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Camping near the City: Tips and Campsite Recommendations

City camping in Barcelona, Camping in the city
City Camping in Barcelona

Whether sightseeing, shopping, visiting a museum or going to the theatre again, as a short holiday or a stopover: Campsites near the city provide a great opportunity to combine city trips with a holiday in nature. On top of all that, it's cheaper and more flexible than a hotel.

By now, you'll not only find popular camping regions when searching on camping.info, but also numerous cities with popular campsites nearby. We show you why camping in the city is so much fun and give tips for popular, well-connected campsites in Europe's most beautiful cities.

  1. City Camping and Its Beautiful Facets
  2. The Most Beautiful Destinations for Your City Trip
  3. Advantages of Urban Camping
  4. Special Features of City Campsites

Camping in the city at Camping Nord-Sam in Salzburg, City camping
Camping in the city at Camping Nord-Sam in Salzburg

City Camping and its Beautiful Facets

City camping means a mix of adventure and comfort. You can profit from all benefits that camping brings - for example the comparably lower costs as well as the mobility and large degree of flexibility. At the same time, you can enjoy an exciting city trip. From sightseeing and cultural experiences to long nights spent partying - camping in the city is a truly special experience.

In addition, you can combine your detour to the city with a round trip in your camper van, of course. For example, you could quickly explore the big cities on the way to your beach vacation or visit a national park after your city trip.

The Most Beautiful Destinations for Your City Trip

Camping near the city in London, City Camping
Camping near the city in London

Avignon

A glance at the famous bridge and you immediately know: you’re in Avignon. Whether it’s a visit to the Palace of the Popes, a tour through the old town, or a walk along the banks of the Rhône – Avignon is always worth it. The best place to stay? Camping du Pont d'Avignon **** - Terracamps. The campsite is located on the green Île de la Barthelasse with a fantastic view of the city. With the free shuttle ferry to the city center, you’ll be in the middle of the action within minutes – no parking hassles, no stress.

Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the most rewarding destinations for a city trip – even for campers. Here, beach, culture, and culinary highlights come together, allowing you to decide each day what you feel like doing. On the edge of the seaside town of Mataró lies the peaceful Camping Barcelona. At just under 40 kilometers from the popular metropolis, the campsite is slightly outside the city, but thanks to regular shuttle services, campers can reach the center of Barcelona four times a day within 45 minutes – hassle-free.

Berlin

The German capital is a classic example of a metropolis whose identity practically calls for campsites. After all, the Berliners see themselves as cosmopolitan, modern, and “trendy.” So it’s only natural that there should be suitable options for trendy camping in the capital. At the moment, the capital welcomes you with the campsite CAMPING BEI BERLIN Am Mahlower See, which is well connected to public transport. With the S-Bahn, you can be at the Brandenburg Gate in no time.

Bologna

Porticoes as far as the eye can see – that’s Bologna, the city with endless arcades, pasta on every corner, and a history dating back to the oldest university in Europe. Perfect for your city trip: the Club del Sole Bologna Easy Camping Village. The site is quietly located on the outskirts of the city, and from there, bus lines 68 or 25 will take you directly to the city center in just a few minutes – some connections even stop right in front of the campsite. This way, you can leave your motorhome parked and still be quickly at the main sights.

Bremen

Whether you’re visiting the Town Musicians of Bremen, strolling across the market square with the Roland statue, or wandering through the alleys of the Schnoor district – Bremen is always worth a trip. And if you’re in the mood for a maritime atmosphere, the Weser River or the overseas harbor is the perfect place to be. The Campingplatz Juliusplate is located directly on the river, and from here the ferry will take you to the city center in no time. Perfect for combining a city visit with a walk along the water.

