Greece has about 300 licensed campsites, mostly along the mainland coasts and on the larger islands. Many are family-run, set among olives, pines and eucalyptus, a few steps from a beach. It is a cheap option popular with families, young people and campervan travellers, many of whom arrive by ferry from Italy.
Where they are
| Area | Why choose it |
|---|---|
| Peloponnese | Lots of beach campsites near archaeological sites: Nafplio and Tolo, Olympia, Messinia, the Mani, Gythio |
| Epirus and the Ionian coast | Parga, Syvota, Preveza: crystal-clear sea with the Zagori mountains nearby |
| Ionian Islands | Corfu, Lefkada, Kefalonia, Zakynthos: easy with ferries from Igoumenitsa and Kyllini |
| Delphi and Meteora | Panoramic campsites, a great base for sightseeing |
| Chalkidiki and Macedonia | Long beaches on Kassandra and Sithonia, at the foot of Olympus |
| Crete | Campsites on the north and south coasts, near famous beaches |
| Cyclades | Campsites on Paros, Naxos, Ios, Milos, Santorini and others, often with a port shuttle |
| Around Athens | A few campsites in Attica, handy for visiting the capital |
Facilities and prices
Most campsites have hot showers, toilets, laundry, a minimarket, bar or taverna, electric hook-ups and often a pool. Many also rent bungalows or mobile homes. The season usually runs from April or May to October; few open all year.
As a guide, in high season a pitch for two with tent or campervan costs €20-40 a night depending on area and facilities. Campsites are exempt from the climate resilience fee.
By campervan
Greece is a classic destination for campervans. Some ships from Italy offer camping on board: you sleep in your own vehicle on the garage deck, with power. On the mainland there are campsites and some service areas; on small islands space is limited and roads narrow, so check beforehand.
Wild camping is banned
In Greece wild camping, pitching a tent or staying in a campervan outside licensed areas, is prohibited by law and can bring fines. It was once tolerated on many beaches, but checks are now frequent, especially in summer and in protected areas. Turtle nesting beaches and national parks also have strict rules.
See also ferries from Italy and nature in Greece.