Bison Futé’s Ascension Weekend Traffic Forecast

The Ascension weekend in France is a popular time for travel, with many people taking advantage of the long holiday to visit family, explore the countryside, or head to the coast. Consequently, traffic congestion is often a significant concern. Bison Futé, the French national traffic information service, releases detailed forecasts to help drivers plan their journeys and avoid the worst of the gridlock.

Understanding Bison Futé’s Color Codes

Bison Futé uses a color-coded system to indicate the severity of traffic expected on different days. Green indicates normal traffic, orange signifies heavy traffic, red signifies very heavy traffic, and black signifies exceptionally heavy traffic. It’s crucial to consult Bison Futé’s website or mobile app before traveling to understand the expected conditions along your route.

Typical Traffic Patterns During Ascension Weekend

Generally, the Wednesday before Ascension Day (the day before the holiday) sees increased traffic in the afternoon and evening, particularly leaving major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. This is due to people starting their journeys early to avoid the peak holiday rush.

Ascension Day itself usually experiences heavy traffic in the morning, as people travel to their destinations. The return journey, typically on Sunday and Monday, is also prone to significant congestion, especially in the afternoon and evening as holidaymakers head back home.

Key Areas to Watch Out For

Certain regions and routes are consistently more affected by traffic during Ascension weekend. These include major highways leading to popular tourist destinations, such as the A7 (Autoroute du Soleil) towards the Mediterranean coast, the A10 towards the Atlantic coast, and the A6 towards Burgundy and the Alps. Toll plazas are also notorious bottlenecks.

Tips for Avoiding Traffic

• Plan Ahead: Consult Bison Futé’s forecasts and identify potential trouble spots.
• Travel Off-Peak: If possible, leave early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the busiest periods.
• Consider Alternative Routes: Explore secondary roads, although be aware that these may be slower.
• Stay Informed: Monitor traffic updates on the radio or through navigation apps.
• Be Patient: Pack snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the journey. Remember to take breaks to avoid fatigue.
• Use Toll Road Liber-t: If using toll roads, consider using a Liber-t tag to expedite passage through toll plazas.

Where to Find Bison Futé Information

Bison Futé’s official website (trafic.bisonfute.gouv.fr) is the primary source for traffic information. You can also find updates on their mobile app and through various news outlets and radio stations. It’s recommended to check these resources regularly in the days leading up to and during the Ascension weekend.

By staying informed and planning ahead, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting stuck in traffic and enjoy a smoother Ascension weekend getaway.