As Easter approaches, millions of Italians are gearing up for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. With the holiday falling on April 20, 2025, and a long weekend ahead, the Italian roadways are expected to be bustling with activity. According to Anas (Gruppo FS Italiane), over 6 million travelers are anticipated to hit the roads during the Easter holidays, marking a significant increase in traffic volume.
Traffic is expected to begin ramping up as early as Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with a notable surge forecasted for the weekend. The peak days for congestion are expected to be Saturday, April 19, Sunday, April 20, and Monday, April 21, 2025. This evening, April 17, could see the first signs of heavy traffic, with an estimated 11% increase compared to average conditions. Major routes such as the A2 Autostrada del Mediterraneo, the SS1 Aurelia, the SS16 Adriatica, the SS106 Jonica, and the Grande Raccordo Anulare will likely experience long delays.
To mitigate some of the congestion, a traffic ban for heavy vehicles (those weighing over 7.5 tons) will be in effect from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Friday, April 18. This restriction aims to ease the flow of passenger vehicles during the busy travel times.
On Saturday, April 19, a significant exodus towards tourist destinations in Central and Southern Italy is expected, especially in the morning. However, Anas forecasts a slight decrease in traffic flows by the afternoon, estimating a 4% reduction compared to a typical Saturday in early spring. Heavy vehicles will again face restrictions, with a ban from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Sunday, April 20, which is Easter, is predicted to be relatively calm in terms of traffic, with an anticipated 12% decrease overall, and peaks of up to 14% on long-distance routes. The heavy vehicle ban will be active from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM on this day as well, allowing families to enjoy the holiday with less road stress.
As travelers prepare for the return journey on Monday, April 21, the morning is expected to be quiet. However, an increase in traffic is anticipated in the afternoon and evening, driven by day trips and short returns, with a forecasted 10% rise in the South and on the islands, and a 15% increase in the Central regions. The heavy vehicle ban will also be in effect from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM on this day.
Weather conditions will play a crucial role in travel plans over the Easter weekend. In the northern regions, particularly around Milan and the Po Valley, a cloudy weekend is expected, with possible intermittent rain, especially on Easter Sunday. Temperatures are forecasted to reach highs of around 18-19°C.
In Central Italy, including cities like Rome and Florence, the weather is expected to be more favorable, with a mix of sun and clouds and spring-like temperatures ranging from 20 to 22°C. This weather will be ideal for outdoor activities typical of the Easter Monday celebrations.
The southern regions and islands, including Naples, Palermo, and Cagliari, are likely to enjoy mostly sunny weather, with temperatures exceeding 20°C in many coastal areas. This sunny forecast is expected to encourage many travelers to head towards the beaches, which will likely see increased local traffic on Easter Monday.
For those planning to travel, it is essential to perform routine vehicle checks, including oil, water, brake fluid levels, and tire conditions, to ensure a safe journey. With the anticipated heavy traffic, drivers are advised to consider electronic toll payment systems such as UnipolMove and MooneyGo, which provide alternatives to the traditional Telepass system, allowing for smoother passage through toll booths.
As always, staying informed about real-time traffic conditions is critical. Travelers can tune into traffic updates via various channels:
- Radio: IsoRadio broadcasts on frequency 103.3 and can also be accessed through digital radio DAB. For urgent situations, RTL 102.5 provides timely updates.
- Phone: The CCISS (Centro di coordinamento informazioni sulla sicurezza stradale) offers a free helpline at 1518, available 24/7, while Autostrade per l'Italia has a paid line at 840.04.21.21.
- Apps: The CCISS app is available for both Apple and Android devices, as well as MyWay from Autostrade per l'Italia.
- Social Media: Updates can be followed on Autostrade per l'Italia’s Facebook page and on Twitter via @cciss_ministero.
- Televideo: RAI Televideo provides regional and national traffic updates through its service.
As the Easter weekend approaches, travelers are encouraged to remain patient and vigilant on the roads. With millions expected to travel, being prepared and informed can help ensure a smoother and safer journey. Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable Easter holiday!
