most popular camping destinations in France include the Ardèche region, famous for its breathtaking gorges and crystal-clear rivers, and the Loire Valley, home to stunning châteaux and beautiful vineyards. The Dordogne, with its prehistoric caves and picturesque villages, is also a popular camping destination, as well as the French Riviera, with its sunny beaches.
For those who love wine and gastronomy, the Bordeaux region is a must-visit destination, with its beautiful vineyards, historic towns, and world-renowned cuisine.
On any holiday, your safety should be a top priority. This is even more important on camping trips; you are often in remote locations with emergency services some distance away. If you were to require medical assistance, you could face a substantial bill for both the treatment and the expense of reaching you at your camping destination. The best way to mitigate this risk is by booking holiday insurance before your trip, allowing you to enjoy your camping holiday worry-free.
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Croatia
Croatia is a country located in the heart of Europe, known for its stunning coastline, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful natural parks. Camping in Croatia is a popular way to explore the country’s stunning scenery, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage.
The most popular camping destination in Croatia is the Dalmatian Coast, which stretches from Dubrovnik in the south to Zadar in the north. The region is famous for its beautiful beaches, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. There are plenty of campsites and caravan parks located along the coast, ranging from basic to luxurious, and offering a range of facilities and activities for all ages.
Another popular camping destination in Croatia is Istria, a peninsula located in the north of the country, known for its picturesque towns, rolling hills, and delicious local cuisine. Istria is home to several well-equipped campsites, some of which are located directly on the coast, offering breathtaking views and easy access to the beach.
Croatia has several beautiful national parks, including the Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its crystal-clear lakes and stunning waterfalls. Other popular national parks for camping include the Krka National Park, famous for its cascading waterfalls and the Paklenica National Park, known for its dramatic canyons and hiking trails.
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The Check Republic
With its stunning national parks, beautiful countryside, and welcoming people, The Czech Republic is an ideal destination for campers.
One of the most popular camping destinations in the Czech Republic is the Bohemian Paradise, a natural park located in the northern part of the country, known for its stunning sandstone rock formations, beautiful forests, and crystal-clear lakes. The region is a paradise for hikers, rock climbers, and nature enthusiasts, with several well-equipped campsites located in the area.
Another popular camping destination in the Czech Republic is the Sumava National Park, located in the southwest of the country, near the border with Germany. The park is home to some of the most pristine forests in Europe, as well as stunning mountain landscapes, and is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. There are several campsites and caravan parks located in the area, offering a range of facilities and activities for all ages.
For those who prefer to stay close to the city, Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a popular camping destination, with several well-equipped campsites located in and around the city. Camping in Prague offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history, while still enjoying the freedom and flexibility of camping.
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Germany
Across the border in Germany, you’ll also be able to find excellent opportunities for camping holidays. Why not visit a campsite in the ancient and vast Black Forest or on the shores of one of Bavaria’s breathtaking lakes?
Some of the most interesting places to go camping and caravaning in Germany include the Bavarian Alps, with its stunning mountain scenery and world-renowned hiking trails.
For those who love water sports and swimming, the Mecklenburg Lake District in northern Germany is a must-visit destination, with over 1,000 lakes to explore. Other popular camping and caravaning destinations in Germany include the Harz Mountains, which offer breathtaking views and historic towns, as well as the Moselle Valley, famous for its scenic vineyards and quaint villages.
Germany’s well-maintained network of campgrounds and caravan parks, combined with its rich history and cultural attractions, make it an ideal destination for camping and caravaning enthusiasts of all ages and interests.
However, keep in mind that Germany and France do not permit wild camping, so don’t assume you can simply pitch your tent and settle down wherever you please. Punishments for wild camping can result in fines of up to €500, so don’t take the risk and visit an official campsite instead.
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Norway
Norway has some of the most stunning countryside in the whole of Europe. From the mountains to the icy fjords, the range and grandeur of the Norwegian scenery needs to be seen to be believed. This can present a fantastic opportunity for campers who are looking for a more remote experience where they can feel truly connected to the natural world.
The Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, and Hardangerfjord are some of the most popular destinations for camping and caravaning in Norway. Another must-visit destination for camping and caravaning enthusiasts is the Lofoten Islands, located in the Arctic Circle. The islands offer spectacular views of the Northern Lights, as well as a chance to explore quaint fishing villages, hike in the mountains, and fish for Arctic char.
The Jotunheimen National Park, with its rugged mountains and glaciers, and the Rondane National Park, which is known for its pristine wilderness areas and abundant wildlife, complete the list of wonderous places for camping enthusiasts.
What’s more, Norway also permits wild camping, so you’ll be able to explore and set up camp wherever you feel like. Who knows, maybe you’ll get lucky and catch a glimpse of the famous northern lights over your tent.
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Italy
If Norway sounds a bit too cold for you, you should consider heading south towards the Mediterranean and camping in the sun-soaked Italian countryside. It would be difficult to find somewhere more perfect for a camping holiday. Italy has some truly incredible scenery that, when combined with the amazing weather, makes for an outdoor lover’s dream.
