Kerenzerberg Tunnel closed for weeks at a time in June
Closures of the Kerenzerberg Tunnel (A3)
In June 2026, drivers in Switzerland will need to prepare for significant traffic restrictions on the A3 motorway. Due to extensive repair works, the Kerenzerberg Tunnel will be completely closed on weekdays from 1 June to 26 June 2026. Travellers should therefore plan their route in advance and factor in additional travel time.
Why are the closures taking place?
According to the Swiss Federal Roads Office (ASTRA), the closures are necessary in order to renovate the Escherkanal bridge and carry out various demolition and concrete works inside the tunnel. The construction works are therefore intended to ensure the long-term safety and functionality of the infrastructure. ASTRA is making every effort to keep the impact on traffic as low as possible. During the construction phase, the Kerenzerberg Tunnel will remain closed from Sunday at 10:00 pm to Friday at 12:00 pm. On weekends, however, the tunnel can be used without restrictions.
What diversions are in place?
During the closure periods, traffic will be diverted via the lakeside route along Lake Walen. Since the diversion route operates as two-way traffic, longer travel times and increased traffic volume are to be expected, especially during peak hours. This affects not only commuters but also holiday travellers and transit traffic heading towards Graubünden, Liechtenstein, and Italy.
Toll in Switzerland: These regulations apply to travellers
Anyone using alternative routes through Switzerland during the closures should also familiarise themselves with the applicable toll regulations. The use of Swiss motorways is not regulated via a distance-based car toll, but rather through the vignette requirement or the heavy vehicle charge. Detailed information on the toll in Switzerland can be found in our guide.
Digital vignette for your journey
A valid Swiss annual vignette is required to use the motorways. You can conveniently purchase this digital vignette online with us. As a general rule, vehicles up to 3.5 t gross vehicle weight (GVW) require a vignette. Vehicles weighing over 3.5 t GVW, on the other hand, are required to pay a heavy vehicle charge. Currently, only an annual vignette is available in Switzerland. Accordingly, no other validity periods are offered.
Heavy vehicle charge (LSVA and PSVA)
For motor vehicles weighing over 3.5 t GVW, the heavy vehicle charge applies: either the flat-rate heavy vehicle charge (PSVA) or the performance-related heavy vehicle charge (LSVA). This charge must be paid upon entry at customs or in advance online via the Via portal.
Special toll
In addition to the vignette requirement and the heavy vehicle charge, there are also special toll routes in Switzerland. These are mainly tunnels and Alpine pass roads, whose construction and maintenance are particularly cost-intensive due to the challenging Alpine conditions. An additional fee is charged for using these routes. The special toll must be paid independently of the vignette, meaning that vehicle owners need a separate ticket or pass despite holding a valid annual vignette.
Car trains (car transport by rail)
Another special feature of the Swiss transport network is the car trains. They enable the transport of vehicles through mountain regions and tunnel sections that would otherwise only be accessible via lengthy detours. A separate ticket is required to use a car train. Especially in cases of heavy traffic or difficult weather conditions, car trains represent a practical alternative for many travellers.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
The weekly closures of the Kerenzerberg Tunnel will noticeably affect traffic on the A3 in June 2026. Anyone planning trips to eastern Switzerland, Graubünden, or further towards Italy should take the diversions via the lakeside route into account and allow sufficient time for their journey.
With early route planning and the right toll products, unnecessary delays can be avoided. Our digital vignette offers a simple way to enjoy your journey through Switzerland comfortably. For any questions regarding toll regulations, our support team is available at any time via email.
