Camping in Greece with a Camper in 2025 - What’s Changing? The Case of Artemida Near Athens
Traveling across Greece in a camper has long been associated with freedom, stunning views, and peaceful nights spent close to nature. For years, Greece was seen as a camper-friendly country, especially in lesser-known coastal areas. But as of May 2025, that reputation has changed.
A new law passed by the Greek government introduces stricter regulations that significantly limit where you can park or stay overnight in a camper - especially outside designated campgrounds.
So if you’re planning to stop in Artemida, a seaside town near Athens that’s long been a favorite among camper travelers, here’s what you need to know.
New National Rules for Camper Parking in Greece (Effective 2025)
On May 1st, 2025, Greece enacted Law 5170/2025, a national regulation that outlines exactly where campers, RVs, and travel trailers can and cannot be parked. The law applies across the entire country - whether you’re in a big tourist hub or a quiet beach town and it affects both local residents and international visitors.
The key changes:
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It is now strictly prohibited to park campers in public areas such as:
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beaches, seafront roads, and coastal promenades,
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parks, green spaces, and forest edges,
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near archaeological sites or monuments,
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along public roads or in parking areas not specifically designated for camper use.
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Even on private property, such as a backyard or garden next to a vacation home, you cannot host more than one camper at a time. So if you're visiting friends and there’s already one vehicle on the property - you may be breaking the law.
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The penalties are steep:
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A fine of €300 per person or per vehicle,
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and in more serious or repeated cases: a fine up to €3,000 or even up to three months in jail.
What Does This Mean for Travelers Visiting Artemida?
Artemida, still known to many locals by its former name, Loutsa, has been one of the most camper-friendly destinations in the Attica region for years. With its wide, sandy beaches, quiet streets, and proximity to Athens and the international airport, it’s long been a magnet for RV travelers looking for a relaxed seaside stop.
Especially outside peak season, it wasn’t unusual to see dozens of campers parked right by the water, tucked into side streets or nestled behind beachfront homes. For a long time, local authorities took a lenient approach. As long as there were no complaints, trash, or traffic obstructions, campers were quietly tolerated.
But that’s now changing.
Under the new law, even a single overnight stay in an unauthorized location is illegal. In real terms, that means the once-popular “wild camping” lifestyle in Artemida is no longer allowed - not even for one night.
Where Can You Legally Park a Camper Near Artemida?
Under current Greek law, the only places where campers are allowed to park overnight are:
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officially licensed campgrounds, or
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municipal camper stop zones (if they exist).
As of now, there are no official campgrounds or camper stop areas within Artemida itself. The closest legal options are located in nearby towns such as Rafina, Nea Makri, or Sounio. If you plan to visit Artemida or the Attica coast, it’s highly recommended to plan ahead and reserve a spot at a registered site that offers basic infrastructure (electricity, water, sewage).
The Debate: Practical Regulation or Overreach?
Greece’s Ministry of Tourism defends the new regulations, citing the need to protect natural areas, reduce environmental impact, and maintain public order - especially in high-traffic summer zones. The aim is to prevent campers from blocking roads, overcrowding beaches, or leaving waste in areas without proper facilities.
On the other hand, camper associations like ELAT (Hellenic Motorhome Club) argue that the law is overly restrictive and punishes responsible travelers along with the few who misbehave. They’re pushing for Greece to invest in more affordable and accessible camper stop zones where people can park legally, without the high cost of commercial campgrounds.
Many point out that wild camping is a part of camper culture - not a problem - when done respectfully and cleanly. For them, the new regulations feel like a crackdown on a peaceful way of travel.
So... Is It Still Worth Visiting Artemida in a Camper?
Yes, but it requires more planning than before.
Artemida is still a beautiful, calm destination with seaside charm, proximity to Athens, and access to the airport. It remains a worthwhile stop on your Greek adventure, but no longer a place where you can just pull over by the beach for the night.
Now, being prepared matters: you need to know the legal parking options, check for facilities, and be aware of enforcement and penalties. Greece hasn’t become camper-unfriendly- but it’s become stricter and more regulated.
The Bigger Question: Where’s the Line?
On one hand, there’s order and regulation. On the other, there’s the spirit of freedom and connection with nature that makes camper travel so special. Some see campers as a nuisance. Others see them as a different, more conscious way to explore the world.
This new law makes it clear that Greece wants to tidy up its public spaces. But has it found the right balance? What’s your take? Are these rules necessary, or are they taking the soul out of the camper lifestyle?
Let’s talk.
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