Tunnel Italy – Traveling by car through the Alps has long been seen as a symbol of freedom. But for one German camper, a seemingly routine drive turned into a financial shock. Charged €72.60 for a 15-kilometer drive through the Fréjus Tunnel, the traveler took to social media to share his surprise, prompting a wave of reactions from fellow drivers in Germany and Switzerland.
G.Business reports on the incident based on a public Facebook post in the group Camping Switzerland, where the user shared an image of the toll receipt: €60.50 base toll plus 20% VAT – totalling €72.60 for a single journey.
Public Backlash: "Price Gouging" or Justified Costs
The reaction online was immediate and passionate.
“That’s outrageous. Why is the EU allowing this?” asked one commenter.
“Switzerland gets all the complaints, but this is worse,” added another.
Some voices from Switzerland and Germany argued that high infrastructure costs justify the price. Others saw the toll as an unfair burden, especially on private travelers with limited vacation budgets.
Critics highlighted a recurring pattern: travelers underestimate toll charges when planning European road trips — especially when crossing borders between France, Italy, and Switzerland.
Background: What Is the Fréjus Tunnel
The Fréjus Road Tunnel, opened in 1980, connects Modane (France) to Bardonecchia (Italy). It is one of the three major trans-Alpine road tunnels, along with the Mont Blanc and Gotthard tunnels. While the tunnel itself measures 12.9 kilometers, entrance lanes and administration fees bring the effective toll distance to 15 kilometers.
It is managed by a Franco-Italian consortium (SFTRF/SITAF), and operators justify the pricing with the need for advanced safety systems, regular maintenance, and compliance with EU fire and evacuation regulations.
Toll Comparison: How Expensive Is an Alpine Drive
| Alpine Tunnel | Length | Car (one way) | Motorhome (>3.5 t) | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fréjus (FR–IT) | 12.9 km | from €48 | €72.60 | VAT included |
| Mont Blanc (FR–IT) | 11.6 km | ~€52 | ~€65 | Similar route and pricing |
| Gotthard (CH) | 16.9 km | via annual vignette | no extra fee | CHF 40/year, valid for all motorways |
| Great St. Bernard (CH–IT) | 5.8 km | CHF 29 | CHF 45 | One-time charge per direction |
| Tauern Tunnel (AT) | 6.4 km | ~€13 | ~€13 | In addition to Austrian motorway vignette |
Source: Official operators, TCS, ADAC, REnewz research
Practical Advice: How to Avoid Toll Surprises on Alpine Routes
For anyone planning a road trip across Europe — especially with a camper — tunnel and toll planning is no longer optional. Here’s what experts recommend:
- Research tolls in advance: Use tools like ViaMichelin, TollGuru, or official tunnel websites.
- Know your vehicle weight: Over 3.5 tonnes often means higher prices.
- Keep all receipts: In case of double charges or for travel expense reporting.
- Use digital toll apps: Many allow online payment and provide real-time updates.
- Plan alternatives: Older pass roads or longer routes may take more time but cost less.
Policy Landscape: Toll Expansion in Germany and Switzerland
Since July 2024, Germany requires tolls for all vehicles over 3.5 tons, including many motorhomes. Switzerland continues to use its flat-rate vignette system, currently priced at CHF 40 per year, while certain tunnels remain separate paypoints.
Throughout Europe, governments are moving toward digital toll collection and dynamic pricing — a trend that offers convenience but also brings complexity for travelers.
Conclusion: Tunnel Italy – A Growing Cost Trap for Holidaymakers
The €72.60 charged for the Fréjus Tunnel is not a mistake — it is the reality of European road travel in 2025. What used to be a flexible and affordable mode of vacation has become a labyrinth of hidden charges, fine print, and rising infrastructure fees.
As one user put it:
“They complain about Switzerland, but ignore the French toll booths. And then show off their new RV bought on credit.”
G.Business calls for greater transparency, fairer pricing, and standardized regulations for cross-border travel. Until then, travelers should take nothing for granted — even a 15 km tunnel can carry a price tag of nearly €75.
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