Châlons-en-Champagne

Known as the “Venice of Champagne” with its canals and bridges, Châlons-en-Champagne is perfect to combine with a camping trip. Among the waterways, you’ll find small cafés, places to linger, and frequent views of historic facades. The Camping de Châlons en Champagne **** - Terracamps is quietly located in green surroundings on the outskirts of the city, yet still close to the center. By bike, you can reach the old town in just a few minutes, or on foot in about 40 minutes. Once in the city, you can spend your day enjoying water, wine, and culture. In the evening, the peace and quiet of the campsite awaits you again.

Erfurt

Cathedral, Krämerbrücke, and half-timbered houses – Erfurt combines history, student life, and Thuringian specialties. The Campingpark Erfurt is located on the outskirts and offers a village-like tranquility. By bus (bus stop within walking distance) or by bike, you can be in the city center in just a few minutes to explore the old town alleys, visit the cathedral, or try one of the traditional Thuringian sausages. In the evening, you can once again enjoy the peace and quiet of the campsite.

Hamburg

On the list of German major cities that are especially attractive for campers, Hamburg is a must. The northern metropolis is a place everyone should see at least once, and if you wish, you can even park your vehicle right in the city center.

Our tip:Camping Stover Strand. The campsite offers various options to get to Hamburg: during the week with a free bicycle shuttle bus and on weekends or public holidays with the in-house shuttle service to the trains heading into the city center. On site, you can also rent electric cars.
Another great choice is the Campingplatz ABC am Großensee b. Hamburg. With direct access to the Großensee, a large sunbathing lawn, and a lakeside restaurant, it combines nature, village life, and proximity to the city. With public transport, you can get directly into the center of Hamburg, and in just 45 minutes, you can even reach the Baltic Sea.

Cologne

Kölsch beer and “Kölle Alaaf!” – the metropolis on the Rhine is not only famous for its extravagant celebration of the fifth season (Carnival) but also for its world-renowned cultural landmarks, such as the cathedral square with Cologne Cathedral. We recommend the campsite Campingpark im Bergischen Land (although it’s a bit farther from the city center). The campsite is located about 40 kilometers east of Cologne and is perfect for long hikes and cycling tours. Here you can enjoy the benefits of a nature-oriented campsite while still being relatively quickly in the center of Cologne.

London

London is also an ideal destination for your next city trip with your camper! Granted, the city isn’t exactly famous for its camper-friendly weather. Still, especially in the summer months, you can have a great time in London as a camper. A popular choice for a city trip to London is the Abbey Wood Caravan Club Site, located east of Greenwich and right by the ferry. You only have to cross the water, and you’re already in the center of London, near the Tower Bridge.

Lyon

If you’re looking for the French “savoir-vivre”, you’ll find it as a camper in Lyon. The city is internationally known, and in the old town you’ll discover an exciting mix of traditional buildings and modern architecture. Of course, there’s much more to see and experience in Lyon – including the campsite Camping de Lyon. Here, you won’t have to do without any luxury and can enjoy the beauty of nature combined with a unique city. Just 15 minutes by car from the center, buses stop right in front of the site and take you quickly into the city. On hot days, the swimming pool offers a refreshing cool-down, and in the morning, the beautiful hillside terrace greets you with a stunning sunrise.

Madrid

Lively and full of life – that’s Spain’s capital, the city of warmth. Numerous museums and galleries, inviting restaurants, stylish fashion boutiques, and enticing nightclubs and bars line the streets of Madrid. For those heading to Madrid for camping, about 5 kilometers outside the city you’ll find Camping Madrid Arco Iris. From the campsite, you can reach Madrid in less than an hour by bus and train, with the bus stop located right in front of the campsite.

Maastricht

Dutch coziness meets international flair – Maastricht is a city to discover and enjoy. Cobbled streets, street cafés, small boutiques, and a vibrant cultural life shape the cityscape. Just 15 minutes from Maastricht, you’ll find Camping Valkenburg - Maastricht. Thanks to its location in the green valley right by the Ravensbosch River, you’re surrounded by nature while still being well connected – you can reach the city in just 15 minutes by car.

