The Best City Camping in Europe
Our picks of the best campsites in or near to Europe’s most exciting cities...
Caravanning and camping holidays aren’t always about isolated spots. You have the freedom to travel the length and breadth of some of the most amazing countries on earth – experiencing remote wilderness as well as vibrant cities – all whilst avoiding hefty hotel bills.
If you’re planning a European city break (or several) choosing the right spot for hassle-free camping can be challenging, however. Many people aren’t even aware urban campsites exist in the first place! There’s certainly a lot to weigh up, from vehicle access to facilities, cost and comfort – all in a country and language you might be unfamiliar with.
But fear not. With our guide to ultimate city camping, you can explore with confidence. In this guide, we present our top picks of cultural cities and amazing nearby campsites.
Let’s hit the road…
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Austria | Belgium | Denmark | France | Germany | Great Britain | Italy | Netherlands | Portugal | Spain | Sweden
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Austria
If you’re searching for the perfect mix of urban grandeur and stunning landscapes, look no further than Austria. From alpine summits to flower-strewn meadows and imperial Vienna – it’s the perfect city camping destination.
Vienna
Replete with baroque architecture, wide boulevards and imposing imperial palaces, Vienna is a cultural hub like no other. Kick-back and enjoy the city’s coffee-house culture, visit masterpiece-filled museums or soak-up Vienna's amazing musical heritage.
For city travellers heading off the beaten track, the hidden baroque gem of the Österreichische Nationalbibliothek (The Austrian National Library) is a must-see, as is the Habsburg Imperial Crypt (the final resting place of over 140 Habsburg royalty).
Camping Wien Neue Donau
Camping Wien Neue Donau is quite simply the best campsite in the greater Vienna area. It boasts fantastic public transport straight into the city centre, nearby shops for stocking up, as well as plenty of mature trees and shady private spots.
Located on the banks of the Neue Donau (New Donau), you’ll find around 200 touring pitches with 16A electricity, and a further 12 pitches with full water and drainage. If you don’t fancy the hustle and bustle of central Vienna one day, there’s plenty of walking and cycling trails nearby and water activities in the river.
Belgium
From chocolates and canal trips in Bruges to Antwerp’s amazing architecture and fashion scene, Belgium is a country full of unexpected riches. From perfectly flat landscapes near the coast to the forested Ardennes hills, and historic towns, it’s ready-made for city camping…
Antwerp
Antwerp is Belgium’s second city, but the country’s official capital of cool. It’s long appealed to fashion moguls, art lovers and celebrity elites. The city boasts an astounding cultural history, as the home to the painter Pieter Paul Rubens and is an important trading hub.
Visitors can enjoy Antwerp’s historic medieval centre, café-filled cobbled lanes and impressive cathedral by day – then explore its vibrant nightlife by night. Unique experiences include St Anna’s Tunnel (featuring rare wooden escalators) and the “Het Bootje” – an art nouveau building with a boat jutting out the side!
City Camping Antwerp
City Camping Antwerp is a beautiful, family-friendly campsite located on the banks of the River Schelde. Antwerp’s historic centre is two kilometres away, meaning it’s just a scenic stroll (or cycle) to visit some of the city’s many delights. A free ferry also takes campers straight across the river.
This level site has over 95 pitches, 34 of which are for campervans – all with access to 10A electricity hook-ups. Whilst staying at the campsite, take full advantage of its central location and explore all that Antwerp has to offer.
Bruges
As one of Europe’s best-preserved cities, Bruges has a picture-perfect medieval centre. Winding cobbled lanes contrast with crisscrossing canals, whilst picturesque squares and historic buildings greet visitors at every turn. Whether it's daffodils in spring or Christmas markets in winter, Bruges is a truly beautiful city.
Whilst you’re in Bruges, don’t miss out on its stunning nocturnal streetlights and hip, hidden bars. If all that sightseeing has got you hungry, there’s also a “Frietmuseum” – an entire establishment dedicated to the history of fries!
Camping Memling
Camping Memling is an ideal base for visiting Bruges. With 120 marked pitches (all with access to 10A electricity) surrounded by well-manicured trees and hedges, it’s a truly tranquil spot. There’s a separate area for small tents, as well as nearby bars, restaurants and shops in Sint-Kruis.
