Would you have known? In the Facts & Fun section, we provide you with exciting information about the countries where the roadshow is currently stopping off. Sometimes with a smile, sometimes with hard facts. Find out here what insights you were able to gain this year and where you can look if you missed something.

March – Netherlands: serenity in the land of windmills

The Roadshow 2024 kicked off in March with a visit to the Netherlands. The Dutch are not only known for their tulips, cheese and windmills, but also for their relaxed attitude. Although it is the most densely populated country in the EU and people are almost constantly stuck in traffic – after all, haulage companies transport around 207 million tons of freight here every year – the people remain relaxed. “Alles komt goed” (Everything will be fine) is the motto here, which is infectious for visitors. By the way: If you’re tired of sitting behind the wheel all day, you can start a career as a fortune teller here with the support of the employment agency!

Agricultural land and windmills characterize the Dutch landscape. Photo: Freepik

April – Portugal: Relaxed driving on well-maintained roads

After the hustle and bustle of the Dutch roads, Portugal was a real respite. Hardly any traffic and an excellent road network make driving here pleasant. You can make fast progress on the well-developed highways, and the country roads are often a good alternative for those who don’t want to pay tolls. What’s fascinating: the coastline with its endless beaches and the historic border with Spain, which has remained unchanged since the 13th century. One of the highlights? A glass of port wine in Porto!

Spain: tapas, paella and quiet traffic

Its well-developed roads make Spain an important hub for freight traffic. Despite the many small transport companiesthat characterize the market here, everything runs smoothly. In culinary terms, the country is a dream: you can treat yourself to patatas bravas and a glass of Rioja in a typical tapas bar. A real paella also goes well with this. The relaxed atmosphere and Mediterranean flair make a tour through Spain particularly enjoyable – even the summer traffic is easy to bear here.

In culinary terms, the country is a dream. Photo: Adobe Stock

May – Italy: pasta, tunnels and the charm of the coast

May has arrived – and the roadshow is off to Italy. The country is known for its great cuisine. It also plays an important role in international freight traffic. The many tunnels that cut through the mountains and the proximity to the sea make every journey an experience. Tip: Stop off at the coast on the way and enjoy a tasty pasta dish. Italy is simply always worth a trip – whether it’s for its delicious food, the varied landscape or the many historic cities and sites.

Switzerland: chocolate and mountain panoramas

It’s still May – and we’re off to Switzerland, the land of chocolate and mountains. And chocolate that looks like small mountain peaks. The country impresses with both its nature and its well-developed roads. Switzerland is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and connoisseurs! And the logistics sector is booming: Swiss freight forwarders are among the largest in Europe and are also extremely successful in other countries.

June – Austria: Schnitzel and mountains again

Austria’s landscape has nothing to hide either. But what makes the country so unique is its coffee house culture. The road network here is excellent, which makes driving through the mountains very pleasant. After many kilometers on the highway, you can treat yourself to a break in a typical inn. A Wiener Schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn are just the thing to recharge your batteries and enjoy the view of the Alps. Austria really has it all: magnificent nature, delicious food and lots of history.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: the baroque historic centre of Salzburg. Photo: Adobe Stock

Czech Republic: Prague and even more coffee house culture

From Austria, we headed straight on to the Czech Republic with its fantastic road infrastructure. The capital city of Prague fascinates with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. Delicious dumplings and perhaps the world’s best beer included. The Czech Republic is a central hub for freight traffic in Europe, and it is astonishing to see how well organized everything is here. Even the truck-friendly rest areas offer regional specialties – and a visit to one of Prague’s famous cafés is also a must.

Slovakia: a bridge between East and West

Our journey took us on to Slovakia, which plays a central role as a link between Eastern and Western Europe. The roads here are in excellent condition, which makes driving through the mountainous landscape very pleasant. Slovakia also surprises with its old towns. Particularly impressive: the historic old town of Bratislava and the view of the surrounding hills.

August – Sweden: summer, sun and crowded streets

We were in Sweden in the summer. At this time of year, the roads are full of holidaymakers enjoying the beautiful weather and nature. The drive can be a bit exhausting. But the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery make up for it. The somewhat bizarre traffic rules here and there are interesting. So you have to switch on your headlights on the freeway. Sweden is definitely a country that is full of surprises. A break by the lake and the clear air – and the stressful traffic is quickly forgotten.

September – Romania: Iin the footsteps of Dracula

September began for the Raodshow in Romania. A highlight for anyone who loves nature and adventure: the Transfăgărășan Road through the Carpathian Mountains with its breathtaking views. A detour to Bran Castle, known as Dracula’s home, should also be planned. Romania has so much more to offer than meets the eye and is definitely worth a trip – both for history and nature lovers.

The Transfăgărășa Road through the Carpathian Mountains. Photo: iStock

Bulgaria: rose oil and ancient traditions

And on we go, this time to Bulgaria with its golden beaches. The country is almost as famous for its rose oil. The roads are surprisingly empty, although turnover in the transport industry is steadily increasing. And it is a real pleasure to drive through the sunny countryside. Bulgaria has a rich cultural tradition, which visitors can experience by attending one of the famous fire dances. An absolutely unforgettable experience!

Serbia: history and diversity

Serbia surprises with its mix of old towns, fortresses and a vibrant culture. The roads are in good condition, which makes driving through the country a pleasant experience. Particularly impressive: the Kalemegdan Fortress in Belgrade, which offers a great view over the city and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Serbia is full of history and has plenty of culinary delights to offer – ideal for a voyage of discovery.

Croatia: where the sea makes music

Croatia welcomes its visitors in September with bright sunshine and turquoise blue sea. The country with its more than 1,200 islands is not only a paradise for beach vacationers, but also for those interested in culture. The so-called “Sea Organ” in Zadar, where the sea itself makes music, is particularly exciting. A truly unique experience! The roads are in good condition and it is a delight to drive along the coast.

 Over 5,000 transport companies are active on Croatia’s roads. Photo: iStock

Slovenia: pure nature and beautiful cities

Slovenia impresses with its green capital Ljubljana, beautiful lakes and sensational caves. Lake Bled in particular, with its small island in the middle, is a highlight of any tour. The roads here are well-developed and the drive through the varied landscape is an absolutely enjoyable experience. Slovenia is much more than just a transit country – it’s worth staying here longer!

October – Hungary: thermal baths and culture

Hungary, the last destination of our trip, delights with its thermal baths and the impressive capital Budapest. The road freight traffic here is booming. The roads are well-developed and the drive through the country is relaxed. Budapest is a real gem – especially at night, when the city lights glitter over the Danube. Hungary has a lot to offer: traditional dishes and a vibrant culture – ideal for a relaxed journey of discovery.

Which of our roadshow countries have you already been to? And what fascinated you most there? Tell us!