Aires in France: The Motorhome & Campervan Guide

What is an aire?

An aire de camping-car is a place set aside for motorhomes and campervans, usually by the town. Some are just a few parking bays (aire de stationnement); others are only a service point for water and waste (aire de services); many are both. France has the largest network in Europe, which is a big part of why it is the most popular vanlife country.

• Many aires are free; others charge roughly up to €15 a night, sometimes with electricity.
• Payment is often by card at a barrier or terminal, or by a token (jeton) from the town hall or tourist office.
• Aires are for motorhomes and vans. Setting up a camp (tables, awnings) is often not allowed even there; check the sign.

The rules in France

• Continuous parking on the same public road spot is limited to 7 days; after that it is abusive parking.
• Local bans by arrêté municipal are common on the coast and in tourist towns. Look for the crossed-out motorhome sign.
• Wild camping is restricted in protected and coastal sites.
• Indicative fines: €35 for abusive/obstructive parking, €135 for very obstructive or dangerous parking; vehicles can be towed.

Where to stay legally in France

Thousands of aires (free to about €15 a night, many with water and waste), France Passion farms and wineries, and campsites (roughly €15–40+ a night by season). Tourist tax applies at paid sites.

Local names: aire de camping-car (aire de services / aire de stationnement), France Passion (farms & wineries), camping.

Practical tips for France

• A Crit'Air sticker is required to drive in low-emission zones (ZFE), including for foreign vehicles. Buy it only from the official government site (about €3.70). A 2025 vote to abolish ZFEs was struck down by the Constitutional Council in May 2026, so they remain.
• Motorway tolls: motorhomes are usually class 2 (over 2 m high, under 3.5 t).

Find spots in France

Browse spots in France or the France vanlife page, filter the map by aires, water and dump points, and read recent reviews before you go. Add any good spot you find: it helps the next van.