Bruges is famous for its network of cycleways, but there are also plenty of buses running from the campsite towards the city centre. If that’s not enough, historical Ghent, the international port of Zeebrugge and the sandy beaches of Blankenberge are all within 40 minutes’ drive.
Denmark
With a contented emphasis on “hygge”, beautiful design and delectable dining, it’s not hard to see why Denmark is one of the happiest countries on earth. For old-fashioned charm mixed with fresh fashion, the Danish capital Copenhagen offers the ultimate city trip.
Copenhagen
If you’re looking for a slice of Scandi cool – look no further than Copenhagen. The city buzzes with cycling commuters, “New Nordic” cuisine and pristine waterways. Copenhagen is home to no fewer than fifteen Michelin-starred restaurants as well as myriad design-led stores and craft bars.
It’s one of the world’s greenest and most sustainable urban centres, with plenty of culture to boot. Whether it’s the iconic rides of Tivoli Gardens, the sublime architecture of Grundtvig’s Church or the wistful “Little Mermaid” sculpture, there’s so much to see and do.
DCU Camping Absalon
Based on the outskirts of Copenhagen, this campsite is named after the city’s founder, Bishop Absalon. It’s a beautifully flat site with grassy pitches and surrounded by mature trees and verdant hedgerows. You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the countryside – despite easy transport links by bus or train directly into Copenhagen city centre.
Absalon has 475 pitches (all for tourers) with 13A electricity and Wi-Fi across the site. There’s also a large tent field and 31 additional hardstandings for motorhomes.
France
With its unfailingly cool cosmopolitan cities, quaint village bistros, lavender fields and the warm, azure waters of France’s coastlines – it’s no wonder why “La Belle France” remains a firm favourite for travellers all over the world…
Paris
No trip to France would be complete without taking in the city of love, Paris. Its monument-lined boulevards, fashionable boutiques, contemporary galleries and amazing food and wine are just some of the many draws.
As well as classic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and the repaired Notre Dame cathedral, there’s a whole host of unusual and unique experiences.
After a stroll through the artistic Left Bank, explore the “Petite Ceinture” (an abandoned railway line circling the city) or browse through the books of Shakespeare and Company – an iconic Parisian bookstore and “Tumbleweed Hotel” for travelling writers.
Camping Sandaya Paris Maisons-Laffitte
With its beautiful location on the banks of the river Seine, you’ll feel whisked-away to another world whilst staying at Camping Sandaya Paris Maisons-Laffitte. It’s no surprise the site is busy all year round, with grassy, tree-lined plots just twenty minutes away from the centre of Paris.
Maisons-Laffitte is a pleasant Parisian suburb with its own château, restaurants, river-side walks and a lively racecourse.
You’ll find over 300 pitches, 170 of which are for tourers with 10A electricity hook-ups – as well as two areas specifically for tents. The nearby RER station links the campsite with Disneyland as well as the French capital. The grandeur of Versailles is also just a short drive away.
Montpellier
A jewel of France’s south coast, Montpellier is a truly stylish metropolis. Boating elegant mansions, stately boulevards and intriguing backstreets, it’s a city to get lost in. The Museum of Anatomy as well as the distinctive Promenade du Peyrou (including Montpellier’s own Arc de Triomphe) are particularly unique highlights.
As well as exploring Montpellier’s urban centre, you can also visit some of the nearby white sandy beaches. With a perfect mix of coast and culture, Montpellier is one of France’s fastest-growing cities. Students make up over one-third of the population, giving it a young and vibrant multicultural vibe.
Camping Sandaya Le Plein Air de Chênes
Situated five kilometres outside of Montpellier (with a nearby tram route offering direct access into the historic town), this astounding campsite has so much to offer.
Perhaps the biggest draw of Le Plein Air de Chênes is the amazing pool complex (complete with cascades, pools and toboggans) as well as fantastic entertainment and dining.
The campsite has over 40 touring pitches in shady terraced settings (most with 10A electricity) as well as over 200 mobile homes available for rent. With sun-soaked beaches, woodland walks and scenic cycles nearby, you’ll never want to leave.
