3 Month Route through Europe by Campervan
EUROPEVAN LIFEROAD TRIPS
There is an endless amount of routes that you can take through Europe, along coastlines, through mountains, along rolling hills and into cities. But with all these options come a lot of choices to be made. Luckily, we’ve just completed our three month campervan trip through Europe so we know a thing or two that we can share with you. So, if like us you are bound by the 90-day schengen area rule, and want to squeeze in as much of Europe into this time as possible, we’ve got you covered. Below we share our exact route, favourite locations and the best things to do in them. Whether you want to follow the exact route or just gather ideas for your own, we hope this will help!
Since we visited a lot of different places, we will outline our route using "pinpoints" and mention any noteworthy stops along the way, such as unexpectedly great places to park your van for the night or the places we stumbled upon in between. This will hopefully provide you with a detailed enough overview without going into detail about every single small stop we made.
As we were departing from the UK, the easiest and most affordable option for us to reach mainland Europe was either the Eurotunnel or a ferry to France. Since our route began on the lower west coast of France, we chose to take a ferry from Plymouth to Roscoff.
Countries we visited in order:
France → Spain → France (South) → Italy → Austria → Slovakia → Poland → Germany
France (west coast)
Saint Nazaire / Pornichet
La Rochelle
Saintes
Mortagne-sur-Gironde (park-up)
Bordeaux
La Teste de Buch
Biarritz
After arriving in Roscoff, France, start your journey with a moment of tranquillity on the coastline around Saint Nazaire. Specifically, the small suburb of Pornichet offers beautiful beaches and breathtaking sunsets. After some relaxation, you'll likely feel ready to explore the city of La Rochelle, where you can enjoy delicious seafood and immerse yourself in fascinating history. From there, take a short drive inland to discover the charming historic town of Saintes, where you can explore various Roman ruins, including an amphitheatre and churches. Before reaching your next destination, spend the night at a port in Mortagne-sur-Gironde to experience the nautical lifestyle and savour fresh croissants from one of the nearby bakeries. Next, head to the city of Bordeaux, where you can indulge in world-renowned local wine, relish in the best of French cuisine, and explore this vibrant city through its cobbled streets. After a few days inland, you're probably ready to return to the coast. The town of La Teste de Buch offers just that, but with a twist. Home to the largest sand dunes in Europe, you'll feel like you've been transported to another planet. When you're ready to come back to reality, continue on to the cool surf town of Biarritz – the perfect place to try your hand at surfing or simply enjoy its vast open beaches
Spain
Donostia San Sebastian
La Foz de Lumbier
Embalsa de Yesa lake (park-up)
Alquezar
Barcelona
Saint Feliu de Guixols
Before we get into the Spain portion of the route, we need to preface this by saying that our original plans for northern Spain included some very different locations deeper in the Pyrenees mountains, but due to the weather conditions at the time, we had to alter our route. Luckily though, this means we have two different routes to share with you; our originally planned route (backed by in-depth research) and our actual route (backed by experience). So, in case you’re faced with similar weather difficulties, you’ll have the choice of the two. We’ll leave an outline of the higher Pyrenees route down below.
The first stop on the Spanish leg of this journey will be the coastal city of Donostia San Sebastian. Here you can enjoy the perks of Spain’s culture without breaking the bank, with countless pintxo (i.e. tapas) bars, warm sandy beaches, hilltop viewpoints and exciting water activities. Next, head inland towards the Pyrenees mountains, first stopping at the gorge La Foz de Lumbier. There you can hike around and through this natural wonder as eagles and vultures fly high above you. After your hike, you’ll probably be ready to rest. Find one of the many park ups near the Embalsa de Yesa lake where you can swim and enjoy the beautiful nature around you. Once you’re done enjoying the peacefulness of the lake, go explore the mediaeval hilltop village of Alquezar. Particularly beautiful at sunset, it’s a truly unique place full of fascinating histories. Next you’ll head to the well-known city of Barcelona. Between the vibrant culture, Gaudi works of art, and delicious eats, it’s clear to see why Barcelona is loved by so many. When you’re ready for a respite from the crowds, drive along the Costa Brava coast to your final destination in Spain, Saint Feliu de Guixols. An area filled with warm sandy beaches and tropical-like coves perfect for snorkelling and paddle boarding/kayaking.
Alternative route through higher Pyrenees:
(Start in Donostia San Sebastian) → Embalses de Leurza → Elizondo → Foz de Lumbier → Lanuza → Panticosa → Torla Ordesa → Ainsa → Benasque → Saut deth pish waterfall → Aiguestortes → El Querforadat → Puigcerda → Castellar de n’hug → Nuria → Besalu.
