Best Villages in Europe to Visit in a Motorhome - 2025 edition

Embarking on a motorhome journey through Europe in 2025 offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore some of the continent’s most charming and picturesque villages by renting a motorhome with Yescapa. Europe’s charming villages offer something for every traveller. France boasts scenic beauty near the Spanish border, while Portugal and Greece are home to coastal villages perfect for a beach escape. Germany captivates with enchanting fairy-tale towns and Austria offers idyllic alpine landscapes. For cultural exploration, Spain captivates with Andalusia's "Route of the White Villages" and the stunning northern regions.

In this guide, we’ll highlight the best villages to visit by motorhome in 2025, each offering something uniquely memorable. From Llívia, a Catalan village surrounded entirely by France with its medieval charm, to the whitewashed streets of Olvera in Andalusia, each destination offers an immersive experience tailored to its unique landscapes, culture and history.

Villages in France, near Spain and Andorra

France boasts an array of stunning villages in its southern regions, particularly near the borders of Spain and Andorra. These charming locations blend breathtaking landscapes with rich cultural influences, making them ideal for motorhome travellers seeking unique destinations.

1. Llívia

Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees-Orientales, Llívia is a fascinating village with a unique twist - lies in Spanish territory completely surrounded by France. Its distinctive enclave status makes it a cultural gem, with both Catalan and French influences. Visitors can explore the Llívia Pharmacy Museum, one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, and stroll through its picturesque streets while taking in the stunning mountainous backdrop. The village is a great destination for those looking to experience history, culture, and natural beauty in a motorhome.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Aire de Camping Cars Llívia: Located near the centre, this motorhome service area offers water, electricity, and waste disposal.

● Public Parking Areas: There are nearby public parking lots, but they may have time restrictions or require permits.

2. Bourg-Madame

For a fully French experience, Bourg-Madame, situated near the borders of Spain and Andorra, is an excellent choice. This charming village serves as a gateway to the Pyrenees and is known for its proximity to incredible cross-border attractions. From here, you can easily access outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Bourg-Madame’s quaint atmosphere and strategic location make it an ideal stop for motorhome travellers exploring the beautiful villages of France near Catalonia.

Both villages are great examples of beautiful villages in southern France, offering a rich mix of culture, history, and stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historical sites of Llívia or the peaceful charm of Bourg-Madame, these villages are a must-visit on your European motorhome adventure in 2025!

📍Where to spend the night?

● Aire de Camping Car Bourg-Madame: A dedicated motorhome parking area close to the village centre, providing amenities like water, waste disposal, and sometimes electricity.

● Public Parking Areas: There are several free or low-cost parking options in the vicinity, especially near local parks and trails leading to the Pyrenees.

Villages in Portugal with a beach for motorhome travellers

Portugal’s coastline is dotted with charming villages that offer stunning ocean views, golden sand, and a relaxed pace of life. For motorhome travellers, villages like Nazaré and Ericeira provide a great combination of beachside beauty and authentic Portuguese charm.

2. Nazaré

Known for its world-famous beach and record-breaking waves, Nazaré is a picturesque village that perfectly embodies coastal Portugal. Its Praia da Nazaré is just steps from the village centre, making it easy to enjoy the pristine sands and refreshing Atlantic water. For breathtaking views, head to the Sítio da Nazaré, perched on a cliff above the beach, where you can watch surfers tackle some of the world’s largest waves. The village’s vibrant culture, fresh seafood, and proximity to the beach make it a top destination for motorhome travellers looking to experience Portugal’s seaside..

📍Where to spend the night?

● Parking near Praia do Norte: Large motorhome parking areas near the famous Nazaré beach, providing stunning sea views and easy access to the beach.

● Aires de Camping Cars Nazaré: Several motorhome areas near the town centre offer basic services like water and waste disposal.

