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Campervan Europe | A Month Across Italy, Austria, Czechia & Hungary
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items Four countries, one campervan, and a summer of unforgettable stories. From the canals of Venice to the hills of Prague, we road-tripped through Europe’s beauty, chaos, and culture — one gas station croissant and cobblestone at a time. This list captu...
Sections
14
Before We Hit the Road
Rome Arrival & Campervan Pickup
Exploring Rome & the Vatican
Pompeii, Naples & the Southern Coast
Sicily by Camper
Road to Northern Italy
Before We Hit the Road
The countdown, the chaos, and the checklists. These posts capture everything that happened before wheels hit the road — from packing shoes that won’t blister in Italy to navigating school prep, laundry, and last-minute errands. It’s the unglamorous b...
From school supply runs to Vatican dress codes, this post captures the very real prep it takes to leave for a month-long family road trip abroad. Flip flops bought, fridge cleared, bills paid, and backpacks nearly packed — this was the moment the cou...https://www.instagram.com/p/C9eCLvtu7LG/
Pre-Trip Prep & Mental Load Before Takeoff
Rome Arrival & Campervan Pickup
From airport jet lag to finding our first home on wheels, this is where the adventure officially kicked off. We picked up our campervan and found an incredible campground in Rome — complete with waterpark, sports zones, and shops — the perfect launch...
Our month-long campervan journey through Europe began with the longest flight we’ve taken yet — from Puerto Vallarta to Dallas to Rome. The boys did great on the flight (movies, naps, and some surprisingly decent plane food helped), and we were espec...https://roma.huopenair.com/ Instagram Blog: https://www.instagram.com/p/C9ksSi2Kxs-/?img_index=1
Arriving in Rome & Picking Up the Campervan
Exploring Rome & the Vatican
Our first major sightseeing stop of the trip: Vatican City. From the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter’s Basilica, we squeezed in the highlights of the world’s smallest country before continuing the road trip.
What can you even say about visiting the Vatican? 🇻🇦 Photos can’t capture the scale, the artistry, or the reverence of it all. As the smallest country in the world, Vatican City holds some of the largest cultural treasures on Earth. We made it to t... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9nqWaWqfob/?img_index=1
Awe-Inspiring Morning at the Vatican
Our first full day exploring Rome was packed but surprisingly smooth! 🚌🚇 We grabbed pastries from the campground café and hopped on the nearby bus to the metro, heading straight for Vatican City. The Rome transit system was easy to navigate—even wi... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9nsizbKb3G/?img_index=1
Rome by Metro, Pool by Sunset
Today we checked off another world wonder—the mighty Roman Colosseum! 🇮🇹🏛️ It’s hard to put into words how jaw-dropping this place is. As the largest amphitheater in the world, the Colosseum still holds a Guinness World Record and continues to awe... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9qOuNxqTBh/?img_index=1
World Wonder #5: The Roman Colosseum
Rome really is a city where you turn the corner and suddenly find yourself face-to-face with something incredible. 🏛️ From ancient Roman ruins to Renaissance art, every block is layered with centuries of history and beauty. We visited the Trevi Foun... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9qRIGzK5Er/?img_index=1
Rome in All Its Layers — Trevi, Spanish Steps & Renaissance Magic
Pompeii, Naples & the Southern Coast
Exploring Southern Italy from the comfort of our campervan, this leg of the journey includes ancient ruins, unexpected food finds, and laid-back coastal towns. From Pompeii’s ash-covered past to the bustling streets of Naples and the beauty of the Am...
After wrapping up Rome, we hit the road and took the scenic coastal route to the Pompeii region, stopping only once for a small toll. We found a perfect camper stop—Camping Spartacus—located directly across from the ruins of Pompeii. ⛺ Pompeii has be...https://www.instagram.com/p/C9sinFZqjC1/?img_index=1
Pompeii Arrival & Campervan Life Perks
Just steps from our camper stop at Camping Spartacus, we crossed the road into history—spending a few hours wandering through the haunting, remarkably preserved ruins of Pompeii. Overcast skies made for comfortable exploring, but even three hours was... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9vDpVpqcSq/?img_index=1
Exploring the Frozen City of Pompeii
After a cozy lunch at the campsite, a sudden thunderstorm rolled in—delaying our planned metro trip to Naples. Once the storm passed, we finally made our way in, but... it wasn’t quite what we hoped. We genuinely tried to give Naples a fair shot, but... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9vEqTEqszy/?img_index=1
A Rainstorm and a Rough Afternoon in Naples
If you’re ready for elbow-to-elbow crowds and cliffside bus rides that feel like thrill rides, then the Amalfi Coast won’t disappoint. We tackled the public bus route from Pompeii and made it to Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi—and despite the chaos, t... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9x3IaDqv1p/?img_index=1
Amalfi Coast by Bus: Beautiful, Chaotic, Unforgettable
Another travel day down the coast, making our way toward Sicily with a ferry already booked for tomorrow. We landed at a beachside campground with a pool and handwashing-only laundry — good thing we’re seasoned travelers by now 🤣🧺 This was one of t...https://www.instagram.com/p/C90S47-KjgM/?img_index=7
From Amalfi to the Old Country
Sicily by Camper
Welcome to Sicily — the “old country” where castles pop out of hillsides, street art mingles with ancient churches, and the pace of life slows down for siesta. This subfolder chronicles our days exploring Sicily from the road: navigating high-speed h...
