Smaller European nations gaining popularity for off-the-beaten-path camping experiences

In the world of travel, camping holidays are experiencing a resurgence, particularly in Europe. Our German-language service and news portal, Our Website, is dedicated to providing insights on life and work abroad, and today, we're diving into the growing popularity of camping holidays.

Camping holidays are proving to be a sustainable choice for happiness, although the specific reasons for this are not detailed. Across the continent, smaller countries like Ireland, Albania, Poland, and Bulgaria are seeing significant increases in popularity for camping holidays.

Ireland, for instance, has witnessed an impressive 40% increase in overnight camping stays. For those planning to traverse Europe by motorhome, Ireland can be reached via direct connections from northern French ports of Cherbourg and Roscoff, with crossings to Cork, Rosslare, or Dublin taking approximately 18 hours.

Albania, known for its unspoiled beaches, warm hospitality, and growing number of modern camping sites, has seen an over 21% increase in overnight camping stays. Meanwhile, Bulgaria offers diverse landscapes, attractive prices, and an increasing selection of camping sites, particularly along the Black Sea coast and in the mountains. Bulgaria has recorded an increase of around 14.5% in overnight camping stays.

Poland, too, is attracting campers with its diverse nature, good infrastructure, and affordable prices. The region of Schleswig-Holstein in Germany has seen a sharp rise in camping overnight stays in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024. Other regions like Nordrhein-Westfalen also saw growth in camping overnight stays in 2024, with a 5% increase compared to the previous year.

Sweden leads in overnight camping stays in Northern Europe, followed by Denmark and Norway. Despite slight declines in some countries, camping remains one of the most popular forms of travel on the continent.

France remains the most popular camping country in Europe, with over 141 million overnight stays. However, the best campsites in Europe for 2025, as awarded by CARAVANING, have yet to be specified.

For those embarking on a motorhome adventure, international expert Anne-Katrin Schwanitz offers valuable advice on safe travel, including proper loading, tire care, vehicle checks, safety with gas bottles and stoves, fire protection, finding the right campsite, and important insurance coverage for van life, in a video.

Camping Park Kühlungsborn, located in Germany, is Europe's most popular campsite. As travellers continue to seek out unique and sustainable experiences, the appeal of camping holidays in Europe is likely to continue to grow.

Smaller European nations gaining popularity for off-the-beaten-path camping experiences