Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure across Italy? Imagine traveling in your motorhome, campervan, or caravan, exploring breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and charming villages. Traveling this way, you have the freedom to discover Italy at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you want. In this article, we will provide you with all the essential information to make your journey in Italy both safe and enjoyable, including camping regulations, where to find stops, safety tips, recommended routes, and much more.
Camping rules in Italy
Regulations and legislation for camping
Free camping is prohibited in all Italian regions. Parking a motorhome or caravan, where allowed, is not considered camping if the vehicle rests only on its wheels, does not emit its own waste (other than engine emissions), and does not occupy the road beyond its dimensions. Camping means deploying at least one of these elements: horizontally opening windows, awning, table, or chairs.
For caravans, it is forbidden to park them alone on public land. It is permitted to park the car with the caravan where indicated, respecting the parking spaces.
Campsites in Italy
Camping holidays in Italy can be costly. Italy is the second most expensive country in Europe after Croatia. A family in a motorhome with a ten-year-old child paid an average of €65.8 per night in 2023 for a campsite stay during the peak summer season, including a pitch, electricity, and hot showers (source: ADAC – PiNCAMP Price Analysis).
Did you know that for a peaceful sleep and to save on camping, you can stay for free at farms participating in Agricamper? Agricamper allows you significant savings during your journey (read our article Exploring Italy in a Motorhome and Caravan: Savings and Nature at Your Fingertips for more details).
Agricamper: free and unlimited stops
Agricamper offers a unique service for motorhome and caravan enthusiasts: unlimited free 24-hour stops at farms across Italy. This service allows you to immerse yourself in nature and discover the authenticity of the Italian countryside. Enjoy warm hospitality, discover local products, and try excellent zero-kilometer goods, creating unforgettable moments. Download the Agricamper app and use the free Demo version to preview the features and see where the stops are located.
340 free dump stations in Italy for motorhomes and caravans
In Italy, the illegal discharge of gray and black water on roads or in public areas can lead to administrative sanctions with hefty fines. In severe cases, authorities can also seize the vehicle (read our article 340 Free Camper Services in Italy for Motorhomes and Caravans for more details).
The Agricamper app offers a valuable feature for travelers in motorhomes and caravans, showing directly on the map 340 free dump stations, in addition to the farms that host you for free for one night. This service is accessible to everyone, even those who are not yet members of Agricamper. Just download the app, access the Demo version and search for the blue “Dump station” pins. In the filters, you have the option to select exclusively the dump stations to display them specifically on the map. Clicking on the pins will open your preferred navigator (Google Maps, Waze, etc.), guiding you to use the dump stations along your route.
Safety in a motorhome
Tips for a safe journey
Here are some essential and common-sense tips to follow wherever you go, both in Italy and abroad:
- Check the vehicle: before departing, ensure that your motorhome or caravan is in perfect condition. Check the brakes, tires, oil, and fluid levels.
- Stay vigilant: always park in safe and well-lit areas. Avoid isolated areas and be informed about the safety of the area where you are staying.
- Secure the vehicle: always lock doors and windows when you leave the camper and take out insurance for any bicycles present. Do not leave valuables in plain sight.
Equipment and mandatory documents for traveling in a motorhome and caravan
Required documents for EU states
When traveling in a motorhome or caravan in Italy, ensure you have the following documents with you:
- Driving License: issued by an EU/EFTA country, suitable for the type of vehicle.
- Insurance: civil liability against third parties, including passengers, excluding the driver.
- Vehicle Registration Document.
Required documents for non-EU states
To drive a motorhome registered in a non-EU country, you also need:
- International Driving Permit (or international license) or a sworn translation of the license.
- Insurance Verification: check with your insurance company if you need to obtain a Green Card or a temporary border policy.
- Distinctive Sticker: apply a sticker with the distinctive code of the country of origin.
Insurance for theft, fire, and comprehensive coverage, which includes all risks for the vehicle and passengers, including the driver, is optional.
Mandatory equipment
For your safety and in compliance with Italian laws, you must have on board:
- Warning Triangle: to signal emergency stops.
- High-Visibility Jacket or Braces: to wear in case of emergency.
- Seat Belts: mandatory for driver and passengers.
