SHERIDAN, WYOMING – June 23, 2025 – Whether you're cruising through the lavender fields of France, winding through the Alps, or hitting the coastal roads of Spain, a European summer road trip promises unforgettable sights — but it also comes with a patchwork of road rules. Goodyear’s latest summer driving guide offers a helpful breakdown of what travelers need to know before hitting the road this season.
This comprehensive guide outlines key regulations across Europe and explains why using the right summer tires can make all the difference in safety and comfort for your journey. From avoiding costly fines to enhancing your vehicle’s grip on sunbaked roads, Goodyear is helping drivers travel smarter this summer.
Stay Safe with the Right Summer Tires
Before diving into each country’s laws, it’s essential to equip your car with the right summer tires. Goodyear highlights that summer tires provide:
- Superior grip in warm, dry, and wet conditions
- Shorter braking distances for added safety
- Precise handling, even during sudden weather changes
All Goodyear premium summer tires are engineered for both electric vehicles and traditional combustion cars, ensuring efficient and quiet driving no matter your setup.
France: Safety Kits and Clean-Air Stickers
Driving through France means being prepared with more than just scenic routes. French law requires that vehicles carry:
- A reflective jacket
- A warning triangle
- Headlamp beam deflectors (for right-hand drive cars)
“French regulations also stipulate that a Crit'Air sticker is displayed on your car when travelling to certain cities with Low Emission Zones (Zones à Faibles Émissions or ZFEs). Failure to display the correct Crit'Air sticker could result in an on-the-spot fine of €135.”
Speed limits vary by road type and are reduced in rainy conditions. Using a mobile phone or even Bluetooth headphones while driving can lead to fines.
Germany: Autobahn Etiquette and Emission Zones
Germany’s famed Autobahn isn’t entirely speed-limit free — and the country enforces strict rules on radar detectors.
“For example, if you have a navigation system that shows the location of fixed speed cameras, you must deactivate this function on the system as it is illegal to carry or use any radar detection equipment when driving through Germany.”
Drivers also need to display an Umweltplakette emissions sticker when entering certain cities.
Italy: Cameras, Charges, and “La Dolce Vita”
Exploring Italy by car is enchanting, but drivers should be aware of congestion charges and traffic-restricted ZTL zones, which are strictly monitored by cameras.
“In Italy, overtaking is prohibited in specific situations, including on and approaching level crossings and when visibility is limited.”
Campers and caravans must stay within legal size limits, and drivers should expect tolls on most motorways.
Spain: Scenic Roads with Smart Regulations
Spain combines mountain adventure and Mediterranean charm, but it also has strict low-emission rules in cities like Barcelona.
“In Barcelona, an area covering 95 square kilometres is a low emission zone. Restrictions apply depending on when your vehicle was registered and what type of fuel system it operates.”
Be mindful of speed limits, which may be more tightly enforced in summer.
United Kingdom: Left-Side Driving and Speed Cameras
In the UK, drivers must adjust to left-hand traffic and imperial speed limits (mph). Failing to do so can be dangerous — and expensive.
“The UK enforces speed limits strictly, and a large number of speed cameras are used to monitor and enforce these limits on various road types.”
Expect tolls at crossings like the M25 Dartford and emissions-related charges in London.
Austria & Switzerland: Alpine Vignettes and Quiet Roads
To enjoy the stunning mountain roads of Austria and Switzerland, a vignette (toll sticker) is essential.
“In Switzerland, unusually it is illegal to wash your car by hand on Sundays. While it is unlikely you will be doing this whilst on holiday, it is an important rule to be aware of.”
Noise restrictions, particularly for motorcycles, are enforced in summer.
Other Must-Know Rules Around Europe
Planning to explore further? Here are quick tips for other countries:
- Portugal: Only rigid tow bars are legal for towing.
- Netherlands: Daytime speed limits dropped to 100 km/h in 2020.
- Norway: Dipped headlights required at all times.
- Finland: Hitting an elk or reindeer? Call the police immediately.
- Czech Republic & Hungary: 0.0% alcohol limits for all drivers.
- Poland: Carry a fire extinguisher.
- Slovenia & Iceland: Headlights always on; no off-roading in Iceland.
Drive Confidently This Summer
No matter where your journey takes you, Goodyear encourages drivers to research local rules, equip summer tires, and carry essential safety gear. “Take your driving experience to new heights, with Goodyear. You won't look back.”
Learn more and explore your options at https://www.goodyear.eu