Malmö

Relaxed, lively, and with a touch of Scandinavian charm – that’s how Sweden’s third-largest city welcomes you on the shores of the Öresund. Three faces in one: trendy neighborhoods, a historic old town, and modern architecture like the striking Turning Torso. For campers, First Camp Sibbarp – Malmö is an excellent choice. Located in the Limhamn/Sibbarp district, right on the coast and only about 7 km from the city center, you can easily get downtown by bike or bus – or first enjoy the beach life: a small sandy beach, views of the Öresund Bridge, cafés, and even an adventure golf course for all ages.

Munich

The Bavarian capital also offers several options for urban camping. A popular destination is the campsite "Camping München-Thalkirchen", located just a few meters from Hellabrunn Zoo, one of the city’s most popular attractions. It is also situated in the heart of the Southern Isar Meadows nature reserve – surrounded by nature yet right in the center of Munich. It doesn’t get more central than this, and from the campsite you can easily reach all sights, shops, and restaurants, whether for shopping, partying, or simply strolling. On hot days, you can even take a refreshing dip in the Isar, and the Maria Einsiedel natural swimming pool is also just a short distance away.

Nantes

Fresh oysters in the morning and a glass of Muscadet in the evening – in Nantes, that’s simply part of the experience. Whether you’re strolling through the Talensac market, visiting the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, or meeting the giant elephant of Les Machines de l’Île – there’s always something to discover here. For those who want to combine the city’s romantic flair with camping, Nantes Camping - Le Petit Port is an excellent choice. The site is quietly and greenly located on the banks of the Cens, yet perfectly connected: right in front of the campsite you’ll find the Morrhonnière – Petit Port tram stop (line 2), and bus lines 26 and C20 also stop just a few steps away.

Paris

Enjoy fresh croissants and coffee at one of the many small street cafés, admire the famous smile of the Mona Lisa, and in the evening take in the view from the Eiffel Tower over all of Paris – the City of Love is definitely worth a visit. Whether for a romantic weekend or as a stopover on the way to the Atlantic coast, Paris offers great options for campers with their motorhomes. The Camping de Paris in the Bois de Boulogne is located directly on the banks of the beautiful Seine and is only about 15 minutes from the old town. Thanks to its shuttle service and the short distance to the city center, this campsite is an excellent starting point for exploring Paris. Also recommended is Camping Sandaya - Paris Maisons-Lafitte, located directly on the Seine and just a 10-minute walk from the train station, from where you can be in the heart of Paris in about 20 minutes.

Rome

La dolce vita between the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and lively street life – in Rome, history awaits you around every corner. The hu Roma Camping in Town offers the perfect base: peacefully located in green surroundings yet close to the city center. With its own shuttle to the Cipro metro station and direct bus connections, the site provides real urban convenience. And the best part? By metro, you can be in the historic center in just 25 minutes.

Salzburg

Salzburg may not be a huge metropolis, but it still enjoys worldwide fame, mainly because of its beauty and history. Here you’ll find plenty of impressive sights or simply enjoy the city’s best sides while strolling, relaxing in a café, or taking a carriage ride. Lovely pitches can be found, for example, at Camping Nord-Sam. With a bus stop right in front of the site, this spot is considered a great Salzburg tip. There’s also a flat cycle path along the Salzach River that takes you directly into the city center in just 5 kilometers.

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    • Salzburg
    Camping Nord-Sam
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San Sebastián

Pintxos for breakfast? In San Sebastián, that’s almost a must. With its coastline, beautiful old town, and relaxed bistro scene, the city offers pure Mediterranean flair. Our tip? The campsite wecamp San Sebastián. Located about 5 km west of the city, it sits on a hillside with great views and modern bungalows. Just a few steps away, a regular bus takes you directly to the city center – a perfect mix of sea, nature, and urban experience.

