Driving to Austria in summer – Useful traffic and travel information

2025. 08. 14. 12:06

What to expect at the border crossing in summer?

Although free movement is allowed between Austria and Hungary within the Schengen Area, temporary border checks have still been introduced in recent years. These may remain in place or even be reinforced during the summer season, which can lead to congestion at the border crossings.

The busiest crossing is Hegyeshalom–Nickelsdorf, where checks are frequently expected. Additionally, lower-traffic, alternative crossings (e.g., Kőszeg–Rattersdorf, Szentgotthárd–Heiligenkreuz) may be seasonally closed. Before departure, it is advisable to check up-to-date information about the Austrian border status on the ASFINAG and OEAMTC websites. Using a mobile application to monitor live traffic is also recommended.

To avoid long waits, it is best to avoid peak times (Friday afternoons, Sunday evenings) and cross the border early in the morning or late at night. Planning your travel time can also help avoid the most congested sections of the highways.

Where are the typical traffic jams and congestion hotspots in Austria?

Despite the high quality of Austrian highways, traffic jams are common during the summer season, especially on busy transit routes and near tourist destinations. During the holiday season, increased domestic and international traffic can lead to long traffic jams, particularly on weekends and during school holidays.

Heavily affected sections:

• A10 Tauern highway (Salzburg–Carinthia): most frequent congestion, especially before tunnels.
• A4 Hegyeshalom–Vienna: particularly busy near Schwechat Airport.
• A13 Brenner highway: main summer transit route toward Italy.
• A2 Graz–Klagenfurt: often crowded on rainy days and weekends.

To reduce congestion, Austrian authorities use detour routes, mobile signs, and traffic management systems.

What speed limits and traffic regulations apply in Austria?

Speed limits are strictly enforced in Austria. The traffic camera network is extensive, and fines are consistently applied to foreign drivers as well. The standard speed limits are:

• Within built-up areas: 50 km/h
• Outside built-up areas: 100 km/h
• On highways: 130 km/h

However, these may be overridden by temporary or permanent restrictions—especially in IG-L zones, where air quality protection measures may limit the maximum speed to 100 or even 80 km/h. These rules only end with an “IG-L ENDE” sign—an intersection does not cancel the restriction.

Violating IG-L rules is not only a traffic offense but also an environmental violation, which can result in fines of up to €2,000.

Other important traffic rules:

• Pedestrians always have priority at crosswalks, even if only approaching.
• Seat belts must be worn by all passengers.
• Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free system.

What mandatory equipment is needed in the car?

Austrian traffic regulations strictly require that every vehicle carries:

• Reflective vest (at least one, but recommended for all passengers)
• First aid kit (sealed, without expiration)
• Warning triangle
• Valid insurance and registration documents

During summer, inspections are common near borders and tourist areas. Police officers not only check documents but may also inspect the arrangement of the luggage compartment—such as the secure mounting of a roof box or the condition of tire tread depth.

What to know about Austria’s environmental zones and IG-L restrictions?

Austria increasingly applies environmental restrictions, mainly through the IG-L system. These may impose reduced speed limits (100 or 80 km/h) on certain highway sections to protect air quality. The restriction remains in effect until an “IG-L ENDE” sign appears.

An IG-L violation is not considered simple speeding, but an environmental offense, and may result in fines of up to €2,000.

It is important to note that some IG-L restrictions do not apply to electric vehicles—but only if they are registered in Austria and have an Austrian green number plate and official registration. These exemptions do not apply to Hungarian vehicles.

In addition, some urban areas—such as Vienna, Linz, and Graz—have green zones that only Euro 4–6 classified vehicles may enter. These usually apply to trucks but may also affect passenger cars in certain city center districts. It’s advisable to check in advance.

Where are toll sections located in Austria and what bypass routes are available?

In Austria, highways and expressways are tolled and require the purchase of a vignette for passenger cars. When planning your route, be sure to consider which sections are toll roads and the associated fees.

In addition to the standard vignette, some tunnels and alpine sections require a separate toll, known as Sondermaut (special toll sections).

Toll-only sections

• A9 – Bosruck and Gleinalm tunnels
• A10 – Tauern and Katschberg tunnels
• A11 – Karawanken tunnel (towards Slovenia)
• S16 – Arlberg tunnel (note: may be closed seasonally for maintenance)
• A13 – Brenner highway (the entire length is tolled separately)

These tolls can be paid in advance (digitally) or on site when passing through. Buying digitally in advance significantly speeds up passage, especially in summer when congestion is common near tunnels.