Today’s travel went smoother than expected — we arrived at the ferry terminal two hours early and were waved right onto the next one (BC Ferries could learn a thing or two 👀). With limited time on Sicily, we chose to explore Palermo, the capital, kn...https://www.instagram.com/p/C925gapKIV9/?img_index=1
Palermo Arrival & Olive Tree Campsites
If you do only one thing in Palermo, let it be wandering through the city’s open-air markets. These lively corridors of produce, fried snacks, and fresh seafood are more than shopping stops — they’re centuries-old traditions still beating with local ...https://www.instagram.com/p/C95epOVqzn-/?img_index=1
Palermo’s Open-Air Markets – A Window to the Past
Palermo saved one of its most jaw-dropping surprises for the end: Chiesa del Gesù. This Baroque masterpiece, filled with intricate stucco and angelic sculptures, is a UNESCO-listed church that left me completely speechless. I’ve honestly never seen a... https://www.instagram.com/p/C95iqZvqev4/?img_index=1
Chiesa del Gesù & Our Last Day in Palermo
Road to Northern Italy
This stretch of our campervan journey takes us up Italy’s long boot — from the southern whitewashed villages of Puglia to the winding canals of Venice and the alpine beauty of Lake Como. Long drive days, unexpected gems, and a shift toward the cooler...
Today was one of the longest drive days of the entire trip — but it was worth it. We left Palermo behind with our sights set on Venice and made a long haul up to Alberobello in Puglia, arriving just in time for an evening cruise through the iconic tr...https://www.instagram.com/p/C98Jug4KwU8/?img_index=1
Trulli Town Stopover in Alberobello
Everyone is officially starting to miss tacos 🤣🙌🏻 For real though. Eating in Italy is serious business — and not just in terms of flavor, but structure. The locals have strict food rules and the culture around meals is very different from what we’... https://www.instagram.com/p/C9-rPK6quav/?img_index=1
Venice Arrival & Food Culture Shifts
Venice & the Northern Lakes
From the floating marvels of Venice to the reflective calm of Lake Como, this chapter of our trip explores Italy’s serene and storied north. A world of canals, gothic facades, alpine views, and slower days that feel like poetry in motion.
There are so many beautiful corners of Venice — it’s honestly hard to take it all in. This is a city best enjoyed on foot, with no real plan. Just wander the winding corridors, cross historic bridges, and let yourself get lost. Built on 118 islands l... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-BLx6YqlBh/?img_index=1
Wandering Venice
The best part of Venice? Wandering those quiet side canals, where laundry hangs from balconies just like you always imagined. Gondolas slide by on the Grand Canal, but the real charm is tucked into the twisted back streets. We spent the whole day exp... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-BNupxKCFa/?img_index=1
Quiet Corners & Gondola Glides
Austria & the Heart of Europe
Rolling into the alpine heartland, this stretch of the journey brought us through storybook villages, grand imperial cities, and scenic roads flanked by rivers and mountain peaks. From Vienna’s cultural elegance to the green serenity of the countrysi...
