What is the Arlberg Tunnel?
The Arlberg Tunnel runs under the Arlberg mountain range, connecting the two Austrian western states of Vorarlberg and Tyrol. The road that passes through the tunnel is the S 16 expressway. The tunnel is operated by ASFINAG.
With a total length of 13,972 meters (13.9 km), the Arlberg Tunnel is the longest road tunnel in Austria. Unlike many other tunnels in Austria, the Arlberg Tunnel consists of only one tube (instead of two tubes, as is often the case). Due to its proximity to the neighboring countries of Germany, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, the Arlberg Tunnel is used by approximately 8,000 cars daily. The construction of the Arlberg Tunnel took place from June 1, 1974 (date of the tunnel ceremony in St. Anton and Langen) to the breakthrough on October 9, 1977 (about 3 ¼ years later). The tunnel was finally opened for traffic in December 1978.
What many people do not know is that at the time of its construction, the Arlberg Tunnel was actually the longest tunnel in the world.
Renovation of the Arlberg Tunnel
The Arlberg Tunnel is closed for renovation work from April 24, 2023, until October 6, 2023. Both directions of the tunnel are affected by the closure. As the Arlberg Tunnel has been in operation for 45 years, it is necessary to carry out maintenance work on the roadway, drainage, and tunnel coating. The cost of renovating the Arlberg Tunnel amounts to approximately 100 million euros. In addition to the tunnel renovation, additional toll lanes, toll booths, and barrier-free truck parking spaces are being created. During the 6 months of tunnel closure, about 200 workers will be continuously working (around the clock) on the tunnel renovation. During the closure of the Arlberg Tunnel, traffic will be diverted via the 1,793-meter-high Arlberg Pass. Bicycling on the Arlberg Pass is prohibited during the renovation work of the Arlberg Tunnel. Due to the traffic diversion, travelers should expect longer travel times. Typically, an additional 30 minutes (or longer during high traffic) should be planned for.
Alternatives to the Arlberg Pass
For those traveling from Germany, Liechtenstein, or Switzerland to Austria during the mentioned period, the Arlberg Tunnel can be bypassed using the following alternatives:
- Germany: Munich > Rosenheim
- Switzerland: Gotthard Tunnel
- Switzerland: San Bernardino
However, ASFINAG has already announced another closure of the Arlberg Tunnel for the year 2024 (April 15, 2024, to November 22, 2024), lasting approximately five months.
FAQs about the Arlberg Tunnel
Is the Arlberg Tunnel subject to tolls?
Yes. Like many other tunnel and road sections, the Arlberg Tunnel is subject to tolls.
What is the cost of driving through the Arlberg Tunnel?
The cost of driving through the Arlberg Tunnel is VARIABLE and can be purchased digitally in our online shop.
Is the Arlberg Tunnel currently closed?
Yes. The Arlberg Tunnel is closed for renovation work from April 24, 2023, until October 6, 2023.
How can the Arlberg Tunnel be bypassed?
Traffic in the Arlberg Tunnel is diverted via the Arlberg Pass during the closure
Alternatively, the tunnel can be bypassed via Germany (Munich > Rosenheim) and Switzerland (Gotthard Tunnel, San Bernardino).
Can the Arlberg Tunnel be avoided?
Yes. The Arlberg Tunnel can be bypassed via the Arlberg Pass. Alternatively, it can also be bypassed via Germany (Munich > Rosenheim) and Switzerland (Gotthard Tunnel, San Bernardino).
Until when is the Arlberg Tunnel closed?
The Arlberg Tunnel is closed until October 6, 2023.
When was the Arlberg Tunnel closed?
The Arlberg Tunnel has been closed since April 24, 2023, until October 6, 2023.
Is the Arlberg Pass open?
No, the Arlberg Tunnel is currently closed for renovation work until October 6, 2023.
English
