Austria and Hungary Border Crossing

The border between Austria and Hungary stretches over 356.4 kilometers. In addition to numerous road and rail border crossings, there is a motorway crossing at Nickelsdorf (AT) / Hegyeshalom (HUN), which is the most important for holidaymakers. The road crossing Klingenbach (AT) / Sopron (HUN) is also widely known due to its historical significance during the fall of the Iron Curtain and is often used thanks to its proximity to Vienna.

Importance of the Border Crossings

Smooth cross-border traffic is crucial for economic and social integration within the European Union. In this context, the border crossing between Hungary and Austria plays an important role. The connection between these two countries is not only a key transport corridor in Central Europe, but also a symbol of cross-border cooperation in the EU.

The history of this border crossing goes back a long way and reflects the changing political and economic developments in Europe. Today, the border crossing between Hungary and Austria is a key point for passenger and freight transport and plays a central role in the European road network.

Border Crossings

There are numerous road crossings between Austria and Hungary. The best known are Klingenbach (AT) / Sopron (HUN) and the motorway crossing Nickelsdorf (AT) / Hegyeshalom (HUN). Both are about 45–50 minutes from Austria’s capital Vienna. Other road crossings are in Pamhagen, Schachendorf and Heiligenkreuz im Lafnitztal, as well as many other rural road crossings that play only a minor role for international traffic. Due to border checks, toll checks and roadworks, waiting times at the border can range from 5 minutes to more than an hour. The risk of traffic jams depends on the number of vehicles on the routes. Especially during peak travel periods, the motorway crossing is often very busy. The border crossings and waiting times at the Nickelsdorf (AT) / Hegyeshalom (HUN) border can be monitored via live images.

Klingenbach (AT) / Sopron (HUN)

The Klingenbach (AT) / Sopron (HUN) border crossing is probably the best-known crossing between Austria and Hungary. Austria’s A3 motorway becomes the B16 shortly before the border. In Hungary, you continue on Main Road 84. This border crossing is so well known because it was one of the first crossings between Austria and Hungary to be opened in 1989. On July 27, 1989, Austrian Foreign Minister Alois Mock and Hungarian Foreign Minister Gyula Horn cut a symbolic hole in the “Iron Curtain” that had separated Eastern and Western Europe.

Nickelsdorf (AT) / Hegyeshalom (HUN)

The only major motorway crossing between Austria and Hungary is Nickelsdorf (AT) / Hegyeshalom (HUN). Austria’s A4 motorway becomes Hungary’s M1 at the border, which leads directly to Hungary’s capital Budapest. Due to toll checks, waiting times here can be longer than in Klingenbach.

Hungary

The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are specific toll road sections.

Hungary: Vignette requirement (or not?)

In Hungary, a vignette is mandatory for cars, car–trailer combinations and motorhomes up to 3.5 t GVW. This is the so-called e-Matrica (Hungarian vignette), with which the toll is checked electronically via the license plate. You should purchase the e-vignette online before your trip, because if you drive on a toll road without an e-vignette, you may face fines.

Distance-based toll

You must pay the distance-based toll if your vehicle weighs more than 3.5 t GVW. This means that motorhomes, buses and trucks have been required since January 2024 to pay an electronic, distance-based toll calculated via the HU-GO system (electronic toll collection). The distance-based toll replaces the vignette, so you no longer need one.

Austria

The following section provides an overview of whether you need a vignette and whether there are specific toll road sections.

Austria: Vignette requirement (or not?)

To use Austria’s motorway and expressway network, fees apply in the form of a vignette requirement. Accordingly, vehicles up to 3.5 t technically permissible maximum mass need a (digital) vignette. There are also vignette-free routes. You can find out in our guide whether avoiding tolls makes sense.

Distance-based toll

Please note that for vehicles over 3.5 t technically permissible maximum mass, the vignette requirement no longer applies and a distance-based toll must be paid instead. This mileage-based toll is charged using a GO-Box, which must be installed in your vehicle for data collection.

Special toll roads

In addition to the vignette requirement and the distance-based toll, there are certain special toll roads in Austria that you should keep in mind during your trip. Using these special toll roads involves additional fees.

• Arlberg Tunnel S16: Payment on site with cash, credit card or Maestro card.
• Felbertauern Tunnel: Payment on site with cash or credit card.
• Gleinalm Tunnel, Bosruck Tunnel/Pyhrn Motorway: Payment on site with cash, credit card or Maestro card.
• Karawanks Tunnel: Payment on site with cash, credit card or Maestro card. The Karawanks Tunnel, as a link between Austria and Slovenia, is also part of Slovenia and is therefore a special toll road in that country as well. When traveling from Slovenia to Austria, the toll must be paid at the Hrušica toll station. If you are coming from Austria, the rules above apply, which are explained in more detail here.
• and many more...

You can also find more information about the various tunnels and certain mountain pass roads in our guide to special tolls (also known as distance tolls).

Sights and interesting cities

Let’s now introduce eight remarkable sights and attractions waiting for you near this border crossing.

• Vienna (Austria): In Vienna, you can explore not only historical landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg, but also enjoy the vibrant coffeehouse culture and the delicious Sachertorte. The Prater park offers fun for the whole family, including the famous Ferris wheel.
• Budapest (Hungary): In addition to impressive architectural landmarks, Budapest also offers a lively nightlife and ruin bars. A night-time Danube boat cruise showcases the city’s enchanting skyline.
• Esterházy Palace, Eisenstadt (Austria): This palace hosts concerts and cultural events throughout the year. Its magnificent architecture and rich history make it a fascinating place.
• Fertőd (Hungary): Fertőd Palace features a museum presenting the history of the Esterházy family and the region. The extensive gardens around the palace invite relaxing walks and picnics.
• Lake Neusiedl (Austria): Lake Neusiedl is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. The region is also known for its picturesque vineyards and wines.
• Sopron (Hungary): Sopron attracts visitors with its well-preserved old town and historical sights such as the Firewatch Tower and St. George’s Cathedral. Try delicious Hungarian cuisine and experience traditional hospitality.
• Neusiedl See–Seewinkel National Park (Austria): This cross-border national park is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It also offers many outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking, as well as informative visitor centers.
• Szentendre (Hungary): Szentendre is known for its folk art and handicrafts. The town is home to the Microphotography Museum and offers handmade souvenirs and artworks. Explore the charming atmosphere of the old town and discover its cultural treasures.

The DMC team wishes you a pleasant journey

We wish you a pleasant trip to Hungary and lots of enjoyment on your road trip. You can find more information about tolls in Hungary in our guide. Feel free to use our route planner to optimally plan your trip and have suitable toll products displayed. If you have any questions, you can contact us at any time via e-mail.