Heavy Traffic Congestion Expected During French Winter School Holiday Weekend
This weekend marks the start of winter school holidays across France, and with multiple zones on vacation, major traffic congestion is anticipated, particularly toward the ski resorts.
The weekend of February 21 to 23, 2025, is shaping up to be one of the busiest for French roads. According to Bison Futé, the public traffic information service, all academic zones will be out for holiday, creating what authorities term a "chassé-croisé" as families from different holiday schedules converge on popular travel routes.
Starting Friday, February 21, the traffic conditions are already being classified as orange, indicating heavy congestion heading toward the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, particularly along the A43 and A72 highways. The peak of congestion is anticipated by the end of Friday afternoon, with the heaviest traffic likely to be felt on the A6 toward Paris.
On Saturday, February 22, the situation escalates as Bison Futé projects the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region will see its traffic classified as red, denoting very difficult travel conditions. The A43 between Lyon and Fréjus is expected to be particularly congested. "The maximum congestion is expected to peak by the end of the afternoon. The traffic will remain dense on the A6 until the end of the evening," Bison Futé warned.
Drivers heading to the ski resorts might face staggering traffic delays. One report indicated already 60 km of traffic jams on the A43 due to heavy delays, and as many as 110,000 vehicles will be on the roads within the Savoie region alone. "With 110,000 vehicles expected to circulate, today promises to be long for some vacationers," noted the traffic forecasts.
Authorities suggest taking safety precautions, stressing the importance of frequent breaks every two hours on the road. "It's going to be packed, but there are ways to manage. Take your time, enjoy the drive and the scenery, and don’t forget to stop for those much-needed breaks!" one local transport authority advised.
The trend continues throughout Saturday, with the roads remaining highly congested as the ski vacationers return home from the Alps on Sunday. Road conditions are projected to smooth out by Sunday, as holidaymakers heading back home will see improved traffic, contrary to the crowds experienced on the previous day.
The weekend is expected to reflect the typical high-traffic conditions observed annually during this winter holiday period. Various traffic management measures will also be enacted to facilitate this influx, including updated speed regulations and traffic flow monitors to alleviate congestion and keep vehicles moving.
Authorities recommend avoiding travel during peak traffic times to reduce the risk of gridlock. For those who must travel, the advice from Bison Futé is clear – plan accordingly, depart early, and be prepared for delays. Traffic jams are part of the experience for many families eager to reach their holiday destinations.
To sum up, as families across France gear up for their winter getaways, the emphasis is on safety, patience, and enjoyment of the time spent together. Vacations are about family time and adventure, even if the drive there may require some waiting. Remember: holiday traffic, like the snow, is best managed with good planning and the right attitude!