Kerenzerberg Tunnel closed weekly in June
Closures of the Kerenzerberg Tunnel (A3)
Drivers in Switzerland will need to prepare for significant traffic restrictions on motorway A3 in June 2026. The Kerenzerberg Tunnel will be completely closed on weekdays due to extensive repair works from 1 June to 26 June 2026. Travellers should therefore plan their route in advance and allow for additional travel time.
Why are the closures taking place?
As the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO) announces, the closures are necessary to rehabilitate the Escher Canal Bridge and carry out various demolition and concrete works inside the tunnel. The construction works thus serve the long-term safety and operational capacity of the infrastructure. FEDRO is endeavouring to keep the impact on traffic as low as possible. During the construction phase, the Kerenzerberg Tunnel will be closed from Sunday at 10:00 pm to Friday at 12:00 noon. At weekends, however, the tunnel can be used without restrictions.
What diversions are available?
Traffic will be diverted during the closure periods via the lakeside route along Lake Walen. Since the diversion route operates with oncoming traffic, longer journey times and increased traffic volumes are to be expected, particularly during peak hours. Not only commuters are affected, but also holidaymakers and transit traffic heading towards Graubünden, Liechtenstein and Italy.
Toll in Switzerland: Regulations that apply to travellers
Anyone travelling on alternative routes through Switzerland during the closures should also familiarise themselves with the applicable toll regulations. The use of Swiss motorways is not governed by a distance-based car toll, but rather by 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 purchase this digital vignette conveniently and online from us. As a general rule, vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW (gross vehicle weight) require a vignette. Vehicles with a weight of more than 3.5 t GVW are instead required to pay a heavy vehicle charge. In Switzerland, only an annual vignette is currently available. Therefore, no other validity periods are offered.
Heavy vehicle charge (HVC and LSVA)
For motor vehicles weighing more than 3.5 t GVW, the heavy vehicle charge applies: either the Flat-Rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (HVC) or the Distance-Related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA). This charge must be paid at customs upon entry or in advance online via the Via portal.
Special toll
In addition to the vignette requirement and the heavy vehicle charge, Switzerland also has special toll routes. These are primarily tunnels and Alpine pass roads whose construction and maintenance are particularly cost-intensive due to the demanding Alpine conditions. An additional fee is charged for using these routes. The special toll is payable independently of the vignette, meaning vehicle owners require a separate ticket or pass even if they hold a valid annual vignette.
Car shuttle trains (motorail)
Another special feature of the Swiss transport network is the car shuttle trains. They enable the transportation of vehicles through mountain regions and tunnel sections that would otherwise only be reachable via longer detours. A separate ticket is required to use a car shuttle train. Especially during heavy traffic or difficult weather conditions, car shuttle trains are 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 the 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. If you have questions about toll regulations, our support team is available at any time by email.
