Karawanks Tunnel (Special Toll Route)
What is the Karawanks Tunnel?
The Karawanks Tunnel connects the two European countries Austria in the south and Slovenia in the northwest. The tunnel was built between 1986 and 1991. With a total length of 7,864 meters (around 7.9 kilometers), it includes 4,402 meters on the Austrian side and 3,546 meters on the Slovenian side, and it takes its name from the connection between Austria and the Slovenian Karawanks mountain range. Via the A11, it provides a direct link through the Slovenian Karawanks to Slovenia’s E61.
To further increase the capacity of the tunnel, work has been underway since 2018 on an additional tube, which is scheduled to be completed by mid-2025. Afterwards, once the second tube has been successfully commissioned, the existing tube currently in operation is to be temporarily closed and comprehensively refurbished. From 2027, both tunnel tubes are planned to be open for regular parallel traffic.
How long does it take to drive through the Karawanks Tunnel?
Thanks to the Karawanks Tunnel, the driving time from Villach (the nearest larger city northwest of the Karawanks Tunnel on the Austrian side) to Ljubljana (the nearest larger city southeast near the Karawanks Tunnel on the Slovenian side) for around 2,000 vehicles per hour (capacity) has been reduced by about one hour.
The Europamaut Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey
We wish you a safe trip to Austria and are happy to assist you with any questions regarding toll regulations. Detailed information about tolls in Austria can be found in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to perfectly plan your trip and see suitable toll products for your journey. If you have any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please feel free to contact us via email.
FAQ about the Karawanks Tunnel
Is the Karawanks Tunnel subject to a route toll?
Yes, the Karawanks Tunnel is subject to a route toll. Using it therefore involves additional fees, regardless of whether you have a vignette.
Can you pay with an EC card at the Karawanks Tunnel?
Yes, payment by EC card is possible at the Karawanks Tunnel.
Can the Karawanks Tunnel be bypassed?
The Karawanks Tunnel can be bypassed by taking road 109 southwest of Villach and crossing the Slovenian border via the so-called Wurzen Pass. On the Slovenian side, the route then continues via road 201 towards Podkoren.
Is the Wurzen Pass suitable for motorhomes as well?
Since the Wurzen Pass is very steep in places (gradients of up to 18%), it is not recommended for longer vehicles such as motorhomes (especially in icy conditions and/or snow).