Germany
With soul-stirring alpine scenery, bustling urban centres and romantic fairy-tale castles, there’s nowhere quite like Germany. Its great cities offer a cultural kaleidoscope of art museums, opera houses, underground clubs, and a whole world of gastronomic delights.
Berlin
Berlin’s unique combination of glamour and grit, baroque architecture and cold war history make it a truly fascinating city. Whether you’re walking along the remnants of the Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie, marvelling at the splendour of Prussian palaces or taking a tour of its subterranean World War Two tunnels – there’s richly textured history at every turn.
Berlin is also a perfect city for sociable fun-seekers. With beautiful tree-lined beer gardens, risqué cabarets and trendy techno clubs, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
It’s a multicultural metropolis with an emphasis on personal freedom and creative living, making it a perfect city camping hub.
Camping Sanssouci
Camping Sanssouci is a fantastic base for visiting Berlin as well as nearby historic Potsdam. Lying just two kilometres from Sanssouci Park on the serene banks of the Templiner See, you’d be hard-pressed to believe you were so close to the hustle and bustle of Berlin.
In a quiet woodland setting, this well-thought-through campsite boasts all the amenities you could desire. As well as a modern reception, shop, restaurant and bar, there are 240 individual pitches. Of these, 170 are for touring, and all have 6-16A electricity. Most also have their own water and drainage.
Hamburg
If you’re searching for a city oozing laid-back charm and vibrant culture – look no further than Hamburg, the capital of cool.
As Germany’s second-largest city, it’s been a centre of international trade for centuries. It remains one of the country’s wealthiest urban centres and the maritime trading spirit continues to infuse the entire city. Hamburg is also famous for its musical pedigree, home to Brahms and Mendelssohn, as well as the astounding architecture of the Elbphilharmonie.
More unusual landmarks include St Nicholas’ Church (once one of the tallest buildings in the world), the St Pauli Elbtunnel (burrowing under the mighty Elbe river) and the atmospheric nearby Blankenese Shipwrecks.
Knaus Camping Hamburg
Situated just fifteen kilometres north of Hamburg city centre, Knaus Camping Hamburg is a fabulous base for visiting this unique German city.
It’s conveniently placed for travel into the city (near the autobahn, screened off by trees and hedges) as well as stop-overs before catching the Harwich Ferry or travelling onto Denmark. Whilst the hum of traffic and city life is just audible, it’s a quiet, peaceful spot.
There are 115 grassy pitches, with access from gravel roads. All pitches have 6A electricity and are neatly separated by trees and hedges. The campsite is around ten minutes’ walk from restaurants and shops, meaning there isn’t far to go to stock-up on the essentials.
Stuttgart
Stuttgart is a city of contrasts. On the one hand, it boasts fine-dining restaurants, stunning neoclassical architecture, wide squares and expensive shops – and on the other hand, surrounding hills covered in vines, shady biergartens and rustic taverns. It’s a spot where city and country meet, favoured by locals and tourists alike.
While you’re there, check out the unusual wooden funicular railway as well as unique World War Two History (such as Rubble Hill and the Stuttgart Winkel Tower).
There are also plenty of leading art galleries and museums such as the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart and the Porsche Museum– an entire institution dedicated to this iconic automotive company.
Campingplatz Cannstatter Wasen
Campingplatz Cannstatter Wasen is a modern, well-managed campsite offering easy access to central Stuttgart. It’s just ten minutes’ drive away from the city centre, with further bus and rail links just 500 metres away.
It’s also right next to the Cannstatter Wasen Fairground, making this a perfect city campsite for families. There’s a good quality children’s play area, and plenty of grass to run around on.
The site is completely fenced, sitting next to the River Neckar. With pretty flower beds, bushes and trees separating the pitches, it’s wonderful for kicking-back and relaxing after a busy day’s sightseeing. All the 234 pitches have electricity hook-ups, with 25 also having water and waste connections.
Great Britain
There’s so much that’s “great” about Great Britain. With stunning natural landscapes, fascinating history, quaint villages and cosmopolitan cities – it’s a small country perfect for leisurely travel.
From the hustle and bustle of London to the gothic spires of Edinburgh and the modern vibrancy of Cardiff… where will your city camping adventure take you?
