Traffic violation on holiday? Here's where you pay the top price

Step on the accelerator to get to your holiday destination as quickly as possible this summer? Think twice when driving through Switzerland, as it could cost you an expensive holiday. And setting the navigation on your phone while driving? Then you'll lose your driving licence for a fortnight in Belgium. Wegenvignetten.nl put the most important traffic fines into the popular European holiday finesin a row.

Traffic fines in European holiday countries (2025)

As expensive as fines are in the Netherlands, you won't easily come across them elsewhere in Europe. But in Switzerland, you have to be really careful. This is because there, the only fines in Europe are income-related, starting from an excess of 25 km/h outside built-up areas. Remarkably, in France, Italy, Croatia and Luxembourg, almost every speeding offence - whether 10 or 40 km/h over the speed limit - results in the same fine. However, a more serious offence does cost more points on your driving licence and increases the chances of confiscation.

Points penalty for Dutch too

By the way, that points penalty also applies to Dutch nationals! So if you commit multiple traffic offences during your holidays - or have also received fines in previous years, for example - you can be banned from driving in that country. You will then not be allowed to drive in that country for several months or even years. Germany and Switzerland are particularly strict about this.

Discount if you pay immediately

Another notable difference with the Netherlands is that, especially in southern European countries, you often get a discount if you pay immediately. In France, for instance, you only have to pay 90 euros instead of 135 euros for most offences if you pay within 15 days. In Italy, it is best to pay within five days, saving 30 per cent. And in Spain, the discount amounts to as much as half the original fine amount!

Most notable traffic fines and rules in European holiday countries

Non-hand-free calling in Belgium? Driving licence lost!

There are also considerable differences when it comes to fines for not using a hands-free phone. In Germany and Austria - where fines for not wearing a seat belt are also remarkably low, by the way - this will cost you 'only' 100 euros. In Italy and Slovenia, it is two and a half times as much and in Belgium, since this year - also as a Dutchman - you even lose your driving licence for 15 days if you are caught doing so. That's on top of a fine of 174 euros.

'An hour earlier at your destination is not worth it'

Mattijs Wijnmalen of Roadvignettes.co.uk warns holidaymakers not to rush off: "Getting to your destination an hour early is simply not worth the risk of a hefty fine or losing your driving licence. Drive slowly, obey the rules and think about your own safety as well as the safety of others. Only then will your holiday start off truly relaxed."