Camping is a great way to experience new places and revisit old favourites. Travelling all over Europe gives you the chance to explore some amazing places and meet wonderful new people. Many people think you must be an outdoorsy type to enjoy camping, but they couldn't be more wrong. There are so many different camping options available that there really is something to suit everyone.
Summer is the best time to go camping in Europe, whether you want to climb up mountains, explore historic towns or simply relax. If you want to go camping this summer, read on for our pick of the best camping holidays and campsites in Europe.
Broaden your little ones’ imaginations as they explore the great outdoors
Nature camping
Take advantage of the wilderness and explore everything nature has to offer. Go for a hike and see what you discover or hire some mountain bikes to travel further distances. If you set up camp by the ocean, see what activities and water sports can be accessed. Here are a few spots that will bring out your adventurous side.
Aaregg Familiencampingplatz, Brienz, Switzerland
Make the trip to the lakeside village of Brienz for a fun-filled, adventure camping experience at Aaregg Familiencampingplatz . This family-oriented campsite is located on the banks of the lake, with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, and is perfect for hiking excursions and other types of adventure activities. Be sure to take a ride on the nearby Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch (Top of Europe), the highest railway station in Europe.
Camp on the banks of Lake Brienz in Switzerland
Green Village Camping, Frauenau, Germany
Germany has some beautiful towns and cities, but if you want to enjoy the great outdoors, the best places to visit are in the National Parks. Green Village Camping is just north of the Bavarian National Park and is ideal for excursions into nature. Take a hike through the Bavarian forest and experience the breath-taking wilderness, and then return to the riverside campsite for an afternoon swim.
Culture camping
Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the culture of the place we're visiting. Why not set up camp on the outskirts of a historic town or city? Europe is scattered with places like this, so here are a few highlights, as well as the campsites you can stay at while you visit.
City Kamp Strasbourg, France
As the first city to be classified by UNESCO, Strasbourg is a popular cultural destination for people from all over the world. Drawn by the magnificent architecture, such as the famous Strasbourg Cathedral, and the rich history, visitors tour the city streets all year round. City Kamp Strasbourg is situated in the Strasbourg Natural Urban Park, less than 10 minutes away from the city centre, making it a great base for visitors to Strasbourg.
Strasbourg is famous for its spectacular architecture
Camping Memling, Bruges, Belgium
Famous for mussels, winding canals and beautiful architecture, Bruges is another of Europe's popular cultural hubs. Grab a campsite at Camping Memling and you'll be in walking distance of the town centre and all the great things that Bruges has to offer. Bike hire is available at the campsite, so you can even ride a bike into the city before exploring it by boat, a relaxing way to see it all.
Explore Camping Memling and other campsites in Belgium in our camping in Belgium summertime guide.
Glamping
The concept of glamping is simple: it's camping, but with modern luxury. Even though this is quite a new phenomenon, it's already popular among people of all ages. If you're travelling to Venice or the Basque Country, I'd recommend giving these fabulous places a go.
Glamping Canonici di San Marco, Venice, Italy
Glamping Canonici di San Marco is situated just outside of Venice, although it feels like it's a whole world away. After a long day of sightseeing in the City of Water, head back to your very own luxury cabin where you can relax and unwind away from the bustle of the city. Enjoy being amidst the beautiful natural scenery while staying in the utmost luxury.
Cabanes als arbres, Basque Country
The Basque Country is an autonomous region located between France and Spain that is known for its unique language and delicious cuisine. Cabanes als arbes takes glamping to another level (quite literally!) with luxury cabins that are located high up in the trees. Stay in one of these luxury treehouses while you explore the wonders of the Basque Country for an amazing experience that you'll never forget.
You can be in France in just 35 minutes when you travel from Folkestone to Calais with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle and with motorway access at either end, you'll be camping in no time at all.