Heavy Jams Expected During May Holidays
As Switzerland gears up for the upcoming public holidays, travelers and drivers should brace themselves for major traffic congestion, especially during the weekends of Ascension and Pentecost. Here’s what you need to know:
Heavy Traffic Predicted in Mid-May
Touring Club Switzerland (TCS) has issued a warning, anticipating significant traffic congestion on Swiss roads and highways during the Ascension weekend (May 9 to 12) and Pentecost weekend (May 18 to 20) in 2024. With popular destinations like Ticino and Italy attracting many visitors during spring, the main thoroughfare through the mountains, the Gotthard, is expected to bear the brunt of the traffic.
Gotthard Tunnel: A Bottleneck
TCS reports that traffic congestion in and around the Gotthard Tunnel has been worsening in recent years. Data from the Federal Roads Office reveals a notable increase in traffic passing through the Gotthard, with numbers spiking on Ascension Sunday and Pentecost Sunday.
Expect Delays at Gotthard
Motorists should anticipate delays of up to three hours or more near the Gotthard Road Tunnel on May 9, 12, and 20. TCS advises adding extra travel time of two to three and a half hours during peak congestion. Other mountain routes such as San Bernardino, Mont-Blanc Tunnel, and Grand-Saint-Bernard Tunnel are also expected to experience heavy traffic.
Tips to Avoid Holiday Traffic
To minimize the impact of traffic jams, TCS spokesperson Laurent Pignot suggests leaving early in the morning, late at night, or even before the holidays begin. Regularly checking navigation apps for alternative routes is also advisable. For those considering alternatives to driving, Swiss Federal Railways has announced expanded public transport services between northern cities and Ticino during the holiday weekends. Additionally, car trains like the Lötschberg and Simplon offer alternatives to bypass congested roads.
By planning ahead and considering alternative transportation options, travelers can navigate the holiday traffic more smoothly and enjoy a stress-free journey during the May holidays in Switzerland.
