Drivers may soon be able to pass through toll roads without stopping as Greece moves forward with plans to introduce free-flow tolling, a system designed to reduce travel times, ease congestion and modernize the country’s road network.
As part of broader efforts to align Greece’s roadway infrastructure with EU standards, authorities are examining the introduction of cashless “open-road” tolling on major highways. According to media reports citing sources at the Infrastructure and Transport Ministry, the first free-flow tolls are set to operate along National Road 90, also known as VOAK, which runs along Crete’s northern coast. Plans include extending the system to other highways across the country including Attiki Odos and PAThE (A1).
Free-flow tolling or “open-road tolling” is a cashless system that allows you to drive through toll points without stopping or slowing down. Overhead gantries equipped with cameras and sensors scan your vehicle’s license plate or electronic tag, automatically calculating the toll charge and speeding up your journey.
The system, which is already being used in other countries, including Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and Ireland, replaces toll booths with overhead gantries equipped with cameras and sensors.
One of its key advantages is distance-based pricing, ensuring motorists are charged according to the exact number of kilometers traveled. By removing bottlenecks at toll points, authorities also expect smoother traffic flow and fewer traffic jams, particularly during peak travel periods.
Payments will be conducted through digital channels. Drivers equipped with an e-pass transponder will be charged automatically through a linked electronic account, while those without a device will be able to pay through a dedicated website or mobile application.
Motorists who fail to pay within the set period will be identified through license plate recognition technology, and penalties will be issued electronically to the vehicle owner. According to reports, collection of unpaid fines is expected to be coordinated through Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).
Since 2021, Olympia Odos has implemented a distance-based charging system for e-Pass users, providing a model that could be expanded nationwide under the proposed free-flow system.
