Lorraine Williamson
Drivers in Spain are being warned to prepare for one of the busiest weekends of the year. More than seven million long-distance trips are expected over the August 15 bank holiday.
The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) will activate a nationwide special operation at 3.00 pm today (Thursday, 14 August). This will run until midnight on Sunday. Officials anticipate heavy congestion on major roads as holidaymakers head to the coast, mountain retreats, and hometowns for extended celebrations.
August is traditionally Spain’s peak holiday month, with many residents taking annual leave. The mid-August bank holiday — La Asunción de la Virgen (Assumption Day) — is a cornerstone of the summer calendar. On 15 August, Catholics commemorate the Virgin Mary’s ascent into heaven, a tradition marked by religious services, processions, and vibrant local festivities.
In cities like Madrid, Seville, and Málaga, these observances blend with live music, street fairs, and fireworks, drawing larger crowds and adding to evening traffic chaos. Many families also seize the chance for a final summer getaway before the return to work and school.
Extra safety measures on the roads
The DGT, backed by the Guardia Civil, will roll out an intensified safety campaign. This includes increased speed, alcohol, and drug checks, plus the use of fixed and mobile speed cameras, traffic-monitoring drones, helicopters, and unmarked vehicles.
Inconspicuous patrol cars and motorbikes will be deployed across motorways, rural roads, and city access routes. The aim is to catch reckless drivers and keep traffic flowing safely during peak hours.
Keeping traffic moving
To ease bottlenecks, authorities will introduce reversible lanes in high-pressure areas and suspend most roadworks. Large-scale sporting events on public roads will be restricted, and freight traffic — particularly vehicles transporting hazardous goods — will face time and route limitations.
Day-by-day travel outlook
-
Thursday 14 August
: The first wave begins late afternoon, with congestion likely between 4.00 pm and 11.00 pm. -
Friday 15 August
: Heavy traffic towards the coast and festival locations throughout the morning. -
Saturday 16 August
: Continued movement to holiday destinations. -
Sunday 17 August
: Return journeys begin, with the heaviest congestion expected in the afternoon and early evening on routes leading into major cities.
A final word for drivers
The DGT urges motorists to plan journeys carefully, avoid peak departure times where possible, and allow extra travel time. With millions on the move, patience — along with a full tank and plenty of water — could make the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one.
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