Eliomys quercinus lives in steepe deserts, hollow trees, rock crevices, and human dwellings. Although they are highly arboreal, they are occasionally found in swamplands. The common name "garden dormouse" is misleading because of the variety of habitats in which these rodents are found.

Garden dormice also live near human developments.

They may live in shelters made from birds' nests, rock, or trees.

Habitat Regions: temperate ; terrestrial

Terrestrial Biomes: desert or dune ; chaparral ; forest ; mountains

Wetlands: swamp

Other Habitat Features: urban ; suburban ; agricultural