Spain to Italy - A Scenic European Motorhome Drive
Driving from Spain to Italy is one of the most beautiful motorhome routes you can imagine.
Working your way up Spain’s eastern Balearic shoreline, you’ll encounter winding mountain roads, ancient ruins, modern cities, and sun-drenched coastal paths. Once you cross the northern border, cosmopolitan café culture and French Riviera charm mark your way to Italy.
A road trip from Spain to Italy is an excellent way to explore not one or two but three countries (four if you count a diversion to Monaco) - each with unique natural landscapes, cultural wonders, and gastronomic delights. With over 1,000 km separating Valencia and Genoa and so many options, it pays to plan in advance.
Sorry, this map cannot be displayed.
The following consent is required:
Tracking & performance, Targeting & advertising.
With this in mind, here are some of the driving highlights on the trip from Spain to Italy (alongside our picks of motorhome-friendly campsites along the way) so you can confidently plan your itinerary.
Whether you prefer atmospheric pueblos and traditional tapas, bustling cities or wide sandy beaches and the open road, this Mediterranean drive is a trip of a lifetime. With this journey, you can blast along the main roads along the coast or take your time, head inland and explore the lesser-known countryside; the choice is yours.
Spain’s Balearic Coast
This is a long stretch of road, but did you know the E15 route runs from Algeciras in southern Spain to Inverness in Scotland? Part of the United Nations international E-road network, it’s a significant north-south “reference road” that takes you all the way up the Spanish coastline.
Of course, you can join this route anywhere, but Valencia is a common starting point for holidaymakers. Famous as the birthplace of paella, Valencia is a charming city (the third largest in Spain) where the modern and historic coexist beautifully. With winding cobblestone streets, pristine beaches, and a vibrant culinary scene, it’s a great city to explore.
Following the coastal route past Barcelona is a journey of beauty and wonder. The road hugs the coastline, ensuring that you’re never more than a few miles from the beach. This not only provides a welcome distraction from the hot Spanish sun after a long day’s driving but also offers a scenic route that will leave you in awe.
Where to stay - Spain’s Balearic Coast
Eurocamping Oliva Beach, south of Valencia, is a large, well-maintained site just metres away from a pleasant beachside restaurant. A perfect base to explore the southern Balearic coast.
Bonus tip: Try a spot of island hopping for hidden gems on Spain’s Balearic coast. There are good ferry services from both Valencia and Barcelona for transporting cars and motorhomes, enabling you to discover private coves, spectacular beaches and a taste of island life. Formentera (just south of Ibiza) is a lovely but lesser-known island that is well worth a day trip.
Valencia to Castellón
If you’re wondering which areas to extend your stay, the drive between Valencia and Castellón is particularly beautiful.
Just over 85 km apart, you can hug the Mediterranean Sea directly between these towns. Nonetheless, it’s well worth taking a diversion and heading inland to the Parc Natural de la Serra Calderona nearby, offering glimpses of the region’s beautiful greenery, caves and mountain landscapes.
Continuing your drive northwards, Parc Natural de la Seera d’Espadá is one of the region’s largest and most rugged national parks. It offers more stunning mountain scenery and winding roads – a driver’s paradise.
By the time you reach historic Castellón, you’ll be ready for a dip in the ocean at Costa Azahar, Pinar Beach, a well-known spot for its water sports and large pine forest.
Where to stay - Valencia to Castellón
Camping Altomira - a terraced inland site situated on a beautiful rural hillside on the outskirts of a quiet village.
Camping Ribamar is located south of the popular coastal resort of Peñiscola, this friendly campsite is a great stop on your route along the coast.
Camping Eucaliptus - Continuing north along the coast, Camping Eucaliptus is ideally situated next to a unique wetland reserve and golden sands – an oasis of green in this sun-soaked land.
Bonus tip: Valencia is home to many Michelin Restaurants, so if you love fine dining – it’s an unmissable stop. Particularly notable restaurants include El Poblet (led by head chef Quique Dacosta) as well as the ever-creative Ricard Camarena – both two-star treats not to be missed.
