Blog Closure of the A10 (Tauern Autobahn) in May

Closure of the A10 (Tauern Autobahn) in May

Last updated: 14.09.2026 Reading time: 3 Minutes
from Michelle Albrecht
News Austria
Closure of the A10 (Tauern Autobahn) in May AI generated

Restrictions before Whitsun

What does the closure involve?

Drivers on the A10 Tauern Motorway must prepare for significant traffic disruptions in May. Due to extensive renovation work in the Brentenberg Tunnel, the route in the direction of Salzburg will be completely closed for several days.

The full closure affects the section between Pongau junction and Pass Lueg and applies from Monday, 18 May, 1:00 pm until an expected Saturday, 23 May, 6:00 am. Traffic will be diverted via the B159 during this time. Already in the preceding week, there will additionally be nightly closures in the direction of Salzburg, each from 11 to 14 May between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am. The opposite direction towards Villach is unaffected by the construction work and remains open to regular traffic.

Reason for the closure

The background to these measures is a severe truck fire in the Brentenberg Tunnel in early January, which caused major damage to the tunnel infrastructure. According to ASFINAG, a full closure is necessary so that the damaged tunnel coating can be repaired. The work is expected to be completed by the end of June.

Truck driving ban

In addition, during the closure a driving ban for trucks over 7.5 t applies on the A10 between Villach and Salzburg in the direction of Salzburg. Those wishing to avoid longer traffic jams can take a wide detour via the Felbertauern Road (B108), the Pyhrn Motorway (A9), or the Brenner Motorway (A13). However, increased traffic volume may also occur there.

Tolls in Austria: Briefly explained

On Austrian motorways and expressways, cars up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight require a valid vignette. You can conveniently purchase this digital vignette from us online. This allows you to use Austria's motorway routes worry-free. For vehicles over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, on the other hand, the vignette requirement does not apply and instead a distance-based toll (also known as a route-dependent toll) is charged. A so-called GO-Box is required to pay the distance-based toll.

Regardless of the vignette requirement and the distance-based toll, a special toll obligation applies on certain routes. The special toll is a fee that is charged independently of the vignette or distance-based toll and must be paid in addition. The Tauern Motorway is also one of these special toll routes. You can find further information on the current toll regulations in Austria and on the special toll obligation on the Tauern Motorway in our detailed guide.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!

We wish you a safe journey and an unforgettable travel adventure. Feel free to use our route planner for your planning to see which toll products you need for your trip. Also note the vignette requirement in Austria and purchase your digital vignette from us. If you have any questions, you can reach us at any time by email.

FAQ

FAQ on the A10 Tauern Autobahn Closure

Answers to the most frequently asked questions on this topic.

When will the A10 be closed?

The complete closure applies from Monday, May 18, 1:00 PM until presumably Saturday, May 23, 6:00 AM.

Which direction of travel is affected?

The closure affects only the direction towards Salzburg. In the direction of Villach, the A10 remains open to traffic.

Why is the Tauern motorway being closed?

In the Brentenberg tunnel, damage is being repaired following a severe truck fire. This requires a full closure lasting several days.

Is there a diversion?

Yes, traffic will be diverted via the B159 during the closure.

Are trucks affected as well?

Yes, for trucks over 7.5 t a driving ban applies during the closure between Villach and Salzburg in the direction of Salzburg.

Do I need a toll sticker for Austria?

Yes, depending on the vehicle class, you need a toll sticker to use the motorways, among other things, or you must pay a route-based toll. In addition, special toll charges may apply on certain routes (such as the A10).

Michelle Albrecht
Michelle Albrecht
Hello, I’m Michelle, a writer through and through. As a copywriter, I’ve had the privilege of turning my passion into a career. I also channel my creativity into my own books, where I can truly let my imagination roam free. Ever since spending six unforgettable months in Australia, my love for travel has grown even deeper, something I didn’t think was possible. That’s why I’m especially delighted to share inspiring tips and ideas with my readers for their own future adventures.