Easter Holiday Travel Begins in Germany with Severe Traffic and Airport Crowds

Congestion on highways and surging passenger numbers at airports in Nordrhein-Westfalen mark the start of Osterferien, compounded by construction and regional events.

• The Osterferien holiday period has officially started in Nordrhein-Westfalen and other German states, leading to heavy traffic as families and students begin their travels.
• ADAC has identified Friday afternoon and Saturday morning as peak congestion periods on highways, particularly in Nordrhein-Westfalen, with delays exacerbated by 580 active construction sites.
• Köln/Bonn and Düsseldorf airports are preparing for up to 1.5 million travelers over the holiday period, marking a significant increase compared to last year.
• Southern regions, including routes around Munich and towards Austria, are also experiencing delays due to major events like the bauma 2025 trade fair and border control measures.
• Travelers are advised to plan their journeys on less congested days, such as Sunday, and avoid heavily trafficked routes and peak times for smoother travel.

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