Germany braces for biggest summer traffic jam wave; drivers warned of delays to the Alps

Germany's automobile club ADAC is predicting that the coming weekend could see the heaviest traffic congestion of the summer season. School summer holidays have now started in the last two federal states – Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg – meaning holidays are underway in all 16 German states. Last year, the first weekend of August turned out to be the busiest of the year, with more than 4,200 traffic jams recorded nationwide.

Most affected routes

The highest traffic volumes are expected on motorways leading to the Alps, Mediterranean countries and the North Sea and Baltic Sea coasts. The most congested motorways are likely to be the A1, A5, A7, A9, A61 and A81, along with the A2, A3, A4, A6 and A8. Delays are also expected around Hamburg, Berlin and Munich.

Roadworks and closures

There are currently around 1,000 roadworks and traffic restrictions across Germany. Several major stretches will be completely closed this weekend, including the A2 towards Hanover, the A14 between Leipzig and Nossen, the A44 near Kassel, and two sections of the A61 near Mönchengladbach. Long-term restrictions remain in place on the A27 near Bremen and the A44 near Düsseldorf. In the Netherlands, the A9 Wijkertunnel between Amsterdam and Alkmaar is closed until August 8.

Advice for travellers

Latvian drivers heading to Austria or Italy should allow extra time, as congestion is expected on several mountain passes. Switzerland's automobile club TCS warns that waiting times at the Gotthard Tunnel southbound could reach three and a half hours; alternative routes include the Alpine passes or the San Bernardino road.

ADAC notes that many European countries are approaching the end of the summer holidays, so traffic jams on the return journey are already becoming longer than those at the start of the trip. The club advises drivers to carry water and snacks, take regular breaks, and never leave children or pets in the car in hot weather. In congestion, drivers are obliged to form an emergency corridor for emergency vehicles.