The Pfänder Tunnel toll in Austria represents a central element of traffic regulation in the Alpine region and has both ecological and economic implications. The Pfänder Tunnel, which connects Bregenz in Austria and St. Gallen in Switzerland, is a key route for commuters, truck traffic, and tourist travel. To finance the use of this important traffic artery while minimizing environmental impacts, a toll system was introduced. This measure aims to ensure infrastructure maintenance and manage traffic flow while reducing the ecological footprint.

The most important things in brief:

• The Pfänder Tunnel is a four-lane tunnel.
• It connects the German A 96 and the Austrian Rhine Valley motorway A 14.
• The Pfänder Tunnel is currently toll-free. However, a toll sticker is required on many motorways and can be ordered online from us.
• Go-Box mandatory for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes

Is the Pfänder Tunnel toll-free?

Tunnel construction and operation are complex infrastructure projects that entail significant costs for the government. For this reason, a general toll system applies in Austria. ASFINAG, the responsible infrastructure company, finances itself through tolls, which ensure the maintenance and construction of new tunnels.

A positive development for those wishing to use the Pfänder Tunnel, however, is that the motorway that runs through it is toll-free. This exemption was introduced on December 15, 2019, to reduce the heavy through traffic bypassing Bregenz. Therefore, the route through the Pfänder Tunnel to Hohenems is exempt from tolls for cars and motorcycles, giving this tunnel a special status. Before this decision, the purchase of the Austrian vignette was required to use the tunnel road. However, from the eastern border of Hohenems, tolls are again payable.

In Austria, it's rare for a tunnel to be accessible without tolls. In contrast, other tunnels, such as the Landeck Tunnel, are subject to tolls.

Exemption from the vignette requirement applies exclusively to vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tons. For trucks and other heavy commercial vehicles, the so-called Go Toll applies, which is recorded using the Go-Box. This also applies to large motorhomes. Vacationers traveling with such vehicles should therefore pay particular attention to compliance with the regulations. The Go-Box is installed in the vehicle and enables precise billing of the Go Toll. This calculation takes into account various factors, such as the distance traveled, the number of axles, the time of day, and the vehicle's emissions levels.

FAQ about the Pfänder Tunnel

FAQ about the Pfänder Tunnel

Is there a toll in the Pfänder Tunnel?

While most tunnels in Austria are subject to tolls, the Pfänder Tunnel is exempt from tolls.

How long is the Pfänder Tunnel?

The Pfänder Tunnel has a length of 6,585 meters.

How far can you drive beyond the Pfänder Tunnel without a vignette?

The entire A 14 is toll-free. Therefore, you can continue to Altach free of charge.