2. Ericeira

A jewel on Portugal’s west coast, Ericeira is a paradise for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts alike. This charming fishing village is home to several stunning beaches, such as Praia dos Pescadores and Praia da Baleia, which lie directly in the heart of the village. Known as a World Surfing Reserve, Ericeira’s proximity to its beaches allows visitors to enjoy everything from relaxing on the sand to catching world-class waves. The cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and incredible ocean views give Ericeira a unique charm that is hard to resist.

Both Nazaré and Ericeira are quintessential villages in Portugal offering not only unparalleled access to sandy beaches but also a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, these villages promise an unforgettable coastal escape.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Aires de Camping Cars Ericeira: Several dedicated motorhome parking spots located near the town centre and beach, providing essential services like water, waste disposal, and electricity.

● Public Parking near Praia de São Julião: A scenic parking area near the beach that offers stunning views and direct access to the surf spots.

Most beautiful villages in Spain in a motorhome

Northern Spain offers stunning villages that combine medieval charm with coastal beauty, ideal for motorhome travellers. In southern Spain, the Route of the White Villages showcases stunning whitewashed towns, rich in history and culture.

1. Ribadesella

A motorhome tour of northern Spain must include a stop in Asturias. Among the most beautiful Asturian villages are Ribadesella, with its emblematic “Ermita de la Guía” hermitage, located on the highest point of the promontory, and the Tito Bustillo Caves, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to incredible cave paintings. Other villages that should be on your list are Llanes, Cangas de Onís and Lastres, renowned for their landscapes and history.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Área para Autocaravanas de Ribadesella: free parking, authorised stay of 48 hours, it has few places but it is perfect for visiting the Cueva de Tito Bustillo.  

● Área de autocaravanas de Cangas de Onís (El Lleráu): Cangas de Onís is a popular tourist destination because of its natural beauty and its proximity to the Picos de Europa. For motorhome travellers, this site offers a modern and well-equipped motorhome area.

2. Olvera

Starting “La Ruta de los Pueblos Blancos” (Route of the White Villages), the first stop is in Cadiz, in the village of Olvera. Its town centre has been declared a Historic Artistic Site and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and typical villages in Andalusia. With whitewashed houses on a hillside and natural views worthy of a fairy tale, it is one of the most beautiful villages to visit in a motorhome in Spain. Beyond its charming streets, you will discover the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, its Arab castle and the Barrio de la Villa.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Área para Autocaravanas de Olvera: Motorhome area next to the Vía Verde, with services for emptying, filling and electricity. It's a good place if you're going to do the Via Verde route, either by bike or on foot. 

● Parking Plaza Matadero: Located near the village, next to the cemetery and very close to the Castle. Quiet and comfortable, but no services are available. The parking spaces are big enough for motorhomes.

Most beautiful villages in Greece in a motorhome

Across the Mediterranean, Corfu in Greece features lush landscapes and Venetian-style villages. These villages offer scenic roads, historic sites and hidden gems, perfect for exploring at your own pace in a motorhome.

1. Afionas

Afionas is one of the oldest villages of Corfu. It overlooks Porto Timoni beach via a footpath that starts in the village, as well as the beaches of Agios Georgios Pagon and Arillas. This village offers beautiful views of the Diapontia Islands, where you can visit the village and stroll through flower-filled courtyards, enjoying the special local architecture of whitewashed stone buildings.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Afionas parking site “Arillas Agiou Georgiou - Eparchiaki Odos Magouladon-Afiona”: You will find this private motorhome parking site in Afionas, with paid access to showers and other services.

2. Paleokastritsa

25 kilometres from Corfu, to the north-west, lies the town of Paleokastritsa, with its small ancient castle, and nearby Angelokastro, one of the most famous towns on the island, famous for its deep turquoise sea. The town overlooks a bay surrounded by hills covered with forests and olive trees. In the surrounding areas, you will find places to enjoy the coastline on both sandy and pebble beaches. 

📍Where to spend the night?

● Paleokastritsa camping: This camping site is located in the village of Paleokastritsa, along the west coast of Corfu island.  The site offers places for motorhomes surrounded by ancient olive trees.

