Italy refunds tolls during traffic jams — with conditions for holidaymakers

Italy is introducing a toll refund system intended to help holidaymakers and commuters during traffic jams. The Neue Zürcher Zeitung reports that the regulation comes into force in June 2026 and also includes foreign drivers. The system is designed to ease frustration over delays on Italian motorways – a frequent problem during peak season.

Strict conditions for refunds

However, strict conditions apply to refunds. According to Stern, tolls are only refunded under certain circumstances. The exact criteria are not yet fully known, but initial information suggests that only significant delays – presumably from a certain duration onwards – entitle drivers to a refund. Not every minute of traffic jam automatically results in a credit.

The regulation is also geographically limited. Münchner Merkur reports that only certain motorway sections benefit from the toll refund. Which routes are exactly affected is currently being determined. The system aims to relieve the strained main traffic arteries during the holiday season without including all Italian toll routes.

Information requirement before travel

For travellers, this means: those driving to Italy in 2026 should inform themselves before departure about which routes fall under the new regulation and what delay duration triggers a refund. Italian authorities are currently working on the technical details of implementation. Whether the refund is automatic or must be requested manually remains unclear.