a car is driving through a red tunnel on a highway

Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel Toll

Planning a road trip around North Iceland? If you're passing through Akureyri, you'll likely encounter the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel - Iceland's only toll road. Here's what you need to know about using it, how to pay the toll, and how to avoid extra fees.

Where Is the Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel?

The Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel is located just east of Akureyri, Iceland’s unofficial capital of the north. The tunnel runs beneath the Vaðlaheiði mountain and connects Eyjafjörður fjord to Fnjóskadalur valley, along Route 1 (the Ring Road). It spans 7.4 kilometers and is often the preferred route when driving between Akureyri and Húsavík, Mývatn, or Egilsstaðir.

Why Use the Tunnel?

The Vaðlaheiðargöng Tunnel offers a quicker and more direct route than the Víkurskarð mountain pass. It’s especially valuable in winter, when the mountain road can be icy or closed. Year-round, the tunnel provides a safer and more dependable way to stay on schedule.

Toll Pricing (As of 2025)

Vehicle Type Online Payment (within 24 hrs)Late Payment (after 24 hrs)
Under 3.5 tons (most cars)17 €52 €
Vehicles 3.5 - 7.5 tons24 €59 €
Over 7.5 tons50 €85 €

Note: Post-deadline payments include an additional service fee of 30.

How to Pay the Vaðlaheiðargöng Toll

You have a 48-hour window to pay the toll online, either up to 24 hours before or 24 hours after driving through the tunnel.

Options:

  • Online: Visit www.veggjald.is
  • App: Download the Veggjald app (iOS & Android)

Can You Avoid the Tunnel?

Yes, by taking the Víkurskarð mountain pass, which goes over the mountain instead of through it. In summer, it’s a scenic and toll-free alternative. In winter, however, it’s often icy, dangerous, or even closed, making it an unreliable option.

If you're traveling between October and April, the tunnel is the safest and most reliable option.