Vignettes

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I will be honest before we traveled Europe in our motorhome we knew nothing about vignettes or had even heard the term. Below is a simple guide as to what they are, how much are they, do you need them and where do you get them.

 

What is a Vignette

It is basically a road tax allowing you to drive on roads in some countries in Europe. The locals pay road tax to upkeep and maintain the roads and foreigners contribute by buying a vignette. I never begrudge paying as I use the roads a facilities of the country so I should contribute.

Where do you get Vignettes

You can purchase them at service stations or if there are border controls they sell them there as well. It is wise to get them as soon as possible when you enter a country so you don’t get caught out without one. You will be fined if you are caught driving without one.

How do they come

They mostly come in a sticker which you stick to your windscreen. Instructions are on the sticker as to where it should be placed. Some countries just issue you with a receipt which must be shown should you be asked to do so.

How long do they last

You can buy then for various lenght of time. 1 week, 2 weeks, a month or even a year. Don’t worry if you stay in a country longer than planned just purchase an additional vignette remember they are on sale at most service stations. Switzerland is one country that only allows you to buy a vignette for 12 months, even if you are there for a short time.

What do they cost

Each countries have different rates and giving you a guide here would soon be out of date. I will put a link to a website which gives the rates for each country and is updated regularly.

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Example of a vignette attached to the windscreen of our motorhome

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