Every summer, between departures and returns from vacation, the roads of France are clogged with monstrous traffic jams. And this year again, there is a special day when it is better not to get behind the wheel.
Summer, with its promises of sunny holidays and moments of relaxation, is also synonymous with congested roads. Every year, millions of French people and tourists cross paths on motorways and national roads in search of a change of scenery, whether towards the sea, the mountains or the countryside. And every summer, there is always a day that is particularly dreaded by motorists.
Traditionally, it is towards the end of July and the beginning of August that the major traffic jams form. Logical: it is the period of the famous crisscrossing, when motorists who leave join vacationers who return. And it is of course during the weekends that the situation worsens, with rentals often starting on Saturday.
And the main roads most affected by traffic jams are traditionally the motorways, in particular the A6, A7, A9 and A10 which connect the cities to the main summer destinations. But other roads are also affected, such as the A63, which leads to Spain, the N165 to Brittany or the N205 to Italy via the Mont Blanc tunnel. And other sections regularly pose problems in certain regions, on the A1, A4, A8, A13, A43, A75, and of course the A86 in Ile-de-France. It is common for us to approach or even exceed 1000 km of cumulative traffic jams on all of these roads during summer weekends.
This year, Saturday, July 27th is shaping up to be the worst day to hit the road. Why that day? Because it coincides with a big weekend of departures and returns from vacations, but also the start of the Paris Olympic Games. This Saturday will see a real human tide set in motion, making traffic extremely difficult throughout France. The Bison Futé map for that day is eloquent: black in the direction of departures throughout France and red in the direction of returns, with the Île-de-France also in black. This means huge traffic jams and journeys extended by several hours. And if the weather gets involved, it means blockages for hours in crushing heat.
To avoid this nightmare, there are several options available to you. The simplest is to slightly change your schedule. Leaving a day earlier, on Friday July 26 for example, can allow you to avoid the worst of the traffic jams. You could then plan a stopover halfway, spending the night in a pleasant and quiet place. This way, you will not only avoid traffic jams, but you will also start your vacation smoothly, without stress or rushing.
If you can’t postpone your departure, try to leave very early on Saturday morning, before most holidaymakers set off. Even if this means waking up at the crack of dawn, you’ll have the advantage of driving on roads that are still clear. And don’t forget to stop regularly for breaks, especially if the heat is intense.
Also, remember to prepare your vehicle well and check the traffic conditions before leaving. Bring water, snacks, and games to keep the children occupied. Good preparation can make a long journey much more bearable.