Germany is home to some of the most picturesque landscapes in Europe, from the rolling hills of Bavaria to the rugged coast of the Baltic Sea. With multiple roadsurfer pickup locations throughout Germany, starting your journey and hitting the road is easy. Rent a camper van or Class C RV in Germany and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of traveling in your home-on-wheels, whether you’re hiking in the mountains, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the cities.
Germany’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights make it an ideal place to hit the road. From the fairy-tale castles of Bavaria and the vineyards along the Rhine to the winding roads of the Black Forest and the sandy shores of the Baltic Sea, there’s something to discover in every region. Unlimited mileage means you can explore freely, and with a second driver already included, long drives are easy to share. With 24/7 roadside assistance and flexible cancellation, your journey through Germany is worry-free from the start.
There are a few things to keep in mind while driving with a camper van or RV through Germany:
On the autobahn (highway), the speed limit is 130 km/h (80mph) as well as stretches with no speed limit. Stick to the right lane if you are driving slower as the left lane is for people going very fast. Keep an eye out for reduced speed signs in construction areas and at junctions on the autobahn. In urban areas, the speed limit is 50 km/h (30mph).
Some cities in Germany have implemented environmental zones, which restrict access to certain types of vehicles in an effort to reduce pollution. Be sure to check whether your camper van is allowed in these zones before entering the city.
Right before left: traffic coming from the right takes priority at all crossroads and junctions.
Passing other vehicles is only allowed on the left side of German roads and you can receive a ticket if you pass on the right side.
Camping in Germany
Germany is one of the best destinations for camping enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of landscapes and locations. From the Baltic Sea coast and Bavarian Alps to the Black Forest and Rhine Valley, you’ll find campgrounds and unique spots to match every style of travel. For more inspiration on where to go, check out our best camping in Germany guide with top spots and travel tips.
Traditional Campgrounds – Fully equipped sites for every budget, often with swimming pools, playgrounds, and family-friendly entertainment.
Independent Campsites – Camp off the beaten path, but legally! Find private camping spots in forests, by rivers, or in charming villages. You can book a unique camping experience with roadsurfer spot in advance or spontaneously on the road.
Wild or Dispersed Camping – Generally not allowed in Germany, as wild camping is prohibited outside of designated areas. Some regions allow exceptions, such as one-night bivouacking with a sleeping bag. Always check local rules, respect the environment, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Popular events & festivals in Germany
Good food, dancing and music are part of the vacation experience for most people. There are also special events for your road trip with the camper van in Germany. Here is a yearly overview of the most popular events and festivities in Germany:
Oktoberfest, September & October, Munich: the world’s most famous folk festival attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. Experience Bavarian traditions, exciting rides, and enjoy beer and Bavarian delicacies in abundance.
Carnival, Cologne, February: one of the biggest and most colourful carnival events in Germany. Dress up as a princess, a banana or whatever you want to go as, and join in the celebrations at exuberant parades.
Stuttgart Wine Village, Stuttgart, August & September: sample a wide selection of regional wines and Swabian specialities. The cosy atmosphere and traditional music make the Weindorf a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Rock am Ring/Rock im Park, June: these two festivals are among the biggest rock music events in Germany. They take place in parallel at different venues and attract thousands of music fans every year who rock out together to the sounds of well-known bands and artists.
Parookaville, Lower Rhine, July: the three-day music festival with electronic dance music has been held at Weeze Airport on the Lower Rhine since 2015.
Christkindlesmarkt, Nuremberg, December: Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany. Stroll through the festively decorated alleys, admire traditional handicrafts and enjoy delicious gingerbread and mulled wine.
Hamburg Cathedral, spring, summer, winter: Hamburg Cathedral is one of the largest public festivals in northern Germany and takes place three times a year. Get an adrenaline rush on the countless rides, enjoy the variety of food stalls and admire the impressive fireworks display at the end.
