Fuel prices across Italy have seen a sharp increase this Sunday, May 3, 2026, as a new decree law regarding excise taxes takes effect. Data from the fuel price observatory of the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (Mimit) shows a significant rise in costs for motorists traveling during the May 1 holiday bridge.
Current Fuel Costs
According to Mimit, the average self-service price on the national road network is 1.890 euro/l for gasoline and 2.047 euro/l for diesel. Prices are higher on the motorway network, where the average self-service cost has reached 1.956 euro/l for gasoline and 2.117 euro/l for diesel.
black yearof 2023, when prices reached 1.865 euro/l.
The Driver of the Increase
The price jump is attributed to a government decision to reduce the excise tax cut on gasoline by 15 cent, which amounts to 18.3 cent when VAT is included. This measure has had an immediate impact on the pumps during the first day of the decree’s application.
Massimiliano Dona, president of the Unione Nazionale Consumatori, described the move as a stangata
for those returning from the holiday. He noted that motorway self-service gasoline increased by 9.8 cent per liter compared to yesterday, adding 4 euro and 90 cent to a 50-liter tank.
Controversy Over Funding
The Unione Nazionale Consumatori has criticized the government’s choice of funding. Dona argued that instead of targeting the millionaire extra-profits
generated by the war, the administration has used funds from Antitrust fines.
On the national road network, including Bolzano and Trento, the increase was slightly lower at 7.6 cent, which equates to 3 euro and 80 cent for a full 50-liter tank.
Future Outlook
Costs may continue to rise in the coming days. Because It’s Sunday, some self-service stations that do not offer full-service options may not have updated their prices yet. Prices could potentially worsen tomorrow as more stations implement the new rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current self-service prices on the motorway?
As of May 3, 2026, the average self-service price on the motorway network is 1.956 euro/l for gasoline and 2.117 euro/l for diesel.
Why did the price of gasoline increase?
The increase is due to a government decree that reduced the excise tax cut on gasoline by 15 cent (or 18.3 cent including VAT).
How do current prices compare to 2023?
Current gasoline prices on the road network (1.893 euro/l, including Bolzano and Trento) are higher than the 2023 average of 1.865 euro/l.
Do you believe fuel tax adjustments should be timed differently to avoid impacting holiday travel?