Driving into Austria felt a bit like coming home — mountains, rivers, trees — but add in the fairytale villages and it’s another level of beauty. Over 60% of the country is covered by the Austrian Alps, with forests, grasslands, and mountain peaks st... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-D1DdDqTSt/?img_index=1
First Impressions of Austria
Wow. What a city! Vienna absolutely blew us away today. We wandered through the old town’s grand buildings, elegant squares, and bustling streets — and honestly, we probably didn’t even see a quarter of what there is to discover. Vienna is effortless...https://www.instagram.com/p/C-GjUH8KLfj/?img_index=1
Vienna’s Imperial Magic
We didn’t have time to hit every museum in Vienna (next time!), but we did make it to the Kunsthistorisches Museum — and wow, was it worth it. The building itself is jaw-dropping, especially the grand staircase and ceiling frescoes. Even if you didn’... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-GkWUBqUJe/?img_index=1
A Taste of Vienna — Museums & Sweets
After a day of highway driving behind endless European sound walls (good for the ears, not so good for the views), we finally rolled into Salzburg — a city that blends history, culture, and alpine beauty. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Salzbur... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-TIRt4KgwH/?img_index=1
Arriving in Salzburg — Campground at the Foot of Gaisberg Mountain
Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Salzburg is a city where history and music seem to echo off every cobblestone street. We started at the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the largest in Central Europe, with sweeping views of the city and river. Down in Ol...https://www.instagram.com/p/C-V8KiHKgJf/?img_index=1
Exploring Salzburg in a Day – History, Music & Mountain Views
After our fortress visit earlier in the day, we continued exploring Salzburg with the Salzburg Card — a pass that covers museum entries, public transportation, and funicular/cable car rides, plus skip-the-line access at some attractions. We started w... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-V_SbVqKvG/?img_index=1
Salzburg Highlights with the Salzburg Card – Palaces, Gardens & Musical Landmarks
Hallstatt may be tiny, but it’s packed with history, charm, and a few surprising quirks. Once a hidden gem, this colorful lakeside village is now one of Austria’s most photographed destinations. Spend your day strolling its narrow streets, visiting t...https://www.viator.com/tours/Vienna/Day-trip-to-Hallstatt-from-Vienna/d454-3585P41 It’s a great way to make the most of your time while avoiding parking stress.
A Day Trip to Hallstatt – Austria’s Lakeside Fairytale Town
Czechia | Fairytale Prague, Castles & Comfort Food
From Prague’s enchanting cobblestone streets to hearty Czech comfort food and medieval castle views, this stop brought a perfect blend of storybook charm and satisfying eats. Includes honest notes on campground conditions and a look at some legendary...
Before heading out of Austria, we made a meaningful stop at the Zentralfriedhof — Vienna’s famous “Cemetery of the Stars.” It’s home to over 3 million people, including 1,000 honorary graves, among them Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, and Strauss. Nowhe... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-I9OpkqWrp/?img_index=1
Vienna to Czechia + a Musical Legend
I couldn’t stop snapping shots of this fairytale city! I took more pictures here than in any other stop so far—there’s just something magical around every corner. If you’re planning a trip to Central Europe, Prague is absolutely a must. With its perf... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-Lt-Zhq27O/?img_index=1
One day in Prague and a million photos later.
The highlight of the day was definitely visiting St. Vitus Cathedral, nestled within the sprawling Prague Castle complex. As soon as you step inside, you understand why it’s such a big deal—this is Gothic architecture at its finest. The soaring ceili... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-Lwfxcq7fo/?img_index=1
Strolling through history at Prague Castle
It’s not just the fairy-tale towers and gothic spires that wowed us in Prague — the food was seriously next level. We started the day with warm, sugary trdelník (a sweet dough pastry grilled and rolled in cinnamon sugar), then went full local with so... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-LydgbKg8m/?img_index=1
From sweet trdelník to savory goulash — Prague wins for food variety
Hungary | Budapest, Baths & Bonus Country Stops
Midway through the adventure, we crossed into Hungary after a whirlwind day of three countries in one. From riverside camping and spontaneous concerts to hot springs and street food, Budapest offered a unique mix of rest, beauty, and connection.
Today was a whirlwind travel day through Czechia 🇨🇿, Slovakia 🇸🇰, and finally into Hungary 🇭🇺! We’re now set up at the only campground in Budapest, and I’m so glad I thought to message them yesterday — by the time we arrived, they were turning ... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-OK5mkqbNX/?img_index=1
Three countries in one day — Czechia, Slovakia & now Hungary!
Okay… I know every new city becomes a new favorite, but wow — I could live in Budapest. What a fun and vibrant city with some of the friendliest people we’ve met on this trip. Hungary really is one of Europe’s most underrated gems. Between its beauti... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-Q68mgqaj2/?img_index=1
Falling in Love with Budapest’s Energy and Charm
Some of the best places to soak up Central Europe’s distinct charm are Budapest, Vienna, and Prague — all important centers of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. While they share a rich historical thread, each city feels entirely different, and Buda...https://www.instagram.com/p/C-Q9sCHq1Oa/?img_index=1
Budapest — The Diamond in the Rough of Central Europe
Hungary is like that old Sesame Street song: “One of These Things is Not Like the Other.” While every Central European country has its quirks, Hungary’s language, customs, cuisine, and folklore set it apart in remarkable ways. Its history is shaped b... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-RCvbzqaeV/?img_index=1
One Day in Budapest — A City That Defies Expectations
Italy – Northern Gems & City Stops
Exploring the charm, history, and vibrant culture of Northern Italy—from alpine drives to bustling cities like Milan, with memorable connections and unforgettable moments along the way.
