A German newspaper recently reported, “Greece is ending our caravans.” The newly revealed legislation significantly restricts vacationing in motorhomes or campers, following the first fines issued to three caravan owners in Akrata. This law, passed last January, effectively bans parking motorhomes outside designated areas, sparking controversy. Some view it as an infringement on vacation freedoms and a blow to alternative tourism, while others argue it’s a necessary measure to protect the environment from pollution and irresponsible behavior.
Fines
The regulations enacted under Law 5170/2025 aim to curb unauthorized parking and stays outside regulated zones. Under this new framework, setting up tents and parking motorhomes or trailers is prohibited in archaeological sites, beaches, forests, and other public spaces, with similar restrictions for private property. Violations could lead to fines of €300 per vehicle or person, as well as potential imprisonment of up to three months. Exceptions apply to rest areas on highways and free parking on private land, but only for a single motorhome.
The Greek Camper Association (ELAT) describes the regulation as “absurd and disproportionate,” claiming it limits freedom of movement by prohibiting even basic parking in municipal lots, without acknowledging the unique needs of motorhome users. In contrast, the Ministry of Tourism contends that the regulation aims to safeguard the environment, public health, and safety while curtailing misuse of public areas by caravans and motorhomes and enhancing the overall quality of travel experiences.
A “Way of Life”
Motorhome owners, members of ELAT, assert that “life in a motorhome is a cultural lifestyle.” They reject accusations of causing pollution, emphasizing their commitment to preserving nature: “We actively clean up areas we visit and make sure to carry waste responsibly.” They argue this law undermines their way of life by allowing parking only at campsites, where fines can escalate from €300 to €3,000 or even lead to imprisonment for violations.
Investing in a vehicle that costs between €50,000 and €300,000 is intended for touring, allowing travelers the freedom to explore diverse destinations without needing to rent accommodations, enjoying the journey with chosen companions away from crowds.
Currently, there are an estimated 2,000 caravans in Greece, with ELAT comprising 530 members. Especially in summer, the number of campers nearly doubles, with many tourists arriving with their own or rented motorhomes from countries like Germany, Austria, France, and Italy. Predictions suggest that around 50,000 tourists plan to visit Greece this summer with campers, though industry experts worry many may choose to travel to neighboring countries (e.g., Albania, Croatia) where no parking restrictions apply.
Contrasting Perspectives
While these regulations aim to manage parking, they also address concerns about caravan and camper owners occupying beaches and disrupting local communities. This has raised accessibility issues for other vacationers and concerns about environmental pollution caused by waste. This scenario has not changed since a 2012 law defined parking restrictions for motorhomes in sensitive areas. So, what has prompted such strong reactions now?
Motorhome owners assert, “We don’t seek beach parking; we merely want the ability to park in spaces designated for cars, without discrimination, and access archaeological sites. Imagine a scenario where you want to visit the ancient theater of Epidaurus but can’t find parking.”
Greek camper owners advocate for adopting European practices, highlighting that in several European countries, such as Germany, designated motorhome parking areas equipped with amenities like electricity are common.
The core issue surrounds parking and stopping regulations. While campers are subject to the Traffic Code and pay taxes like other vehicles, the new law imposes additional restrictions. Under this law, they cannot park for more than 24 hours consecutively in any one location.
Legal Clarifications
Legal experts explain that these regulations aim to close a loophole that had previously allowed parking in restricted areas as long as the setup did not appear permanent – avoiding police action. Prior to the 2012 regulation, parking without visible structures like tents or chairs was often overlooked. The new law presents an outright prohibition for parking in sensitive areas, compelling motorhome users to confine themselves to campsites. “This undermines alternative tourism and deprives local communities of income,” camper owners claim.
ELAT is even considering protesting by driving their motorhomes, and they have communicated with the European federation (FICN) about potential legal action to contest the law and push for improved infrastructure for travelers with motorhomes.
Addressing Issues of Misconduct
The impetus for this legislation arose from municipal service complaints regarding irresponsible behavior, including excessive use of public spaces. Notably, in Kavala, numerous caravans were parked on private properties without permission, raising pollution concerns. Similarly, in Kalyves, Chalkidiki, tourists were caught using makeshift toilets on the beach.
The Ministry of Tourism clarifies that Law 5170/2025 is designed to “legislate common sense,” ensuring public health and safety similar to standards in other countries. It seeks to prevent abusive use of public and protected spaces, organizing the parking of motorhomes and caravans in designated campsites with established health and safety standards, thereby putting an end to illegal occupations.
This regulation aligns with previous laws prohibiting the setup of tents and parking of caravans in sensitive locations—archaeological sites, beaches, and public spaces, with only one caravan permitted on private property. Additionally, per Article 34 of the Traffic Code (effective since 1999), parking for trailers, caravans, and boats in residential areas is restricted beyond 24 hours, yet local authorities can designate suitable enclosed parking areas.
While one caravan can be parked for hosting purposes, any further use of the space necessitates a business license to prevent illicit commercial activities.
The Ministry of Tourism remains committed to enforcing legal standards to guarantee quality travel experiences while safeguarding and enhancing Greece’s destinations.
International Practices
Across Europe, attitudes towards motorhome use vary. While many countries impose strict limitations on free camping, they also provide specific provisions for camper parking.
In Scandinavian nations like Sweden, Norway, and Finland, access to nature, including overnight stays on private land, is generally permitted under environmental and community respect standards. Countries like Spain and France historically allowed parking similar to Greece’s former regulations, provided it did not extend beyond the vehicle and did not pollute the environment.
Conversely, countries such as Germany, France, Switzerland, and Austria typically ban free camping. Italy, Spain, and Portugal also impose stricter limitations, especially in tourist-centric and protected areas. Poland and Romania are more lenient, permitting stays in non-protected regions unless explicitly restricted by signage. Czechia, Slovakia, and Hungary enforce strict controls against free camping in tourist areas, while Scotland allows camping in natural areas respecting environmental guidelines. In England and Wales, free camping is generally prohibited unless permitted by landowners.
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