Fuel Up Wisely: The Cheapest Places to Refuel Along Your Vacation Route
Locating Low-Priced Gas Stations in the Area
Who fills up their tank smartly on the way to that much-awaited summer getaway could save enough cash for the first scoop of ice cream at the destination on many routes! However, the timing of refueling can significantly impact your savings, depending on your destination. Here's a lowdown on current fuel prices for gasoline and diesel in various European countries, as of early June 2025.
Remember, these prices are subject to changes, and it's always a good idea to double-check the local prices for the specific countries you plan to visit.
Direction South
For gasoline, Austria is 22 cents cheaper than Germany, while diesel is 6 cents cheaper. If Austria is just a transit country, it depends on the destination. In Italy, fuel is more expensive; in Slovenia, Croatia, or Hungary, it can be cheaper. So, it could be worthwhile to drive a little further or only half-fill the tank in Austria. The differences in gasoline with Slovakia are minimal, but diesel is cheaper there than in Austria and significantly cheaper than in Germany.
Swiss Alps Don't Tank in Switzerland!
Switzerland isn't the best place to refuel. ADAC doesn't supply data for Switzerland, but according to the Touring Club Switzerland, fuel is more expensive there than in Germany, Italy, or France. Those driving through Switzerland towards Italy should fill up their diesel tank beforehand, as the destination country is also slightly more expensive.
Direction West
France is almost on par with Germany. Spain offers fantastic savings. Belgium is significantly cheaper for gasoline (16 cents less) but 7 cents more expensive for diesel than Germany. In the Netherlands, fuel is 17 cents and 7 cents more expensive than in Germany, and in Luxembourg, it's the cheapest in the west, with potential savings of 24 cents for gasoline and 16 cents for diesel.
Direction East
The answer here is simple: Poland and the Czech Republic have the cheapest gasoline in the nearby environment, with savings of 35 cents. Diesel is also the cheapest in these countries, saving 18 and 22 cents, respectively. Those driving on to the Baltic countries will find fuel cheaper than in Germany, but more expensive than Poland. And for those traveling to Hungary or Slovakia via the Czech Republic, it's also a good idea to tank up in the transit country.
Scandinavia Avoiding the Pit Stop
Those setting off for Denmark should fill up their tank beforehand: Super gasoline is 23 cents more expensive there than in Germany, diesel 14 cents. If you drive on to Sweden, however, fuel will become much cheaper again. Super is 28 cents cheaper there than in Germany, diesel 9 cents.
Miscellaneous The Highs and Lows of Fuel Prices
The cause of the price differences is usually different taxes and charges. Fluctuations in oil prices affect all countries, however. The differences - calculated here on the basis of figures from 26 May, newer ones are not yet available - are therefore relatively stable. However, prices can vary depending on the gas station, time of day, region, and whether one tanks on the motorway or country road. The differences are often lower directly before and after the border.
Adapting the travel route for cheaper fuel and accepting detours is likely to be worthwhile only rarely. Not only do they cost time and are bad for the environment - even if one calculates with comparatively low costs of 30 cents per kilometer driven, the advantage melts away quickly.
Those who don't want to tank abroad should do so best in the evening before departure. Then fuel is usually a few cents cheaper than in the morning.
Source: ntv.de, chl/dpa
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Related: Top Countries with the Cheapest Gasoline Prices:- Romania: €1.39 per liter (approximately $5.97 per gallon)[3]- Lithuania: €1.39 per liter (approximately $5.97 per gallon)[3]- Poland: €1.36 per liter (approximately $5.85 per gallon)[3]- Czechia: €1.36 per liter (approximately $5.84 per gallon)[3]- Malta: €1.34 per liter (approximately $5.74 per gallon)[3]- Cyprus: €1.33 per liter (approximately $5.71 per gallon)[3]- Bulgaria: €1.19 per liter (approximately $5.09 per gallon)[3]- United Kingdom: The price of ultra-low sulfur unleaded petrol averaged 131.45 pence per liter, which is roughly €1.53 (using an exchange rate of approximately 1 GBP = 1.17 EUR)[5]
Frequently Asked Questions:1. Why are gas prices different in different countries?Answer: The prices are affected by various factors, including taxes, local demand, and fluctuations in oil prices.
2. What is the best time to tank up?Answer: It is generally cheaper to tank up in the evening, just before departure.
3. How much can I save by tanking up at the cheapest country?Answer: The savings can vary significantly depending on the destination and the difference in fuel prices. In the best cases, you could save up to several euros per filled tank. However, this assumes that your detour wouldn't exceed your fuel savings.
4. How do taxes impact fuel prices in different countries?Answer: Different countries impose various taxes and charges on fuel, which significantly impact the final price. In some countries, these charges are higher, leading to higher fuel prices.
The community policy of prioritizing environmentally friendly practices could be incorporated into the employment policy of logistics companies, encouraging the use of bike lanes or public transportation for deliveries to save fuel and reduce carbon footprint during travel. This lifestyle choice aligns with the travel philosophy of responsible and eco-conscious tours, promoting a harmonious blend of EV vehicles, efficient transportation, and community engagement.
