All you need to know: car travel on Europe's highways
2025. 03. 03. 11:47
Before embarking on a road trip abroad, it’s not just the itinerary and accommodation that need careful planning but also the costs associated with toll roads and vignettes. In 2025, several European countries introduced changes to their highway toll systems, so we have compiled the most essential information to ensure a seamless journey through Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia.
Highway Vignette Austria
Austria boasts a high-quality infrastructure and remains a popular travel destination for tourists. This is due to its breathtaking natural landscapes, making it an ideal location for skiing, hiking, and cycling. Art lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with opportunities ranging from classical music to historic architecture.
How Much Does the Austria Highway Vignette Cost?
Before setting off, it’s essential to be prepared: driving on Austria highways requires a vignette, which must be purchased for vehicles under 3.5 tons.
| Category | 1 Day | 10 Days | 2 Months | Yearly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle <3,5t | 9,30€ | 12,40€ | 31,10€ | 103,80€ |
| Motorcycles | 3,70€ | 4,90€ | 12,40€ | 41,50€ |
What Are the Fines for Not Having an Austria Highway Vignette?
In Austria, not only does the absence of a valid vignette result in fines, but any physical tampering with the vignette is also strictly penalized—so it's not worth the risk. Moreover, fines should be paid as soon as possible to avoid administrative penalties ranging from €300 to €3,000.
Category | Without a valid vignette | Vignette tampering |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle <3,5t | 120€ | 240€ |
| Motorcycles | 65€ | 130€ |
How Are Highway Vignettes Checked in Austria?
Like in many other countries, Austria uses an automated camera system to check highway vignettes, but toll authorities also conduct frequent on-site inspections. Currently, there are nine camera systems installed at various locations, and their positions are changed every 7 to 14 days, so avoiding detection is nearly impossible.
Highway Vignette Hungary
Budapest is the most popular tourist destination in Hungary, but the country also attracts visitors year-round to its world-famous thermal baths in Hajdúszoboszló, Hévíz, and the Balaton region. Regardless of the destination, using highways ensures a stress-free journey.
How Much Does the Highway Vignette Hungary Cost?
In Hungary, vehicles under 3.5 tons must purchase a highway vignette before entering toll roads. These are available in four pricing categories:
- D1: Passenger vehicles for up to 7 people and their trailers
- D2: Vehicles designed for more than 7 passengers, motorhomes, and trucks up to 3.5 tons
- U: Trailers of vehicles in the D2 category
- D1m: Motorcycles
| E-Vignette fee category | National | County | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | Weekly | Monthly | Yearly | Yearly | |
| D1m | 2 660 HUF | 3 310 HUF | 5 360 HUF | 59 210 HUF | 6 890 HUF |
| D1 | 5 320 HUF | 6 620 HUF | 10 710 HUF | 59 210 HUF | 6 890 HUF |
| D2 | 7 560 HUF | 9 630 HUF | 15 170 HUF | 84 040 HUF | 13 780 HUF |
| U | 5 320 HUF | 6 620 HUF | 10 710 HUF | 59 210 HUF | 6 890 HUF |
What Are the Fines for Not Having a Hungarian Highway Vignette?
In Hungary, the highway vignette must always be purchased before entering a toll road. Failure to do so results in a fine, which increases if not paid within 60 days.
| Fee category | Basic fine (paid within 60 days) | Increased fine (paid after 60 days) |
|---|---|---|
| D1, D1M, D2, U | 26 640 HUF | 91 780 HUF |
How Are Highway Vignettes Checked in Hungary?
Like Austria, Hungary operates an electronic toll system. The presence of a highway vignette is verified through fixed camera networks, mobile inspection units, and manual roadside checks.
Highway Vignette Slovakia
Slovakia is not only rich in natural wonders but also boasts a rich historical heritage, offering excellent opportunities for hikers, skiers, and art enthusiasts alike. Similar to Hungary, Slovakia is home to numerous thermal spas, making it a destination worth exploring. When traveling by car, it’s essential to pay attention to the toll road network, as Slovak highways and expressways require a vignette for usage.
How Much Does the Highway Vignette Slovakia Cost?
Highway vignettes in Slovakia are mandatory for vehicles under 3.5 tons and must be purchased before entering any toll road. These vignettes come with different validity periods, and in 2025, they are available at the following prices:
| Validity Period | Prices |
|---|---|
| 1 Day | 8,10€ |
| 10 Days | 10,80€ |
| 30 Days | 17,10€ |
| 365 Days | 90€ |
What Are the Fines for Not Having a Slovakia Highway Vignette?
Driving on Slovak toll roads without a valid vignette can result in a fine ranging from €300 to €500. To avoid this, the vignette must always be purchased before entering any toll road.
To prevent penalties, it is crucial to verify the accuracy of the entered vehicle information at the time of purchase. Additionally, drivers should keep track of the vignette’s validity period to ensure continuous compliance.
How Are Highway Vignettes Checked in Slovakia?
Since 2016, Slovakia has implemented an electronic toll system, meaning that vignettes can only be purchased in digital form—there is no physical sticker that needs to be placed on the windshield.
When purchasing an e-vignette, drivers must provide their license plate number and country code, which is then stored in a central database. The automated camera system scans vehicles on the toll roads to verify if they have the required toll permit.
For a Hassle-Free Journey, Buy an E-Vignette!
Key Takeaways:
- Electronic highway vignettes are required in all three countries, although Austria still offers a physical vignette option for windshield placement.
- Daily, weekly, monthly, and annual vignettes are available in all three countries, allowing drivers to choose the most suitable option.
- The vignette must always be purchased before entering a toll road.
- Failure to comply results in substantial fines, making it essential to secure the vignette in advance.
- E-vignettes can be purchased online, making it easy to obtain them before departure.
