Interlaken to Klagenfurt: A Scenic Alpine Drive Through Austria

The drive from Interlaken to Klagenfurt covers approximately 650 kilometers, crossing three countries: Switzerland, Liechtenstein or Austria (via the A1 and A2), and Austria. A specific detail: the route passes through the Arlberg Tunnel, which at nearly 14 km is one of the longest road tunnels in the world.

This journey is a study in contrasts: from Interlaken's turquoise lakes and Alpine meadows to the arid Karawanken region, the landscape shifts dramatically. The drive takes about 7–8 hours without stops, but with detours and rest, plan for at least 10 hours.

The route transitions from the Bernese Oberland (Interlaken) through the Swiss Plateau, then into the Austrian Alps near Innsbruck, and finally to the Carinthian basin.

• Interlaken to Zurich: Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, with views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
• Zurich to St. Margrethen: Rolling hills and the Rhine Valley.
• St. Margrethen to Innsbruck: The Arlberg Pass area, with dense forests and the Arlberg Tunnel.
• Innsbruck to Salzburg: The Inn Valley, with the Karwendel mountains.
• Salzburg to Klagenfurt: The Tauern range and the Drau River valley.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Historic Centre of Salzburg is a 10-minute detour. The Hallstatt-Dachstein Salzkammergut (near the A1) is 30 minutes off-route.

Local Commerce and Craftsmanship

• Swiss chocolate: Stop at Maestrani's Chocolarium in Flawil (near A1 exit).
• Swiss cheese: Appenzeller cheese farms near St. Margrethen.
• Austrian schnapps: Distilleries in the Zillertal valley.
• Carinthian handicrafts: Woodcarvings and pottery in Villach.
• Farmers' markets: Every Saturday morning in Innsbruck and Salzburg.

The primary route uses the Swiss A8 and A1, then the Austrian A14 (Tauern Motorway) and A2 (Süd Autobahn). Key milestones: Interlaken (0 km), Bern (50 km), Zurich (120 km), St. Margrethen (220 km), Innsbruck (420 km), Salzburg (600 km), Klagenfurt (850 km).

How long to drive Interlaken to Klagenfurt: without traffic, 7.5 hours; with stops, 9–11 hours. Is it worth driving Interlaken to Klagenfurt? Yes, for the scenic variety and cultural immersion.

• Fuel stops: Every 30–40 km along the A1 and A2. In Austria, Raststationen (service stations) are well-equipped.
• Tolls: Switzerland requires a vignette (CHF 40/year). Austria requires a vignette (€9.90 for 10 days).
• Speed limits: 120 km/h on Austrian motorways, 100 km/h on Swiss expressways.

Road quality on the A1 and A2 is excellent, with well-lit tunnels and guardrails. However, the Arlberg Tunnel has a speed limit of 80 km/h and is monitored for traffic jams. Night illumination is standard. Always carry snow chains in winter.

For more tips on finding great stops, read how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

• Pet-friendly: Raststation Imst (A12) has a dog park. Many Austrian gas stations allow dogs on leash.
• Family stop: Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens (near Innsbruck) – interactive museum and playground.
• Fatigue management: Raststation Mitterkirchen (A1) or Parkplatz Liechtensteinklamm (A14) for a 20-minute rest.
• Hidden gem: Burgruin Ehrenberg (near Reutte) – 5 minutes from A7 exit. Abandoned castle with panoramic views.
• Climatic condition: The Karawanken region can have strong föhn winds. Check weather before crossing.