Katschberg Tunnel (Special Toll)

Last updated: 19.02.2026 Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

What is the Katschberg Tunnel?

The Katschberg Tunnel, opened to road traffic in 1974, is a border tunnel located south of Austria’s central region on the Tauern Motorway. It connects the areas of Salzburg (south of Oberweißburg, Unterweißburg, and Höf) and Carinthia (north of Saraberg and Mühlbach) via the A10. Construction of a second tunnel tube began in December 2004 and was completed in April 2008, allowing the second tube to open to traffic. After completion of the construction work, the western tube measures 5,565 meters (5.5 km) and the eastern tube 5,898 meters (5.8 km) in length.

The Katschberg Tunnel as a Special Toll Route

The Katschberg Tunnel is a so-called special toll route. This means that the tunnel is exempt from the general vignette requirement and instead a route toll (special toll) must be paid. Therefore, additional fees apply for using the Katschberg Tunnel, even if you already have a vignette or pay the distance-based toll.

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 Katschberg Tunnel

Is the Katschberg Tunnel subject to a route toll?

Yes, the Katschberg Tunnel is subject to tolls, as a route toll (special toll) is charged.

How long does it take to drive through the Tauern Tunnel (the Katschberg Tunnel is part of the Tauern Motorway)?

Due to its length, driving through the Tauern Tunnel takes approximately 12 minutes.

Can the Katschberg Tunnel be bypassed?

The Katschberg Tunnel can be bypassed via the federal road B99 at St. Michael im Lungau / Stranach towards Mühlbach. However, bypassing the tunnel takes around 45 additional minutes and is therefore generally only worthwhile if traffic reports already announce a longer waiting time before the Katschberg Tunnel.

How high are the two tubes in the Katschberg Tunnel?

The two tubes in the Katschberg Tunnel each have a height of 4.70 meters.

Michelle Albrecht
Hallo, ich bin Michelle und schreibe für mein Leben gern. Als Texterin habe ich meine Leidenschaft zum Beruf gemacht! Natürlich lasse ich meiner Kreativität auch in meinen eigenen Büchern freien Lauf. Seit ich ein halbes Jahr in Australien gelebt habe, ist meine Reiselust noch größer geworden (und ich hätte nie gedacht, dass das noch möglich ist). Umso mehr freue ich mich, meinen Leserinnen und Lesern Tipps für ihre zukünftigen Abenteuer zu geben!