Those driving on holiday this year face higher fuel prices than in Austria in many popular destinations, finds a new analysis by the Austrian Transport Club (VCÖ). Topping the list for most expensive refueling are Italy, Germany, France, Greece, and Portugal. Cheaper than Austria are Croatia, Spain, Slovenia, Bulgaria, and Turkey.

With schools out last Friday in eastern Austria—and this week across the rest—many set off by car. Last year, 47 % of outbound travellers used cars, with Italy, Germany, Croatia, Spain, and Greece the top foreign destinations.

Expensive in Italy and Germany
In Italy, a 50 L fill of Eurosuper costs about €9 more and diesel €4 more than in Austria. In Germany and Greece, Eurosuper is about €11 pricier. France and Portugal also charge above-Austrian rates. Conversely, Croatians pay €2.20 less for Eurosuper and €4.30 less for diesel; Spain €2.60 and €7.10 less; and in Bulgaria Eurosuper is over €16 cheaper per 50 L.

EU Extremes
Within the EU, Denmark has the highest petrol price—50 L of Eurosuper costs about €99, some €23 more than in Austria. For diesel, Switzerland leads at over €19 above Austrian rates for 50 L, followed by Denmark and Finland.

Save Fuel on Holiday
The VCÖ advises that fuel-saving driving pays off everywhere: driving 100–110 km/h instead of 130 km/h on the motorway cuts consumption by 20 %. Additional tips: anticipate traffic, shift up quickly, avoid excess luggage, and use air-conditioning sparingly.