Find campsites in Northern Ireland
London
London is one of the globe's most visited cities. With world-leading museums and art galleries, theatres, shops and stunning landmarks at every turn – it’s just as appealing to British residents as international tourists.
With the old and new living side by side, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose between a trip to the top of the Shard or a tour of the Tower of London. During your time in the capital though, do make sure to check out one of the city’s many classic pubs.
Whilst the centre is packed-full of iconic landmarks, London’s suburbs (for instance leafy Hampstead Heath or beautiful Kew Gardens) are equally appealing.
The Lee Valley Group
The Lee Valley Camping group operate several campsites within easy reach of England’s capital city.
This includes their site at Sewardstone (offering easy access to the M25 as well as excellent public transport links to London and the nearby Epping Forest), the Almost Wild Campsite and Dobbs Weir site (both near Broxbourne railway station, with direct links to London) as well as the camping and caravan park at Edmonton.
What unites all these campsites are fantastic amenities, proximity to beautiful countryside walks (despite being close to the capital) and friendly, family-friendly service. Almost Wild is the most “back to basics” site, offering authentic wild camping experiences. If this all sounds a bit too off grid, local pubs are just a short walk away.
Cardiff
Cardiff was only declared the capital of Wales in 1955. Despite this, it’s a truly historic city with ancient castles, monuments and industrial landmarks. During a visit to Cardiff Castle, visitors might be surprised to stumble across the stunning “Arab Room” (featuring Moorish fantasy design), as well as the “animal wall” with its eccentric array of Victorian-era sculptures.
Cardiff’s long history is juxtaposed with the ultramodern waterfront, giving the city a coastal feel and buzzing atmosphere. At the weekend, shoppers stream into the centre, with waves of revellers also making the most of the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Of course, Cardiff is also a hotspot for rugby lovers, with the Millennium Principality Stadium (constructed for the 1999 Rugby World Cup) still hosting matches and offering guided tours.
Cardiff Caravan Park
Cardiff Caravan Park is managed by the city council, who maintain this popular site to a very high standard. Set within acres of beautiful parkland, it’s just one mile away from the city centre.
The campsite has 61 touring pitches, 43 of which are on grasscrete surfaces with 16A electric hook-ups. Whilst there is a public right of way through the site, security is good with an on-site 24 hour warden and a safe, family feel.
With the County Cricket Ground, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff City FC and Cardiff Castle all just a short cycle or walk away – it’s perfect for sports and culture lovers alike.
Edinburgh
The city of Edinburgh (otherwise known as “Auld Reekie”) is a true wonder.
The towering spires and narrow lanes of Edinburgh’s Old Town are defined by its stunning landscape – overlooked by the crags and cliffs of Arthur’s Seat. However, visitors can also travel to New Town’s neat grid of neoclassical squares and refined restaurants from the medieval surrounds of the Royal Mile. It’s a city full of contrasts that you’ll want to return to again and again.
Whilst you’re in the city, make sure to pay a visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens of Edinburgh (one of the oldest scientific gardens in Britain with over 13,000 plant species) as well as Edinburgh’s many pubs and whisky bars. The Wee Pub in arty Grassmarket is particularly fun. Measuring at just 17-by-14 feet, it’s one of the city’s smallest boozers.
Edinburgh Caravan and Motorhome Club Site
Located in the northern outskirts of Edinburgh, this wonderful campsite sits on the shores of the Firth of Forth.
Ideally situated for visiting Edinburgh city centre, you can also enjoy the nearby promenade of Cramond and the popular pubs of Portobello waterfront. Just a short hop away from the iconic Forth Bridge, you’re also close to the stunning coastline and historic towns of Fife.
There are 156 large, level pitches, all with 16A electricity hook-ups and TV aerials. Despite the proximity to this cosmopolitan city, you’ll find plenty of mature trees and plants offering a picturesque setting.
Italy
Italy is a truly inspiring country. As the epicentre of the Renaissance, it boasts more UNESCO World Heritage cultural sites than any other country on earth. With gastronomic delights and sandy beaches too… what are you waiting for?
Rome
Italy’s capital is one of the world’s most romantic and beautiful cities. Full of atmospheric ruins, awe-inspiring masterpieces of renaissance art and vibrant street life… what’s not to love?
