Thinking about where on the continent to head for your Schengen Shuffle? Traveling Eastern Europe by motorhome ticks all the boxes. The east offers freedom to explore the less-crowded, affordable, and scenic areas like Romania’s forests or the Moldovan countryside which are beautiful and renowned for that Eastern European hospitality that you don’t get on the other side.
Albeit the East requires preparation for varied road quality (sometimes poor), differing camping facilities (less developed than Western Europe – far less), and country-specific rules (especially for wild camping).
But this is the part of Europe that is ideal for fewer crowds and beautiful blooms, while countries like Bulgaria, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and even Slovenia, and inland Croatia offer stunning, less-trodden route during the shoulder seasons.
You will encounter potholes that challenge your suspension, border guards who seem to speak only in shrugs, and navigation systems that occasionally try to lead you down goat paths. But for every challenge, there is a reward: we loved the journey by motorhome to every country in Eastern Europe.
Read on for tips for that travel by motorhome and everything you need to know about the exciting countries in Eastern Europe by road.
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Part I: Life on the Road in Eastern Europe
If you’ve spent any time motorhoming in Western Europe, you’re likely used to the convenience of “Aires,” manicured campsites, and predictable toll roads. Eastern Europe and the Balkans are a different beast entirely. This is a region where the maps are suggestions, and the “campsites” might just be a farmer’s field. BUT – the hospitality is so thick it’s borderline overwhelming.
From the coastline of Albania and Croatia to the separatist enclaves of Moldova (aka. Transnistria), driving a motorhome here is about embracing the unexpected. But based on two years of life on the road in Europe, here is how to navigate the wilder side of the continent.
When to Go
The “Sweet Spot” is undoubtedly May to June and September to October. July and August bring stifling heat (especially in the Balkans and Greece) and heavy coastal traffic in Croatia and Montenegro. Winter can be brutal; many mountain passes in Romania and Bulgaria are impassable for larger motorhomes from November through April.
We did our big main burst to Eastern Europe in May, June and July. Which was pretty epic as that was the European summer! It meant that we missed the busiest (crazy-busy) Western Europe hubs that heave during the summer. But it also made for beautiful weather in Eastern Europe at that time.
- Summer (July–August): Can be punishingly hot, particularly in the southern Balkans and Greece. Coastal Croatia becomes incredibly crowded and expensive. But it really is a beautiful time of the year to explore Eastern Europe.
- Winter: Many mountain passes in Romania, Montenegro, and Bulgaria become impassable. If you aren’t winter-ready with specialized tires and heating, stick to the coast or the shoulder seasons.
Driving & Infrastructure
Road quality varies wildly. Slovenia has highways that rival Germany’s, while in Albania and Moldova, you must remain hyper-vigilant for deep potholes, unlit horse carts, and wandering livestock. Rule number one: Never drive at night.
- Road Quality: It is a game of extremes. Slovenia’s motorways are as good as Germany’s. Serbia’s mains are good too. But Romania and Moldova, however, require a “pothole-first” mindset.
- Vignettes & Tolls: Slovenia, Romania, and Bulgaria require digital vignettes. Always buy these at the first gas station after the border or online to avoid heavy fines.
- Fuel: Readily available. In non-EU countries like Belarus or Transnistria, ensure you have cash, as card machines at rural pumps are often unreliable.
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Motorhome Logistics: Parking & Camping
While “wild camping” is technically illegal in most of these countries, it is often socially accepted in rural areas if you are discreet. However, in cities, we always recommend using a guarded “Camping” site or a designated “Stellplatz.”
Use apps like Park4Night religiously. But always read the most recent reviews regarding security. (Seriously, do).
- Western vs. Eastern Mindset: In Slovenia and Croatia, wild camping is strictly forbidden and actively policed. You must stay in official campsites. (Although we found epic free camping way out in the hills from Zagreb, Croatia).
- The Wild East: As you move into Albania, Romania, and Bulgaria, the rules soften. “Free-standing” is often tolerated and even welcomed.
- Apps: Park4Night is your bible. Always read the most recent comments to check if a spot is still accessible for your van size.
Part II: Eastern Europe Country-by-Country by Motorhome
Europe is amazing for motorhome travel, fullstop. But Eastern Europe is a whole new level of exciting and – just cool! Here is an introduction to all those Eastern European destinations (literally, all) that we recommend you add to your motorhome itinerary and get planning.
1. Slovenia
Slovenia is the most “Western” of the Eastern nations. It is pristine, organized, and perfectly set up for motorhomes. We were lucky enough to stay in Slovenia with friends (Slovenian’s that we met in Sri Lanka) and had the most incredible time experiencing local markets, local food and just genuine local Slovenian hospitality.
- Ljubljana: A capital city that feels like a village. It is green, car-free, and incredibly charming.
- Things to Do: Visit the Ljubljana Castle for city views, walk the Triple Bridge, and explore the alternative art scene at Metelkova Mesto.
