Going on holiday will be more expensive. The Czech Republic increases highway tolls

From January 1, 2026, tolls on motorways in the Czech Republic will increase for cars weighing up to 3.5 tons, announced the Ministry of Transport in Prague. Drivers will now pay CZK 2,570 for an annual vignette, i.e. the equivalent of approximately PLN 450.

So far, drivers paid CZK 2,440 for an annual vignette. The cost of the monthly vignette will increase by CZK 20 – to CZK 480, or almost PLN 84. A ten-day vignette, popular among tourists transiting through the Czech Republic in both directions, will cost 300 crowns instead of 290, i.e. the equivalent of PLN 52. One day on Czech highways in 2026 will cost CZK 230, or PLN 40.

The ministry informed that toll rates are increased automatically due to inflation and the expansion of the highway network. This method of making prices more realistic was introduced a year ago.

As in 2025, lower fees apply to gas-powered cars and plug-in hybrids. Electric or hydrogen-powered cars can drive on highways free of charge. It is important to remember that such vehicles are automatically exempt from tolls if they are registered in the Czech Republic. Foreign car owners must notify in advance that they are applying for toll exemption. Information about this can be found on the official website edalnice.cz.

The Ministry of Transport decided to increase highway tolls just before the change of government. The draft program of the new cabinet includes a provision stating the need to abandon tax breaks for electric vehicles. There is also talk of further expansion of the highway network. The priority projects include the completion of the D11 motorway, leading to the border with Poland.

When providing information about the increase in motorway tolls, the Ministry of Transport reminded that when purchasing a vignette online, it is worth using the website of the official seller edalnice.cz, as other portals may charge additional costs. There were also situations when information about purchased vignettes did not reach the payment settlement system on time and, as a result, the police issued tickets.

From Prague Piotr Górecki (PAP)

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