If you have a passion for history, art and architecture, the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon and St Peter’s Basilica are all unmissable. For food, culture and that “dolce vita” lifestyle, sample one of Rome’s many alfresco settings, rustic pizzerias, neighbourhood trattorias or Michelin-listed fine dining.
Wrap up a busy day’s sightseeing by strolling through picturesque Roman streets and enjoying a sociable aperitivo. It really is a city you’ll never want to leave.
Camping Village Roma
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city, the Camping Village Roma is a unique city-centre campsite. It’s open all year round, providing swimming pools and Jacuzzis on pretty terraces, as well as beach volleyball, relaxation areas and barbecues.
The campsite is geared towards young travellers, further offering a late-night bar and terrace to relax on and enjoy the stunning city views. If all that wasn’t enough, there’s also a large Italian restaurant providing classic Roman dishes.
With over 100 pitches (all with electric hook-ups), it’s a lively, great value campsite for exploring the Italian capital.
Venice
A marble masterpiece set over a shimmering lagoon? It could only be one place… Venice.
Get lost exploring the city’s many walkways, waterways and bridges before reaching the grandeur of the Grand Canal itself.
The narrow back streets are lined with stunning churches, art galleries and architecture – whilst the Basilica di San Marco (and its famous Piazza) is an unmissable landmark.
For something more off the beaten track, explore unique market stalls and bookstores (such as the Libreria Acqua Alta, a store resigning itself to constant flooding by keeping its books in bathtubs and boats) or the nearby neon coloured houses of Burano Island.
Camping Ca’Savio
Camping Ca’Savio is a large, family owned-campsite that’s set on a beautiful sandy beach. Close to Venice but offering all the draws of the coast – it’s perfectly suited to families.
The beach is separated from pitches by a pleasant open area, and there’s also two swimming pool complexes complete with pirate galleons! If you need to stock up on supplies, there’s an onsite supermarket, two restaurants and a self-service cafeteria.
With over 800 touring pitches (all with 10A electricity) it remains incredibly popular with international and domestic tourists alike.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands is a country where innovation and institution collide. Windmills, tulip fields and picture-postcard villages contrast with cutting-edge architecture, artistic masterpieces and some of the most vibrant nightlife in Europe.
With its famously flat, scenic landscape – it’s a great country for cycling and city camping…
Find campsites in the Netherlands
Amsterdam
Picture Amsterdam, and you’ll probably envisage its Golden Age canals, beautiful gabled buildings and bicycles whizzing through tree-lined lanes. Well, the real Amsterdam doesn’t disappoint!
Boasting world-leading museums and plenty of independent shops and traditional cafes, there’s never a shortage of things to do. Winding through the city’s narrow lanes, you’ll stumble across hidden courtyards, stylish boutiques, historic churches, art galleries and hip craft breweries.
Whilst you’re in Amsterdam, the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum are two must-sees. Hosting the world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh, Vermeer and Rembrandt paintings, these two institutions are a once in a lifetime opportunity.
For something more unusual, hop on a canal boat tour to explore the city – or for those feeling more adventurous, make use of the many bicycle hire shops!
Gaasper Camping Amsterdam
Located southeast of the city centre, Gaasper Camping Amsterdam is incredibly popular. With a friendly welcome, lake-side location and proximity to the city, it’s not hard to see why!
The site is a short walk away from a Metro station offering fifteen-minute links to the city centre. It’s incredibly busy during July and August however, so make sure you’ve booked if you’re travelling in the summer.
Gaasper Camping is wonderfully neat and tidy, with grassy areas, trees and shrubs throughout. There’s one grassy area (mainly reserved for tents) and another more formal numbered pitch area for tourers.
Pitches are separated by shallow ditches or mature hedges, giving a real sense of privacy. Areas of hardstanding are also available, all with 10A electrical connections.
Maastricht
Maastricht is less well-known than Amsterdam but offers a whole wealth of history and culture.
It’s a lively student city, with plenty of Roman and Medieval history mixed with cool Burgundian culture. Maastricht is also home to many modern restaurants and bars, with a local populace proud of their unique identity.
