New Cretan Parking Laws: Problem for Campervans
- 🚫 Campervan parking is now banned in most public spaces, even paid lots
- 💸 New law imposes €300 fines and restricts use on private land too
- 🚗 Seeing Crete by rental car from AUTOWAY is now the best, stress-free option
Campervan travel in Greece just got a lot harder.
A law passed in January 2025 (Law 5170/25) has made it nearly impossible to travel freely in a campervan across Greece. Article 27 now bans parking of motorhomes and trailers in key areas like archaeological sites, beaches, forest edges, and even in public or municipal parking spaces. This severely limits overnight stops in many of Greece’s most scenic locations. (For tips on visiting ancient sites legally, check out when to visit Crete’s archaeological sites.)
Even private properties are off-limits for campervans.
The law also prohibits hosting more than one campervan on private land. Whether you’re staying with friends or parking on your own lot, the fine can still reach €300. Many locals, who pay all the usual taxes and insurance, say the restrictions are unfair and confusing, especially with no official infrastructure like camper stops in place.
Public figures are calling for the law to change.
Celebrity chef Lefteris Lazarou, a long-time motorhome user, called the law a “global first” in its harshness. He pointed out the contradiction: campervans are taxed like private vehicles but treated like trucks. After recent meetings with the Ministry of Tourism, there’s hope that some of the rules may be reconsidered.
For now, renting a car is the smartest way to explore Crete.
Until the law changes, travelers are far better off choosing car hire instead of campervans. Driving a rental car in Crete gives you full flexibility, access to stunning destinations like Elafonissi and Balos, and peace of mind without the fear of fines. AUTOWAY offers reliable car rental services with transparent insurance, friendly local support, and a reputation built on more than 3000 top-rated reviews.