The Montserrat Mountain Road
Sorry, this map cannot be displayed.
The following consent is required:
Tracking & performance, Targeting & advertising.
If you’re looking for a challenge, the stunning Montserrat mountain road is a motorhome route with a difference (not suitable for caravans!)
Just 45 km northwest of Barcelona, the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria crowns the Montserrat mountain. This sacred site, steeped in history and spirituality, is home to the revered “Black Madonna” (a 12th century figurine depicting the patron saint of Catalunya).
With miles of stunning views, high elevations and snaking turns, the effort is all worth it once you reach the awe-inspiring summit views. Montserrat is an easy day trip away from Barcelona.
Where to stay - The Montserrat Mountain Road
Camping 3 Estrellas - an excellent location for visiting Barcelona, Camping 3 Estrellas is a lively beach-side campsite with 200 shady, private touring pitches.
Bonus tip: Aim to arrive at Montserrat early in the morning, allowing a full day to explore the scenic hiking trails and monastery. For panoramic hiking views, try Sant Miquel’s Cross, Sant Jeroni, or the iconic “Stairway to Heaven” route.
Barcelona to Girona
Finishing the Spanish leg of your journey, allocate at least a few days to enjoy the delights of the Catalonian capital. With its world-renowned Gaudi architecture, vibrant bars and elegant restaurants, Barcelona is a coastal city with a difference.
Girona, a city of profound historical significance, is a destination that merits its own extended visit. Now gaining recognition due to its role as a prominent Game of Thrones filming location, Girona boasts a captivating historic Jewish Quarter, top-tier restaurants, and the fascinating Passeig Arqueològic walkway. For fans of the show, you'll find familiar sights such as the "Free City of Braavos" and "King's Landing".
Before you cross the border with France, don't miss the coastal town of Cadaques, home to the Salvador Dali Museum. It's a perfect way to wrap up your Spanish journey. Adéu, Catalunya!
Where to stay - Barcelona to Girona
Vilanova Park - a busy, family-friendly campsite just a short drive south of Barcelona.
Camping Sandaya Cypsela Resort - a beautifully situated and peaceful (yet popular) campsite with easy access to the Spanish coast.
Camping Rodas - situated near the heart of Roses, this attractive campsite is just a short way from numerous sandy beaches and the pretty town of Cadaques.
Bonus Tip: If you fancy an extended stay in the region, there’s so much more to Catalonia than just Barcelona. You can spend weeks travelling around this area, taking in secret beaches, mountain waterfalls and charming villages. To get started, the Garrotxa Volcanic National Park and the medieval village of Peratallada are both particularly worth visiting.
Perpignan to Montpellier
As you continue your journey from Spain into France, the drive from Perpignan to Montpellier offers a delightful mix of Mediterranean coastlines, historical towns, and beautiful landscapes. This route spans approximately 160 km and showcases the best of the Occitanie region.
Perpignan, with its vibrant Catalan culture, is a great starting point. The city is known for its picturesque medieval centre, the Palace of the Kings of Majorca, and its proximity to the Pyrenees mountains. As you leave Perpignan, the route takes you through the coastal plains and vineyards that characterize this part of France.
As you travel northeast, consider stopping in Narbonne, a town rich in Roman history with a beautiful cathedral and the fascinating Horreum underground galleries. Narbonne also boasts excellent beaches nearby at Narbonne-Plage, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Continuing towards Montpellier, you can take a scenic detour to the picturesque town of Béziers. Famous for its wine production and the impressive Canal du Midi, Béziers is a charming place to explore. Don't miss the Nine Locks of Fonseranes, an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Arriving in Montpellier, you'll find a city known for its elegant architecture, vibrant student population, and beautiful old town. The Place de la Comédie, the Fabre Museum, and the Promenade du Peyrou are just a few highlights. Montpellier's proximity to the Mediterranean also means you can enjoy the nearby beaches of Palavas-les-Flots and Carnon.
