Speed limits in Europe

Speed limits are set to ensure safety on the roads we use. On many occasions we see these limits as an outdated measure that does nothing but hinder freedom of movement. Not to mention other stretches and restrictions that may be revenue-driven. But, in general, these speed limits are put in place to prevent accidents caused by speeding, and every country has its limits. But do we know what speed limits there are in Europe?

Germany, the paradise for speeding

When speed limits in Europe are discussed, the case of Germany always comes up. In this country the well-known Autobahn have no speed restriction, although all of them show a recommended maximum speed of 130 km/h. German roads have limits, like roads in every other country, although there are stretches where no limit is posted. That said, these stretches also have limits, which range from 80 km/h to 130 km/h depending on weather conditions or traffic.

On the rest of the inter-urban roads, the maximum speed is 100 km/h and in urban areas it is 50 km/h. Although there are places where speed limits do not exist, when they are set they must be obeyed, as everywhere else. So, if you travel and drive through Germany, bear in mind that traffic rules also apply and must be followed.

The lowest speed limits in Europe

The lowest speed limits in Europe are set at 80 km/h on inter-urban roads, while on motorways and expressways you can drive at up to 130 km/h on some of them. This limit is subject to weather conditions, in which it drops to 80 km/h in some cases. The countries with an 80 km/h limit are France, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Norway, Malta, Finland, Denmark and Cyprus. Sweden lowers it even further, to 70 km/h.

The highest speed limits in Europe

Still speaking of inter-urban roads, several countries allow a maximum speed of 100 km/h on these roads. These are Germany, Austria, Poland, Romania and Ireland. Keep in mind that on many stretches of these roads the limit drops, so always pay attention to the signage.

Speed limits on motorways and expressways in Europe

The motorways and expressways in Europe have two maximum speed limits. In some countries, Spain among them, this is 120 km/h. The 130 km/h limit can be found in France, Luxembourg, Italy, Croatia, Denmark, Austria, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Romania, on some roads in Slovenia, in Greece, the Netherlands, Hungary and Lithuania. Two countries have a 140 km/h limit: Bulgaria and Poland, although these apply to specific roads and situations.

The case of Germany is exceptional and although it remains in force, it should be noted that there are discussions about introducing limits on the Autobahn where none currently exist. Pollution is the cause of this situation, and all German roads would eventually end up with a maximum speed limit. Spain currently has a speed limit on conventional roads of 90 km/h, sitting at a middle point within European legislation. When you leave the country and plan to drive, take all these speed limits into account so you are not caught off guard by a speeding fine.