Highlights off the beaten track include the Selexyz Dominicanen (a soaring gothic church converted into an elegant bookstore) as well as the Maastricht Underground tours. These tours allow visitors to experience the vast manufactured tunnel network underneath the city, ranging from the Napoleonic era to the World War Two Zonneberg Caves.
Camping Oriental
Camping Oriental is a family-friendly campsite conveniently found between Maastricht and the pretty town of Valkenburg
The campsite has over 285 touring pitches, offering a great mixture of sunny and shaded spots. All pitches come with 10A electricity – and some with water, drainage and TV connections too.
For any last-minute essentials, there’s a well-stocked store offering daily fresh bread, as well as a pleasant bar and café. Younger members of the family will also appreciate the campsite’s heated swimming pool and large sports field ideal for football and volleyball.
As well as the city sights of Maastricht, the nearby town of Valkenberg is home to fascinating castle ruins as well as the warm spa waters of Thermae 2000.
Portugal
For sunshine, sea and sand… it’s got to be Portugal. As well as the stunning coastline and fertile landscapes of the Algarve, Portugal’s elegant cities offer a warm welcome, fantastic food, beautiful architecture and plenty of culture. So what are you waiting for?
Lisbon
Lisbon is a wonderful city full of life and colour. It is a captivating city with picture-perfect alleyways, azure waters, tree-covered hills, and domed cathedrals.
Lisbon’s coastal location means an abundance of delicious seafood. Don’t miss out on their beloved “bacalhau” (dried and salted codfish) – it really is a taste sensation. Lisbon also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of nightclubs and quirky cocktail bars. Pavilhão Chinês (part-bar, part-curiosity shop) is particularly worth a visit.
For any culture vultures, marvel at the Carmo Convent Ruins, the elaborately carved Jerónimos Monastery or the star-studded masterpieces of the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga.
Lisboa Camping and Bungalows
Conveniently located in the suburbs of Lisbon (with a direct bus to the city centre), this large campsite offers everything the discerning traveller could wish for.
With ponds, fountains, mature trees and lawns lined with flowering shrubs, it’s a city-centre paradise. The campsite’s many terraces are well-shaded with trees, and all touring pitches sit on concrete hardstanding with grass and picnic tables. All pitches also have 10A electricity connections, water and drainage.
What’s more, there’s a pool to cool-off in on those sunny Lisbon days, as well as sandy beaches just a short drive away.
Spain
For passion, sophistication and soul-stirring culture, Spain can’t be beaten.
Aside from its truly stylish cities, Spain’s landscapes stretch from the soaring snow-capped Pyrenees to the sun-soaked plains of Andalucía and the white sandy beaches of Costa Brava. There really is something for everyone…
Barcelona
Barcelona is a city needing no introduction. As the home to Gaudi’s whimsical architectural creations (such as the “dragon back” Casa Battlló and the famous Sagrada Familia), it’s a hub of creativity and culture.
Barcelona is particularly famed for its amazing food scene. Whether you’re looking for Michelin-listed fine dining, fun tapas or traditional Catalan dishes, there’s something for all tastes and budgets.
There’s so much to see and do in Barcelona, from paddleboarding to sunset drinks, beach strolls and hidden historic gardens (especially the Labyrinth Garden Park of Horta).
The Collserola hills also loom behind this beautiful city. They are perfect for hiking, mountain biking or just admiring the stunning vistas…
Camping 3 Estrellas
If you’re visiting Barcelona, look no further than Camping 3 Estrellas. Named after Spain’s famous beer brand, it lives up to its laidback namesake.
Located on the beachfront, you’ll find over 200 touring pitches with 5A electricity. Many look straight onto the sea, offering fantastic views and an unforgettable night sleeping to the sound of gentle waves.
Amenities include a large pool and a lively bar and restaurant. A bus to central Barcelona stops right outside the gate.
The entire campsite has a pleasant, open feel. It’s incredibly popular but never over-crowded, making it a fantastic choice all year round.
Valencia
The city of Valencia exudes Spanish confidence. It boasts world-class museums, stunning architecture, an undisputed culinary scene (as the birthplace of paella) as well as nearby beaches and beautiful countryside.
Highlights include the Central Market of Valencia (an amazing art-nouveau structure). The stunning religious frescos of Parroquia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir are also particularly worth a visit.
