New rules have been introduced at a popular resort in Austria: what will change for tourists

Austria is preparing for a record tourist season and at the same time introducing important restrictions that will change the usual routes of holidaymakers. Find out how you will now have to plan your trips and who will be affected by the new rules

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The winter tourist season is beginning in Austria — and with it come new traffic restrictions that will particularly affect motorists travelling to Tyrol. Regional authorities have taken a number of measures to protect local infrastructure from overload and reduce chaos on small roads, where many tourists try to ‘turn off’ in search of a detour around traffic jams on the motorways. Now this strategy is officially banned — and violations will be monitored much more strictly, writes Der Spiegel.

What exactly has changed

From 20 December, a ban on the use of detour routes in the event of motorway congestion will come into force in the federal state of Tyrol. This means that if there is a traffic jam on the motorway, it will no longer be possible to take local roads to bypass it. The rule applies to the busiest areas of the region, including Kufstein, Reutte, Imst and Schwaz.

Local residents have long complained about traffic, noise and exhaust fumes, which have led to gridlock on city streets on weekends and public holidays. To ease the burden, regional authorities and traffic police will begin to actively monitor compliance with the ban.

When the restriction is in effect

The ban is in place for the winter season — until 6 April 2026 — and will be in effect on weekends and public holidays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

In addition, due to repairs to the Lug Bridge, the restrictions will extend to the Innsbruck area and the Wipptal Valley, where the new rules will apply from 27 December to 1 March 2026.

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How traffic will be controlled

Traffic lights are already being installed in certain areas to regulate traffic and prevent congestion on narrow city roads. The police and traffic control services will be given extended powers: they will be able to stop cars, redirect traffic and fine drivers who violate the ban.

Regional authorities have asked Google Maps, Waze and other services to update their routes. In recent years, navigation systems have been directing tourists to detours, without taking into account that the suggested roads may be narrow, unsuitable for heavy traffic and dangerous in winter.

Winter active sports vacation is always a long-awaited event for millions of tourists who really get unforgettable pleasure and a lot of emotions from such tours. However, it is also the prerogative of the tourists themselves to be aware of the possibility of injury at ski resorts, because no one but you can take care of it. Visit Ukraine, as a professional player in the tourism market, is well aware of this and once again warns that medical services in case of injury at ski resorts can cost a fortune. Don't rely on the well-known “hopefully it will work out” - it not only doesn't work when practicing extreme sports at mountain resorts, but also poses a direct threat to the health and lives of extreme tourists. Take out insurance for outdoor activities in advance to ensure that any European ski resort remains a resort in your memories.

Reminder! Winter travel in Ukraine does not have to be expensive — a huge number of routes allow you to relax comfortably even on a minimal budget. This winter, there are short trips, family tours, ski weekends and holiday trips available that offer atmosphere and new experiences without unnecessary expenses. Learn more about the best budget winter tours in Ukraine.

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