Pfaender Tunnel

What is the Pfänder Tunnel?

The Pfänder Tunnel is a tunnel located in the northwest of Austria, situated on the A 14 between Leiblach and Bregenz/Kennelbach. Among other things, it serves to bypass Bregenz, the capital of Vorarlberg. The Pfänder Tunnel runs beneath the 1,064-metre-high Pfänder mountain and connects the A 96 from Germany with the Rhine Valley motorway A 14 in Austria. Travellers wishing to get from Germany to Austria quickly can reach their destination in a short time via this route. The Pfänder Tunnel consists of two tubes. The eastern tube is 6,718 metres (6.7 km) long. The western tube is a total of 6,744 metres (6.7 km) long.

Traffic volume in the Pfänder Tunnel

Measurements taken in 2008 showed that more than 27,000 vehicles per day pass through the Pfänder Tunnel. By 2020, this number had increased to more than 30,000 vehicles daily. These figures show that the construction of the underpass achieved the desired effect, namely relieving traffic in Bregenz.

Toll requirement in the Pfänder Tunnel

Since 2019, motorcycles and cars under 3.5 t gross weight are no longer required to have a vignette in the Pfänder Tunnel. However, for vehicles with a total weight over 3.5 t gross weight, the distance-based toll still applies, which must be paid using a GO-Box. For more information on tolls in Austria, see our guide.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey!

We wish you a safe journey to Austria and are happy to help with any questions about toll regulations. Detailed information on tolls in Austria can be found in our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to perfectly plan your trip and see which toll products are suitable for you. If you have any further questions about your trip or our digital vignette, please feel free to contact us via email.

FAQ about the Pfänder Tunnel

Is the Pfänder Tunnel toll-free?

Partially, as the toll exemption applies exclusively to vehicles weighing under 3.5 t gross weight.

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

The A 14 can be driven without a vignette up to and including the Hohenems exit. The total toll-free distance is about 23 km. Please note: Since the beginning of 2024, Altach is no longer toll-free. Anyone driving through Altach without a valid vignette must expect a replacement toll of EUR 120.

How much does the Pfänder Tunnel cost?

Driving through the Pfänder Tunnel is free of charge for vehicles under 3.5 t gross weight. For vehicles weighing over 3.5 t gross weight, a GO-Box is required.

Can I drive to Dornbirn without a vignette?

Yes. Since the A 14 is toll-free up to and including Hohenems, all towns and villages located directly on the A 14 up to and including Hohenems can be reached without a vignette. In addition to Dornbirn, these include the towns of Hohenems and Götzis, among others. Please note: Altach has no longer been included since the beginning of 2024. Anyone driving through Altach without a valid vignette must pay a replacement toll of EUR 120.

Can I drive to Bregenz without a vignette?

Yes, you can drive to Bregenz without a vignette.