All information about the Gubrist Tunnel in Switzerland

The Gubrist Tunnel is a remarkable infrastructure project in Switzerland, forming a central component of the road network around Zurich. It connects the north and south sides of the city and serves as a vital artery for commuters and freight transport. With a length of over 3,309 meters and its strategic location, the tunnel is not only a technical masterpiece but also a crucial factor in relieving road traffic in the region. The Gubrist Tunnel opened in 1985 and has since played a key role in mobility around Zurich.

The most important things in brief:

• The Gubrist Tunnel has a length of 3,309 meters.
• This tunnel is part of the A1 motorway and the Zurich northern bypass.
• About 7,000 vehicles drive along here every hour.

The Gubrist Tunnel in the imagination

The Gubrist Tunnel, an impressive structure in Switzerland, stretches 3,309.80 meters in length and is an essential component of the A1 motorway and the northern bypass of Zurich. This vital transport facility sees more than 100,000 vehicles pass through it daily, making it one of the busiest routes in the country. At peak times, over 7,000 cars per hour use the tunnel.

The Gubrist Tunnel opened in 1985, with two tubes initially being put into operation. To meet the ever-increasing traffic demand, construction of a third tube began in 2017 and was completed in March 2023. This new tube has an impressive diameter of almost 16 meters, making it one of the largest tunnels in Switzerland.

With the commissioning of the third tube, a concept for the renovation of the older tubes was developed. During this renovation work, one tube will be open to traffic at a time, while the other will be partially closed. The upgrade measures are scheduled to be completed by 2027, when all three tubes will be open to traffic again simultaneously. The new tube will offer three lanes for traffic towards Bern, while the two older tubes will each have two lanes. During the renovation work, one of the old tubes will be closed, while two lanes of the other tube towards St. Gallen will remain available. From 2027, the tunnel will be usable simultaneously in the direction of St. Gallen, with a total of four lanes in both old tubes.

Vignette requirement in Switzerland

The so-called vignette requirement applies not only when driving through the tunnel, but also on other highways and roads in Switzerland. You can conveniently purchase the digital 1-year vignette for Switzerland in our online shop, allowing you to travel safely and comfortably on Swiss roads.

FAQ about the Gubrist Tunnel

Is there a vignette or toll requirement for the Gubrist Tunnel?

The Gubrist Tunnel is a key section of the A1. A toll sticker is required for this motorway, and the same applies to using the tunnel. However, you don't need a separate toll. You can conveniently purchase your digital toll sticker in our shop.

How long is the Gubrist Tunnel?

The Gubrist Tunnel has a length of 3,309.80 meters.

Construction history and current expansion

The first two tubes of the Gubrist Tunnel were opened on June 21, 1985. The third tube began construction in November 2017 and was opened to traffic on April 20, 2023. The third lane was opened in early July 2023.