Travelers in the Netherlands should anticipate significant traffic disruptions this weekend and into next week due to a combination of factors, including hot weather, major events, road closures, and the upcoming NATO summit. Authorities are warning of potential gridlock and urging people to adjust their travel plans.

Amsterdam will experience major congestion due to the “Op de Ring” festival, celebrating the city’s 750th anniversary. The A10 ring road will be closed from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon, adding at least an hour to travel times.

Beachgoers heading to Zandvoort will also face difficulties, as one of the main roads into the town is closed until Monday morning. Train services between Haarlem and Zandvoort are also canceled during this period, with replacement buses expected to be crowded. The hot weather forecast, with temperatures reaching 30°C, will likely increase the number of visitors.

In the south, the Pinkpop music festival is expected to draw 60,000 people daily, potentially causing congestion around Landgraaf. Additionally, the Sacramentsdag holiday in Germany will lead to increased traffic from German visitors heading to the Netherlands, particularly in border regions and Zeeland.

Disruptions are expected to continue into next week due to the NATO summit. From Sunday afternoon to Thursday, roads in and around The Hague, Amsterdam, and Rotterdam will be severely affected, with closures on the A5, A44, and N44. Restrictions will also apply to other roads in the area.

Despite warnings, a recent survey indicated that few people are willing to change their travel plans. Officials are urging more people to avoid travel during peak times to prevent widespread gridlock.