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Travel Tips & Planning
The Best Road Trips for Camping in France
Three scenic routes for the ultimate camping in France.
If you’re dreaming of camping in France, there’s no better way to see it all than by RV—rolling from one region to the next, discovering local flavors, and parking up in unforgettable spots. Whether you start in Alsace’s wine country, cruise the sunlit South, or chase sea breezes on the Brittany coast, these handpicked routes give you a taste of France’s best scenery and adventure. For even more trip ideas or to find your nearest pick-up location, check out the full list of roadsurfer stations in France..
7-day Itinerary
Alsace & Vosges Mountains
Strasbourg ➤ Obernai & Mont Sainte-Odile ➤ Hohkönigsburg ➤ Alsace Wine Route Villages ➤ Colmar ➤ Lac Blanc ➤ Route des Crêtes ➤ Hartmannswillerkopf ➤ Strasbourg
This 7-day road trip links fairy-tale wine villages, grand castles, mountain lookouts, and vibrant town squares. Start your journey in RV rental in Strasbourg, where riverside cafés, half-timbered alleys, and cosmopolitan energy set the mood for your adventure. From there, roll into vineyard country, climb to panoramic peaks, and taste your way through Alsace’s most iconic towns—each day packed with postcard moments and fresh surprises.
Why We Love It
- Wine Route magic: Medieval villages and endless vineyards line the iconic Route des Vins d’Alsace.
- City-to-summit contrasts: It’s a quick hop from Strasbourg’s riverside cafés to pine-scented mountain trails.
- Colorful culture: Stroll half-timbered squares, explore ancient castles, and sample regional specialties at every stop.
- Alpine panoramas: The Route des Crêtes and Lac Blanc offer fresh air, wildflowers, and big mountain views.
RV Camping Tips
- Village parking: Historic centers have tight roads—use signed RV lots on the town edge for easy access.
- Wine route driving: The Route des Vins is RV-friendly, but summer and harvest bring extra traffic—travel early for smooth sailing.
- Seasonal weather: May–October is best for open roads and vineyard visits; mountain stretches are cooler, so pack layers.
- Service points: “Aires de service” for waste and water are common in Alsace villages—look for signs near main parking areas.
10-day Itinerary
South of France
Toulouse ➤ Albi ➤ Gorges du Tarn ➤ Carcassonne ➤ Pyrénées Ariégeoises ➤ Narbonne & Montpellier ➤ Toulouse
If you’re drawn to vibrant colors, rich flavors, and days that start with market mornings and end on Mediterranean beaches, the South of France is your kind of adventure. This 10-day journey is all about variety—drifting from Toulouse’s lively streets to medieval towns, through dramatic river gorges, past rolling vineyards, and finally reaching the sparkling coast. For an easy and flexible start, consider picking up your vehicle in Toulouse and set off at your own pace. Every region along the way brings something new to taste, see, and experience, inviting you to linger just a little longer wherever the mood takes you.
Why We Love It
- Legendary contrasts: One day you’re exploring ancient castles in Carcassonne, the next you’re paddling through the turquoise waters of the Gorges du Tarn.
- Endless local flavor: From Albi’s UNESCO old town to Narbonne’s food markets, every stop brings a fresh regional specialty to sample.
- Nature and nostalgia: Hike the Pyrénées foothills, stroll beach boardwalks, or lose yourself in medieval streets where time slows down.
- Sun-kissed detours: Secret swimming holes, lavender fields, and hidden coastal gems keep the surprises coming.
RV Camping Tips
- Gorges du Tarn roads: Expect winding, narrow stretches—drive slowly, especially in high season, and yield to oncoming vehicles on one-lane sections.
- City parking realities: Medieval towns like Carcassonne and Albi have designated RV lots outside the walls—plan to walk or shuttle in for sightseeing.
- Beach and river access: South of France campgrounds often have shaded, tree-lined pitches; in summer, book well in advance for any stay near the coast or water.
- Service stops: “Aires de service” for water and waste are plentiful along major routes, especially near national parks and larger towns.
8-day Itinerary
Brittany Province
Rennes ➤ Saint-Malo ➤ Cap Fréhel & Cancale ➤ Plage de Trestrignel ➤ Île de Batz ➤ Crozon ➤ Rennes
If sun-soaked vineyards aren’t calling your name, Brittany offers a fresh alternative—where wild coasts, windswept beaches, and salt-sprayed towns set the pace. This 8-day road trip is made for those who love the sound of crashing waves, lighthouses perched on rocky cliffs, and seafood straight from the source. From bustling markets in Rennes to tidal magic in Saint-Malo, Brittany is the kind of place where you trade routine for discovery and let the Atlantic air clear your mind.
Why We Love It
- Coastal drama: Brittany’s 1,500-mile coastline is a never-ending string of cliffs, lighthouses, and turquoise bays.
- True taste of France: Oysters in Cancale, crêpes in Rennes, cider on the beach—Brittany’s food is pure local flavor.
- Islands & peninsulas: Hop a ferry to Île de Batz or drive the Crozon peninsula for windswept views you’ll never forget.
- Adventure at every turn: Hike, bike, paddle, or just beach-hop your way through a landscape built for explorers.
RV Camping Tips
- Coastal parking: Many towns offer RV parking areas near the water, but overnight stays are often regulated—look for signed “aire de service” spots and follow local rules.
- Weather wisdom: Brittany’s weather changes fast—pack rain gear and a warm layer for breezy evenings, even in summer.
- Ferry logistics: For island day trips (like Île de Batz), park your RV in the mainland lot; ferries are for foot and bike passengers only.
- Local service points: “Aires de service” are easy to find in most villages for water and waste—especially on main coastal routes and near larger towns.
France Camping & Road Trip FAQ
Yes, Americans can drive in France with a valid U.S. driver’s license, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended. For the latest requirements, check the U.S. Embassy’s guide on driving in France.
May to October is the best season for a camping road trip in France. You’ll enjoy mild weather, open tourist attractions, and vibrant scenery. July and August are the busiest months—book ahead for camping spots.
Wild camping is generally not allowed in France, especially in protected or tourist areas. Always use official camping spots or “aires de service” to avoid fines. For regulations, visit the French government’s camping page.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended during summer or in popular regions. Off-season, you’ll often find last-minute availability, especially in rural areas or smaller campgrounds.
Yes, most major highways in France charge tolls (“péages”). You can pay by credit card or cash at toll booths. For official info and route planning, see the French motorway association website.
Yes, but automatic vehicles are less common than manuals, so reserve early. If you require an automatic, book in advance as most rentals in France are manual transmission.
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