Closure of the Tauern Motorway (A10) in May
Restrictions before Whitsun
What does the closure involve?
Drivers on the A10 Tauern Motorway must expect significant traffic disruptions in May. Due to extensive renovation works 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 the Pongau junction and Pass Lueg and applies from Monday, 18 May, from 13:00 until approximately Saturday, 23 May, 06:00. Traffic will be diverted via the B159 during this period. In the week before, there will also be nightly closures in the direction of Salzburg, each from 11 to 14 May between 20:00 and 06:00. The opposite direction towards Villach remains unaffected by the construction works and will continue to be passable as normal.
Reason for the closure
The background to these measures is a serious lorry fire in the Brentenberg Tunnel at the beginning of January, which caused extensive damage to the tunnel infrastructure. According to ASFINAG, a full closure is necessary so that the damaged tunnel coating can be repaired. The works are expected to be completed by the end of June.
HGV ban
In addition, during the closure a driving ban applies to HGVs over 7.5 t 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 volumes may also be expected there.
Toll in Austria: A brief explanation
On Austrian motorways and expressways, cars up to 3.5 t permissible gross weight require a valid vignette. This digital vignette can be conveniently purchased from us online. This allows you to use the motorway routes in Austria without any worries. For vehicles over 3.5 t permissible gross weight, the vignette requirement does not apply; instead, a distance-based toll (also called 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 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. Further information on the current toll regulations in Austria and on the special toll obligation on the Tauern Motorway can be found in our comprehensive guide.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
We wish you a safe trip and an unforgettable travel adventure. Feel free to use our route planner to see the toll products you need for your journey. Also bear in mind 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 on the closure of the A10 Tauern Motorway
When will the A10 be closed?
The full closure applies from Monday, 18 May, 13:00 until approximately Saturday, 23 May, 06:00.
Which direction is affected?
The closure affects exclusively the direction of Salzburg. The A10 towards Villach remains passable.
Why is the Tauern Motorway being closed?
Damage caused by a serious lorry fire is being repaired in the Brentenberg Tunnel. This requires a full closure lasting several days.
Is there a diversion?
Yes, traffic will be diverted via the B159 during the closure.
Are HGVs also affected?
Yes, a driving ban applies to HGVs over 7.5 t during the closure between Villach and Salzburg in the direction of Salzburg.
Do I need a vignette for Austria?
Yes, depending on the vehicle class, you need a vignette or must pay a distance-based toll to use motorways, among other roads. In addition, special toll charges may apply on certain routes (such as the A10).
