Updated Greek law eases camping restrictions but stays firm

In January 2025, Greece passed a new law that severely restricted free camping across the country. This law banned sleeping, cooking, or remaining overnight in campervans, motorhomes, or trailers outside of licensed campsites. It also made it illegal to host more than one camper on private land unless the property was a registered camping facility. The law sparked concern among vanlifers and motorhome travelers who were unsure where parking ended and camping began. Enforcement began quickly, with police issuing fines of 300 euros per person or vehicle, and the risk of repeat violations carrying possible court proceedings or even jail time.

Following widespread domestic and international criticism, Greece has now adjusted its approach. A new update to the Road Traffic Code, passed as Law 5209/2025 and active since July 1, provides a clearer and more practical structure for camper use across the country. Wild camping remains illegal, but stopping and parking are permitted under the new conditions.

The updated law introduces a key distinction based on vehicle size. Motorhomes and campervans that are up to 7.5 meters in length are now treated like regular passenger vehicles when it comes to parking within towns or residential areas. These vehicles can park without a specific time limit, as long as no local signage or restrictions prohibit it.

Larger motorhomes and vehicles longer than 7.5 meters, as well as towable trailers, may still park in residential areas but must not remain in the same location for more than 24 consecutive hours. After that, they are required to move. This rule applies specifically to residential zones and does not affect rural areas unless local parking restrictions say otherwise.

Outside of towns and villages, camper vehicles may park without a fixed time limit, provided the location is legal and safe. If there are designated parking areas available, these should be used first. If no such areas exist, parking on the roadside is allowed as long as the vehicle is positioned parallel to the road and does not obstruct traffic. In general any parking must not block traffic or violate posted restrictions.

One of the most important clarifications in the new framework is the difference between parking and camping. Simply parking a campervan or motorhome, even for a few hours or overnight without any external activity, is treated as legal in areas where parking is otherwise allowed.

However, camping behavior remains fully restricted. This includes sleeping, cooking, or setting up any camping gear such as tables, awnings, or chairs outside your vehicle. These activities are not permitted in public spaces, regardless of whether the vehicle is legally parked. Importantly, even staying inside a campervan or motorhome overnight in a public area is considered illegal if it involves sleeping or resting for extended periods. Overnight stays are only permitted at licensed campsites or on private property.

The update does not change the rule regarding private land. Property owners are allowed to host only one camper vehicle at a time, unless their property is officially licensed as a campsite. This means informal gatherings or vanlife meetups on private plots are not allowed unless organized through registered facilities.

Despite the more practical parking rules now in place, fines and penalties remain in force. Police can issue an immediate 300 euro fine per vehicle or person found camping illegally. Repeated violations or more serious offenses may lead to court proceedings, with potential fines of up to 3,000 euros and possible short-term imprisonment. Enforcement is expected to remain active during the summer season, especially in popular tourist areas.

The updated law represents a shift toward a more balanced approach. While free camping remains prohibited, and overnight stays are only allowed at licensed campsites or camper facilities, the new regulations give motorhome users a clearer legal framework. Smaller campervans can now park legally within towns for extended periods. Larger vehicles have clear 24-hour limits. The law also confirms that daytime parking, when done respectfully and without camping behavior, is not considered a violation.

Visitors to Greece in campervans should continue to plan overnight stops at licensed campsites. Many of these official sites can already be found on the Vanlifezone map. While the current version is still quite limited, an update is coming in the near future that will make it easier to find official campgrounds, locate tolerated wild camping or boondocking areas and identify restricted zones in Greece and other countries. You will also be able to share your own experiences and insights directly on the go to help others navigate legally and respectfully. So best sign up now to get the latest updates and receive early access to new features.

Daytime parking for sightseeing or shopping is allowed, provided the above rules are followed. Travelers should avoid any visible signs of camping and should not remain more than 24 hours in a single spot within residential areas if their vehicle exceeds 7.5 meters.

Overnight stays on private land are allowed only for a single camper vehicle unless the site has a camping license. Campers are encouraged to travel respectfully and discreetly, avoiding sensitive areas such as beaches or historical landmarks when stopping to park.

By following these updated guidelines, vanlifers can still enjoy Greece’s natural and cultural attractions while respecting the current law. The changes made in summer 2025 suggest that Greece is seeking to balance environmental protection and tourism regulation with continued access for responsible motorhome travelers.

Greek Government Gazette. “Law 5209/2025, Road Traffic Code Update.” Published June 13, 2025. Accessed July 2, 2025. (Greek)

Greek Motorhome Club. “Clarification on camper parking and camping rules under Law 5209/2025.” Published June 21, 2025. Accessed July 2, 2025. (Greek)

Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Summary of Law 5209/2025 published via Forin.gr. Published June 13, 2025. Accessed July 2 2025. (Greek)