Pfänder Tunnel
What is the Pfänder Tunnel?
The Pfänder Tunnel is a tunnel located in north-western Austria on the A 14 between Leiblach and Bregenz/Kennelbach. Among other things, it serves as a bypass for the Vorarlberg state capital of Bregenz. The Pfänder Tunnel runs beneath the Pfänder, which is 1,064 metres high, and connects Germany’s A 96 with Austria’s Rhine Valley Motorway A 14. Travellers who want to get quickly from Germany to Austria can reach their destination in a short time via this connection. The Pfänder Tunnel consists of two tubes. The eastern tube is 6,718 metres (6.7 km) long. The western tube is a total of 6,744 metres (6.7 km) long.
Traffic volume in the Pfänder Tunnel
Measurements in 2008 showed that the Pfänder Tunnel is used by more than 27,000 vehicles per day. By 2020, this number increased to more than 30,000 vehicles daily. These figures show that the construction of the tunnel achieved the desired effect, namely reducing traffic in Bregenz.
Toll requirement in the Pfänder Tunnel
Since 2019, motorcycles and passenger cars under 3.5 t technically permissible maximum gross weight have no longer been subject to the vignette requirement in the Pfänder Tunnel. However, for vehicles with a total mass of more than 3.5 t technically permissible maximum gross weight, the distance-based toll still applies and must be paid using a GO-Box. You can find more information about tolls in Austria in our guide.
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. You can find detailed information about tolls in Austria in our guide. You are also welcome to use our route planner to plan your journey perfectly and see suitable toll products. If you have further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please feel free to contact us via email.
FAQ about the Pfänder Tunnel
Is the Pfänder Tunnel toll-free?
Partly, because the toll exemption applies only to vehicles weighing under 3.5 t technically permissible maximum gross weight.
How far can you drive after the Pfänder Tunnel without a vignette?
The A 14 can be used without a vignette up to and including the Hohenems exit. The total toll-free distance is around 23 km. Note: Altach has no longer been vignette-free since the beginning of 2024. Anyone driving through Altach without a valid vignette must expect to pay a substitute toll of EUR 120.
How much does the Pfänder Tunnel cost?
Driving through the Pfänder Tunnel is free of charge for vehicles under 3.5 t technically permissible maximum gross weight. For vehicles weighing over 3.5 t technically permissible maximum gross weight, a GO-Box is required.
Can I drive to Dornbirn without a vignette?
Yes. Since the A 14 is toll-free up to and including Hohenems, all towns and villages located directly on the A 14 up to and including Hohenems can be reached without a vignette. In addition to Dornbirn, this includes the towns of Hohenems and Götzis. Note: Altach has no longer been included since the beginning of 2024. Anyone driving through Altach without a valid vignette must pay a substitute toll of EUR 120.
Can I drive to Bregenz without a vignette?
Yes, you can drive to Bregenz without a vignette.
