Revised Regulations for Motorhome Camping in Greece: A New Leash on Wild Camping
Strict penalties imposed on camper van owners.
Bid adieu to the free-wheeling days of wild camping with your motorhome in Greece. A new set of regulations is tightening the reins, putting an end to the idyllic camping freedom that vacationers once enjoyed.
For years, wild camping with tents or motorhomes was a prevalent practice in Greece, despite the existing ban. Now, Greek authorities are taking a more stringent approach, enforcing the law to the letter. From now on, motorhomes can no longer park in residential areas for over 24 hours, unless they're on a campsite or a designated parking area. This bold move is backed by "Ekathimerini" and the ADAC's reportage.
As per the law number 5170/2025, parking motorhomes, caravans, or tents is forbidden at several locations such as archaeological sites, coastal strips, beaches, forest edges, and forests across Greece.
A Time to Change Course
The enforcement of these rules carries heavy consequences for those who violate them. Fines of up to €300 per person await lawbreakers. If the offender contests the fine or evades prosecution, fines escalate to a whopping €3000, and they could even face up to three months in prison. Private property owners are also part of the equation – they can now harbor only one motorhome on their property.
The primary objective of this new regulation is to secure the viability and sanitation of legally operated campsites, protecting both residents and visitors of the nation. It aims to prevent misuse of public spaces, safeguard the environment, and preserve cultural heritage, as stated by the tourism ministry.
The curb on wild camping is not unique to Greece, as many countries enforce strict regulations. Germany also enforces wild camping bans, with fines ranging from €5 to €5000, depending on the location and severity of the violation, notably in nature reserves and national parks.
Consequences on the Horizon
The new regulations have significant implications for Greece's motorhome tourism industry, potentially deterrents for travelers, and impact on local economies that have grown accustomed to the tourism rush.
Furthermore, motorhome owners must now meticulously plan their trips, as freedom to park freely in public spaces becomes a luxury. This restricts spontaneity in travel and increases reliance on designated campsites to avoid fines.
Locally, Greek citizens who own motorhomes are also affected, severely limiting recreational activities such as beach visits or outdoor adventures.
Countries like the USA, UK, Netherlands, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and the Czech Republic have also imposed similar regulations, leading to a growing trend of controlled camping practices worldwide.
- Greece's motorhome camping regulations have evolved, restricting motorhome parking in residential areas for more than 24 hours, unless on a campsite or a designated parking area, according to law number 5170/2025.
- If violated, these new regulations in Greece hold heavy penalties, ranging from fines of up to €300 per person to escalating fines of €3000 and three months in prison, depending on the severity of the offense.
- These changes have implications for Greece's motorhome tourism industry, potentially deterring travelers and affecting local economies.
- Motorhome owners in Greece and around the world, including countries like Germany, the USA, UK, Netherlands, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic, will need to adapt to these growing trends of controlled camping practices to avoid fines and penalties.
