What is the Pfänder Tunnel?
The Pfänder Tunnel is a tunnel located in the northwest of Austria on the A 14 between Leiblach and Bregenz/Kennelbach. Among other things, it serves to bypass Bregenz, the capital of the federal state of Vorarlberg. The Pfänder Tunnel runs beneath the 1,064-metre-high Pfänder and connects the A 96 from Germany with the Rheintal Motorway A 14 in Austria. Travellers who wish to get from Germany to Austria quickly can reach their destination in a short time via this connection. The Pfänder Tunnel consists of two tubes. The eastern tube has a length of 6,718 metres (6.7 km). The western tube is a total of 6,744 metres (6.7 km) long.
Measurements taken in 2008 showed that the Pfänder Tunnel is used by more than 27,000 vehicles per day. By 2020, this number had risen to more than 30,000 vehicles per day. These figures demonstrate that the construction of the tunnel achieved the intended effect, namely relieving traffic in Bregenz.
Vignette and GO-Box in the Pfänder Tunnel
Since 2019, there has no longer been a vignette requirement for motorcycles and cars under 3.5 t tzGm in the Pfänder Tunnel. For vehicles with a total mass of more than 3.5 t tzGm, however, the distance-based toll still applies, which is paid using a GO-Box.
FAQ about the Pfänder Tunnel
Is the Pfänder Tunnel toll-free?
Partially, as the toll exemption applies exclusively to vehicles that weigh less than 3.5 t tzGm.
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 section is around 23 km. Attention: Altach has not been vignette-free since the beginning of 2024. Anyone driving through Altach without a valid vignette must expect a substitute toll of 120 EUR.
How much does the Pfänder Tunnel cost?
Travel through the Pfänder Tunnel is free of charge for vehicles under 3.5 t tzGm. For vehicles that weigh more than 3.5 t tzGm, a GO-Box is required.
Can I drive to Dornbirn without a vignette?
Yes. As 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, among others, the towns of Hohenems and Götzis. Attention: Altach has not been part of this toll-free section since the beginning of 2024. Anyone who drives through Altach without a valid vignette must pay a substitute toll of 120 EUR.
Can I drive to Bregenz without a vignette?
Yes, you can drive to Bregenz without a vignette.
