Tunnels and passes are very common in Switzerland because of the specific landform. The Swiss Alps create a kind of barrier, so the crossings are necessary to connect northern with southern parts of the country.
Thanks to the tunnel and pass systems, travelers can cover the distance without problems and enjoy good road conditions. It’s crucial for transport, and thus the economy.
Every year, millions of vehicles drive through the Swiss tunnels; no detour or alternatives are necessary, which makes the trip easier and time-saving.
Tunnels and Passes in Switzerland
Switzerland is known as the land of the tunnels, with around 1,200 of them. Besides the regions in Switzerland, passages enable connections with other countries, like Germany, Italy, and France.
They are crucial for transport, economy, road conditions, and shortening travel time.
Note that it’s essential to check the route before the journey, as some mountain passes may be closed due to construction work or accidents.
Furthermore, tolls may be required in some of the tunnels. In some cases, only a Swiss vignette must be obtained, but an additional permit should often be bought as well.
Introduction of Toll System in Switzerland
The toll system in Switzerland is important to maintain good road conditions and limit accidents. If you plan to use Swiss motorways and other paid sections, you must have proper permits to pass them.
The most essential is a Swiss vignette, which is necessary for vehicles up to 3.5 t. Currently, it’s possible to obtain it online or at sales points, such as gas stations.
When a vehicle’s total mass exceeds 3.5 t, a driver must install a special device measuring the distance and calculating the fee accordingly.
Besides, some additional fees may be required for tunnels and passes in addition to the onboard unit or Swiss vignette.
Paying Tolls and Obtaining Vignettes for Switzerland
Getting a Swiss vignette for vehicles up to 3.5 t is quite simple. You can do it online or at sales points, such as gas stations or vending machines.
The process consists of the following steps:
- Provide necessary information, such as the license plate number.
- Cover the service fee. You can use credit/debit cards, PayPal, Klarna, and other methods.
- Check the provided data to avoid mistakes.
- Wait for an email with a PDF file or receipt and a physical sticker (depending on whether you apply online or at the sales point).
An additional toll may also be needed in the case of some tunnels or crossings. Check all the information about the specific routes and prepare accordingly.
List of Swiss Toll Tunnels
The following list includes the most popular tunnels in Switzerland:
- Gotthard Tunnel – a 16.9 kilometers long major pass of the Alps running from Göschenen and Airolo.
- Gubrist Tunnel – part of the A1 motorway, named after the hill of Gubrist.
- Kerenzerberg Tunnel – located on the A3 motorway near Lake Walen tunnel. It is 5,760 meters (18,900 ft) long.
- Seelisberg Tunnel – connects Beckenried with Seedorf as a part of the A2 motorway.
- Belchen Tunnel – lies on the A2 motorway and links Hägendorf with Eptingen. It was opened in 1966.
- Bözberg Tunnel – A3 motorway part, which is located under the Bözberg Pass and parallel to the Bözberg Rail Tunnel.
- Great St. Bernard Tunnel – links Martigny with Saint-Rhémy-en-Bosses. To use it, drivers must cover an additional toll even when they have a Swiss vignette.
- Lötschberg Tunnel – single-tube double-track pass requiring covering a toll.
- Munt La Schera Tunnel – single-lane tunnel in the canton of Graubünden. To cross it, you also need to pay a special fee.
- San Bernardino Tunnel – A13 motorway and E43 European route part in the canton of Graubünden that runs under the San Bernardino Pass.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
What are some must-see tunnels and mountain passes in Switzerland?
There are many tunnels and mountain passes in Switzerland that offer great views. Among them are the Grand Saint Bernard Pass, Simplon Pass, and Gotthard Pass.
Do I need a vignette to drive on Swiss motorways?
Vehicles up to 3.5 t on the Swiss motorways are required to have a valid vignette. It’s simple to obtain it, as you can do it online from the comfort of your home. The process consists of sharing information, covering the fee, and waiting for confirmation.
How do I pay tolls for Swiss tunnels?
Usually, drivers need to pay the toll for the tunnel in Switzerland at the special sales point on the spot. Check information about the specific tunnel online and prepare for your journey. You may also try to use alternatives, but it’s not so convenient.
Are there any height or weight restrictions for vehicles in Swiss tunnels?
Certain tunnels in Switzerland have specific restrictions. These usually apply to vehicles exceeding 3.5 t. You may also find information about closure due to accidents, renovation, or bad road conditions, so read all the details and news before the trip.