South of France
Le Barcares
Vineyard near Montagnac
Camargue National Park (Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhone)
Avignon
Lavender fields around Bonnieux
Parc National des Calanques (Cassis)
Nice
Monaco
We’ll be honest, our first stop in Le Barcares was a spontaneous one based on breaking up a long drive to our next destination. But if you’re happy with a simple sandy beach to relax and swim at, then you’ll enjoy it too. Now, for the first highlight of this journey, head further along the coast where you’ll find masses of vineyards, some of which allow overnight camping. We stayed at one near Montagnac which offered a free wine tasting along with your stay. After your vineyard stay, prepare to be in awe of the wild flamingos that inhabit the Camargue National Park. There’s a lot of areas to choose from in the park, you can go to the popular areas where you’re guaranteed a flamingo sighting but share this with crowds of tourists, or like us you can take the risk on a less populated spot like Port-Saint-Louis-Du-Rhone. After your time spent with the flamingos, travel inland to the enchanting city of Avignon; a history-rich, vibrant and picturesque place. If you happen to be visiting Provence during mid-June to mid-July, you’ll be lucky enough to witness masses of lavender fields in full bloom. This is a beautiful sight that attracts people from all over the world. We’d recommend looking around the village of Bonnieux as it falls on the route and has many fields in the area. Now, it’s time to head back to the coast. Drive over to Cassis where you’ll be able to endeavour on the most beautiful coastal hike in the Parc National des Calanques. If you’re not quite up for the hike, Cassis and the area still offers tons of beautiful beaches and walks. Whilst in the South of France you can’t miss the opportunity to visit Nice and its neighbour Monaco. Nice is a stunning seaside city that encompasses both the vibrancy of city life and leisure of a coastal location. There you can swim in its unique bright blue waters, take sightseeing tours and enjoy a wide selection of foods. You can combine your time there with a simple 30 minute train journey to the incredible country of Monaco. Nicknamed the ‘billionaires playground’, it’s a truly one of a kind place where you can attend a supercar ‘zoo’, sightsee through the glam old town and watch as super yachts pull in and out of the harbour.
Italy
Mountains above Genoa
Cinque Terre (park in Levanto)
Lucca
Florence
Venice
Dolomites
So, in our experience finding a place to stay in a coastal Italian Riviera town that wasn’t a pricey campsite can be difficult so we’ll start the Italian leg of this trip at a slightly different location. Just above and to the east of the city of Genoa you can find a few overnight park-ups in the mountains with incredible views that look out to sea. Granted, the drive is not for the faint of heart (or rather faint of engine) with steep hills and narrow roads, but the views at the top make it all worth it. Next, head onto the Italian gem that is Cinque Terre. A string of five centuries-old seaside villages full of colourful buildings, boat filled harbours and hillside vineyards. You’ll have to stay in a nearby town (like Levanto) and access all five villages by train; but don’t worry, this is simple and quick to do. Next, head inland to the walled small city of Lucca. In our opinion, this place does not get enough mention. It’s extremely charming, has a very authentic Italian feel, lots of history and a 16th century wall you can walk/cycle round. From there your next stop is Florence. A city that’s famous for many reasons, and one where you can enjoy the best of Italian cuisine, culture and more. Speaking of world-famous places, after Florence this route will take you to the floating city of Venice. Enjoy wandering around the centuries old canals and exploring this unique gem. Lastly, head to the Italian Dolomite mountains. Filled with picturesque beauty, crystal blue lakes and dreamy mountain villages, this is a highly underrated area of Italy that you’re bound to love.
Austria
Lienz
Krimml waterfalls
Sigmund Thun gorge
Salzburg
Wolfgangsee lake
Hallstat
Grunersee lake
Graz
Similar to what happened in Spain, the weather conditions forced us to alter our plans quite substantially. Still, we loved the places we found in Austria starting with our first stop, Lienz; a small mediaeval town set to the incredible backdrop of towering mountains that surround it. Next, check out Krimmlwaterfalls. As the tallest waterfalls in Europe, the sight of these is incredible, and the hike you can take all the way up alongside the whole falls is a truly rare experience. Next, staying within the theme of impressive natural creations, visit the Sigmund Thun gorge. There you can experience walking through the gorge as water rushes down right under your feet. Then, once you’re ready for the liveliness of a city, drive to Salzburg. Whilst in this city, take the opportunity to enjoy some Austrian street food and explore the historical sights. Afterwards, get ready to explore three incredible lake locations, beginning with Wolfgangsee lake. Whether you swim, paddle board or simply take in the views, this lake is an incredible sight. Next, head to the highly renowned town of Hallstatt. Perched at the feet of mountains and on the edge of a lake, it’s clear to see why this place is loved by many. As well as exploring the many gems this town has to offer, we recommend renting a paddle board or boat to see this beautiful place from a different perspective. To complete your lake trifecta, head to Grunersee lake. A quick and easy hike with little elevation brings you through the forest and to the shores of the most emerald green lake you’ll have ever seen. The water levels vary greatly throughout the year so make sure to do a little research before you go. Lastly, end your time in Austria with a visit to Graz. A lesser known city compared to Austria’s capital, it still holds much of the same charms just on a smaller scale and with fewer tourists. There you can explore the old town, climb the Schlossberg hill for panoramic views, take the world’s longest underground slide, and more.
