Navigating Summer Gridlock: Strategies for Evading Congestion During Vacation Season
Renovation on Lueg Bridge and Its Impact on Your Summer Trip to Italy
Get ready for some traffic drama this summer if you're planning a road trip to Italy. The iconic Lueg Bridge on the Brenner Motorway (A13) is undergoing a major renovation since January 2025. Here's what you need to know to navigate the construction chaos and enjoy your summer getaway.
The Lowdown
- The Lueg Bridge renovation began in early 2025 and won't be completed until 2030.
- Traffic on the bridge will be limited to one lane for the duration of the project, with a speed limit of 60 km/h.
- During the summer holiday months, the bridge will shift to two-lane traffic to ease congestion, although delays are still expected.
Where's the Bridge?
Located at the end of its lifespan after 55 years, the Lueg Bridge on the Austrian side of the Brenner Motorway (A13) is getting a much-needed facelift. The Wipptal region in Austria is home to the construction site, causing an increase in traffic and disruptions for travelers.
Traveling During Summer Months
To dodge the traffic mayhem, the Austrian Automobile Club (ADAC) advises travelers to consider alternative routes. The Gotthard, San Bernardino, or Tauern Motorway are suitable options to avoid the overcrowded Brenner federal and state roads. While the Reschen Pass road has reopened, some disruptions are still expected, as a one-way traffic regulation with a construction traffic light remains in effect until late November.
Alternative Routes
For travelers seeking an alternative, the Felbertauernstraße and Pyhrn Motorway can provide a change of scenery without saddling you with unnecessary delays. However, the Timmelsjoch and Stallersattel should be avoided due to their steep, winding roads, limited to one lane in some areas, and motorhome restrictions.
Tips and Tricks
For real-time updates on the Brenner Motorway and Lueg Bridge traffic situation, bookmark the official channels provided by the Austrian motorway and expressway financing company (ASFINAG). To beat traffic jams, plan your journey during off-peak hours or outside of the tourist season and avoid traveling on highly congested days.
A Traffic Calendar for 2025
To better plan your trip, ASFINAG has published a traffic calendar for 2025 that outlines traffic management around the Lueg Bridge. In summer 2025, the following traffic regulations apply in the southbound direction:
- May 29 - October 5: Two-lane traffic without HGV ban
- June 2, 7, 14, 18, 21, 28: Two-lane traffic with HGV ban
- July 5, 12, 19, 26: Two-lane traffic with HGV ban
- August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Two-lane traffic with HGV ban
- September 6, 13, 20, 27: Two-lane traffic with HGGV ban
The complete traffic calendar for the entire year in both directions can be found on the ASFINAG website.
Toll Obligations
Traveling on Austrian motorways often comes with a toll fee. To avoid fines, make sure you have a valid vignette for the Brenner motorways before embarking on your journey. For more information regarding tolls and vignettes, contact ASFINAG directly.
Toll-Free Alternatives
If you'd like to bypass tolls, consider exiting at Innsbruck and traveling along the older roads towards Italy, though this route is longer and slower. Another option for skipping tolls on the Tauern Tunnels is using the Rennweg/Katschberg route, which is slower and impacts fuel consumption but offers a scenic detour.
Wrapping up
By planning ahead and staying informed about construction updates and traffic restrictions, you can minimize delays and frustration during your summer road trip to Italy. Safe travels and enjoy the adventure!
As you prepare for your summer road trip to Italy, remember that the Lueg Bridge renovation may impact your travel lifestyle. To avoid delays, consider embarking on an alternative route through the Gotthard, San Bernardino, or Tauern Motorway, as traffic on the Brenner Motorway may be congested due to the construction. Also, keep in mind that traveling by car in Europe may involve toll fees, and having a valid vignette for the Brenner motorways can help you avoid fines.
