jaca mortorhome camper van parking

Jaca will again allow Motorhome and Camper Parking: great news for itinerant travelers

Jaca, the jewel of the Aragonese Pyrenees, has taken a big step forward by modifying its traffic regulations to make street parking easier for motorhomes, campers, and recreational vehicles. This change, approved in March 2025, makes Jaca an even more welcoming destination for traveling adventurers.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about this update, its benefits, and why Jaca should be a must-stop on your next road trip.

A Quick Look Back, A Giant Leap Forward

Before this update, parking motorhomes in Jaca was limited by strict regulations that made visiting difficult for non-residents. Now, thanks to the new ordinance, the City Council of Jaca allows these vehicles to park on public roads under the same conditions as any other car, as long as traffic rules are respected.

This change, reported by outlets like Cadena SER and Jacetania Express, shows a clear commitment to sustainable and nomadic tourism.

The Previous Problem: A Barrier to Motorhome Tourism

Before the 2025 amendment, Jaca had one of the most restrictive parking policies in Spain for motorhomes. According to a Heraldo de Aragón article from May 11, 2023, only motorhomes registered to local residents were allowed to park on public streets. This left out travelers from other towns, provinces, or countries, who were faced with a logistical nightmare when visiting.

How Did This Restriction Affect Travelers?

The old ordinance caused issues that went far beyond minor inconveniences. Here are the main problems vanlifers encountered:

  • No legal parking options: Tourists couldn’t park like they would with a regular car, forcing them to seek out specific motorhome areas that were sometimes full or unavailable.
  • Dependence on paid or private areas: Without public access, many travelers had to resort to private lots or paid services, increasing costs and limiting spontaneity.
  • Restricted access to central Jaca: Lack of nearby parking meant travelers had to walk long distances to enjoy landmarks like the Cathedral of San Pedro or the Citadel.
  • Confusion and fines: Vague signage led to improper parking and fines, creating frustration and a negative image of Jaca as a motorhome destination.
  • Missing out on a tourism boom: Vanlife and motorhome travel has skyrocketed, but the previous policy discouraged this growing group from visiting Jaca—hurting both travelers and local businesses.

A Real-Life Example

Imagine arriving in Jaca in May 2023 after a long journey through the Pyrenees in your camper. You’re excited to explore the historic center and enjoy a local meal. But you discover you can’t park anywhere because you're not a resident. Designated areas are full, and your only option is a private lot on the outskirts charging €15 per night. What should be a relaxing experience turns into a frustrating search—something many vanlifers experienced firsthand.

This wasn’t just an inconvenience; it was a missed opportunity for Jaca. Caravan associations and travelers had long called for change, arguing the rules were outdated and unfair.

What Do Travelers Gain from This New Ordinance?

The new regulation offers multiple advantages for motorhome travelers:

  • Freedom to park: You can now legally park in designated public areas, as long as you don’t engage in camping activities (e.g., extending awnings or placing outdoor furniture).
  • Proximity to Jaca’s highlights: Park close to the historic center and instantly enjoy the Cathedral of San Pedro, the Citadel, and more.
  • Supportive infrastructure: Jaca also provides dedicated motorhome areas with water refill stations, waste disposal, and other essential services for longer stays.

This openness makes it easier to plan your trip and focus on enjoying the journey.

Key Details of the New Regulation

The ordinance change was made possible through collaboration between the City Council and various caravaning associations. Here are the key takeaways:

  • Parking allowed: Motorhomes, campers, and RVs can now park under the same conditions as regular vehicles, provided camping activities are not performed.
  • Designated areas: While public parking is allowed, it's essential to respect signage and avoid obstructing traffic. Jaca also offers dedicated areas with services like water refill and waste disposal.
  • Maximum parking time: Some areas may have time limits, so always check local signs to avoid fines.

This regulatory change makes Jaca a more accessible and motorhome-friendly destination, encouraging responsible and sustainable tourism.

Why This Change Matters

Jaca’s decision to allow motorhome parking is a major boost for nomadic tourism, a growing trend drawing thousands of visitors each year. Here’s why this move is so important:

  • Boost for local tourism: Jaca is rich in historical and natural heritage. By attracting more travelers, local businesses—restaurants, shops, tour services—stand to benefit significantly.
  • Vanlife-friendly destination: Motorhome travelers seek places with safe and legal parking options. With this change, Jaca becomes a welcoming and well-equipped stop on any route.
  • Promotion of sustainable tourism: Van travel allows for reduced carbon footprints, letting travelers explore with more autonomy and less environmental impact.

Why Jaca Is a Motorhome Paradise

Jaca shines not only because of its new ordinance but also for its wealth of attractions:

  • Living history: Explore the Cathedral of San Pedro, one of Spain’s oldest, and the impressive 16th-century Citadel.
  • Endless nature: Surrounded by the Pyrenees, Jaca is perfect for hiking, skiing, and cycling.
  • Unique flavors: Taste local dishes like migas aragonesas or trucha a la jaquesa in its cozy eateries.

With its mix of culture, nature, and progressive policy, Jaca is now a key stop for vanlifers.

Tips for Parking Your Motorhome in Jaca

If you're planning to visit Jaca with your camper or RV, here are a few helpful tips:

  • Follow parking rules: Always park in legal areas and avoid camping activities in public spaces.
  • Use designated areas: Take advantage of official motorhome areas with grey and black water disposal, fresh water refill, and in some cases, electric hook-ups.
  • Check signage: Stay alert to time limits and parking rules to avoid fines.
  • Be a responsible traveler: Keep the area clean, respect the locals, and help maintain the good image of vanlife.

Conclusion: Jaca, a City that Welcomes Camper Van and Motorhome Travelers

Jaca’s new ordinance is a win for motorhome travelers and a boon for local tourism. At Furgocasa, we invite you to discover this amazing city on your next road trip.

Jaca is waiting for you with open arms!

Find everything you need for your campervan journey at www.furgocasa.com and turn every trip into an unforgettable memory.

NARCISO PARDO 

CEO de FURGOCASA

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