After a stunning drive through the Alps, trading mountain peaks for rolling vineyards, we arrived in Milan and found ourselves swept up in the energy of a Latin festival. The night was filled with music, Peruvian food, and the warmth of new friends w... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-bGR_qKJjg/?img_index=1
From Alpine Vistas to Milan Nights
Milan may be Italy’s fashion and design capital, but for us it felt more like a quick city stop than a must-linger destination. That said, it does pack a lot of history, architecture, and charm into a small city center that’s easy to walk in a single... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-df8pnqG-a/?img_index=1
Milan's Must See: Half-Day Tour of Last Supper, Duomo & La Scala
Lake Como is a dream destination for many—a wishbone-shaped lake nestled in the Alps, dotted with colorful villages, luxury villas, and plenty of “Instagram-perfect” moments. But here’s the truth: unless you stay a few nights, it can feel more rushed... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-gK3D5KUXf/?img_index=1
Crowds, Ferries & Gelato – A Day Trip to Lake Como
So thankful the drive to Pisa was a short one. We checked into the only campground in town just after lunch — perfectly situated within walking distance of the Leaning Tower! After a leisurely stroll, we were able to check this iconic landmark off ou...https://www.viator.com/tours/Pisa/Timed-Entrance-to-Leaning-Tower-Pisa-and-Cathedral-with-Audio/d520-462362P61 or a similar service. Entry is timed and slots often sell out weeks ahead.
Pisa & the Leaning Tower | A Short Stop With a Big Icon
Florence (Firenze) is one of Italy’s most dazzling art cities, with its Renaissance architecture, bustling piazzas, and endless cultural treasures. We’re lucky to have two full days here, because one day is simply not enough. Our first stop was the D... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-lSgSaKcyz/?img_index=1
Florence Day One – Duomo, Markets & Pasta Dreams
Our second full day in Florence was jam-packed with highlights, starting with a walk across the Ponte Vecchio. This colorful medieval bridge, lined with jewelry shops, is one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks. It was lively and bustling, though sad... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-oCVXnKTNW/?img_index=1
Florence Day Two – Bridges, Boars & Open-Air Art
Our second day in Florence was all about masterpieces and viewpoints. I can’t stress enough how thankful we were to have Skip-the-Line tickets for Galleria dell’Accademia—the lines outside were outrageous, but we walked right in at our scheduled time... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-oFCTJKJ0w/?img_index=1
Michelangelo’s David & Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo
Travel Notes & Reflections
Not every memory fits neatly into a landmark or city. This folder captures the funny moments, cultural quirks, and little family stories that make traveling so unforgettable.
Not every travel memory is about a famous landmark or postcard view — sometimes the best stories are the little quirks you notice along the way. From bus etiquette and campground encounters to chubby chihuahuas, random cultural surprises, and the kid... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-h1sp-KsHz/?img_index=1
Random Travel Notes & Quirks We Don’t Want to Forget
Europe Travel Gear & Essentials
Tried-and-true gear that makes long travel days easier—from anti-theft bags to comfy shoes and packable accessories. These are the items that actually survived a month on the road with our family.
When you’re navigating busy metros in Rome, wandering Prague’s packed squares, or boarding ferries in Venice, an anti-theft backpack is one of the smartest pieces of gear you can bring. We used ours every single day in Europe—it kept passports, snack...
Osprey Anti-Theft Backpack – Perfect for City Days
Italy – Rome: The Beginning & The End
Our month-long journey began and ended in Rome. From the buzz of the Eternal City to the simple joys of our family-friendly campsite, this subfolder captures both the anticipation of setting off and the relief of coming home full circle.
Day twenty-eight brought us full circle, back to the same Rome campsite where this adventure began. Even though the campground requires a two-night minimum (meaning we had to pay for an extra night we wouldn’t use), it was still cheaper than a hotel ... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-qjda0qk8n/?img_index=1
Back Where It All Began – A Rest Day at the Rome Campsite
After nearly 6,300 km in our trusty camper, today marked the official end of our Euro Trip. We dropped off the van and hopped on a long flight back across the Atlantic, landing in Dallas just after 7 p.m. With our airport hotel conveniently close, we... https://www.instagram.com/p/C-tzsjVuGD6/?img_index=1
6,300 Kilometers Later – Heading Home
We made it. (Some days just barely 🤣). After a month on the road, crossing 6 countries and racking up 6,300km, we’re finally home. Four countries explored in depth, two just passed through, and one more world wonder checked off the list. Three more ...
6,300 Kilometers, Countless Memories – Home Again