The border between Austria and Germany is not just a geographical line, but also a fascinating interplay of history, culture, and economic relations. Stretching approximately 800 kilometers, it traverses picturesque landscapes, from the Alps to rolling hills and fertile valleys.

This border is of great importance to both countries, as it not only marks the national borders but also promotes the exchange of people, ideas, and goods. The history of the border region is marked by political upheavals, cultural fusions, and a constant shift in identities. But what is essential to know about the topic, and what about the vignette?

The most important things in brief

• There are over 50 border crossings.
• A digital vignette can save you a lot of time
• The border between Austria and Germany is about 800 kilometers long

Exciting information about the border crossing between Austria and Germany

The border between Germany and Austria stretches an impressive 817 kilometers, beginning at the border with the Czech Republic and ending at the picturesque Lake Constance. The majority of this border runs through the state of Bavaria, which is very popular with both tourists and locals due to its diverse landscapes and cultural offerings.

There are more than 50 border crossings along the German-Austrian border, serving various modes of travel, from small, less frequented crossings to large motorway crossings. For travelers planning a relaxed journey, the motorway crossings in Kiefersfelden, Walserberg, and Suben are particularly important. These crossings allow for quick and uncomplicated entry into Austria.

The mandatory toll sticker (vignette) on Austrian motorways is particularly important for drivers. To avoid delays at toll booths, you should make sure to purchase a digital vignette in advance. You can conveniently purchase one online from us. The advantage is clear: With the digital vignette, you can drive directly through the toll station without long waits, allowing you to enjoy your vacation or transit through Austria stress-free.

It's also worth exploring the beautiful landscapes and cultural highlights of the border region. From the impressive Alps and idyllic lakes to traditional festivals and delicious local cuisine – there's plenty to discover in both Germany and Austria. Plan some stops along the way and let yourself be captivated by the hospitality and charm of both countries!

Are there border controls at the border crossings?

For a long time, there were no border controls at all, mainly due to the fact that both countries are part of the European Union. However, since 2015, random checks have been reintroduced, particularly when leaving Austria for Germany.

These checks are conducted by the Federal Police and are concentrated primarily at three motorway border crossings: Suben, Kiefersfelden, and Walserberg. Reports indicate that there can be significant wait times at these checkpoints. This is true even if you have a digital vignette. You should therefore definitely allow extra time at these border crossings.

Good to know: In Austria, vignettes are checked not only at border crossings, but also by cameras and toll enforcement along the roads.

Border crossings between Germany and Austria

In the following we would like to take a closer look at and present the border regions between Germany and Austria.We begin in the administrative district of Lower Bavaria and continue into Upper Bavaria before finally reaching Swabia. Over 50 border crossings are important for tourism and cross-border traffic. Of course, it's impossible to introduce all of them. For this reason, we've selected a few special ones.

Freyung-Grafenau border crossing

The Freyung-Grafenau district forms the eastern border not only with Austria but also with the Czech Republic. Drivers traveling from the picturesque landscape of the Bavarian Forest toward Linz or Vienna often use one of the nearby crossings. Are you looking for a place to relax? Then Neureichenau is particularly suitable. This town is located on the German side, while on the Austrian side, the area around Schwarzenberg am Böhmerwald also guarantees plenty of relaxation.

Border crossings near Passau

The Passau district is directly located at several border crossings, stretching from Breitenberg to Bad Füssing. From the city of Passau, you can also easily travel to the neighboring country, enjoying this beautiful city beforehand. Many drivers in this area choose to head west toward Pocking, as the German Autobahn A3 connects to the Innkreis Autobahn A8 in Suben.

Border crossings at Rottal-Inn

The Rottal-Inn district also has several municipalities that facilitate access to Austria. Places like Stubenberg and Simbach am Inn provide access to Braunau am Inn and further on, via the B156, to the city of Salzburg.

The border crossing in Altötting

Altötting is located in the immediate vicinity of the Rottal-Inn and offers only one major crossing point in Burghausen. From there, you can cross the Salzach Bridge to Wanghausen and the border into Upper Austria.

The border crossings near Traunstein

On the way to Traunstein, you've almost left the border with Upper Austria behind and are getting closer to Salzburg. The Salzach River acts as a natural border between the two countries. Drivers who want to drive to the state capital of Salzburg often use the Walserberg border crossing, where the German A8 Autobahn meets the Austrian A1 West Autobahn. The A1 is toll-free up to the Salzburg Nord exit, but a vignette is required for further travel. Would you like to purchase the digital vignette online? Then you've come to the right place. We offer various digital vignettes for Austria.

