Exploring serene destinations: lesser-known European nations gaining popularity for camping escapades
France remains the most popular camping country in Europe, with over 141 million overnight stays. This year, Ireland has seen a growth of over 40 percent in camping stays, making it an emerging hotspot for campers.
In Europe, countries like Greece have seen a strong increase in camping holidays in recent years. The sunny climate and attractive natural features such as volcanic islands like Santorini and Milos have contributed to this rise, making Greece one of the most popular camping destinations.
Unspoiled beaches, warm hospitality, and a growing number of modern campsites make Albania a popular camping hotspot. With an increase of over 21 percent in overnight camping stays, Albania is one of the strongest climbers on the list.
Bulgaria, offering diverse opportunities for camping along the Black Sea coast and in the mountains, ranks 27th and has grown by around 14.5 percent in overnight camping stays.
Spain follows with around 48 million overnight stays and a slight increase, while Italy had to accept losses. Poland has seen a significant increase of nearly 20 percent in overnight camping stays, with the country offering varied nature, good infrastructure, and affordable prices for campers.
Sweden leads in overnight camping stays in Northern Europe, followed by Denmark and Norway. Albania, Poland, and Bulgaria also report strong increases in camping overnight stays.
For those considering a motorhome trip to Ireland, there are alternative routes available. Traveling via Britain with connecting ferries to Dublin, Rosslare, Belfast, or Larne offers direct connections from northern French ports, such as Cherbourg and Roscoff, with an 18-hour crossing to Cork, Rosslare, or Dublin.
For more information on camping in Europe, visit our articles such as "Camping Park Kühlungsborn is Europe's most popular campsite," "The best campsites in Europe 2025, chosen by CARAVANING," and "Why camping holidays make you sustainably happy."
In a video, international expert Anne-Katrin Schwanitz discusses topics such as loading a camper vehicle, tire care, safety with gas bottles and gas cookers, fire protection, finding the right campsite, and important insurance coverage for van life.
Germany could slightly increase and remains in fourth place for camping overnight stays. Our website, a German-language service and news portal, keeps readers informed about living and working abroad, including camping in Europe.
