The long Easter holiday in Germany draws crowds of tourists from all over the world each year. After a long, gray winter, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the country’s sites in beautiful spring weather. But there are two major downsides to picking this particular weekend to travel: packed autobahns and extra speed cameras.

Holiday traffic

Experts expect heavy traffic flows and Staus (dreaded German gridlocks) on roadways near major cities from April 13 to 17. Based on previous years’ trends, the Rhine-Ruhr, Rhine-Main, Berlin, Hamburg, Munich and Stuttgart regions are likely to receive the largest amount of tourists.

To avoid peak times, avoid traveling in the in the evening hours and between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Also, expect waiting times entering Germany from other countries (particularly Austria), and — as always — carry proper documentation, valid passports and IDs wherever you go.

Although Easter Sunday is expected to be relatively quiet, vacationers will likely be heading home Monday between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Speed cameras

Speed cameras are also being set up in areas to entice drivers to stay under the limit and prevent accidents. Be aware of posted speed limits and changes, particularly in construction zones, as you make your way from one destination to another … or else you just might receive a hefty fine, and a less-than-flattering photo of yourself at the wheel, in the mail in a handful of months.

As always, be prepared and remain vigilant as you travel in Germany this holiday weekend.