Why is 2026 a breakthrough year for travelers?
In 2026, most European Union countries fully implemented the e-vignette directive, which affected the price structure. The Czech Republic and Austria abandoned paper stickers in favor of video detection systems. This means that the lack of a purchased e-vignette is immediately detected by cameras, and fines are automatically sent to the vehicle owner's address in Poland.
1. Detailed cost of transit vignettes
When traveling to Italy in 2026, you most often use 10-day vignettes or the new 1-day option:
- Czech Republic 2026: A 10-day vignette costs approx. 290 CZK (~52 PLN).
- Austria 2026: A 10-day vignette costs approx. 11.50 EUR (~50 PLN).
2. Fuel prices – refueling strategy 2026
| Country | Unleaded 95 (PLN) | Diesel (PLN) | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Poland | ~6,00 | ~6,15 | Fill up before departure |
| Czech Republic | ~6,85 | ~7,05 | Good price outside the highway |
| Austria | ~7,60 | ~8,00 | Avoid highway stations |
| Italy | ~9,00 | ~9,40 | Avoid "Servito" option |
Warning 2026: In Italy, avoid petrol stations with the sign Servito. Service by an attendant adds up to 0.40 EUR to each liter of fuel! Always choose Self / Fai da te.
3. Motorways in Italy – toll gate system
Italy in 2026 still uses payment at the exit. Example costs:
- Brennero – Verona: approx. 19 EUR
- Tarvisio – Venice: approx. 20 EUR
- Milan – Rome: approx. 50 EUR