Parking your motorhome in the city: a practical guide
Updated on 3 October 2026 · 2 min read
Between height limits, narrow streets and overcrowded motorhome areas in high season, parking a motorhome near a city centre takes some preparation. A private space booked in advance removes part of the stress. Here is what to check.
Measure your vehicle, with some margin
Note your motorhome's dimensions and compare them with those in the listing, with a safety margin of a few centimetres. Prefer a listing that states the height: if it says "Height not provided", it is better to choose another.
- The total length, including bike racks and ladder.
- The width, including mirrors.
- The height, counting roof air conditioning, solar panels and the aerial: this is the measurement that most often blocks entry to a garage or under an archway.
- The total loaded weight, important if the ground is soft.
Look at the ground and the access
Asphalt and concrete carry the weight of a motorhome well. Gravel, grass or earth can sink after rain: look at the ground type given in the listing.
Check the width of the gate, any slope and the room to manoeuvre. Listings show an ease-of-access level, from "For experienced drivers" to "Very easy". For a first arrival, choose daytime.
Useful services
Depending on the listing, the space may offer a water point, grey water disposal, black water disposal, a power outlet or a charging station. These services are shown on the listing and can be used as search filters.
Do not assume anything: if a service is not listed, it is not offered.
The oversize surcharge
Some owners apply a surcharge above certain dimensions, for example above 7 m long or 2.80 m high. It is shown on the listing and included in the total before you pay.
Sleeping in your vehicle: clarify first
A parking space is for parking the vehicle. Sleeping on board is only allowed if the listing says “Overnight stay allowed”: the owner decides this option, and you can filter listings that offer it from the home page. Without it, parking is allowed but not sleeping on board. Local or residents' rules may also apply.
Checklist before you go
- Vehicle dimensions noted and compared with the listing.
- Ground type and ease of access checked.
- Required services (water, waste disposal, electricity) clearly stated in the listing.
- Access code and arrival and departure times noted.
- Licence plate entered when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Can I book by the week?
Yes, when the owner offers a weekly or monthly rate. Otherwise, booking is by the day.
How do I find a space with a water point?
On the home page, tick "Water point" (and any other equipment you want) under the search bar: only equipped spaces are shown.
Are caravans accepted?
It depends on the listing: each space states the accepted vehicles (motorhome, caravan, truck...).