- Child Seats: for children under 1.50 m or 36 kg (reached at about 12 years of age), suitable for the weight and approved according to regulations (read our article Children and Car Seats in Motorhomes in Italy for more details).
- Anti-Abandonment Device: mandatory for children under 4 years in vehicles registered in Italy or abroad, but driven by residents in Italy.
- Tires: from November 15 to April 15, it is mandatory in many areas of Italy to have snow chains on board or to mount winter tires (read our article Motorhomes and Caravans in Winter: Tips for Coping with Cold and Snow in Italy for more details).
Transporting mopeds and bicycles
It is possible to transport mopeds and bicycles if the motorhome is equipped with a suitable rack. Protruding loads may not exceed 30% of the vehicle’s length and may only protrude at the rear. The transport must be signaled with the appropriate sign for protruding loads (50 cm x 50 cm) with white and red diagonal stripes and made of reflective material. It is possible to mount a roof rack to transport dinghies, windsurfers, or small boats.
Mopeds
If you transport a moped, make sure you have the necessary documents to drive a moped.
EU states
- Circulation Certificate (or technical suitability certificate of the vehicle)
- Driving License enabled for driving the moped
- Insurance Sticker issued in an EU country
- Sticker attesting to the payment of the vehicle tax (only if the moped is registered in Italy)
- EU-approved Helmet Obligation
- Prohibition of carrying passengers under 5 years old
- Prohibition of carrying passengers for drivers under 16 years old
Non-EU states
In addition to the documents listed above, you also need:
- International Driving Permit (so-called international license) or a sworn translation of the license
- Insurance Verification: Before departing, check with your insurance company whether you need to obtain a Green Card or a temporary border policy
Bicycles
When cycling on Italian roads, it is mandatory to wear a reflective jacket or braces outside urban areas after sunset and before dawn, and always in tunnels.
Roads and tolls
Italian motorways are tolled, and the cost varies based on the distance traveled and the type of vehicle. Motorhomes fall into toll category 2, which means you will pay more than cars but less than heavy vehicles. It is useful to always have cash or a credit card handy to pay the tolls.
Speed limits
- Motorhomes under 3.5T: 130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on main non-urban roads, 90 km/h on secondary non-urban and local roads, 50 km/h in urban areas (up to 70 km/h where indicated).
- Motorhomes over 3.5T and up to 12T: 100 km/h on motorways, 80 km/h outside urban areas, 50 km/h in urban areas.
- Motorhomes over 12T: 80 km/h on motorways, 70 km/h outside urban areas, 50 km/h in urban areas.
- Caravans: 80 km/h on motorways, 70 km/h on main non-urban roads, 70 km/h on secondary non-urban and local roads, 50 km/h in urban areas.
Use of lights
- Outside urban areas: position lights and dipped headlights always on.
- Urban areas: position lights and dipped headlights from half an hour after sunset and half an hour before sunrise, and in poor visibility conditions.
- Motorcyclists and moped riders lights always on, even in urban areas.
Access to Limited Traffic Zones (ZTL)
ZTLs are areas in historic centers accessible only at certain times or to previously authorized vehicles. Unauthorized access results in automatic fines through cameras.
Parking
- Blue stripes: parking is paid with rates 50% higher for motorhomes compared to those for cars.
- White stripes: free parking, possibly with the request for a parking disc.
- Yellow stripes: reserved for specific categories (e.g., ZTL, residents, disabled people).
Use of mobile phones
Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device or headset is prohibited. Tablets and headphones for music are also banned.
Blood alcohol content and drugs
- Limit: 0.5 g/l
- New drivers (first three years) and young people under 21 years: zero tolerance
- Prohibition of driving under the influence of narcotic or psychotropic substances
Accidents, breakdowns, and exiting the vehicle
In the event of accidents or breakdowns wear a high-visibility reflective jacket or braces and call 112.
Transporting animals
Pets must be safely accommodated. (read our article Animals in Motorhomes and Caravans in Italy for more details.)
Penalties for foreign drivers
Foreign drivers with licenses or international permits must comply with all rules of the Italian Highway Code. They receive the same penalties as holders of Italian licenses, even if their country does not have a points system. If stopped by the Italian police, they can pay a reduced fine of 30% to the officer and, if they do not pay immediately, must post a bond. If they do not pay the bond, the vehicle can be stopped until payment. Drivers who accumulate 20 points in one year cannot drive in Italy for two years; if they accumulate 20 points in two years, the ban is one year; for 20 points accumulated in two or three years, the ban is six months.