West of the Walserberg, in the Chiemgau Alps, you also remain in the Traunstein district. Here, crossings near Reit am Winkl or Schleching offer a great way to cross the border and enjoy the wonderful scenery.

The different border crossings near Berchtesgadener Land

Berchtesgadener Land attracts tourists primarily with the Watzmann and Königssee, and for good reason. It's beautiful here. To the south of the lake lies the southernmost point of the famous "Deutsches Eck," which connects Salzburg, Berchtesgadener Land, and Traunstein. Here, too, you can use various border crossings, for example, at Marktschellenberg through the Hangendenstein Pass to St. Leonhard in Austria.

Border crossings near Rosenheim

The most well-known border crossing in the Rosenheim district is probably the one between Kiefersfelden and Kufstein. To get there, you first have to follow the A93 before switching to the Inntal Autobahn A12 in Austria. Many also take the route via Oberaudorf, crossing the Inn Bridge and arriving in Niederndorf near Kufstein.

Border crossings near Miesbach

In the Miesbach district, we especially recommend the border crossing near Bayrischzell. Here, you'll need to cross the 830-meter-high Ursprung Pass in the Alps to reach Thiersee on the other side. It's an unforgettable sight.

Border crossings near Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen

Once you reach Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen, the state capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck, is not far away. The route via Lenggries is often used by travelers to get from Bavaria to Tyrol.

Border crossings near Garmisch-Partenkirchen

There are also several options for getting to Innsbruck in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen district. A popular route leads from Mittenwald along the Bundesstraße 2 (Federal Highway 2) to Scharnitz. From there, it's only about 30 minutes to Innsbruck.

Border crossings in Ostallgäu

In the Ostallgäu region, many drivers choose the border crossing at Füssen, especially if they are already on the A7 motorway. Here, you pass through the Füssen border tunnel to reach Pinswang in Austria on the Fernpassstraße 179. There is also another border crossing in Pfronten, which is convenient and also offers a lot of natural scenery.

Border crossings in the Oberallgäu

In the beautiful Oberallgäu region, you'll increasingly approach the Swiss border. The border crossing near Oberstdorf provides access to Mittelberg in Vorarlberg. Those who want to travel further into Switzerland often choose the crossing near Balderschwang. Vorarlberg borders both Germany and Switzerland, so after about a one-hour drive, you'll arrive at the border crossing in Lustenau or Hohenems.

Border crossings in Lindau

From Lindau, there are several options for reaching the border crossing at Hörbranz. The most common route is via the A96, which connects to the A14 Rheintal/Walgau Autobahn. Alternatively, you can follow the B12, which merges into the L190 Vorarlberger Straße after the border. Another border crossing in Lindau is at Scheidegg-Scheffau and leads to the border crossing at Bregenz. A plus is the view of beautiful Lake Constance, which further enhances the excursion and tempts you to linger.

Entry requirements you should know

Since entry regulations vary from country to country and can change at any time, it is essential to inform yourself about the current conditions before planning a trip. Specific regulations also apply to the import of pets such as dogs and cats.

Entry and customs regulations

EU citizens can enter the country easily with a valid passport or identity card and should not encounter any problems. There are also some important points to be aware of regarding customs regulations. In most European countries, goods for personal use may be carried without additional duties. However, special exceptions may apply to certain products, particularly alcohol and tobacco. For detailed information on specific goods, it is recommended to contact the relevant customs authorities in Germany or Austria to be on the safe side.

COVID-19 travel restrictions

The topic of COVID-19 remains a constant, even though most entry restrictions have now been lifted. There are no longer any special documentation requirements for travel from Germany to Austria or for the return journey. Quarantine measures are no longer required, and prior registration before travel is no longer necessary.

Despite the noticeable easing of the pandemic situation, it is advisable to keep an eye on the information provided by the Federal Ministry, similar to the entry regulations, to avoid missing any unexpected developments. Regulations may change depending on the federal state and its proximity to the border. This way, you are always well prepared and minimize potential risks during your trip.

FAQ about the border crossing Austria Germany

FAQ about the border crossing Austria Germany

How many border crossings are there from Germany to Austria?

The border between Germany and Austria is over 817 kilometers long and stretches from the Czech Republic to Lake Constance. The largest number of border crossings is located in the federal state of Bavaria. There are more than 50 border crossings along the German-Austrian border.

Are there controls at the borders?

Yes, there are now controls again. Most of the controls take place from Austria to Germany.

What do you need to travel from Austria to Germany or vice versa?

To enter the country you only need a valid passport or, alternatively, an identity card.