Best North Europe RV Itinerary for cheap rv rental — Overview
Embarking on an RV adventure through North Europe offers a unique blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultures. For a fulfilling journey, Avi Bandana recommends a minimum of 7 days, ideally extending to 14 days to truly immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes. A 7-day trip covering Denmark and Southern Sweden typically spans around 700-800 km, while a 14-day extended exploration can comfortably cover 1500-1600 km, allowing for a relaxed pace. The most budget-friendly time to explore is during the shoulder seasons, from April to May or September to October. This period not only offers lower rental prices and fewer crowds but also pleasant weather and the chance to witness unique phenomena like the early Northern Lights in the northernmost regions.
7-Day Classic Route in North Europe
This classic 7-day RV route is designed to provide a delightful taste of Denmark and Southern Sweden, perfectly balancing coastal vistas, historic city exploration, and scenic countryside drives. You'll maintain a comfortable average daily drive of 100-120 km, allowing ample time for discovery. Your journey begins in Copenhagen, Denmark (Day 1), with a short drive to Roskilde (40 km), home to the Viking Ship Museum and the magnificent Roskilde Cathedral. Continue to Odense (Day 2, 140 km) to explore the Hans Christian Andersen Museum and its charming old town. Day 3 takes you to Kolding (90 km) to visit Koldinghus Castle. On Day 4, cross the impressive Øresund Bridge to Malmö, Sweden (190 km), a vibrant city with Malmö Castle and Ribersborg Beach. Day 5 is a relaxed 70 km drive to Ystad, known for its medieval streets and the striking Ales Stenar stone monument. Explore the historic university city of Lund (Day 6, 60 km), with its impressive cathedral, before returning to Copenhagen (Day 7, 50 km) to drop off your rental RV and perhaps spend more time exploring the Danish capital.
14-Day Extended Journey in North Europe
For those seeking a deeper dive into the charm of North Europe, this 14-day itinerary builds upon the Danish and Southern Swedish experience, incorporating more diverse landscapes and allowing for more leisurely exploration. The average daily drive remains under 150 km to ensure a relaxed pace.
Part 1: Danish Delights (Days 1-5)
Day 1: Copenhagen → Roskilde (40 km), visit Viking Ship Museum. Stay at Roskilde Camping.
Day 2: Roskilde → Odense (140 km), explore H.C. Andersen Museum. Stay at Odense City Camp.
Day 3: Odense → Billund (Legoland) (100 km), enjoy Legoland Park and LEGO House. Stay at Lalandia Billund Resort or nearby.
Day 4: Billund → Ribe (70 km), discover Denmark's oldest town, Ribe Cathedral, and the VikingeCenter. Stay at Ribe Camping.
Day 5: Ribe → Aarhus (160 km), a slightly longer drive with highlights like ARoS Art Museum and Den Gamle By. Stay at Aarhus Camping.
Part 2: Swedish West Coast & Lakes (Days 6-10)
Day 6: Aarhus → Frederikshavn (150 km), then take a ferry to Gothenburg, Sweden (approx. 4 hours, book ahead). Stay at Lisebergsbyns Camping.
Day 7: Gothenburg → Lysekil (100 km) on the West Coast for coastal hikes and fresh seafood. Stay at Lysekil Camping.
Day 8: Lysekil → Grebbestad (70 km), a picturesque fishing village known for kayaking. Stay at Grebbestadfjorden Camping.
Day 9: Grebbestad → Trollhättan (100 km), explore the famous Göta Canal locks and museum. Stay at Trollhättans Camping.
Day 10: Trollhättan → Jönköping (150 km), enjoy views of Lake Vättern and visit Gränna (candy town). Stay at Jönköpings Camping.
Part 3: Southern Swedish Charm & Return (Days 11-14)
Day 11: Jönköping → Kalmar (180 km), visit Kalmar Castle and drive over to Öland Island. Stay at Stensö Camping.
Day 12: Kalmar → Helsingborg (170 km), explore Sofiero Palace and enjoy views across to Denmark. Stay at Råå Vallar Resort.
Day 13: Helsingborg → Copenhagen, Denmark (100 km) via ferry or Øresund Bridge, for final explorations. Stay at Absalon Camping.
Day 14: Depart from Copenhagen, Denmark.
Recommended RVPlan Trip for North Europe
While we don't have specific RVPlan data for this exact route, Avi Bandana strongly recommends exploring the diverse array of pre-planned RV trips available through Bandana Caravan's Rent-Motorhome platform. These expertly crafted itineraries are designed to simplify your travel planning, offering detailed routes, recommended stops, and invaluable insights for an optimal North European adventure. Search for terms like 'Scandinavian Road Trip' or 'Baltic Sea Loop' on RV PLANET routes to find inspiration tailored to your travel style and preferences.
FAQs About Renting an RV in North Europe
How much does a motorhome rental cost in North Europe?
The average daily cost for a Class C motorhome rental in North Europe starts from approximately 89. Prices vary based on the RV class, season, rental duration, and supplier, so it's best to compare options for accurate pricing.
What is the minimum driver age for cheap rv rental in North Europe?
The minimum driver age for renting an RV in North Europe is typically 21 years old. Some suppliers may have a higher minimum age, often 25, for larger or more powerful motorhome classes.
Can I pick up a cheap rv in North Europe and return it in a different city?
Yes, one-way RV rentals are commonly available with most suppliers in North Europe. A drop-off fee usually applies, which can vary depending on the route and the distance between pickup and return locations.
What should I pack for an RV trip in North Europe?
Beyond personal clothing suitable for varied weather, pack essentials like sturdy walking shoes, rain gear, and layers for changing temperatures. Most rentals include basic kitchenware, bedding, and towels, but always check with your supplier. It's also wise to bring navigation tools, a first-aid kit, and any personal comfort items.
What are the common mistakes first-time cheap rv renters make in North Europe?
Common mistakes include underestimating driving times due to road conditions, not booking popular campgrounds or ferries in advance, and neglecting to factor in ancillary costs like fuel and tolls. Overpacking is also frequent; pack mindfully for comfort and space.
How do I find the cheapest cheap rv rental if I'm flexible?
To find the cheapest RV rental, be flexible with your travel dates, aiming for the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn). Consider traveling mid-week rather than weekends, and utilize comparison platforms like Bandana Caravan to easily compare prices across multiple suppliers.
Can I wild camp in North Europe?
In Sweden, Norway, and Finland, 'Everyman's Right' (Allemansrätten) generally permits wild camping on uncultivated land for short periods, provided you are respectful and leave no trace. However, always check local regulations as rules can vary, and paid campgrounds offer more amenities.
How much does it cost to rent an RV in North Europe?
Motorhome rental in North Europe typically starts around 50–100 € EUR per night and can reach around 350–400 € EUR per night.
Is it cheaper per night to rent an RV in North Europe for longer?
In our current weekly price samples for North Europe, a one-month rental costs less per night than a one-week rental. Monthly rentals typically start around 50–100 € EUR per night.