Where to stay - Perpignan to Montpellier
Yelloh! Village Le Brasilia is a well-managed, family-friendly site by the beach with extensive facilities, including a water park, spa, various accommodations, shops, restaurants, entertainment, and a convenient location near Canet-Plage.
Camping Sandaya Domaine de la Dragonnière is a well-organized, family-friendly holiday village near Vias and Portiragnes, featuring an impressive selection of swimming pools, extensive sports activities, and entertainment, with 750 pitches, including 55 shaded touring pitches, and a free shuttle to the beach.
Bonus Tip: Bonus tip: The region between Perpignan and Montpellier is renowned for its wines. Make sure to visit a few local vineyards along the way to sample some of the finest wines the Languedoc-Roussillon area has to offer. The Côteaux du Languedoc and Corbières are particularly noteworthy appellations.
Montpellier to Toulon
The drive from Montpellier to Toulon is a scenic and culturally rich journey through some of southern France's most captivating regions. Starting in Montpellier and head southeast to the medieval walled city of Aigues-Mortes, where you can explore its historic fortifications and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding salt marshes. From there, venture into the Camargue, a vast wetland known for its unique landscapes and diverse wildlife, including flamingos, wild horses, and bulls. This region offers excellent bird-watching opportunities and the chance to experience the natural beauty of southern France.
Continuing eastward, visit the Côte Bleue, a stunning stretch of coastline between Martigues and Marseille, known for its rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing in charming villages like Carry-le-Rouet and Sausset-les-Pins. Before reaching Toulon, consider a detour to Aix-en-Provence, a city famous for its beautiful architecture, vibrant markets, and connection to the artist Paul Cézanne.
Arriving in Toulon, you'll find a bustling port city with a rich maritime history and a passionate rugby culture. Home to the famous RC Toulonnais rugby club, Toulon offers the opportunity to catch an exciting match at Stade Mayol. The city also boasts a picturesque old town, a vibrant harbour, and stunning views from the Mont Faron cable car. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and sporting events, the drive from Montpellier to Toulon is an unforgettable adventure.
Where to stay - Montpellier to Toulon
Domaine de Massereau, established in 2006 by two brothers in a historic vineyard, offers 202 pitches with premium amenities and a range of recreational facilities. It also produces its own wine and olive oil.
Camping Monplaisir - Just one kilometre from Saint Rémy's centre in the Alpilles foothills, this impeccably run site offers 128 level grass pitches surrounded by lush greenery, tarmac roads, six heated unisex toilet blocks, and a recreational area with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, and paddling pool.
Toulon to Menton
Travelling from Toulon to Menton along the French Riviera unveils a picturesque journey marked by stunning coastlines, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore Toulon's bustling harbour, historic fortifications, and lively markets. The nearby Mont Faron provides panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, setting the stage for a coastal adventure.
The route continues through Saint-Tropez, famous for its glamorous beaches, celebrity sightings, vibrant nightlife, and charming old town with narrow streets and quaint cafes. Further along, Cannes entices with its annual film festival, luxurious lifestyle, and the elegant La Croisette promenade lined with palm trees and prestigious hotels. Cannes offers upscale shopping, gourmet dining, and sandy beaches, making it a must-visit destination. Just beyond Cannes lies Monaco, the opulent principality known for its grand casinos, the Monaco Grand Prix, and the lavish Monte Carlo district.
Upon reaching Nice, travellers are welcomed by a harmonious blend of French and Italian influences, evident in the charming Old Town, vibrant buildings, and the iconic Promenade des Anglais. This section of the journey culminates in Menton, near the Italian border, celebrated for its tranquil ambience, annual lemon festival, and Belle Époque architecture. Menton's historic old town, enchanting gardens, and its unique fusion of French and Italian culture make it a captivating final stop on this coastal route.
Where to stay - Toulon to Menton
Camping International at Giens is a popular spot for windsurfers, offering lessons and beach access just across a quiet road. With around 200 pitches, 80 are available for touring units. Ideal for an active holiday, the site provides windsurfing, a beach 200m away, and bicycle rentals. The attractive swimming pool area has a pleasant sunbathing spot. The Almanarre Gulf is nearby, and island tours are available from Hyères.
