Timmelsjoch Tunnel (Special Toll)

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

What is the Timmelsjoch Tunnel?

The Timmelsjoch (short: “Timmel”) and the tunnel accessible via the High Alpine Road (Timmelsjoch Tunnel) are a border tunnel between Austria and Italy. The Timmelsjoch Tunnel connects the Austrian federal state of Tyrol with the autonomous region of Trentino–South Tyrol in Italy. With a total length of around 34 km, the High Alpine Road leading to the Timmelsjoch Tunnel, featuring around 30 hairpin bends, offers an impressive Alpine panorama and provides a relaxed alternative to the usual commuter and motorway traffic.

Like many other Alpine and mountain pass roads as well as tunnels in Austria, the Timmelsjoch Tunnel towards Italy is a special toll route and is therefore subject to the route toll (special toll). The route toll for the Timmelsjoch Tunnel can be paid on site at the toll station on the Austrian side. The station is located directly behind Hochgurgl (coming from Sölden).

The Timmelsjoch Tunnel itself is vignette-free; however, the access roads to the High Alpine Road are subject to the vignette requirement. It is therefore recommended to purchase a vignette (ideally digital) in our online shop before your trip.

How high is the Timmelsjoch?

Different figures circulate regarding the exact altitude of the Timmelsjoch. The official Austrian map states 2,474 meters. By comparison, the South Tyrolean GIS lists 2,472 meters. In general, the values range between 2,470 and 2,480 meters. Deviating information was at times found on the road sign at the pass road as well as on the operator’s website. Since construction of the Timmelsjoch Tunnel in 1955 and its opening in 1965, an average of 80,000 to 100,000 passenger cars and 75,000 to 80,000 motorcycles have passed through the tunnel each year. The South Tyrolean sections of the pass road have always been part of the Texelgruppe Nature Park.

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 Timmelsjoch Tunnel

Is the Timmelsjoch Tunnel subject to a route toll?

Yes, the Timmelsjoch Tunnel is subject to tolls, as a route toll must be paid.

When can the Timmelsjoch Tunnel be used?

Yes, the Timmelsjoch is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m..

How long does it take to drive over the Timmelsjoch?

Driving over the Timmelsjoch and through the Timmelsjoch Tunnel, as well as along the adjoining High Alpine Road down to Merano, takes about 1.5 hours (90 minutes).

Where is the toll station at the Timmelsjoch?

The toll station is located above the tourist resort of Hochgurgl. This is where the fees for the Italian and Austrian road sections are collected.

What is the maximum gradient of the Timmelsjoch?

The average gradient is 6.3%, and the maximum gradient is 13%.

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!