Vacation traffic: Here you need patience
INFORMATION IS EVERYTHING The summer vacations this year will be different for the vast majority than they are used to because of the crisis. This will have an impact on traffic. There will be no free travel to the south. The rush of travelers heading south is traditionally seen at the Gotthard tunnel in Switzerland. In 2018 and 2019, traffic fell particularly [...]
The rush of southbound travelers in Switzerland is traditionally seen at the Gotthard Tunnel. In 2018 and 2019, the second, third and fourth weekends of July were particularly conspicuous.
The most intense traffic jams were recorded on Saturday mornings, with traffic jams of 10 to 14 kilometers. The return traffic was more moderate.
In front of the Gotthard tunnel heading north, traffic congestion was highest on the first two weekends in August: On both Saturday and Sunday, from afternoon to evening, traffic was backed up over a length of between 9 and 12 kilometers.
Many camping sites are fully booked
Vacations at home seem to be popular in Switzerland. This is shown, for example, by the occupancy rate of TCS camping sites. Many sites are fully booked. Sites by bodies of water or in the mountains are particularly popular this year.
As many people will be spending their vacations in Switzerland, it is to be expected that there will be increased local traffic congestion at excursion destinations. According to ViaSuisse, traffic jams are likely to increase on the Zurich-Winterthur, Flums-San Bernardino and Morges-Lausanne sections of the freeway. Please note the map.
Short-term traffic jams at Swiss borders
Due to the entry regulations of neighboring countries and Switzerland, major traffic jams may also occur briefly at the Swiss borders, especially at the Geneva Bardonnex, Chiasso Brogeda and Basel St. Louis and Basel Weil border crossings.
This summer, the congestion situation at the Gotthard will probably be different. Less congestion can certainly be expected. The reason: Mr. and Mrs. Swiss are on vacation at home, but the entire European population.
Measures and restrictions
Travelers should inform themselves in advance about the current measures and restrictions en route and at the destination. In case of doubt, it is best to contact the embassy of the respective country directly.
In general, more time and patience must be devoted to travel. To protect oneself and others, hygiene measures and distance rules should be observed at all times. In places where it is not possible to keep the safety distances, it is recommended to wear a respirator.
Traffic situation and alternative routes
It is therefore advisable to carry masks in case of need. In any case, the instructions and regulations of the authorities must be followed.
Wherever you're headed in Switzerland: With the free app of the TCS, travelers are informed about the current situation before and during the journey.
In addition, comprehensive information on the traffic situation and possible alternative routes to the Gotthard can be found on the TCS website at TCS Traffic Info