Recommended routes
Here are some recommended routes. You can also visit our blog to discover all the articles dedicated to Italian destinations.
Northern Italy by motorhome and caravan
Northern Italy offers a variety of different landscapes, from the mountains of the Dolomites to the shores of Lake Garda. A recommended itinerary includes:
- Dolomites: explore the natural wonders and go hiking among the peaks.
- Aosta Valley: ideal for those who love mountains and medieval castles.
- Turin: known for its museums, historic squares, and the famous Mole Antonelliana.
- Milan: admire the Duomo, Sforza Castle, and enjoy shopping in Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.
- Genoa: a significant port city with a fascinating historic center and the Genoa Aquarium.
- Verona: visit the Verona Arena and Juliet’s House.
- Lake Garda: enjoy water activities and picturesque towns like Sirmione.
- Bergamo: discover the upper city and its Venetian walls.
- Trieste: visit Piazza Unità d’Italia and Miramare Castle.
- Parma: famous for its delicious food and Renaissance architecture.
Central Italy by motorhome and caravan
Central Italy is a region rich in history, art, and breathtaking landscapes. A recommended itinerary includes:
- Lucca: a Tuscan city with intact medieval walls.
- Pisa: famous for the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistery.
- Florence: discover the Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery.
- Siena: admire the famous Piazza del Campo and Siena Cathedral.
- San Gimignano: explore the medieval towers and taste Vernaccia wine.
- Val d’Orcia: enjoy breathtaking views and stop in villages like Pienza and Montalcino.
- Arezzo: explore the Great Square and the Church of San Francesco.
- Perugia: discover the historic center and visit the National Gallery of Umbria.
- Assisi: visit the Basilica of Saint Francis and enjoy the panoramic view of the Umbrian valley.
- Rome: admire the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain.
Southern Italy by motorhome and caravan
Southern Italy is rich in history, culture, and beautiful coastlines. A recommended itinerary includes:
- Naples: discover the historic center, Vesuvius, and Pompeii.
- Amalfi Coast: admire spectacular views and visit cities like Amalfi, Positano, and Ravello.
- Matera: famous for its “Sassi” and rock churches.
- Puglia: visit the white cities of Ostuni, Alberobello, and beautiful Lecce.
- Reggio Calabria: admire the Riace Bronzes and the promenade.
- Salerno: explore the historic center and Arechi Castle.
- Bari: visit the Basilica of San Nicola and the Murat district.
- Taranto: discover the Aragonese Castle and the National Archaeological Museum.
- Brindisi: stroll along the harbor and visit the Italian Sailor Monument.
- Tropea: enjoy the beautiful beaches and the view of the Sanctuary of Santa Maria dell’Isola.
The islands by motorhome and caravan:
- Elba Island: for those who love the sea and the history associated with Napoleon.
- Capri: for an exclusive visit to the world-famous island.
- Cagliari: the capital of Sardinia, with its historic district and beautiful beaches nearby.
- Costa Smeralda: renowned for its crystal-clear waters and jet-set lifestyle.
- Alghero: discover its Catalan walls and historic center.
- Nuoro: to explore the traditions and culture of Barbagia.
- Sardinian hinterland: to discover the nuraghes and local traditions.
- Palermo: explore the city with its markets, palaces, and historic churches.
- Taormina: admire the Greek Theatre and sea views.
- Valley of the Temples: visit Agrigento and its archaeological park.
- Catania: explore the city and Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano.
These itineraries offer a perfect mix of culture, history, nature, and gastronomy, for an unforgettable experience in a motorhome and caravan in Italy.
Conclusion
Traveling in a motorhome, campervan, or caravan in Italy is a unique experience that allows you to discover the wonders of the country freely. With Agricamper, you have the opportunity to stay for free at hundreds of farms, immersing yourself in nature and discovering the authenticity of the Italian countryside. Download the Agricamper app and use the free Demo version to explore the features and see where the stops are located.
Don’t wait any longer: prepare your motorhome or caravan and set off for an unforgettable adventure!
