New regulations in Greece are reshaping the camping landscape for motorhome enthusiasts, imposing strict limits on parking durations and hefty fines for violations. The new law, numbered 5170/2025, has come into effect with the aim of curbing wild camping and protecting public spaces.
For many, traveling in a motorhome symbolizes freedom and adventure. The allure of parking by a serene beach or in a picturesque forest is a dream for countless tourists. However, this dream is becoming increasingly difficult to realize in Greece, as the government has introduced stringent restrictions that have left many campers shocked.
Under the new regulations, motorhomes and camper vans are prohibited from parking for more than 24 hours in various public areas, including public parking lots, beaches, coastal strips, forest edges, and archaeological sites. The law also forbids the setting up of tents or parking caravans in these locations.
In a significant shift, the law stipulates that parking for longer than 24 hours is now banned even in normal public parking areas. Violators face fines of 300 euros per person. If the case escalates to court, fines can soar up to 3,000 euros, with the possibility of imprisonment for up to three months.
Moreover, private landowners are now limited to allowing only one motorhome on their property for free. This regulation aims to support legally operated campsites and enhance public safety, as stated by the Greek Ministry of Tourism. The government argues that these measures will prevent misuse of public spaces and protect the environment and cultural heritage sites.
The new law has sparked outrage among the camping community. The Hellenic Motorhome Club, which boasts 580 members, expressed strong discontent over the lack of consultation prior to the law's enactment. Georgia Karlou, a board member of the club, stated, "We were surprised. No one asked us to participate in a consultation regarding this regulation." The club plans to protest against the new rules, considering them an unreasonable restriction on individual freedom.
The controversy surrounding the law gained momentum when, in late April 2025, three members of the Hellenic Motorhome Club were fined 300 euros each for exceeding the parking limit in Akrata. This incident brought the new regulations to widespread attention, as the fines were imposed despite the absence of clear signage indicating parking restrictions.
Critics argue that the law disproportionately affects casual campers and tourists who may not be aware of the new rules. Karlou described the regulations as "an unreasonable restriction of our individual freedom, benefiting only campsite operators and accommodations in the broader sense." This sentiment is echoed by many within the camping community, who feel that the law is overly harsh and punitive.
The ADAC, a prominent automobile club, also weighed in on the matter, expressing concerns about the implications for tourism. They noted that the regulations could deter visitors and harm the local economy. Experts in legal matters have pointed out that enforcing such strict penalties for simple parking violations, especially near archaeological sites, seems excessive and could lead to negative consequences for both residents and tourists.
As the summer season approaches, the camping trend continues to grow, with many travelers seeking the freedom that comes with exploring new destinations. However, the tightening of regulations in Greece may prompt campers to reconsider their travel plans. Other European countries, such as Spain, are also grappling with similar issues, as the popularity of camper travel surges.
The new laws in Greece reflect a broader trend across Europe, where local authorities are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of wild camping and the need to protect public spaces. As more people turn to camping as a vacation option, balancing the desire for freedom with the need for regulations becomes a complex challenge.
In conclusion, while the Greek government aims to protect its cultural heritage and public spaces, the implementation of such strict regulations has raised significant concerns among campers and tourists alike. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how these new laws will affect the future of camping in Greece and whether they will lead to a shift in tourist behavior.
