Easter Travel Expected to Bring Major Traffic Jams on German Highways

ADAC warns of severe congestion, particularly near Pforzheim, with Gründonnerstag forecasted as the peak day for delays.

Overview

The ADAC has issued a warning about significant traffic congestion on highways as Easter travel begins this weekend.
Gründonnerstag (April 17, 2025) is predicted to be the most traffic-heavy day, based on historical data and current travel patterns.
The area near Pforzheim, especially along Autobahns 5, 81, and 8, is expected to experience severe bottlenecks due to ongoing construction and increased travel demand.
In 2024, Gründonnerstag ranked among the top ten days for traffic jams, with delays totaling 528 kilometers in Baden-Württemberg alone.
To avoid heavy traffic, the ADAC advises traveling during off-peak hours—before 8:00 AM or after 6:00 PM—or planning trips for Saturday or Sunday.