The Karawanks Tunnel, a major engineering feat in the Alps, connects Austria with Slovenia and plays a crucial role in cross-border traffic in the region. Opened in 2000, it is part of the important transport axis between Central Europe and the Balkans. With a total length of approximately 7,864 meters, the tunnel runs beneath the imposing Karawanks Mountains and facilitates not only passenger traffic but also the transport of goods, thereby making a significant contribution to the economic development of both countries.

The most important things in brief

• The tunnel has a total length of 7,864 meters.
• Connects the Karawanks Autobahn (Austria) with the Avtocesta A2 (Slovenia).
• Approximately 2,000 vehicles can pass through the tunnel per hour.

Exciting information about the Karawanks Tunnel in Austria

The Karawanks Tunnel, which crosses the border between Austria and Slovenia, connects the two countries over a length of 7,864 meters through the Karawanks Mountains. It was built between 1986 and 1991 and has since provided a fast connection between the Karawanks Autobahn in Austria and the Slovenian A2 motorway. The tunnel is a significant relief, especially for trucks and heavy-duty vehicles, as alternative mountain routes are often challenging, especially in winter.

With a capacity of approximately 2,000 vehicles per hour, the tunnel is currently under construction. A second tube has been under construction since 2018 and is scheduled to open in 2025. Upon completion, the tunnel will be divided into two separate tubes for two-way traffic, and a speed limit of 100 km/h will be introduced. Alternative routes are also available should long traffic jams form outside the tunnel, but these are only advisable for delays of more than an hour.

Alternative routes for the Karawanks Tunnel in Austria

• Seebergsattel: This route has a gradient of 12% and is accessible year-round. It is also suitable for caravans and motorhomes.
• Wurzen Pass: With a gradient of 18%, this route is also passable year-round. However, motorhomes are not recommended, and trailers are prohibited from driving on this route.
• Loibl Pass: With a gradient of 17%, this route is accessible year-round. However, trucks, as well as trailers and articulated lorries weighing over 750 kilograms, are not permitted to use this route.
• Roads in the border triangle:** These routes run between Austria, Italy, and Slovenia. You'll travel along the A2 Southern Autobahn/Autostrada 23, the B83 Carinthian Road/Strada Statale 13, and the Strada Statale 54.

Toll for the Karawanks Tunnel

If you use the Karawanks Tunnel southbound to Slovenia, you will be charged tolls to the Austrian operator ASFINAG. You have the option of paying the digital toll for the outbound journey in advance through us.

If you don't purchase the toll online in advance, you have the option of paying it at the toll stations either in cash or by credit card. The digital route toll option is only available if you are traveling from Austria to Slovenia, as ASFINAG is the operator in this case. For the return trip, however, the toll must be paid on-site, as the Slovenian operator does not currently offer a digital solution for the Karawanks Tunnel.

Since the Karawanks Tunnel is subject to tolls, you don't need an Austrian vignette from St. Jakob onwards. Instead, you must pay the tolls for the special toll route A 11.For other motorways, however, a vignette is mandatory. You can purchase one online from us for the desired duration.

Please note: Even if you have a vignette, you will still have to pay the corresponding toll fees. These costs are not included in the Austrian or Slovenian vignette.

FAQ about the Karawanks Tunnel in Austria

FAQ about the Karawanks Tunnel in Austria

Do you need a vignette?

No, the tunnel is subject to tolls, so the toll sticker is no longer required. However, this does not apply to Austrian motorways, which still require a toll sticker.

How long is the Karawanks Tunnel in Austria?

The tunnel itself is 7,864 meters long. A second section is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2025.

What do I need to cross the border from Austria to Slovenia through this tunnel?

You need a valid passport or identity card.

Is there a toll for the Karawanks Tunnel in Austria?

Yes, a section toll is charged here. If you want to use the tunnel from Austria, you can purchase the digital section toll online from us.

How can I pay the toll if I want to use the tunnel from Slovenia?

You can pay the road toll in Slovenia in cash or with an EC or credit card.