RV enthusiasts are facing new challenges in Europe as Greece enforces stricter regulations on motorhome parking and overnight stays. The move mirrors a growing global trend, with similar changes also taking place in the United States.
In the U.S., the RV community has recently voiced concern over overnight parking restrictions at popular locations like Cracker Barrel. While some RVers report difficulties finding overnight spots, a company representative stated that Cracker Barrel’s overnight policy has not changed. Decisions are still made on a store-by-store basis, depending on local laws and the size of parking lots.
Greece Imposes New Restrictions on Motorhome Parking
In Greece, a new law—Law 5170/2025—has introduced tight restrictions on where RVs can stay overnight or for extended periods. The rules now ban RV parking and overnight stays in a range of areas including:
- Beaches
- Forests
- Archaeological sites
- Public or municipal parking lots
The law also affects private property owners. Without a formal business license, they are now limited to hosting only one motorhome at a time.
Violations can result in steep penalties. First-time offenders may face a fine of 300 euros per person or vehicle. Repeat offenders could be fined up to 3,000 euros or even face jail time.
Greece’s Tourism Ministry has defended the decision, encouraging RVers to use licensed campsites that follow health and safety guidelines. In an official statement, the ministry said, “We are simply enforcing what is already common practice. We are protecting public interest and upholding legality.”
The ministry added that its priorities include preserving hygiene, ensuring safety, and protecting the country’s cultural heritage.
Greek Motorhome Club Pushes Back
The new rules have sparked strong reactions from both citizens and visitors. The Hellenic Motorhome Club has been vocal in its criticism. In a statement, the club said the regulations “unfairly penalize a lifestyle and form of travel embraced by thousands across Europe.”
The group is reportedly working behind the scenes to challenge the law. It also argued that the government should have consulted the public and visitors before passing such strict rules. According to the club, Greece is home to more than 2,500 domestic motorhomes, many of which will be affected by the change.
Despite the backlash, the government maintains that these regulations have long existed and are now simply being enforced more actively.
Online Reactions Show Widespread Disapproval
Across platforms like YouTube and Reddit, online users have been vocal about their frustrations. Many feel the new rules are overly strict and threaten a way of life centered around freedom and travel.
One user compared the law to similar changes in the UK, saying, “It’s not about trash—it’s about removing rights. In the UK, the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act of 1994 led to widespread restrictions. These new rules follow the same pattern.”
Another user warned about a larger global trend, commenting, “Governments around the world are becoming more aggressive in taking away people’s freedoms. This should concern everyone.”
A Greek citizen shared their disappointment, stating, “This law caught us by surprise. While some support it, I think it’s excessive. Many Greeks have enjoyed this kind of freedom in the past.”
Others compared the situation to more lenient countries. A user from Brazil noted, “Here, you can sleep almost anywhere as long as you take your trash. Wild land belongs to the people—not corporations or the government.”
Conclusion
As Greece joins other regions in placing limits on RV travel, many fear that personal freedoms and traditional travel lifestyles are under threat. While the government defends the move as necessary for safety and heritage, growing public concern suggests that the debate is far from over.
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