German villages in a motorhome

Germany is home to some of Europe’s most picturesque villages, known for their fairytale charm, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Here are two of the most beautiful villages in Germany that are must-visits for travellers on a motorhome adventure seeking scenic and cultural destinations. 

1. Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Nestled in the Franconian region of Bavaria, Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the quintessential German village, renowned for its medieval architecture and well-preserved old town. Its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and charming squares transport visitors back in time. Highlights include walking along the village’s ancient walls, visiting the iconic Plönlein (a picture-perfect fork in the road framed by colourful houses), and exploring the Christmas Museum, which is open year-round. Surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Tauber Valley, Rothenburg offers a magical combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Campingplatz Tauberromantik: A well-equipped campsite just outside the village with facilities like electricity, water, and a shop. It also offers easy access to the village via bike or on foot.

● Motorhome Stellplatz Rothenburg: A dedicated motorhome area close to the town, offering basic amenities like waste disposal and water refill stations.

2. Monschau

Tucked into the scenic Eifel region near the Belgian border, Monschau is a storybook village famous for its narrow lanes, half-timbered houses, and the soothing sounds of the Rur River running through the town. Monschau’s charm lies in its vibrant atmosphere and cultural treasures, such as the Red House Museum and its artisanal mustard mills. Nature enthusiasts will love the surrounding Eifel National Park, which offers excellent hiking and cycling trails. The annual Monschau Christmas Market is a magical experience for visitors during the holiday season.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Stellplatz Monschau: Located near the town centre, this motorhome site provides convenient access to the village along with essential services like waste disposal and electricity.

● Campingpark Eifel: Situated a short drive from Monschau, this full-service campsite is ideal for travellers wanting additional amenities, including laundry and Wi-Fi.

Austrian villages to visit in a motorhome

Austria is a country of breathtaking alpine scenery, charming villages, and rich traditions. Whether nestled in the valleys or perched on mountain slopes, Austria’s villages exude storybook charm. Here are two of the most beautiful villages in Austria that are perfect for motorhome travellers seeking picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures.

1. Hallstatt

Nestled between the serene Hallstätter See and the towering Dachstein mountains, Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Austria’s most iconic villages. Famous for its pastel-coloured houses, lake views, and ancient salt mines, Hallstatt is a must-visit for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Highlights include a visit to the Hallstatt Salt Mine, exploring the Bone House (Beinhaus) at the local church, and taking a boat ride on the tranquil lake to admire the village from the water.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Campingplatz Klausner-Höll: A campsite near Hallstatt with stunning lake views, offering amenities like electricity, water, and a restaurant. It's an ideal base for exploring the village.

● Stellplatz Obertraun: Located in the nearby village of Obertraun, this motorhome site provides convenient access to Hallstatt via bike or a short drive.

2. Alpbach

Known as the “most beautiful village in Austria,” Alpbach is a jewel in the Tyrolean Alps. This enchanting village is famous for its traditional wooden chalets adorned with vibrant flower boxes, surrounded by lush meadows and snow-capped peaks. Alpbach is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Alpine culture and outdoor activities. Visitors can hike scenic trails, relax in cosy mountain huts, or visit the Congress Centrum, a remarkable blend of modern architecture and traditional styles.

📍Where to spend the night?

● Camping Seeblick Toni (Kramsach): Located a short drive from Alpbach, this full-service campsite offers premium facilities, including electricity, water, and a wellness area.

● Stellplatz Reith im Alpbachtal: A motorhome-friendly area in the nearby village of Reith, with essential amenities and easy access to Alpbach by public transport or car.

From the scenic beauty of France to the coastal charm of Portugal and Greece, embarking on a motorhome journey through Europe in 2025 is your opportunity to discover the continent’s most picturesque and enchanting villages. Whether you spend your time in the idyllic landscapes of Austria, the hidden gems in the Pyrenees near Andorra, or on Andalusia’s "Route of the White Villages," there’s a world of adventure waiting for you.