You could enjoy the sun at campsites in the southern coastal regions of the country, or head further north to camp amongst some impressive mountain ranges. Wherever you go, you’ll be able to enjoy Italy’s world-famous food, with each region offering something a little different.
One of the most popular destinations for camping and caravaning in Italy is the stunning Lake Garda, with its crystal-clear waters, scenic mountains, and charming towns.
The nearby Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, climbing, and skiing opportunities.
Another popular camping and caravaning destination in Italy is Tuscany, with its rolling hills, charming villages, and famous vineyards. The region is also home to historic cities such as Florence, Pisa, and Siena, with their stunning architecture, art, and culture.
The Amalfi Coast, with its breathtaking scenery and picturesque towns, is another popular destination for camping and caravaning in Italy. The coast is also known for its delicious cuisine and world-renowned limoncello.
Other popular camping and caravaning destinations in Italy include the beautiful island of Sardinia, the stunning Cinque Terre region, and the breathtaking Lake Como.
However, Italy does not permit wild camping. Ensure you are only camping in designated areas, or you could face a fine.
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Romania
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Camping and caravaning in Romania is a wonderful way to explore the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Romania offers a variety of campgrounds and caravan parks, ranging from simple and rustic to well-equipped and modern.
The country’s stunning landscapes, including the Carpathian Mountains, the Maramures region, the Danube Delta, and Black Sea coast, provide an ideal backdrop for camping and caravaning enthusiasts.
Some of the most sought-after destinations for camping and caravaning in Romania include the Danube Delta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the second largest delta in Europe, as well as the Bicaz Gorges, with its spectacular rock formations and picturesque landscapes.
Other popular destinations include the Transfagarasan Highway, which is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world, and the Retezat National Park, which offers amazing hiking trails and breathtaking views.
There are many remote areas in the mountains of Romania where you can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and untouched wilderness. Read more about wild camping in Romania and the general rules.
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Portugal
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Portugal offers a variety of campsites, ranging from basic and rustic to well-equipped and modern. Many of these campsites are located in stunning natural settings, such as Algarve and the Costa Vicentina Natural Park, which offers rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and a chance to spot dolphins and other marine life.
Another popular camping destination in Portugal is the Peneda-Gerês National Park, with its beautiful mountains, waterfalls, and lush forests. The park is home to numerous campsites and hiking trails, as well as ancient Roman ruins and traditional villages.
For those who love water sports, the Algarve region is a must-visit destination, with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and world-class surfing spots. The region is also home to charming fishing villages, historic towns, and delicious seafood.
As you travel North from Porto, also consider the Douro Valley, famous for its picturesque vineyards and scenic river cruises, and the historic city of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its Roman temple and Gothic cathedral.
Wild camping is not officially allowed in Portugal. However, some of the beaches around Lisbon and on Costa Vicentina are very remote, and one can easily spend a night or two in the wild worry-free.
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Slovenia
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Slovenia is a small but beautiful country located in central Europe, known for its stunning natural landscapes and diverse culture.
One of the most popular camping destinations in Slovenia is the Triglav National Park, located in the Julian Alps. The park is home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Europe, including the highest peak in Slovenia, Mt. Triglav. There are several campsites located in the park, offering a range of facilities and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Another popular camping destination in Slovenia is Lake Bled, a picturesque glacial lake located in the Julian Alps. The lake is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and is famous for its crystal-clear waters and medieval castle. There are several campsites located near the lake, offering a range of facilities and activities for visitors.
For those who prefer to stay close to the city, Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a popular camping destination, with several campsites located in and around the city. Camping in Ljubljana offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history, while still enjoying the freedom and flexibility of camping.
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Greece
One of the most popular camping destinations in Greece is the Peloponnese peninsula, located in the southern part of the country, with campsites such as Camping Methoni, Camping Finikes, and Camping Natura.
Another popular camping destination in Greece is the island of Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, known for its beautiful beaches, stunning mountain scenery, and rich cultural heritage.
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a popular camping destination, with several well-equipped campsites located in and around the city.
Most of the Greek islands feature options for camping (for example, we found a lovely place in Paleokastritsa, Corfu), so take your time and choose the best option for your escape.
Canal d’Amour, Corfu, Greece Allthough wild camping in Greece is officially illegal, it is generally tolerated if you pitch your tent outside the tourist areas, especially in the less populated islands and mountainous regions.
Instead of wrapping things up…
Looking for a vacation with a twist? Opt for a camping holiday, whether in the mountains, near a lake, or by the sea. Camping is a great way to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. It encourages physical activity, promotes mindfulness and encourages us to appreciate the simple things in life. Lastly, camping is often a more affordable vacation option compared to traditional hotels and resorts, making it accessible to a wider range of people.
Europe is home to a vast range of camping destinations, offering something for everyone, from the raw beauty of Norway to the wonderous medieval cities of Romania, from the stunning mountains of the Alps to the pristine beaches of the Mediterranean. So pack your tent, grab your camping gear, and set off to your memorable.
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