For something more unusual, take one of the “street art tours” or a “Valencia bike tour” held by locals – they’ll show you some fascinating art, delicious food, and hidden spots.
Camping Coll Vert
Camping Coll Vert is situated just 6.5 kilometres away from Valencia, with nearby buses offering hourly shuttles to the city.
Located in Playa de Pinedo, with the beautiful Albufera Natural Reserve nearby, you’ll feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Valencia. A white sandy beach is a leisurely walk from the campsite, where there’s also a shore-hugging cycle route into the city.
You’ll find approximately 80 touring pitches (on loose gravel and grass), most of which have plenty of natural shade from mature trees. There’s a mini-market, bar and café, as well as a play area and pool to keep any youngsters entertained.
Sweden
Sweden isn’t massively well-known as a travel destination, but this is rapidly changing. With crystal-clear archipelagos, woodland walks, culinary delights and the Northern Lights – this achingly stylish Nordic country is a dream destination.
Gothenburg
Gorgeous Gothenburg is Sweden’s second city. As you’d expect, it oozes Nordic cool with hip cafes, vibrant bars and sophisticated residents.
Set on the shores of the North Sea, you’ll find neoclassical coastal architecture, seventeenth-century canals, quaint trams and cultural events aplenty. The city is comparatively compact, meaning it’s great for exploring on foot.
As a coastal city, you’ll discover an abundance of fine seafood and nautical museums. Whilst you’re there, don’t miss an opportunity to see one of the world’s few mounted blue whales at the Gothenburg Natural History Museum.
Whether you fancy the lush greenery of Kungsparken or shopping on the high-fashion Avenyn boulevard – this is a stylish city with so much to offer.
Lisebergsbyn Kärralund
This popular campsite is perfectly situated for visiting Gothenburg as well as the nearby attractions of Liseberg.
With hundreds of adrenaline-filled rides (including Europe’s longest-dive roller coaster, as well as more sedate carousels and fairy-tale castles), Liseberg is Scandinavia’s largest amusement park.
It’s a busy yet well-maintained site, with 164 pitches. All have 10A electricity and cable TV, and there are also well-equipped cabins to rent. The site becomes remarkably busy in the summer season (especially favoured by family groups), making it advisable to book in advance.
City Camping: Things to Consider
City camping really isn’t that different to any other kind of camping, it’s just, well, near a city!
However, given the proximity to transport links, shops and restaurants, you might want to pack slightly differently.
For instance, you may need fewer grocery and cooking essentials. Exploring a food scene is one of the best ways to understand and enjoy a new city. If you’re sampling cafes at lunch and neighbourhood bistros in the evening, you won’t require the same supplies as when you’re fending for yourself in the wilds!
On a similar note, think about the clothes you’re packing. You’ll want a good mix of warm layers for the evening, as well as comfortable outfits and trusty trainers for pounding city streets.
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Here are a few extra tips for intrepid city campers…
- Plan for severe weather – yes, even though you’re in a city, you’re still camping outdoors! So make sure you’ve got plenty of warm layers, waterproof clothing, sun protection and insect repellent.
- Organise your itinerary – internet access can sometimes be an issue, even at city campsites. So research things to do, “must-see” sights and important transport links in advance.
- Stay prepared – even though you might pack slightly less for city camping, it’s still important to stay prepared. First aid kits, spare tent pegs… you name it. If you’re relying on a backpack, carefully consider how much you can comfortably carry.
- Pitch carefully – city campsites are often busier than their country counterparts, but the same rules apply for setting up your spot. Avoid camping underneath large trees (with branches posing potential hazards in high winds) and consider your proximity to toilets for those night-time trips.
- Tech tips – if you’re in a city, you’ll probably navigate unfamiliar streets using your smartphone, so pack a portable charger. Whilst many city campsites offer electric pitches and charging facilities, you don’t want to get caught out.
- Safety – Unfortunately, there are always opportunistic criminals just like any other campsite. With this in mind, never leave your valuables unattended. If you’re heading off for a busy day of sightseeing, take valuables with you and make sure bikes are locked.
City camping is a perfect way to explore Europe’s most exciting cultural hotspots. With plenty of locations to choose from, it’s the ultimate affordable, stress-free and fun holiday. Where will your travels take you?