Tauern Tunnel (Special Toll)
What is the Tauern Tunnel?
The Tauern Tunnel motorway is located in the southwest of Austria and comprises a 6,546-metre (6.5 km) long road tunnel on the Tauern Motorway A 10. Together with the Katschberg Tunnel, the Tauern Tunnel forms an important connection between Villach and Salzburg. Originally, the Tauern Tunnel (like the Katschberg Tunnel) was planned with two tubes. However, as the construction project progressed, it became clear that the budget was insufficient and actual traffic volume was lower than originally forecast, so in 1975 it was decided not to build the second tube.
A route toll (special toll) also applies to the Tauern Tunnel, as it is a corresponding special toll route. Therefore, there is no vignette requirement for this section, i.e. for passing through the Tauern Tunnel; no vignette is needed.
Current update: From autumn 2027 to 2033, the Tauern Tunnel and Katschberg Tunnel will undergo renovation work. To find out what this means for the risk of congestion, detours and your travel planning, read our news article on the renovation work on both tunnels.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!
We wish you a good trip to Austria and are happy to help with any questions about toll regulations. You can find detailed information on the toll in Austria in our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to plan your trip perfectly and have the suitable toll products displayed. If you have any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please feel free to contact us via email.
FAQ about the Tauern Tunnel
Why was the Tauern Tunnel closed?
On the night of 29 May 1999, a serious traffic accident occurred in the Tauern Tunnel, caused by an Austrian truck driver falling asleep at the wheel. The resulting damage totalled 28 million euros and led to the Tauern Tunnel being closed for around three months.
Can the Tauern Tunnel be bypassed?
Yes. Since the B99 runs largely parallel to the Tauern Motorway, you can first follow the B99 to Radstadt, then continue towards Obertauern, and rejoin the Tauern Motorway at St. Michael im Lungau.
How long does it take to drive through the Tauern Tunnel?
The actual driving time through the Tauern Tunnel is approximately 12 minutes.
Is it worth bypassing the Tauern Tunnel?
Since bypassing the Tauern Tunnel takes about 45 minutes, a detour is generally only worthwhile if traffic reports or radio announcements indicate a waiting time of around an hour or more before the Tauern Tunnel.
