Can you sleep in a tent in Europe?

For campers who prefer to camp by tent, you are almost guaranteed to find adequate accommodations in Europe's many campsites. Whether you enjoy the lavender fields of Provence, France, or the beaches of Barcelona, Spain, the vast majority of European campsites will have plenty of available lots for tent campers.



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In countries such as Germany, Italy, England and Wales, wild camping is considered illegal, and often enforced. Some countries (such as France) have loopholes where, although you aren't allowed to set up a tent, you are allowed to spend a night under a tarp or in a bivvy bag.

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Most people with a love of air and nature will understand that in a densely populated country like Germany, natural areas need special protection. Animals and plants urgently need the little space we still allow them. Nature reserves and national parks are therefore absolutely taboo for any overnight adventure.

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Wild camping is generally prohibited in Italy with fines ranging from 100-500€. However, there are certain exceptions. You can get a permit from the local authorities then you're allowed to stand there freely. However, please note there are regional restrictions.

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Wild camping generally is not permitted in France, except when the landowner permits to do so. Pitching up in protected natural sites or near historic monuments is never allowed. Local authorities or other authorities in charge of these designated areas can establish specific rules regarding the area they govern.

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In general, European campgrounds are less private than American versions, and many forbid open fires. Aside from the biggest cities, most tourist-friendly areas have a campground within a reasonable walk or bus ride from the town center or train station.

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No, you are not legally allowed to wild camp anywhere in Spain. But yes, there are plenty of designated parking places where you can park a Camper and overnight in it for free and in accordance with the law. Just be sure to look for any prohibition signs or you may receive a hefty fine!

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5 of the best destinations for wild camping in Europe
  1. Sweden. The Swedes have a word for the freedom to roam. ...
  2. Norway. Wild camping is actively encouraged in Norway, where the mountains soar and the waterfalls thunder. ...
  3. Scotland. ...
  4. Portugal. ...
  5. Estonia.


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Wild camping laws vary, however wild camping without the landowner's permission is illegal in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Many landowners will be happy to allow campers, as long you respect the land. Simply ask them beforehand. Over in Scotland, wild camping is permitted anywhere thanks to right-to-roam laws.

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Those who choose to spend the night in their tent, camper or motor home in the open countryside have to expect fines ranging from 100€ to 500€. Especially in tourist areas and by the sea there are strict controls and usually you have to pay around 300€ as a fine. Several authorities take care of this in Italy.

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The Laws on Wild Camping in Greece Wild Camping in Greece is not officially legal. In theory, you can be fined up to 3000 Euro in tourist areas, nature reserves, and on beaches. HOWEVER, it is generally tolerated by authorities and locals alike if you're outside of the main tourist areas.

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