Italy expects 25 million vehicle movements during end-of-August travel surge

Italy is preparing for a major end-of-summer traffic surge, known as the counter-exodus, as millions of travelers return from vacation to major urban centers. Anas, the national road agency, estimates that over 25 million vehicle movements will occur between Friday, August 28, and Sunday, August 30.

Viabilità Italia has issued red alerts for several periods: the afternoon of Friday, the morning of Saturday, and the afternoon of Sunday. Key routes expected to face heavy congestion include the A1 (Milan-Naples), A14 (Adriatic), A4, and the E45. To manage the influx, Anas has deployed approximately 2,500 personnel and suspended 1,175 roadworks—about 83% of active sites—until September 7.

Claudio Andrea Gemme, CEO of Anas, has urged motorists to plan trips carefully, respect speed limits, and avoid mobile phone use to ensure safety during this high-pressure period. Additionally, heavy vehicle restrictions will be in place on Saturday and Sunday to improve traffic flow.