Urban exploration — or urbex — is becoming one of the most fascinating hobbies in Europe.
Exploring abandoned places full of history is thrilling, but it requires respect, preparation, and safety.

Here’s the complete guide to start urbex in 2025, including safety tips, laws, gear, and the best free map to begin your journey.

🌆 What Is Urban Exploration (Urbex)?

Urbex (short for urban exploration) means visiting abandoned buildings or forgotten structures, such as:

• ruined castles,
• closed hospitals,
• deserted factories,
• forgotten manors.

The goal isn’t vandalism or theft — it’s about preserving history and capturing time.

👉 You can also read:
Top 50 Abandoned Places in France to Explore (2025)

🧠 The 3 Golden Rules for Urbex Beginners

1️⃣ Never break in.

If the entrance is locked, it’s off-limits. Forcing access = trespassing = illegal.

2️⃣ Take nothing, leave nothing.

Urbex is built on respect. Every object you see is part of history.

3️⃣ Never share exact coordinates.

Publicly posting GPS data attracts vandals. Use verified maps like MapUrbex instead.

⚙️ Essential Urbex Gear Checklist

💡 Tip: bring a power bank and grip gloves — essential for long sessions.

Also check out:
How to Import Your KML File into Google Maps

⚖️ Is Urbex Legal?

Urban exploration exists in a legal gray area.
Here’s the short version:

• Entering an open, accessible building = tolerated
• Forcing entry or crossing a barrier = illegal (trespassing)

🔎 Read more: Is Urban Exploration (Urbex) Dangerous?

🗺️ How to Find Your First Urbex Spots

Many beginners search TikTok or Reddit… but 90% of locations there are fake.
Here’s how to find real urbex spots safely:

✅ 1. Use a verified urbex map

Start with trustworthy, verified locations with photos and safety ratings.

🎁 Access the Free Urbex Map

🔍 2. Use Google Maps & Earth

Switch to satellite view and look for:

• collapsed roofs,
• isolated industrial zones,
• villages with closed roads.

Tip: brown rooftops and overgrown parking areas often reveal abandoned buildings.

🧭 3. Join Urbex Communities

Facebook, Discord, or Reddit (like r/Urbex or r/AbandonedPorn) are great to share experiences — never coordinates.

🇫🇷 Where Can You Explore Legally in France?

Some areas are publicly accessible because they belong to the state or local associations:

• old railway lines,
• disused forts,
• open mines,
• ghost villages.

Example: the ghost village of Doel (Belgium) or Maginot Line forts.

You can also read:
Find Abandoned Places Near You in 2025

💬 Urbex Beginner FAQ

How can I start urbex safely?

Start with open, visible places.
Never go alone, and always inform someone about your trip.

Do I need permission for urbex?

No — as long as the place isn’t fenced, guarded, or posted as private property.
If in doubt, do not enter.

What are the main risks?

Collapsing floors, sharp debris, asbestos.
Always wear a mask, gloves, and boots.

How to find abandoned places near me?

Use the MapUrbex Free Map — hundreds of verified spots with danger ratings and photos.

🎯 Quick Recap

🏁 Conclusion

Urban exploration is more than a hobby — it’s a journey through forgotten history.
In 2025, the urbex community is bigger than ever, and tools like MapUrbex make it easier and safer to explore.

🎁 Create an Account and Get the Free Map

🗺️ Access the Free Urbex Map