Carnival Holidays: ADAC Expects Heavy Traffic and Congestion on Weekend - Carnival travel chaos hits southern Germany with roadblocks and delays
Heavy traffic and delays are expected across southern Germany during the second weekend of February. The start of Carnival break in Bavaria, Saarland, and Thuringia will bring more travellers onto the roads. Border checks and winter weather could add to the congestion, causing slowdowns on key routes and at transit points.
The Bavarian school holidays begin on Friday, February 13, leading to a surge in travel. Many families will head toward winter sports destinations in the Alps and mid-range mountain regions. Popular routes like the A3 between Deggendorf and Hengersberg—currently under expansion—and the A94 toward the Austrian border near Pocking are likely to see heavy traffic.
The Kiefersfelden-Kufstein border crossing in Austria may also face delays as holidaymakers pass through. Inside Munich, the Security Conference will restrict movement within a designated security zone. Police escorts and demonstrations could cause sudden stoppages, while Carnival parades in multiple cities will close roads temporarily.
Wintry conditions in some areas may create icy patches, making driving more hazardous. Border checks into Germany could further slow down crossings, adding to the congestion on major transit routes in neighbouring countries.
The combination of Carnival travel, winter holidays, and security events will put pressure on roads and border points. Drivers should expect delays, particularly on routes leading to Austria and within Munich. Authorities advise planning extra time for journeys and checking weather updates before setting off.
