The Tauern Tunnel motorway in Austria

The Tauern Tunnel Autobahn, an impressive feat of engineering and a central component of the Austrian transport network, connects the federal states of Salzburg and Carinthia. It stretches for approximately 6.4 kilometers and runs through the majestic Tauern mountain range, a mountain range in the Central Alps. Opened in the late 1970s, the tunnel is not only an important artery for transit traffic but also a key to economic exchange between Austria and its neighboring countries. With its strategic location, the Tauern Tunnel provides seamless connections to major European arteries and plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in the region. A separate section toll is payable to use the Tauern Tunnel Autobahn in Austria.

The most important things in brief:

• The Tauern Tunnel motorway in Austria connects Salzburg and Carinthia.
• The Tauern Tunnel is part of this motorway and has a length of 6,546 meters.
• Current renovation measures may lead to an increased risk of traffic jams.
• The Tauern Tunnel has a tunnel tube in each direction.

The Tauern Autobahn toll

Please note that tolls apply on the Tauern Autobahn, even if you already have a valid Austrian toll sticker. Both the Tauern Tunnel and the Katschberg Tunnel are part of the special toll routes.

The A10 Tauern Autobahn remains one of the most important transport links for travelers and holidaymakers in the Alpine region. The route begins at the Salzburg junction and extends from the north to the south of the country to Villach, where it merges with the A2 and the Karawanks Autobahn. Tolls for the Tauern Autobahn are collected exclusively between Flachau and Rennweg.

Unlike many other European countries, such as Slovenia, Austria does not differentiate between different vehicle categories when collecting tolls and vignettes. Classification is based solely on the permissible total weight. Vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons, including a trailer, must pay the regular toll on the Tauern Autobahn. This applies to cars, regardless of whether they are towing a trailer, as well as motorcycles and camper vans. Vehicles exceeding the weight limit require a special GO-Box, which also takes into account factors such as emissions class, kilometers driven, and the number of axles. In recent years, the number of heavy trucks on this route has declined slightly.

In 2024, tolls for the Katschberg Tunnel and the Tauern Tunnel can be purchased individually or in combination. Frequent drivers who use the route regularly should consider purchasing an annual pass, while holidaymakers who only travel sporadically are better off planning individual trips. You can choose between a conventional toll card and the digital toll, which is conveniently available online without long waiting times.

Buy Tauern Tunnel toll

The Tauern Tunnel is a so-called special toll route. While it is exempt from the vignette requirement, a separate toll fee is charged.

FAQ about the Tauern Tunnel

Is there a toll for the Tauern Tunnel?

Yes, you must pay a toll to drive through the Tauern Tunnel, even if you have a valid Austrian toll sticker. The tunnel is one of the special toll roads.

Which vehicles have to pay the toll?

All vehicles traveling through the Tauern Tunnel must pay the toll. Standard tolls apply to cars and motorcycles. A GO-Box is required for vehicles over 3.5 tons.

Where can I pay the toll for the Tauern Tunnel?

Tolls can be paid at toll booths or online via our platform. You can choose between traditional tickets and the convenient, no-wait digital video toll.

Does the toll only apply to the Tauern Tunnel?

No, the toll applies not only to the Tauern Tunnel, but also to the Katschberg Tunnel and the section of the Tauern Autobahn between Flachau and Rennweg.

Are there any current renovation works?

The Tauern Tunnel will undergo extensive modernization between November 18, 2024, and July 4, 2025. Due to this work, the tunnel was already completely closed from April 12, 2023, to May 17, 2023.