The Easter weekend is a highlight for many French people: the traditions of this religious festival invite us to savor chocolate and to have fun with egg hunts, which delight both kids and grown-ups. Bonus: Easter Monday is always a public holiday! Those lucky enough not to work on Monday can enjoy a three-day weekend, an extra day of rest that’s especially welcome.
Easter is one of the first holidays of the spring : days are getting longer, and the weather is often milder... Many people seize the opportunity to get away, reunite with family, or simply change the air during these three days. Unfortunately, that also means the roads are likely to be busy on 3, 4, 5 and 6 April 2026.
To help motorists travel smoothly, Bison futé brings us its traffic forecasts and tips to ease car movement. Bad news: the roads are expected to be very congested this Friday and next Monday.
This Friday is rated orange for departures, and even red in the Île-de-France and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes regions, signs of very difficult traffic. Slowdowns are expected from late morning, with predictable jams at the toll barriers and on the outskirts of major cities. The highways A10, A13, A11, A63, A7, A8, A50, A61 as well as A41, A42, A43 are expected to be very congested from early afternoon and until late in the evening.
Saturday is shaping up to be easier: the whole country is currently in the green zone, except for Île-de-France and Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, which remain orange for departures. Drivers are advised to start their trips early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the weekend rush on Saturday morning.
This Sunday is classified as green in both directions. No major traffic difficulties are forecast for the day, offering an ideal window for late departures or early returns.
For departures, the Bison Futé map is green. For returns, the North-West regions of France are red. The weekend return will be very difficult, with toll booths and near-city traffic expected to be congested, and heavy traffic anticipated on major arteries. The A11, RN24, RN165, A13, A25, A10 and A6 are expected to be particularly busy from late morning.
Remember: on the road, caution is the key. Take breaks every two hours, stay hydrated and, if possible, change drivers regularly. And beware of weather and rain warnings, which could make your journey even more dangerous.
Dates and Opening Time
From April 3, 2026 to April 6, 2026
Official website
www.bison-fute.gouv.fr
