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Motorhome travel in Europe: rental, routes, tips

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Europe, with its mosaic of countries, rich history, and ever-changing landscapes, is perfect for exploring by camper van.
A road trip in a motorhome lets you experience everything from Gothic cathedrals and Alpine meadows to Mediterranean beaches and Nordic fjords — all in one journey. It combines the freedom of travel with the comfort of home, offering a deeper, slower way to discover the continent on your own terms.

Europe for road travelers: key things to know

Planning a camper van trip across Europe means understanding a few essential things that will shape your route and how you prepare for the journey.

Schengen area

This is a zone without border control between participating countries. For travelers, it means that once you enter one Schengen country, you can freely travel to other member states without going through passport checks at borders.
However, not all European countries are part of the Schengen Agreement. For example, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and several Balkan countries that are not in the EU — such as Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Montenegro — have their own border controls.

European Union and Eurozone

It’s important not to confuse these two terms. The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union, while the Eurozone refers to EU countries that use the euro (€) as their official currency.
When traveling through the Eurozone (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, etc.), you can use the same currency everywhere.
However, some EU countries have kept their own currencies. In those places, you’ll need to exchange money or use a card that supports local currency payments. These countries include Poland (zloty), Czech Republic (koruna), Hungary (forint), Sweden (krona), Denmark (krone), and Romania (leu).
Switzerland and Norway — popular for road trips — are neither in the EU nor the Eurozone, and they have their own currencies (Swiss franc and Norwegian krone).

Geographical regions

To make trip planning easier, Europe is often divided into several major regions, each with its own character. Scandinavia is known for its wild nature and dramatic fjords. Western Europe offers historic cities and well-developed infrastructure. The Mediterranean stands out for its beaches, ancient ruins, and cuisine. The Alps attract travelers with mountains, lakes, and scenic mountain roads. Eastern Europe is rich in cultural heritage and generally more affordable. The Balkans offer a vibrant mix of cultures, along with both mountains and coastline.

Why Europe is ideal for RV travel

Traveling around Europe by RV or motorhome is convenient for several reasons. Most importantly — it’s the variety of cultures and landscapes packed into a relatively small area. In just one day, you can pass through multiple countries, each with its own language, architecture, and cuisine.

The road network across the continent is dense and well-developed.
Modern highways make it easy to travel quickly between countries, while smaller roads take you to local towns and rural areas.

Europe’s camping infrastructure is among the most developed in the world.
There’s a huge network of campgrounds — from simple nature spots to large sites with full amenities. In addition, special parking areas for motorhomes are widespread, such as Germany’s Stellplatz or France’s Aire de service.

Finally, RV travel gives you great flexibility.
You’re not tied to hotel bookings, you can easily change your route based on the weather or your mood, and having your own kitchen helps keep costs under control — especially in expensive countries.

Popular destinations and types of routes

Europe offers RV routes for a wide range of interests and travel styles. These routes can be grouped by the kind of experience you’re looking for.

Alpine routes

These routes take you through winding mountain roads, scenic passes, and valleys with crystal-clear lakes. They cover areas in Austria, Switzerland, northern Italy, the French Alps, and southern Germany. This type of trip is perfect for those who enjoy active holidays, hiking, and breathtaking landscapes.
Mediterranean coast

A trip along the coasts of France (the Côte d’Azur), Spain (Costa Brava), Italy (the Amalfi Coast, Tuscany), or Croatia. Here you’ll find sunny beaches, ancient ruins, vineyards, and Mediterranean cuisine.
Scandinavian fjords and nature

Routes through Norway and Sweden are perfect for those who value wild nature, solitude, and grand landscapes. Traveling in Norway means fjords, glaciers, and iconic scenic roads. Both Norway and Sweden have the “right of public access,” which, when respected, allows for easier overnight stays in nature.
Historic cities of Western Europe

Classic routes through Germany, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands take you to medieval towns, castles, museums, and landmarks of Western European history and art. The RV infrastructure in this region is excellent.
Affordable Central and Eastern Europe

Traveling through Poland, Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia offers rich historical heritage, beautiful cities like Prague, Budapest, and Kraków, castles, and national parks — all at lower prices for campgrounds, fuel, and groceries compared to Western Europe.

Best time to travel

The best season for an RV trip in Europe largely depends on the countries and regions you plan to visit.