Les Mures, on the Gulf of St Tropez, offers direct beach access and modern amenities in two sections: 'The Vineyard' and 'The Beach,' connected by a pedestrian underpass. Facilities are mainly in 'The Vineyard,' while 'The Beach' provides Mediterranean views. Good access, a private car park for check-in, and multilingual staff enhance convenience. A nearby bus links to St Tropez and Saint Maxime, and a cycle track connects Gulf towns. Port Grimaud's market and ferry to Saint Tropez are notable attractions. Early reservations are advised for the high season.
Camping La Bergerie, nestled in the Gaves valley near Argelès-Gazost, boasts a popular water park, cycle routes, entertainment, and proximity to the Pyrenees. It offers 105 grass touring pitches with electric hook-ups, mobile homes, and lodge tents for hire. Nearby attractions include the Pyrenees Animal Park, Le Donjon des Aigles, and the nature reserve of the Pibeste-Aoulhet massif.
Bonus Tip: Menton is one of the last towns you’ll pass before arriving in Italy. Known for its beaches and beautiful gardens (including the Serre de la Madone garden), this hilly, medieval town is also home to magnificent architecture. Whilst you’re there, don’t miss the Musée Jean Cocteau – celebrating the works of the legendary French playwright, novelist and poet.
Italy’s Ligurian Coast
Once you’ve crossed the border into Italy, the scenic drive along the Ligurian coast is one of the most beautiful routes in the world. Lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea, the coast is named “Riviera dei Fiori” – translating as the River of the Flowers.
It’s the perfect drive for anyone who adores sun and beach life but also loves exploring gorgeous countryside and charming towns. Indeed, the surrounding hills are home to many historic Medieval villages (often adorned with vibrant flowers) and spectacular panoramic views.
From San Remo, the coastal road takes you along the tranquil Ligurian Sea to the quaint harbour hillside town of Portofino. Often listed as one of the most picturesque places in the world, it boasts colourful houses and a labyrinth of backstreets to explore.
Where to stay - Italy’s Ligurian Coast
Camping Villaggio dei Fiori, open year-round, offers high standards with spacious, paved pitches, filtered seawater pools, and a private beach, ideal for exploring the Italian and French Riviera's or relaxing. All 107 pitches have electricity, and some offer shade from well-maintained trees. The site features a secluded beach, excellent snorkelling and fishing, and year-round activities and excursions, with easy bus access to Monte Carlo, Nice, Cannes, and Eze.
Camping Dei Fiori is a small, family-owned site, 550 meters from the beach in an old olive orchard, offers 232 pitches, including 60 level touring pitches with some shade and 6A electricity, though some are quite small. Facilities include a restaurant overlooking the pool, a bar serving drinks and snacks, and a swimming pool with a paddling pool. The friendly owners provide excellent assistance, and a free shuttle service operates in July and August.
Mare Monti, set high in the hills with spectacular views of Sestri Levante, offers around 150 pitches, including 50 for touring with 6A electricity on terraces. The site features a neat swimming pool, a small shop, and a bar with an impressive terrace. Access is challenging, making it more suitable for smaller units and not recommended for disabled visitors. The friendly, English-speaking staff ensure a relaxing atmosphere, and a free minibus to Sestri Levante's charming restaurants and shops is available in high season.
Bonus Tip: Continuing along the coast towards Genoa and beyond, you’ll pass through the Cinque Terre National Park – celebrated as the “pearl” of the region. Whilst there are five beautiful coastal villages to explore, it’s worthwhile choosing one and parking your motorhome nearby – and exploring the others on foot..
If you’re driving from Spain to Italy, there are so many fantastic motorhome-friendly routes, campsites and sightseeing opportunities along the way. Your only dilemma will be choosing between them!
To help plan the Mediterranean adventure of a lifetime, explore our full list of independently reviewed campsites (across Spain, France, Italy as well as the rest of Europe) and remember… it’s not the destination, it’s the journey.