Alternative routes and bypasses

Toll tunnels and mountain routes can be bypassed, although the alternative roads are generally longer and often include steep, winding segments. For example, the Tauern tunnel can be bypassed via the Radstadt–Obertauern–Mauterndorf route, but this takes longer and requires more demanding driving.

In summer—especially on Saturdays—Austrian authorities may introduce local traffic restrictions on certain provincial roads to prevent navigation apps from routing highway traffic through small detours. These restrictions are enforced with road signs and police presence. Violators may be stopped, turned back, and fined.

How to park in major Austrian cities?

Austrian cities—especially Vienna, Graz, Linz, and Salzburg—strictly regulate parking, and the system may initially seem complex to Hungarian drivers. Most cities have short-term parking zones (Kurzparkzone), which limit free parking during weekdays from morning to afternoon.

For example, in Vienna, between Monday and Friday, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, only paid, time-limited parking is allowed in most public areas. The allowed parking duration typically ranges from 15 minutes to 2 hours, with fees varying by zone.

Parking can be paid via:

• Mobile application
• SMS
• Pre-purchased parking ticket (available at tobacco shops – Tabak Trafik – or parking machines)

The parking ticket must be clearly displayed behind the windshield.

Some districts operate residents-only zones, where only locals may park. These are clearly marked by signs, and violations can result in fines of €36–70.

If you need long-term parking or want to avoid city center traffic, it’s worth using P+R (Park & Ride) lots, which are located on the outskirts and offer affordable parking with easy access to public transport into the city center.

Also noteworthy is the regulation regarding wheel clamps and towing: illegal parking can result not only in fines but also in the towing of the vehicle, which may cost several hundred euros.

How to travel with an electric car in Austria?

Austria is a leader in electromobility and offers favorable conditions for electric vehicle drivers throughout the country. The charging infrastructure is continuously developing, and the density of charging stations is outstanding even by European standards. Therefore, if someone travels to Austria with an electric car, they no longer need to worry about finding a suitable charging point along the way.

You can typically find the following types of chargers along Austrian highways and in larger cities:

• AC chargers (alternating current) – usually 11–22 kW capacity
• DC fast chargers – with up to 50–150 kW capacity, located by highways or rest areas
• Ultra-fast chargers (HPC) – such as Ionity or Smatrics stations, providing up to 350 kW

To use these charging stations, you generally need an RFID card, a mobile app, or a roaming service (e.g., Plugsurfing, ChargePoint, Maingau, or Mobiliti). Prices vary by provider but typically range from €0.29 to €0.79 per kWh. Most Austrian service providers offer transparent pricing and real-time availability data.

Electric vehicles and IG-L exemptions

In IG-L zones, certain speed restrictions may not apply to electric vehicles—if the vehicle is registered in Austria and has an official green number plate and registration in the Austrian system. Unfortunately, this benefit does not apply to Hungarian-registered vehicles, so foreign travelers must follow the general rules.

Free or discounted parking

Several cities, including Vienna and Graz, offer discounted or even free parking for electric vehicles. However, this usually requires prior registration and a valid identification sticker (E-Plakette), which must be obtained from the local municipality—and is typically only available to those with an Austrian address.

Traveling in Austria with an electric vehicle is now a convenient and reliable option. With proper preparation—charging cards, apps, and maps—the trip can be smooth even to the most popular summer destinations.

What options does Austria offer for families?

Those traveling with children, larger groups, or elderly passengers will especially appreciate the importance of regular breaks and having the ability to stop in safe and comfortable conditions along the way. The rest areas along Austrian highways are of exceptionally high quality, even by European standards.

Modern highway rest areas
These rest stops are well-maintained and often include playgrounds, covered picnic areas, and in some locations, shaded walking paths or pet-friendly zones. Dining options are varied: at fuel stations and restaurants you’ll find both fast food and Austrian specialties.

Stopping along Austria’s roads isn’t just a necessity—it’s an opportunity to relax, recharge, or even explore a little. Choosing a good rest area can help turn the journey itself into part of the holiday experience.

Summary

Austria is a popular destination for Hungarian drivers in the summer, but preparation is key to a hassle-free trip. Expect congestion, temporary border checks, and heavy traffic on some highway sections during the holiday season. Austrian regulations are strict: mandatory equipment, speed limits, and IG-L environmental restrictions must be followed, and fines can be significant. Highways are tolled, and some tunnels and alpine roads have additional fees. City parking is regulated, while electric vehicle drivers benefit from favorable conditions and a well-developed charging network. With proper research, a summer holiday in Austria by car can be stress-free and enjoyable.