Slovakia
Bratislava
Sulov rocks
Orava Castle
Bachledka treetop walk
Given our strict time schedule, we only experienced 3 days in Slovakia, and left feeling we’d wished we had more. Still, even that short a trip through this country can hold experiences in incredible locations. Starting with a visit to the country’s capital, Bratislava; a city full of so much history, beautiful architecture and delightful eats. We’d recommend finding a free walking tour for the best way of exploring this city in a short amount of time. Next, head into nature for a hike in the striking Sulov Rocks. This hike takes you through forest, across towering rock formations and even up to the ruins of a 15th century castle perched upon the mountain top. Next, head even further back in time to a 13th century castle named Orava Castle. Considered to be one of the most beautiful castles in Slovakia, it’s absolutely worth the visit. Your last stop is a really cool activity called the Bachledka treetop walk; a walk 24 metres above the ground, amongst treetops and with views of the surrounding mountains. From up there, you’ll even be able to see all the way to the next country you’ll be visiting.
Poland
Sromowce Niżne (three crowns hike)
Zakopane
Krakow
Ojcow national park
Wroclaw
Greater Poland National Park
Poznan
We realise Poland might not be on everyone’s European campervan route, but let us convince you why it should be. Poland has an enormous amount of natural gems, from mountains and forests, to lakes and beaches (yes, Poland has a coastline which many people don’t realise!). It's possible to fit many of these incredible places into two weeks but we decided to take it slow (more reason for you to visit again). Within this route you’ll focus on the mountains, starting with one of our favourite hikes; the three crowns. There’s a few different starting points, but we opted for the village of Sromowce Nizne. Depending which overall route you choose, you could reach the summit within 2 hours to be met with breathtaking views over the surrounding Pieniny mountains and even spot the vast Tatra mountain range in the distance. Next, head to Zakopane. The heart of the Polish mountain region, it’s a place like no other with its personal style of chalet architecture, fresh local food delicacies and mass of Polish highlander culture and traditions. It’s also a great base for many hikes like ‘Kasprowy Wierch’ and ‘Morskie Oko’. After your time in the mountains, it’s time to head somewhere with a little more hustle and bustle. Krakow is probably Poland’s most visited destination, and with good reason. Whether you’re looking for lots of interesting history, quirky activities or delicious eats, you won’t be disappointed. Nearby you can also visit the breathtakingly beautiful Ojcow national park. From there, head to the city of Wroclaw. Known as Northern Europe’s Venice, the river islands and bridges are part of Wroclaw’s charms. Its colourful historic old town, array of fun activities and quirky gnome statues dotted around everywhere make it a memorable place to visit. If you’re anything like us, you probably don’t want to be jumping from city to city, so this next stop takes you back into nature. The Greater Poland National Park spans 29 square miles of lakes and pine forests, making it the perfect retreat on this part of the route. Lastly, you’ll arrive in Poznan. Though a city far less visited by tourists, there is still much to love about it. Whether it’s enjoying the city’s thermal baths, visiting one of its many museums, taking a tour to explore its history or tasting local food specialities in one of its many restaurants. All this only scratches the surface of what Poland has to offer, so keep an eye out for future posts as we bring you more about this country's hidden gems.
Germany
Berlin
Rothernburg ob der Tauber
Munich
Berchtesgaden
Wagenbrusche
Fussen/Lake alpsee
Before we get started on our final country, we have a confession to make. This isn’t exactly the route we ended up taking (blame bad time management and the stomach bug that befell us in our final days) but it is the route we planned after hours of research. So that said, we still firmly believe it is a route very much worth taking. Beginning with a place we did visit, and loved; Berlin. From incredible food places, to fascinating sights, traditional beer gardens and famous nightlife, it’s no surprise this city is enjoyed by so many. Next, head to the fairytale-like town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Stroll the picturesque cobbled streets, walk the mediaeval fortified walls, or try a schneeballen (a sweet local delicacy) from one of the many bakeries. From there, head to the vibrant city of Munich. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Marienplatz, the Nymphenburg Palace, and the famous Oktoberfest grounds. Leaving Munich behind, head south towards Berchtesgaden, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Alps. Whilst there, there’s two things not to be missed and that’s hiking up to the Eagle’s nest for amazing panoramic views and going for a swim or stroll around Lake Konigsee. Continuing your journey, make your way to the hidden gem of Wagenbrusche. This quaint village is tucked away in a serene valley, offering a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience. Last but certainly not least, make your way to the stunning Lake Alpsee. Located near the town of Hohenschwangau, this crystal-clear lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and dense forests. It’s a place to unwind and connect with nature; the perfect final stop of this trip.
Now, enjoy the adventure.
This brings us to the end of our route. We’ve explored countless cities, navigated coastlines, crossed mountain ranges, and made memories to last. Travelling by campervan through Europe will offer you a unique and unforgettable experience. It will allow you to create your own adventure, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the beauty and diversity of the continent. We hope this route we have shared with you is a great starting point for your own adventure - enjoy!