Taking a British vacation dreaming of a Greek vacation in a campervan could be hit with a fine of up to £250 just by parking your home in a public space. Camper travel is often seen as a rif or so alternative to expensive hotels, offering you the opportunity to wake up with flexibility and breathtaking scenery to roam around.
However, changes in Greek law have thrown spanners at works for those planning picturesque road trips. Authorities have stated that campers, caravans and trailers are currently limited to licensed campsites only.
This clampdown means not staying overnight or stopping pit stops at previously preferred spots such as beaches, woodlands, historic locations, and even regular public parking.
Even private property is not exempt from crackdown. Landowners and businesses cannot host multiple campers unless they are licensed campsites.
“What you see as violating the rules can face a site fine of up to 300 euros (about £250) whether you're staying overnight or just resting,” said Graham Conway, managing director of Select Car Leasing.
Conway further warned that these strict regulations would also apply to short suspensions, saying, “These rules do not apply to long stays. If you are planning a quick trip to a camper grocer, you will not be allowed to park your car in a parking lot.”
For those who love the spontaneity of wild camping and casual roadside resting, this news may be an unwelcome shock.
Conway said: “We strongly encourage travelers to plan their routes in advance at licensed campsites where possible and avoid the temptation to park in unauthorized places even if they already have sunset views and food.”
However, Greece is not the only one imposing such restrictions. Those passing through the Netherlands, Switzerland and the Czech Republic can expect comparable constraints.
In the UK, there is a patchwork of regulations governing camper parking that falls under local policies, so it's important to be familiar with destination-specific rules.
This challenging line is part of a larger Greek strategy aimed at tame overtourism, reducing environmental harm and ensuring that the required local infrastructure can handle growing tourist crowds.