Seville

Lively and charming, Seville, the heart of Andalusia, is a city full of warmth and joy for life. Known not only for its festivals but also for its rich history, Seville offers a wealth of museums, galleries, traditional restaurants, trendy fashion boutiques, and a vibrant nightlife in its many bars and clubs. Not far from the city, the campsite Camping Villsom in Dos Hermanas provides a peaceful oasis. Although located about 15 kilometers outside Seville, its good transport connections make it easy to reach the city. Whether by public transport or your own vehicle, visitors can explore Seville’s many sights in no time.

Toulouse

With its pink brick facades, Toulouse is nicknamed “La Ville Rose” – and for good reason. Between the Garonne River and the Canal du Midi, you’ll find lively squares, cozy street cafés, and a cuisine that offers everything from cassoulet to crêpes. Our urban camping tip is Camping Le Rupe. This campsite is quietly located in green surroundings yet still close to the action. In just 7 kilometers, you can reach the Matabiau train station, and thanks to nearby public transport or a walk along the Canal du Midi, you’ll be in the heart of the city in no time.

Venice

Gondolas instead of streets, masks instead of skyscrapers – Venice is a true fairytale with 118 islands, over 400 bridges, and an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. Whether among palazzi, bacari, or campi – this city is unforgettable. A great choice for urban camping is Miramare Camping Village. Although about 50 kilometers from Venice, it is beautifully located on the lagoon, with its own pool, barbecue area, and bike rental. A free shuttle bus or a short 10-minute walk takes you to the Punta Sabbioni ferry terminal, from where boats will bring you to the heart of Venice in about 30 minutes. Or how about Camping Rialto? Located in the green surroundings of Campalto, about 8 kilometers from Venice, the bus – lines 5 or 19 – takes you directly to Venice in just about 10 minutes, with the stop right at the gate.

Vienna

“Vienna, Vienna, only you” – it’s not just a beautiful song lyric, it’s also a perfect match for camping. Whether you’re taking a photo at St. Stephen’s Cathedral or cycling through the surrounding vineyards, Vienna is always worth a visit. The best place for it? MICAMPA Wien Wienerwald. From the site, you can reach the city center in just under an hour by public transport. The bus stop is right at the gate and takes you to the U-Bahn station, from where the U4 runs every few minutes into the heart of the city. Also highly recommended for your stay in Vienna is MICAMPA Wien Donau – from here, you can walk to the U2 in just a few minutes and be in the middle of the action in only 20 minutes, without the hassle of parking or big-city stress.

Zadar

In Zadar, you can sit by the sea in the evening, listen to the sounds of the Sea Organ, and watch the sun set – simply wonderful. During the day, you can explore the old town, take a break in small cafés, or stroll along the harbor. The campsite Falkensteiner Premium Camping Zadar is only about 3.5 km from the center, right by the sea and nestled in a pine grove – perfectly located for city excursions and relaxing hours by the water. By bike, you can reach the old town in about 10 minutes, on foot it takes about half an hour. Alternatively, you can also take the bus, with a stop right at the campsite.

Camping in the city in Rome, City Camping
Camping in the city in Rome

More Beautiful Campsites

in Other Cities

On camping.info you can not only find countries and regions, but also search specifically for a city that might be ideal for your next city trip.

Simply enter your favourite city into the search bar and let us show you suitable campsites in the vicinity. You can even book selected campsites directly online with us.

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Advantages of City Camping

The reasons for choosing camping as a way of travelling are diverse and personal. Maybe you're attracted by the spontaneous freedom, the possibility of choosing where to spend the night without a concrete plan. Or you are budget-conscious and want to save money without having to miss out on any experiences. Exploring the surroundings may make your heart beat faster, according to the principle: "The way is the goal". Nature provides you with a relaxing backdrop to unplug from stressful everyday life. If you're camping with kids and travelling with your family, camping becomes quality time, which you spend by exploring the world together. Whether nature, culture or adventure - camping allows for a a multifaceted trip, which you can shape according to your own imagination.