Summer (June–August)

This is the peak tourist season. Summer is the best time to visit Scandinavia, where the weather becomes warm and the days are very long. It’s also a great period for visiting the Alps, Ireland, the UK, and the northern parts of Germany and France.
In Mediterranean countries (Italy, Spain, Greece, Croatia), summer can be very hot (often above 30–35°C) and crowded, with campground prices at their highest.

Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October)

The shoulder seasons are often considered the best time to travel across most of Europe. The weather is generally mild, there are fewer tourists, and prices are lower than in summer.

Spring is ideal for exploring southern and central regions such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, and southern France. Nature is in bloom, and the exhausting summer heat hasn’t arrived yet. In the Netherlands, this is the time to see the tulips in full bloom.
Autumn is perfect for visiting the same regions, and also for wine tours in France, Italy, or Germany. The weather is pleasant, and autumn colors add a special charm to the landscapes.

Winter (November–March)

RV travel in winter has its own specifics.

For a mild winter escape, the best options are the southernmost regions — southern Spain (Andalusia), Portugal (Algarve), and the Canary Islands — where temperatures stay around +15–20°C.
For ski vacations, you can head to the Alps (Austria, France, Italy, Switzerland). There are special winter campsites near ski lifts. For such a trip, your RV needs to be properly winterized — with good heating, insulation, and winter tires.

In most of Central and Northern Europe, winter is cold, wet, and dark, and many campgrounds are closed.

RV rental in Europe

Renting an RV in Europe is a well-established process with a wide range of companies and vehicle types to choose from.

General requirements

Age and driving experience: The minimum driver age is usually between 21 and 25, with at least 1 to 3 years of driving experience required.
Driver’s license: For most European RVs (under 3.5 tons), a standard category B driving license is sufficient. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can be useful and may be formally required in some countries (like Italy or Austria) for drivers from nations not party to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
RV types: European RVs are generally more compact and fuel-efficient than American ones. The most common rental types are campervans, semi-integrated, and overcab (alcove) models.

Crossing borders

Rental companies typically allow free travel within the European Union and the Schengen Area.
However, trips outside the EU — for example, to Balkan countries like Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, or to Turkey and Morocco — often require prior approval from the rental company. These routes may need additional insurance or could be subject to restrictions. Always clarify this when booking.

One-way rentals

Some major rental companies offer the option to pick up an RV in one country and return it in another. This service usually comes with a significant extra fee, which depends on the distance between locations and the popularity of the route.

Average rental price in Europe

Jan.

Feb.

Mar.

Apr.

May

June

July

Aug.

Sept.

Oct.

Nov.

Dec.

110 €

130 €

115 €

130 €

140 €

170 €

110 €

140 €

130 €

110 €

Average rental price in Scandinavian countries

jan.

feb.

mar.

apr.

may

june

july

aug.

sept.

oct.

nov.

dec.

160 €

190 €

160 €

230 €

250 €

330 €

160 €

250 €

200 €

180 €

Driving and roads in Europe: rules and key differences

While Europe has an excellent road network, traffic laws and toll systems can vary significantly from one country to another.

General speed limits

Standard speed limits are similar across most European countries, but you should always follow local road signs. For RVs up to 3.5 tons, typical limits are:

In urban areas: 50 km/h
Outside urban areas: 80–90 km/h
On highways: 110–130 km/h

General rules

Daytime running lights: Required in many countries, including Scandinavia, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and Eastern European countries. To be safe, keep your headlights on at all times while driving.
Mandatory equipment: Many countries require reflective vests (one per passenger), a warning triangle, and a first-aid kit. Some countries (like France) also require a breathalyzer; others (like Poland) require a fire extinguisher. Always check the specific requirements for the countries on your route.
Child seats: Using child seats appropriate for the child's age and weight is mandatory.

Toll roads

This is one of the most important aspects to keep in mind. In Europe, there are two main toll systems:

Vignettes: These are stickers purchased for a specific period (e.g. 10 days, a month, a year) that allow you to use the country’s highways. Vignettes are required in Austria, Switzerland, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. You can buy them at the border, at gas stations, or online (as electronic vignettes). For RVs over 3.5 tons, different — and often more complex — toll systems may apply.
Pay-as-you-go tolls: You take a ticket when entering a toll road and pay when exiting, based on the distance driven. This system is used in France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Poland, Greece, and Serbia. Tolls can be paid with cash, card, or electronic transponders.

