Whether you seek to experience pulsating city life or unwind surrounded by nature, Europe delivers the best of both worlds. Our guide offers insights for European camping to blend energetic urban highlights with the calming nature of the countryside.
While the City of Light is renowned for its architectural splendours and cultural richness, the Île-de-France region that envelops Paris offers its own array of hidden gems and peaceful retreats.
Versailles: Just a short train ride from Paris, Versailles is not only famous for its opulent palace but also its expansive gardens and the quieter corners of the town. The area around Versailles provides many camping options where you can immerse yourself in history and nature.
Fontainebleau: The town of Fontainebleau, easily accessible by train, is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The majestic Château de Fontainebleau and the surrounding Fontainebleau Forest offer a perfect mix of cultural exploration and outdoor activities, such as hiking and rock climbing.
Rambouillet: Known for its enchanting forest and the Château de Rambouillet, this area is ideal for campers seeking a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The Rambouillet Forest is an excellent location for cycling and picnicking, offering a peaceful escape from the urban hustle.
Vexin Français Regional Nature Park: This park, located northwest of Paris, is a testament to the rural charm of France. Its picturesque villages, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife make it a perfect spot for camping enthusiasts looking for scenic walks and a taste of French rural life.
Marne-la-Vallée: Best known for housing Disneyland Paris, this area also offers peaceful countryside escapes. It's a great spot for family camping, where you can balance a day at the theme park with relaxing nights under the stars.
These destinations are well-served by the regional train network (RER and Transilien), making them easily accessible for travellers who prefer not to drive. The convenience of public transport allows for flexible day trips or longer stays, catering to different types of travellers – from those seeking a quick escape from the city to those desiring an extended camping experience in the French countryside.
The capital city of Portugal, Lisbon, is a tapestry of historic streets, vibrant music, and rich culinary heritage. Yet, just beyond its bustling avenues lies a landscape filled with serene countryside and quaint villages, offering a perfect retreat for campers.
Sintra: A short train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairytale town known for its romantic palaces and lush gardens, such as the Pena Palace and Moorish Castle. The surrounding Sintra-Cascais Natural Park provides idyllic camping spots amidst verdant hills and coastal views.
Évora: This UNESCO World Heritage city in the Alentejo region is steeped in history, with well-preserved Roman ruins and medieval architecture. The Alentejo countryside, characterised by rolling plains and vineyards, is an excellent area for camping, offering a peaceful escape and a glimpse into traditional Portuguese rural life.
Coimbra: North of Lisbon, Coimbra is famous for its ancient university and the beautiful Joanina Library. Nearby, the natural beauty of the Centro region, with its rivers and forests, provides a tranquil setting for camping enthusiasts.
Porto and the Douro Valley: While Porto, known for its port wine, is a must-visit city, the Douro Valley to the east is a stunning UNESCO-listed region with terraced vineyards and winding rivers. Campsites in this area offer a mix of cultural discovery and relaxation in nature.
Portugal's extensive public transport system, including trains and buses, makes travelling from urban centres to more secluded camping areas easy. The convenience of public transport ensures that these countryside retreats are accessible even without a car.
From the enchanting streets of Sintra to the historic charm of Évora and from the intellectual atmosphere of Coimbra to the scenic beauty of the Douro Valley, Portugal offers a rich array of experiences.
Barcelona, a city where Catalan culture, modernist architecture, and beachside vibrancy converge, offers a multitude of experiences. Just a stone's throw away from this dynamic cityscape, campers can find solace in the tranquil surroundings of the Catalan countryside.
Costa Brava: North of Barcelona, the Costa Brava boasts stunning beaches and coves, with several camping sites along its shores. It's perfect for those who enjoy the seaside and wish to explore the rugged coastal paths.
Madrid and the Sierra de Guadarrama: Spain's capital, known for its art museums and lively squares, is complemented by the nearby Sierra de Guadarrama. This mountain range, easily reachable by public transport, offers a peaceful retreat with its rich natural parks and hiking trails.
Seville and the Andalusian Countryside: The historic city of Seville, with its flamenco rhythms and Moorish architecture, is the gateway to the diverse landscapes of Andalucia. The surrounding areas offer a plethora of camping opportunities, from olive groves to mountainous terrains.
Spain's extensive train and bus network provides convenient access from urban centres to nearby natural retreats. High-speed trains and regional services make it feasible to balance city exploration with countryside relaxation.
Rome, a city where every corner tells a story, is surrounded by the lesser-known but equally charming region of Lazio. This area offers campers a unique blend of historical exploration and serene natural settings.
Tuscany: Beyond the eternal city, Tuscany's rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns like Siena and Florence are a camper's paradise. The region is famous for its scenic beauty, rich history, and culinary delights.
Venice and the Veneto Countryside: While Venice captivates with its canals and architecture, the Veneto region offers tranquil camping spots in its verdant countryside, ideal for those seeking a quieter experience.
Italy's well-developed public transport system, including its extensive train network, makes travelling from bustling cities to peaceful countryside campsites convenient.
Peter Stannett
Content Writer
Peter is a key part of our creative team; he's a multifaceted individual with a deep love for cooking, travel, and music.
While he does a stellar job of keeping our content fresh, focusing on SEO and monitoring website traffic, his heart truly belongs to the world of culinary delights, exploration, and his guitar.
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