Long delays expected — Spain’s DGT predicts nearly 16 million journeys this Easter, with major traffic congestion on key travel dates across the country. Credit : Shutterstock, Jose HERNANDEZ Camera 51
While the first national holiday of Easter doesn’t officially arrive until Thursday 17 April, many Spaniards are already planning to hit the road a few days early.
The weekend before Holy Week has become the unofficial starting point for spring travel, and in 2025, that’s no exception.
With that in mind, Spain’s traffic authority—the DGT—is rolling out its special Easter traffic operation from 3 p.m. on Friday 11 April through to Monday 21 April. Nearly 16 million road journeys are expected during this period, slightly more than last year. That means busy roads, packed motorways, and, unless you plan ahead, long delays.
The operation is split into two main phases, both designed to manage the flow of traffic heading out to holiday spots and then back again. If you want to avoid the worst of the chaos, timing will be everything.
Easter traffic hotspots in Spain: What days to avoid the roads
The first wave begins Friday afternoon, 11 April, when city-dwellers begin heading out toward beaches, mountains or second homes. The DGT expects heavy traffic from mid-afternoon until late evening. Saturday sees more of the same, particularly in the morning as people head to leisure destinations.
Sunday afternoon brings the first mini-return rush, though it won’t be as intense as what’s to come. Still, expect delays from around 6 p.m. onwards.
The second phase, and the busier one, starts on Wednesday 16 April. Traffic jams are likely to begin around lunchtime and stretch into the night as people across most of Spain (except Catalonia and Valencia, who have a different calendar) begin their official getaway.
By Thursday, everyone’s on the move. Catalonia and Valencia join in, adding to the congestion. If you can avoid driving that day, you probably should.
Friday 18 April is a public holiday, so there’ll be fewer long-distance journeys. But local traffic—especially around towns holding religious events—could still cause some disruption.
On Saturday, you’ll see a mix of short local trips and early returns. Then Sunday, 20 April, brings what the DGT expects to be the most difficult day. Traffic will likely be at a standstill for much of the day as people make their way back home. Areas like Madrid, Andalusia, and Galicia will be among the most affected.
Finally, Monday 21 April wraps up the operation. It’s a holiday in five regions—Catalonia, Valencia, Navarre, the Basque Country and La Rioja—so expect another spike in movement, particularly in the afternoon and evening.
How to avoid traffic and travel smarter this Easter
The DGT’s advice? Be prepared. Plan your route in advance, check the traffic updates before you leave, and if you can, travel outside peak hours.
A small change to your departure time can make a big difference. Hitting the road early in the morning might mean you skip the traffic completely, while leaving mid-afternoon could land you in bumper-to-bumper queues.
Before setting off, do a quick check on your car—especially tyres, lights and brakes. Don’t forget to rest up the night before and keep all your documents in order.
And remember, April weather is famously unpredictable. Rain or snow in higher altitudes can slow things down or even close roads entirely, so stay up to date with the latest advisories.
With a bit of planning and a good dose of patience, your Easter break doesn’t have to start with stress. Safe travels—and buen viaje!
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