Low emission zones (LEZ)

To enter the centers of many European cities (especially in Germany, France, Belgium, and Italy), you’ll need a special environmental sticker proving your vehicle’s emission class.
Driving without this sticker can result in heavy fines. Ask your rental provider if the RV has the necessary stickers for your route.

Side of the road

Remember that in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, and Cyprus, driving is on the left side of the road.

Mountain road tips

In the Alps and other mountainous regions, roads are often narrow and steep. Use engine braking (lower gears) when going downhill to avoid overheating the brakes. On narrow sections, vehicles going uphill usually have the right of way.

Parking and overnight stays in an RV

Finding a place to spend the night in an RV is fairly easy in Europe thanks to the wide range of options — but the rules vary greatly from country to country.

Wild camping rules

Spending the night outside official campgrounds is one of the most debated topics.

Where it’s allowed or tolerated: In Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden, Finland), the “right of public access” allows overnight stays in nature under certain conditions — away from private property and residential buildings, for no more than 1–2 nights. In France and Spain, wild camping is often tolerated if you’re discreet and don’t set up a full camp.
Where it’s strictly forbidden: In most Western and Central European countries — such as Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, Croatia, and Italy — sleeping in an RV outside designated areas is prohibited by law. Violations may result in heavy fines.
General rule: Always look for signage. If there are no clear restrictions, a short overnight stay in a regular parking spot (without putting out chairs, tables, or awnings) may be tolerated — but using official RV areas is always the safest choice.

Types of RV stops

Campgrounds (Campings): The most common and convenient option. They offer everything you need — electricity, water, showers, toilets, laundry, and sometimes pools and restaurants. Prices vary greatly depending on the country and season.
Stellplatz (in Germany, Austria): Specialized motorhome parking areas. Comfort levels vary — from basic parking spots to fully serviced areas with electricity and water dump/fill stations. They are usually cheaper than campgrounds and often located near cities, thermal spas, or tourist attractions.
Aire de Service (in France): The French equivalent of Stellplatz. Found all over France, often free or low-cost. They provide parking and usually have service stations.
Farm stays: Some countries offer programs that allow free overnight stays at farms or vineyards — for example, France Passion in France or Brit Stops in the UK. It’s usually expected that you buy some farm products as a gesture of thanks.

RV maintenance: gas bottles and other details

Maintaining an RV in Europe is generally straightforward — with one important exception: gas bottles.

Gas bottles

This is the main technical challenge when traveling across several countries. There’s no unified standard in Europe for gas bottles and their connectors (regulators).

The issue: A gas bottle you picked up in Germany can’t be exchanged for a full one in France or Spain — and vice versa.

Possible solutions:

Spare bottles: Bring the maximum number of gas bottles allowed for transport.
Adapters: There are adapter kits that let you refill your bottle at LPG/Autogas stations in different countries. However, not all bottles are designed for refilling, and not all stations allow it.
Buy a local bottle: In a new country, you can buy a local bottle with the right regulator and use it during your stay.

Tip: Before a long trip across multiple countries, research this issue and choose the strategy that works best for you. Rental RVs usually come with gas bottles that match the country where you pick up the vehicle.

Water supply and waste disposal

Getting fresh water and emptying gray and black water tanks is usually hassle-free. The infrastructure for this is well-developed across Europe. Service points can be found at nearly all campgrounds, as well as at Stellplatz and Aire de Service stops, and at many major gas stations along highways.

Cooking, groceries, and shopping

Having a kitchen in your RV is a big advantage in Europe — it lets you enjoy local food products and keep your travel budget under control.

Europe is a kaleidoscope of flavors. Traveling by RV gives you the chance to try regional specialties across the continent — from fresh baguettes and cheese in a French village to olive oil and pasta in Italy, or sausages and beer in Germany. Visiting local markets is a great way to experience the food culture and buy the freshest ingredients.

Estimated travel budget

Planning a travel budget for an RV trip across Europe requires flexibility, as prices vary significantly from country to country. The continent can roughly be divided into several pricing zones.

