Alternatives to the Brenner Motorway
Traffic Restrictions on the Brenner Motorway
In the coming years, traffic on the Brenner motorway will be heavily restricted. However, there are alternative routes you can use.
If you are planning to quickly travel via the Brenner towards Italy, this could become a problem. Since 1 January 2025, traffic on the Brenner motorway has been reduced to one lane in each direction. This marks the beginning of construction works expected to last until 2030, which may repeatedly cause traffic congestion. On many peak travel days, traffic will be regulated using two lanes in order to better distribute the high traffic volume. Nevertheless, it is advisable to consider alternative routes, as the Brenner has had a significantly increased risk of heavy traffic for over a year.
Brenner Alternatives
Fortunately, there are several practical alternative routes to the Brenner motorway. The most obvious option is the Brenner Road (B182). However, this route is repeatedly closed to protect local communities from diverted traffic. According to ADAC, it is also often congested when traffic volume on the motorway increases.
The Best Alternative Routes Towards Italy
Here you will find an overview of the best alternative routes:
- Brenner Road (B182)
- Reschen Pass
- Tauern Tunnel
- Timmelsjoch Pass
- Plöcken Pass / Felbertauern
- San Bernardino Tunnel
The Reschen Pass is a toll-free alternative; however, it is regularly closed due to construction works. There may also be restrictions in autumn 2025.
A tunnel on the Tauern motorway has recently been renovated. Since June, the construction work has been completed, making this route a good alternative.
The border pass Timmelsjoch features several steep sections and can also be used as an alternative route. However, especially in winter, the pass is frequently closed as it reaches an altitude of 2,474 metres.
The Plöcken Pass is another option, but regular closures must also be taken into account there.
A classic and reliable route to Italy is the San Bernardino Tunnel. Coming from Germany, you can reach it via the A96 or A7 towards Milan or Ticino. Since September 2024, traffic on this route has been flowing freely.
Further Alternative Routes
For travel to southern France or Italy, the Gotthard Tunnel is also a suitable option. Unlike the Gotthard Pass, it is open all year round. However, since March 2025, the tunnel has been closed on 34 dates throughout the year from 8 p.m. or 10 p.m.
If you are travelling towards Croatia or Slovenia, you can use the Pyhrn motorway. Construction works there have reportedly been completed since November 2025. If you prefer to avoid motorways altogether, you can choose the Großglockner High Alpine Road. The breathtaking views – including Austria’s highest mountain – make this route particularly attractive. From East Tyrol, the journey towards the Adriatic can continue via Villach and Lake Wörthersee.
Train as an Alternative
If you would like to avoid traffic congestion altogether, you can use the Brenner railway. It runs from Innsbruck across the Brenner Pass to Bolzano and Verona. With the completion of the Brenner Base Tunnel in 2032, trains are expected to travel from Innsbruck to South Tyrol in just 25 minutes – making rail an even more attractive alternative to travelling by car.
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey!
Whether by car or train, each of these routes can serve as an alternative to the Brenner motorway. To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to book your digital vignette and any necessary special toll routes in advance. This saves time, reduces stress, and allows you to start your trip relaxed.
Secure your digital vignette for Austria now and discover Austria’s most beautiful routes. Our route planner helps you find the right toll products in just a few clicks.
