Fuel Up Smart: Cheaper Gas Stops Across Europe When Driving From Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Cross-border Fuel Prices: Equal Affordability Pre- and Post-Border Transition - Affordable Fueling Across Border Boundaries
Hey there, road warriors! Heading out of Baden-Württemberg on a driving adventure? Keep your wallet (and our planet) in mind when fueling up. Here's a lowdown on the best and worst spots for gasoline prices in various destinations from our research on EU Commission fuel price data.
Southbound
Belgiumando Francealmostmatch GermanyBut save big in Spain!
Driving southward to Austria? You'll find cheaper gasoline at €1.35 for gasoline and €1.51 for diesel compared to Germany. However, if Austria is just a transit country, consider your destination. In Italy, fuel is dearer than in Austria, but in Slovenia, Croatia, or Hungary, it's cheaper. Slovakia offers slight savings on gasoline, but dicey diesel prices make Austria the ultimate choice. Switzerland isn't the greatest place for fueling up; while there are no EU Commission figures, data from the Touring Club Switzerland reveals that fuel is costlier there than in Germany, Italy, or France.
Eastbound
Go to Poland or the Czech Republic!
The cheapest gasoline awaits you in Poland, with a difference of 35 cents, and diesel at €1.10 – a significant saving compared to Germany. If you're bound for the Baltic countries, you'll fill up cheaper than in Germany, but it'll cost more compared to Poland. If driving through the Czech Republic to Hungary or Slovakia, it's a wise move to fill up in the transit country.
Westbound
Luxembourg lingers on the westside!
France is nearly on par with Germany. Spanish drivers can fill up jubilantly, as they'll save significantly at the destination. While gasoline is cheaper by 16 cents in Belgium, diesel costlier by 7 cents, makes the Netherlands a less appealing choice. Luxembourg offers the best deal in the west, with savings of 24 and 16 cents on super and diesel, respectively.
Northbound
Norse cheers await further north!
Danish motorists should top off before setting out, as super gasoline will cost you 23 cents more and diesel 14 cents more than in Germany. But rejoice as Sweden offers a heartier welcome, with cost savings of 28 cents on super gasoline and 9 cents on diesel compared to Germany.
Fuel cost differences typically spring from varying taxes and levies. Oil price fluctuations affect all countries, so the differences remain relatively stable. Prices can, however, fluctuate depending on the gas station, time of day, region, and whether you're cruising on the highway or a country road. Variations right before and after the border tend to be lower.
Taking advantage of cheaper fuel by detouring can be a time-consuming (and environmentally unfriendly) venture. Even if you calculate the savings on 30 cents per kilometer driven, the advantage diminishes quickly. Make refueling part of your plan, and fill up the evening before your journey. Fuel prices tend to be a few cents lower then than in the morning. Happy travels and fuel-savvy driving!
In the midst of your European driving journey, remember that adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle could offset potential fuel expenses. Choose places for vocational training or rest that are near public transportation or carpool with fellow travelers to reduce your carbon footprint.
Also, consider a hybrid or electric vehicle for your next car purchase. They may require some adjustment in lifestyle, but long-term savings on fuel can make them an enticing option, especially on extended travel or when visiting countries with high fuel prices.