Expensive countries: Switzerland and Norway are the most expensive for RV travel, with significantly higher-than-average prices for fuel, campgrounds, food, and services. Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Ireland, and the UK also fall into this category.
Mid-range countries: Most of Western Europe — including Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Austria, and the Benelux countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg) — have average European prices for camping, groceries, and fuel.
Budget-friendly countries: Central and Eastern European countries like Poland, Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria, as well as Balkan nations like Serbia and Albania, and Southern European countries such as Portugal and Greece, all offer noticeably lower prices for food, services, and campgrounds.

Main expenses

RV rental: Prices vary greatly depending on the country, season, and RV class.
Fuel: Diesel and gasoline prices can differ by 20–30% or more between neighboring countries. Planning fuel stops can help save money.
Tolls and vignettes: A major cost item to factor into your budget when traveling through countries like France, Italy, Austria, and Switzerland.
Campgrounds and parking: Overnight costs range from €10–15 for a basic Stellplatz to €50–70 at popular seaside campgrounds during high season.
Food: Cooking your own meals using groceries from discount supermarkets (like Lidl or Aldi) is the best way to keep food expenses low.

Approximate daily budget (excluding RV rental, for two people):

In budget-friendly countries:

Low-budget option: €60–90 per day
Mid-range option: €100–150 per day

In mid-range countries:

Low-budget option: €90–130 per day
Mid-range option: €150–220 per day

In expensive countries:

Low-budget option: €130–180 per day
Mid-range option: €220–300+ per day

These figures are estimates. The low-budget option assumes free overnight parking where possible and cooking your own meals. The mid-range option includes paid campgrounds and occasional meals at cafés or restaurants.

Connectivity and internet

Staying connected while traveling in Europe has become much easier thanks to EU roaming regulations.

"Roam Like At Home" rule

If you have a SIM card purchased in one of the EU countries, you can use mobile services (calls, SMS, internet) in other EU countries at your regular domestic rate, with no extra charges. This rule applies to most tourist trips.

Tip for travelers from non-EU countries

If you’re coming from outside the EU, it’s best to buy a prepaid SIM card in the first EU country on your route. You’ll then be able to use it throughout the EU under the "Roam Like At Home" rule. This is much cheaper than using international roaming from your home provider or buying a new SIM in each country. Be sure to check the terms and data limits with the operator before purchasing.

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available in many public places such as cafés, restaurants (especially fast food chains), shopping centers, and libraries. Most campgrounds also offer Wi-Fi, but it may come with an extra fee or have limited signal quality.

Safety and useful tips

A few general tips for traveling by RV across Europe.

General safety

Europe is generally safe for tourists. The main concern in large cities and tourist areas is petty theft — pickpocketing and car break-ins. Always lock your RV and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight. Be especially cautious at highway rest stops and crowded places.

Currency and time zones

Before entering a country outside the Eurozone (such as Switzerland, Poland, or Czechia), make sure you have local currency or that your card will work for payments. Also keep in mind possible time zone changes — for example, when traveling to the UK, Portugal, or Eastern Europe.

Emergency number

In all EU countries, the emergency number 112 works for police, ambulance, and fire services. The call is free from any phone.

Electricity

Most continental European countries use 220–230V power and type F ("Schuko") or type E (with a protruding grounding pin) outlets. The UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta use a different standard — type G — so you’ll need an adapter there. For connecting an RV to electricity at campgrounds across Europe, the standard blue CEE 17 plug is used.

Useful resources

For planning your RV trip across Europe and finding helpful information:

Apps for finding campgrounds and RV stops: Park4night, Campercontact, and Stellplatz-Radar are the most popular tools for finding places to stay (campgrounds, Stellplatz, parking areas), service points, and reading reviews from other travelers.
Route planning: ViaMichelin.com is a useful site for calculating routes, including estimated fuel and toll costs (vignettes included). Google Maps and Waze also work great for navigation.
Low emission zone info: urbanaccessregulations.eu — a site that provides details on LEZ (low emission zones) in various European cities and what stickers or requirements apply.
Official tourism portals: Every country — and many regions — have their own official tourism websites (e.g. germany.travel, france.fr, germany.travel, france.fr, italia.it), where you can find information on attractions and events.

Conclusion

Traveling by RV across Europe is a kaleidoscope of experiences made possible by well-developed infrastructure and the close proximity of diverse cultures. Careful planning — especially regarding toll roads and overnight stay regulations — will help make your journey through the Old Continent smooth, flexible, and unforgettable.

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