You no longer have to guess the border - you watch it live

Every summer, the same story: packed, kids in the car, and a kilometres-long line at Bogorodica. Except this time you do not have to guess. The Greece guide has live cameras from all three crossings - Bogorodica (Evzoni), Medzitlija (Niki) and Star Dojran - and a smart clock that tells you whether now is a good time to cross, in both directions.

When to leave

The jams at Bogorodica are no surprise - they repeat every summer, at the same crossing, at the same times. In peak season the wait to enter hit four hours. Advice: check the border before you get in the car, leave early in the morning or late at night, and bring enough water for the kids.

Which crossing to pick

The three are not the same. Bogorodica is the main and busiest crossing - for Thessaloniki, Halkidiki and Athens. Star Dojran has fewer trucks and is often faster for cars when Bogorodica is jammed - for Kavala, Thasos and the east coast. Medzitlija is for western Greece, or if you set off from Bitola and Ohrid.

What it costs

Before you cross the border, fill up - fuel is more expensive in Greece. Tolls (diodia) are paid in euros only, cash or card, and there is no vignette like in some neighbouring countries. The full cost breakdown - fuel, tolls, ferry and accommodation - plus 40 beaches by region, are all in the guide.