- Driving & Parking: Very easy driving. For city visits, park at the Ljubljana Resort and take the van in. (In theory) never wild camp here. Though you might find the odd place to do just that if you scour Park4Night carefully 🙂
2. Croatia
Croatia is a narrow strip of coastal perfection. The Jadranska Magistrala (Adriatic Highway) is one of the world’s best drives. Albeit it is extremely busy in the tourist season. But Croatia is cool in the cities and those historic hot spots that draw the tourists.
- Split: A city thriving inside the walls of a 1,700-year-old Roman Palace.
- Zagreb: An awesome city (with motorhome parking) for a great introduction to Croatian history and slightly less touristic than Split. (A lot less touristy!).
- Things to Do: Explore Diocletian’s Palace, climb the bell tower, and hike up Marjan Hill for a sunset view over the harbour.
- Driving & Parking: Coastal roads are narrow. Tolls are high. Use the Stobreč Split campsite—it has great bus links and allows you to avoid driving your rig into the chaotic city centre.
3. Serbia
Serbia is a land of vast plains and intense history. It feels authentic and unpolished. We loved the markets and coffee in Belgrade, and it really set off our Eastern Europe motorhome adventure with a bang.
- Belgrade: A gritty, high-energy city where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.
- Things to Do: Visit the Kalemegdan Fortress, wander the Bohemian Skadarlija district, and visit the massive Church of Saint Sava.
- Driving & Parking: Easy driving on major roads. Camp Dunav is the best base for Belgrade; it’s a short bus ride from the city and very secure.
4. Montenegro
Montenegro offers some of the most dramatic vertical landscapes in Europe. Though the capital city of Montenegro is habitually overshadowed by the beach towns and iconic hillside monasteries. But we enjoyed Podgorica.
On its own, Podgorica doesn’t honestly have the best reputation as a city-destination in Europe or even Eastern Europe alone. Though what we found was a friendly, small city to explore.
- Podgorica: Forget anything you heard about this small capital city and get ready for a great day out.
- Kotor: A medieval maze situated at the end of a breathtaking fjord.
- Things to Do: Hike the 1,350 steps to the San Giovanni Fortress, take a boat to “Our Lady of the Rocks,” and explore the Old Town at night.
- Driving & Parking: Roads are narrow and steep. Parking in Kotor is a nightmare for large rigs; park at the northern end of the bay and walk or use a bike.
5. Albania
Albania is the adventure capital of the Balkans. Plus, it is renowned as one of the most hospitable countries in Eastern Europe.
- Tirana: This is a cool capital city to explore. It is known as somewhat of a riot of colour and history.
- Things to Do: Explore Bunk’Art 1 (a nuclear bunker turned museum), take the cable car up Mount Dajti, and see the colourful buildings around Skanderbeg Square.
- Driving & Parking: Roads can be poor, but they are improving. Wild camping is a dream here—it is legal, and the locals are incredibly friendly.
Wondering About Buying a Motorhome in Europe as a Non-EU Traveller?
6. Kosovo
Europe’s youngest country is full of optimism – and great coffee! The country and the capital city have had a tumultuous past. But there are a great number of things to do in Pristina that epitomise the now-bustling city culture and a newfound energy for independence.
We really enjoy Pristina and are so glad we visited Kosovo on our Eastern Europe roadie.
- Pristina: An awesome capital city with a rough past. But Pristina has the best of hospitality that we encountered in the region – and seriously good coffee!
- Prizren: The most beautiful town in Kosovo, with a distinct Ottoman feel.
- Things to Do: Hike to the Prizren Fortress for sunset, visit the Sinan Pasha Mosque, and walk across the Old Stone Bridge.
- Driving & Parking: Easy driving. Note that you must buy separate vehicle insurance at the border (approx. €15) as Green Cards rarely cover Kosovo. We had a sweet park right in the centre of Pristina in walking distance to town.
7. North Macedonia
North Macedonia is a little lesser travelled than the main hotspots but every bit as stunning, historic, fascinating – and tasty!
- Skopje: There is coffee aplenty, history to walk right over and lots more to do in Skopje that make it well worth a visit.
- Ohrid: A UNESCO-listed lake that is one of the oldest in the world.
- Things to Do: Visit the iconic St. John at Kaneo church, walk the boardwalk along the cliffs, and visit the Monastery of St. Naum near the Albanian border.
- Driving & Parking: Generally good roads. Camping Rino on the lake is a must-stay—they often greet arrivals with a free glass of wine and local spirits. Otherwise, we found ok(ish) parking in the city to visit Skopje by motorhome.
8. Northern Greece
Moving away from the islands, Northern Greece offers incredible mountain ranges and of course, Gyros to boot.
- Thessaloniki: This is Greece’s ‘second city’ and culinary capital.
- Things to Do: Climb the White Tower, visit the Rotunda, and eat your way through the Modiano Market. Or just genuinely (as we did) eat your way through Gyros and Greek treats in the north before heading even further north to Bulgaria!
- Driving & Parking: Excellent motorways. Avoid driving into the city centre; use the official parking areas at the Port and walk.
9. Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers stunning mountains and a unique blend of Slavic and Ottoman influences. We really enjoyed Sofia and found it a stunning city to explore.
- Sofia: A city where Roman ruins sit beneath glass-domed metro stations.
