Spring bank holidays: heavy traffic on highways and border crossings
The Federal Roads Office expects disruptions on A2, A13 and border crossings during the Ascension, Pentecost and Corpus Christi long weekends.
Contesto
In brief - Ascension, Pentecost, and Corpus Christi bank holidays - Heavy traffic on A2 and A13 - Queues also at Brogeda and Gaggiolo border crossings ## Key facts - What: Predictions of heavy traffic - When: 14-17 May, 22-25 May, 4-7 June 2026 - Where: A2, A13 motorways and border crossings - Who: Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) - Amount: Not specified The Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) has predicted a significant increase in traffic during the upcoming spring bank holidays, particularly during the Ascension (14-17 May), Pentecost (22-25 May) and Corpus Christi (4-7 June) holidays. These periods will see an increase in holiday-related travel and festive days, with consequent disruptions along the main road routes in the Canton of Ticino. ### Critical motorways and border crossings The main arteries affected will be the A2 motorway, which crosses the Gotthard, and the A13 motorway, which passes through the San Bernardino. FEDRO signals that the formation of queues on the main arteries often induces drivers to exit the motorway early, spilling onto the ordinary road network. This behavior causes disruptions in neighboring towns and can worsen the situation to the point of compromising local traffic functioning. The most critical sections include the A2 between the Belchen tunnel and Härkingen, in the Lucerne region (A2/A14) and between Erstfeld and Biasca, corresponding to the Gotthard tunnel. Further disruptions are expected on the A3 between Walenstadt and Reichenburg, on the A4 Axenstrasse, on the A8 between Interlaken and Spiez and between Sarnen and the Lopper junction, on the A1/A9 in Lausanne, on the A9 between La Veyre/Vevey and Bex-Nord, on the A12 between Châtel-St-Denis and La Veyre/Vevey and on the A13 both in the Sarganserland - Rothenbrunnen section and betw...
Dettagli operativi
Analysis of Criticalities The increase in traffic during the spring bank holidays does not only concern the main highways, but also border crossings such as Brogeda and Gaggiolo. These crossings are critical points for cross-border workers who move daily between Italy and Switzerland. The expected queues could cause significant delays, affecting punctuality at work and the quality of life for cross-border commuters. ### Impact on Pedestrian and Cyclist Mobility In addition to automotive traffic, USTRA reports that pedestrian and cyclist mobility could also be affected. Cantonal and municipal networks might see an increase in pedestrian and cyclist traffic, especially in urban areas. This could cause inconvenience for those who use these means of transport to move daily. ### Tips for Cross-Border Workers For cross-border workers who need to cross the border during the spring bank holidays, it is advisable to plan trips in advance. USTRA suggests checking real-time traffic conditions and considering the use of public transport or alternative routes. Additionally, it is important to respect the expected travel times and avoid detours on the secondary network to avoid worsening the situation. ### Comparisons with Previous Years Compared to previous years, traffic forecasts for the 2026 spring bank holidays indicate a significant increase in queues on the main highways. This could be due to several factors, including the increase in the number of cross-border workers moving daily between Italy and Switzerland and the increase in tourism in the region. USTRA therefore invites you to pay particular attention and plan your trips carefully. ### Possible Scenarios In case of heavy traffic, emergency measures may be activated to manage queues and ensure the safety of motorists...
Punti chiave
What to do to avoid disruptions For cross-border workers to avoid disruptions during the spring bank holidays, they can follow some practical advice. First of all, it is important to plan trips in advance and check real-time traffic conditions. Tools like the traffic calculator can help estimate travel times and choose the most suitable route. ### Trip Planning Planning trips in advance is essential to avoid disruptions. It is advisable to check real-time traffic conditions and consider using public transport or alternative routes. Additionally, it is important to respect the estimated travel times and avoid detours on secondary roads to not worsen the situation. ### Use of Public Transport USTRA suggests considering the use of public transport to avoid traffic jams on highways. Shuttle trains through Lötschberg and Sempione represent a valid alternative for those who need to cross the Canton of Ticino. Moreover, the Gotthard Pass will be reopened to traffic, offering an additional option for drivers. ### Respecting Traffic Rules Respecting traffic rules is fundamental to ensure everyone's safety. USTRA invites drivers to respect speed limits and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Additionally, it is important to avoid reckless maneuvers and respect road signs. ### Conclusions In conclusion, the 2026 spring bank holidays promise to be a period of intense traffic on the main highways of the Canton of Ticino. To avoid disruptions, cross-border workers can follow the practical advice provided by USTRA and carefully plan their trips. Using tools like the traffic calculator and considering the use of public transport can help ensure a safe and hassle-free journey. Source: tio.ch
Punti chiave
[{"q":"What are the dates of the spring bank holidays in 2026?","a":"The spring bank holidays in 2026 fall during the Ascension Day (14-17 May), Pentecost (22-25 May), and Corpus Christi (4-7 June) holidays."},{"q":"Which are the most critical highways during the spring bank holidays?","a":"The most critical highways during the spring bank holidays are the A2 and A13, which cross the Gotthard and San Bernardino passes. Additionally, border crossings like Brogeda and Gaggiolo may see an increase in traffic."},{"q":"What are the alternatives to highway traffic?","a":"Alternatives to highway traffic include the Great St. Bernard Pass, the Simplon Pass, and shuttle trains through Lötschberg and Simplon. Moreover, the Gotthard Pass will be reopened to traffic, offering another option for drivers."}]
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the dates of the spring bank holidays in 2026?
- The spring bank holidays in 2026 fall during the Ascension Day (14-17 May), Pentecost (22-25 May), and Corpus Christi (4-7 June) holidays.
- Which are the most critical highways during the spring bank holidays?
- The most critical highways during the spring bank holidays are the A2 and A13, which cross the Gotthard and San Bernardino passes. Additionally, border crossings like Brogeda and Gaggiolo may see an increase in traffic.
- What are the alternatives to highway traffic?
- Alternatives to highway traffic include the Great St. Bernard Pass, the Simplon Pass, and shuttle trains through Lötschberg and Simplon. Moreover, the Gotthard Pass will be reopened to traffic, offering another option for drivers.