The possibilities are divers and these are just a few examples of many. So whether or not a city trip in a camper van is right for you depends largely on why you want to go camping in the first place.

If relaxation is your goal, you're certainly better off somewhere on the beach or in a national park. But if you want to see as much of the world as possible - and in doing so also some of the most beautiful and famous cities - a city trip is a great choice for you. As already mentioned, various combinations between the two are also possible.

You could, for example, go on a focused city trip over a long weekend on one campsite in one specific metropolis. Or you travel for several weeks from city to city. Or you only stop by for one or two days while passing through.

City camping at CAMPING BEI BERLIN Am Mahlower See, City Camping
City Camping at CAMPING BEI BERLIN Am Mahlower See

Characteristics of Campsites in the City

So if you've chosen a city trip, you should consider a few specifics. Even if you have a camper on the smaller side, for example a van, driving around the city with it is not fun and you'll probably struggle with finding a parking space. It therefore makes most sense to go directly to the campsite and explore the city from there by public transport or with a small rental car. Other differences between campsites in nature and in the city are:

  • Campsites in the city are often smaller, because there is just less space than in unobstructed nature. This means that they are booked out more quickly, especially during main season. Spontaneity is therefore only possible to a limited extent on a city trip with a camper and it is advisable to book well in advance.

  • The "city campsites" are also quickly booked out, because they're highly sought-after, of course. The possibility of combining city life with camping sounds very appealing to many people and since camping is very trendy at the moment anyway, campsites in the city are usually well frequented. You won't find the calm and remoteness of nature here, even during off season.

  • But in return campsites near the city come with several other perks: They are well-connected to public transport, so you can get to all attractions, party locations and numerous restaurants or stores without any problems. Therefore you have a wide range of options for spending your free time. Campers often profit from bonus cards or discounts for sights and events.

  • Some campsites in (or around) cities are kept simple because the campers are looking for entertainment in the city itself anyways. But oftentimes the opposite is the case: Some campsites are intentionally designed to be special - entirely in accordance with the identity of the city in question. Some have roofed pitches, some have a tennis court and others have their own riding school.

You definitely won't get bored if you take your camper on a city trip. But you have to plan in due time and book in advance, especially if you want to secure your place at one of the extravagant and popular spots.

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Frequently Asked: All About Camping in the City

Where do I find the best campsites for a city trip?

You'll find many well-equipped campsites for a city trip in Europe directly here on camping.info. On our theme page and also with the help of our filter function you can narrow your search and find the best campsite in your favourite city for you.

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What activities can I do while camping in the city?

With city camping, you are right in the middle of the action and have pretty much everything at your caravan door. For example, you can go on a sightseeing tour without having to struggle through the city traffic. Many campsites are also very well connected to public transport.

Or how about a culinary expedition? In the city there are food trucks, trendy cafés and a lot of international cuisine. Fans of culture also get their money's wort: Museums, galleries and maybe even an open-air cinema during sunset.

Of course, there are also plenty of parks and green spaces to unwind or get active. And when the night falls, you can discover the party scene.

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What equipment do I need for city camping?

For city camping, you will of course need the basic equipment such as a tent or camper, sleeping bag and sleeping mat. A bicycle is a good idea. Don't forget: A good bike lock is worth its weight in gold if you want to explore the city on two wheels. Don't forget to bring some portable chargers for your mobile phone, because you'll want to take photos of all the experiences.

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Is camping with a dog possible in the city?

Yes, that is of course possible in principle and not a bad idea. Many campsites near cities are dog-friendly. Four-legged friends are not welcome everywhere in the cities; there may be restrictions, especially in urban parks.

And don't forget that the city can be a bit stressful for animals sometimes - noisy traffic and many people are not the most comfortable conditions for dogs. You also shouldn't forget to bring a leash.

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