Fuel, Tolls, and Road Stickers: Everything You Need to Know Based on the Countries You’re Visiting
Traveling by car across Europe is a rewarding and memorable experience, but each country on the continent has its own rules and specificities when it comes to fuel, tolls, and road stickers. These differences—sometimes subtle but important—can significantly impact your travel budget and peace of mind.
To avoid unpleasant surprises, unexpected fines, and to fully enjoy your road trip with confidence, here is a practical guide outlining the key differences you should be aware of before hitting the road across European countries.
Fuels: types and prices
The types of fuel available vary only slightly, but names and prices can change from one country to another.
Car2Europe tip: Check whether your Car2Europe vehicle is compatible with E10 fuel before filling up.
Tolls: motorways and tunnels
Some countries charge motorway use through traditional toll booths, while others use vignettes or electronic systems.
Good to know: Alpine tunnels (Mont-Blanc, Fréjus, etc.) often require a separate toll, even if the motorway itself is free.
Vignettes: where and how to obtain them
Vignettes are mandatory in certain countries to use motorways or enter urban areas. They can be physical (stickers) or electronic.
- Switzerland: Annual vignette (valid from December 1 to January 31 of the following year). Purchase at service stations or online.
- Austria: 10‑day, 2‑month, or 1‑year vignettes. Available online or at service stations near the border.
- Slovenia, Czech Republic, Hungary: Electronic vignettes that must be purchased before entering the motorway.
- France: Crit’Air vignette required in certain urban areas (LEZ) to limit the circulation of polluting vehicles. Must be ordered online before travelling.
- Germany: Green Umweltplakette required to access environmental zones in major cities. Available online or on location.
Car2Europe tip: Don’t forget to buy your vignettes in advance to avoid fines.
