What Is a Vignette? In Which European Countries Is It Mandatory?
If you’re planning to drive to Europe by car, one of the most important terms you’ll come across on your trip is “vignette.” So, what exactly is a vignette and in which countries is it required?
During my road trip from Istanbul to the Netherlands, I experienced the vignette system first-hand — and here I’ll share everything you need to know before hitting the road.
I’ll explain where to buy vignettes, which countries require them, and how to avoid toll violations on European highways.
What Is a Vignette?
A vignette is a type of road tax or toll sticker required in certain European countries to use highways and major roads. It can be a physical sticker that you attach to your windshield or a digital vignette linked to your vehicle’s license plate.
Several European countries use this system to fund road maintenance and infrastructure costs. While some countries still have toll booths where you can pay by cash or card, others rely entirely on a digital vignette system — and if you don’t purchase one before entering, you could face heavy fines.
Where to Buy a Vignette?
At first, buying a separate vignette for each country might sound overwhelming — it certainly did to me — but don’t worry; it’s actually very easy.
Here are the main ways to buy a vignette in Europe:
- Online Purchase: Most countries allow you to buy a digital vignette through their official highway or transport websites.
- Border Checkpoints: Some countries have vignette kiosks at border crossings.
- Authorized Sellers: Many gas stations and highway entry points sell vignettes.
During my trip, I bought all my vignettes online — it saved me a lot of time and prevented any confusion at the borders. Digital vignettes are valid in most countries, and I highly recommend getting them online before your trip. Below you’ll also find links to the official vignette websites for each country.
European Countries Where a Vignette Is Mandatory
The vignette system is especially common in Central Europe, and not buying one can result in hefty fines. Here’s a list of countries where a vignette is required, along with where you can buy it:
- Bulgaria: Mandatory. You can buy it online from the official Bulgarian vignette website.
- Austria: Both digital and sticker vignettes are available. Short-term vignettes are perfect for transits. Note that some tunnels and bridges require an additional toll. Buy it here: Austria vignette website
- Switzerland: Requires a yearly vignette. Can be purchased online or at the border.
- Slovenia: Fully digital vignette system with short-term options. Buy it here: Slovenia vignette website
- Czech Republic: Digital vignette required for highways; can be purchased via the official website.
Buying your vignettes before you travel will not only save you from fines but also ensure a smooth, stress-free road trip.
When I was planning my journey, finding the correct websites felt tricky — especially for Bulgaria and Austria — until a friend who had driven this route before helped me out. Thanks, Görkem!
Countries Without a Vignette System (Toll Booth Payment Instead)
Some European countries don’t use vignettes but instead charge tolls at highway exits or entrances.
This list is up to date as of November 2025, but always double-check before your trip as road toll systems can change.
- Serbia: Toll roads — you pay at toll booths (cash or card).
- Croatia: No vignette required; pay at toll stations.
- Germany: Highways are free for cars, but some tunnels and bridges have separate tolls.
- France: Uses the péage toll system — payments can be made by card.
- Italy: Toll roads — pay at toll booths.
- Portugal: Toll roads — pay manually at booths or electronically.
- Spain: Toll booths still exist on some highways.
If you’re driving through these countries, you don’t need to buy a vignette, but make sure you approach the manual toll lanes, not the automatic ones. Always have cash or a credit card ready.
My Road Trip Route
My route was: Bulgaria – Serbia – Croatia – Slovenia – Austria – Germany – Netherlands.
So, if you’re driving from Istanbul to the Netherlands or Western Europe, you don’t need vignettes for Germany and the Netherlands.
However, if you’re passing through Bulgaria, Austria, Switzerland, or Slovenia, make sure to buy them in advance.
Road Trip Tips
- Plan your route ahead and check vignette or toll systems to avoid unexpected fines.
- Many countries offer daily or weekly vignette options, which are perfect for short stays.
- Always keep a digital receipt or screenshot of your purchase — authorities may ask for proof.
In Summary
If you’re planning to drive to Europe, understanding the vignette system is crucial — especially for Central Europe.
Knowing which countries require vignettes, which have toll booths, and which are free will help you save time and money on the road.
In my next post, I’ll cover “European Road Trip Costs by Car” — perfect for anyone planning their travel budget. Stay tuned!
