Greece is abolishing traditional toll booths: a pay-per-mile system is coming
Greece initiates a major modernisation of its transport network by introducing a Free Flow system for vehicles. This should make the multi-hour waits at toll booths during the summer season a thing of the past. The new model completely changes the current logic of toll collection as it abolishes fixed amounts. In addition, it introduces payment exclusively based on the actual distance travelled. For domestic and foreign visitors, this means faster and more fluid travel. There is no need to stop or slow down.
Digital instead of physical ramps
Classic toll booths and staff will be replaced by overhead gantries equipped with advanced technological solutions. High-resolution cameras will automatically read number plates, while laser sensors will categorise vehicles. The entire toll collection process will be electronic – via existing e-pass devices or dedicated mobile applications and web platforms.
Testing begins in Crete, with key corridors also planned.
The first motorway to fully implement this system will be the Northern Road Axis of Crete (VOAK). The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport plans to use VOAK as a pilot project. Only after that will they extend the technology to other key Greek transport arteries, including Attiki Odos and the PATHE motorway. Although a partial pay-per-kilometre model already functions on the Olympia Odos route for tag owners, the new project lays the foundation for the complete digitisation of the entire network. The system will also have strict controls. Furthermore, unpaid passages will be automatically recorded and processed as offences through the tax administration.
