Unusual traffic rules in Europe that most drivers aren't aware of

Traffic rules in European countries vary significantly, and some of them can come as a real surprise to foreign drivers. Violating even rules that seem minor at first glance can result in fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of euros. Learn more about the unusual traffic rules in Europe that you should know before starting your road trip

Electronic road vignette for traveling in Europe

BUY

Traveling through Europe in your own car is one of the most popular ways to see several countries in a single trip. However, the traffic laws of each European country have their own peculiarities that can surprise even an experienced driver. Fines for violating these rules can sometimes reach several thousand euros, and ignorance of the law, as we know, is no excuse.

We’ll tell you exactly which rules you should know before starting your trip in the article below.

Fines for Running Out of Gas in Germany

German autobahns are known for having no speed limits on many sections, but few people know about another rule: stopping on the autobahn because you’ve run out of gas is considered a violation. German law views this as a situation the driver could have avoided by planning the route in advance. The fine for such a violation ranges from 30 to 70 euros.

How many days does it take to get a Green Card for your car to travel abroad — we explain at the link.

Ban on navigation devices with radar in France

In France, there is a ban on the use of navigation devices that display the exact location of speed cameras. French law enforcement strictly monitors compliance with this rule, and the fine for a violation can reach 1,500 euros. Before entering the country, you should check your navigation device settings and disable this feature.

Ban on transporting fuel cans in Portugal

Drivers who are used to carrying a spare can of gasoline should be aware: this is prohibited by law in Portugal. Fines for violating this rule are among the highest in Europe—they can reach 15,000 euros.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Headlights on during the day in Finland

Finnish traffic laws require drivers to keep their headlights on 24 hours a day, regardless of the season or weather conditions. This rule applies even on sunny summer days.

What documents are required for traveling abroad in 2026 — read about it in this article.

Fine for inappropriate footwear in Spain

In Spain, drivers are required to wear appropriate footwear while driving. Driving barefoot or in open-toed sandals can result in a fine of up to 200 euros. The rule applies to both city streets and highways.

What should you know about Switzerland?

Switzerland has several specific requirements for drivers:

• drivers who wear glasses or contact lenses are advised to carry a spare pair;
• the vehicle must display the country of registration.

These requirements may seem minor, but failure to comply with them can lead to additional problems during a roadside check.

How to prepare for a road trip through Europe?

Planning your route involves not only choosing interesting destinations but also familiarizing yourself with the local traffic regulations of every country along the way. In addition to traffic rules, you should also take care of paying tolls in advance, as using highways is subject to a fee in many European countries.

You can purchase an electronic vignette (e-vignette) on the Visit Ukraine portal. An e-vignette is an official digital document confirming payment of the toll for using toll roads. The system is in effect in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Slovenia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Switzerland. Once issued, all data is stored in an electronic database, and cameras on the highways automatically read the car’s license plate and verify that the toll has been paid. There is no need to print or stick anything on the windshield.

Get your e-vignette on Visit Ukraine in advance and travel on European roads without unnecessary stops or fines!

Reminder! In our previous article, we explained how to cross the border between Ukraine and Poland in your own car in 2026.

Photo: Magnific

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2026, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.