Greece eases camper van rules after sharp drop in tourism

Greece has partially reversed its strict 2025 law on camper vans, which had caused a drop in tourism. New clarifications allow parking camper vans as regular vehicles, provided local rules are followed. However, wild camping with awnings, tables, and chairs outside designated campsites remains banned, with fines and arrest possible. Tourism officials stress that clear regulations are key to maintaining Greece's appeal for van travelers.

The Ministry of Tourism in Athens has relaxed restrictions on parking and overnight stays for campervans in populated areas, provided local rules are followed. It is prohibited to place external equipment such as tables and chairs outside the vehicle. Fines for violations start from 300 euros. Beaches and archaeological sites remain under increased police control.

Greece has amended traffic rules to reverse a near-total ban on parking camper vans and caravans in public spaces, imposed in early 2025. Camper vans up to 7.5 m can now park in built-up areas without time limits; larger vehicles and caravans face a 24-hour limit. The move follows a sharp drop in camper tourism: only 5,000 campers visited in 2025 compared to 50,000 in 2024. Authorities clarified that parked vehicles must not have awnings or furniture deployed to avoid fines.

Greece has adjusted parking rules for motorhomes and caravans. A tourism law passed in early 2025 restricted parking near beaches and public areas, effectively creating an almost total ban and causing a drop in visitors. Now motorhomes up to 7.5 meters can park in residential areas without time limits, the same as passenger cars. Larger motorhomes and caravans are limited to 24 hours; unlimited parking is allowed in designated zones, provided no awning or equipment is set up.

Greece has adjusted its policy on camper tourism after strict 2025 rules caused significant discontent and a risk of tourist decline. Under new clarifications, campers may park like regular vehicles as long as local regulations are not violated. However, 'free camping'—setting up tents, tables, and other equipment outside designated campsites—remains strictly prohibited and subject to fines. Tourism industry representatives stress that clarity and predictability of rules are key to attracting camper travelers and maintaining competitiveness.

Greece has partially reversed its strict restrictions on camper vans after a 2025 law caused backlash and a decline in camper tourism. Authorities clarified that campers can park like ordinary vehicles if they follow local rules, but “free camping” – setting up tents, tables, and other equipment – remains banned with heavy fines and possible arrest. The move aims to distinguish between parking and camping, keeping the ban on the latter while allowing overnight stops. Industry representatives stress that clear rules are key to maintaining Greece’s appeal for camper travelers.

Greek authorities partially eased restrictions on motorhomes after strict rules introduced in 2025 caused backlash and a drop in camper tourism. New clarifications allow parking motorhomes as regular vehicles, but setting up camping equipment outside designated areas remains prohibited. Violators face heavy fines and possible arrest.

Greece amended its traffic regulations, lifting the de facto ban on motorhomes and caravans parking in residential areas that followed a tourism law passed in early 2025. Under the new rules, motorhomes up to 7.5 m long can park in residential zones without time limits, like passenger cars. Larger motorhomes and caravans are limited to 24 hours, and awnings or outdoor equipment are prohibited—violators face fines. In 2024, 50,000 motorhomes visited Greece, but after the restrictions that number dropped to 5,000; the European camping sector recorded 110 million overnight stays and €33 billion in turnover.

Greece amended its traffic regulations, allowing motorhomes up to 7.5 meters in length to park in residential areas without time restrictions. Larger motorhomes and caravans are limited to 24 hours. Awnings and outdoor equipment are prohibited. In 2024, 50,000 motorhomes visited Greece; in 2025, only 5,000.