- Things to Do: The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard for shopping, and the Boyana Church on the outskirts.
- Driving & Parking: Vignette is mandatory. Driving is fine, but rural roads can be very bumpy.
10. Romania
Romania is vast and wildly beautiful. It is the ultimate country for “slow” motorhome travel.
- Brașov: A medieval Transylvanian gem surrounded by mountains.
- Things to Do: The Black Church, Mount Tâmpa, and a day trip to Bran (Dracula’s) Castle.
- Driving & Parking: Expect slow travel times. Romania lacks a comprehensive motorway network, meaning you’ll be driving through many villages. Watch for horse-drawn carts!
11. Moldova (& Transnistria)
Moldova is the least visited country in Europe. Transnistria is a breakaway state that still flies the Soviet flag. We did them both and really enjoyed the far off-the-beaten-track vibes of Moldova (and Transnistria).
- Chişinău & Tiraspol: Fascinating ex-Soviet (and Soviet-still) countries way in the far east of Eastern Europe. We really enjoyed making it all the way east to get there.
- Things to Do: The Milestii Mici wine cellars (the world’s largest), Chisinau Market. the Soviet tanks of Tiraspol, and the Suvorov Monument.
- Driving & Parking: Road quality is the lowest in the region. Transnistria requires a separate entry permit issued at the internal “border.”
- Read 10 Things To Do In Chisinau, Moldova & Why To Visit and 10 Unique Things To Do In Tiraspol, Transnistria Visiting From Chisinau.
12. Ukraine
(Current Note: Check travel advisories due to the ongoing conflict).
Albeit travel to Ukraine does not exactly roll off the tongue as a hot destination for 2026.
However, Uzhhorod is currently the only Ukrainian city that has yet to be bombed by a single Russian missile and has never been invaded. It is literally just a few kilometres from the border with Slovakia and Hungary. This is where we visited on the far west of Ukraine – in far Eastern Europe!
- Uzhhorod: A city and municipality on the Uzh River in western Ukraine, at the border with Slovakia near Hungary. There are lots of things to do in Uzhhorod that make it one of the best tourist places to visit in western Ukraine.
- Lviv: A city that feels like a slice of Paris or Vienna.
- Things to Do: Lviv Opera House, the High Castle park, and the incredible Lviv Coffee Manufacture.
- Driving & Parking: Distances are huge. Borders can be a multi-hour ordeal. Road quality varies significantly between major routes and rural areas.
13. Belarus
Wondering about visiting Belarus and the Visa Free Region of Brest – Grodno? We crossed the border from Terespol, Poland and found plenty of interesting – albeit unique – things to do in Brest, Belarus. Belarus is surprisingly clean, organized, and efficient.
- Brest: One of the oldest cities in Belarus. It is located in southwest of Belarus on the Polish border. Quite literally – just across the border crossing point from Terespol in Poland.
- Grodno: Grodno is one of the two Belarusian border cities with Poland that has the peculiarity they can be visited without a visa.
- Things to Do: Independence Avenue, Grodno Old Castle, Hrodna New Castle, Central Market, and the Great Patriotic War Museum.
- Driving & Parking: Roads are excellent, but you must use the “BelToll” electronic tag system. We stayed the first night at the InTourist Hotel in Brest.
Part III: Our Pro-Tips for Motorhoming the East
Eastern Europe by motorhome is a bit more exciting than the West. (In our opinion!). The hospitality is next level. But I do agree, the modern motorhome standards aren’t anywhere as flash as the West.
- Water & Waste: You won’t find the fancy “Sani-Stations” of France here. Learn to be creative. Gas stations are your best friends—most will let you fill up if you buy fuel.
- Connectivity: Data is cheap, but “Roaming” is a trap. Buy a local SIM card the moment you cross the border in non-EU countries like Serbia or Albania.
- The “Rakia” Rule: If a local offers you a drink, take it (if safe). It is the gateway to the best stories and the most secret parking spots.
- Security: We have found Eastern Europe to be safer than Western Europe. However, use common sense. Don’t leave bikes unlocked and trust your gut when choosing a spot.
Eastern Europe by Motorhome?
Eastern Europe is a place that changes you. It forces you to be more patient, more resourceful, and more open-hearted. But we reckon it is one of the best places in the world to be a slow traveller in a motorhome. We’d go back in a heartbeat.
Arriving to Amsterdam to buy your motorhome? Check Ibis Schiphol, Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport and Radisson Blu Hotel Schiphol to start your trip.
Read More About Travel in Europe by Motorhome
- The Brutal, Beautiful Truth: What One Year of Motorhoming in Europe Taught Us.
- Buying a Motorhome in Europe: The Kiwi & Aussie Checklist.
- Border Crossing: Kosovo to North Macedonia.
- Things To Do In Podgorica, Montenegro.
- 10 Cities To Visit In Europe By Motorhome.
- Border Crossing: Serbia to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Border Crossing: Bosnia to Montenegro.
- Things To Do In Chisinau, Moldova.
More Useful Links for Your Travels in Europe and Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Make sure you have insurance before buying a motorhome and planning van life in Eastern Europe!