Tauern Tunnel (Special Toll)
What is the Tauern Tunnel?
The Tauern Tunnel motorway is located in southwestern Austria and includes a 6,546-meter (6.5 km) road tunnel on the Tauern Motorway A10. 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 tunnel tubes. However, during the construction project it became clear that the budget was insufficient and the actual traffic volume was lower than originally forecast. As a result, in 1975 it was decided not to proceed with the construction of the second tube.
The Tauern Tunnel is also subject to a route toll (special toll), as it is classified as a special toll section. Therefore, no vignette requirement applies for this section or for passing through the Tauern Tunnel; a vignette is not required.
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 Tauern Tunnel
Why was the Tauern Tunnel closed?
On the night of May 29, 1999, a serious traffic accident occurred in the Tauern Tunnel, caused by an Austrian truck driver who fell asleep at the wheel. The resulting damage amounted to a total of 28 million euros and led to a closure of the Tauern Tunnel for approximately three months.
Is the Tauern Tunnel currently open?
The Tauern Tunnel is undergoing extensive modernization from November 18, 2024, to July 4, 2025. As part of these modernization works, certain maintenance measures were mandatory, which resulted in the Tauern Tunnel being completely closed between April 12, 2023, and May 17, 2023.
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 one hour or more before the tunnel.
