Road Tripping From France to Italy This Autumn? Here’s How to Navigate the Mont-Blanc Tunnel Closure

Oliver Hughes -

The Mont-Blanc Tunnel, which links France and Italy beneath the Alps, is closing from 2 September to 16 December 2024 for 15 weeks of renovation work. A 600-metre section of the 11-kilometre tunnel will undergo a complete reconstruction. While alternative routes are available, they may add to your travel time. Here’s how to plan around the closure this autumn.

Why is the Mont-Blanc Tunnel closing?

The Mont-Blanc Tunnel, which opened in 1965, connects Chamonix, France, with Courmayeur, Italy, and is part of the European route E25. At 2,480 metres below the Aiguille du Midi, it is the world’s second-deepest tunnel. Scheduled renovation work aims to reconstruct its vault, marking one of the first major structural overhauls for a European tunnel. During the closure, new technologies will be tested to determine the most effective methods for future renovations, including a 2025 closure.

Alternatives to the Mont-Blanc Tunnel

During the closure, travelers can use alternative routes between France and Italy, though some may increase travel time.

  • Fréjus Tunnel:

160 km south of Mont-Blanc, connecting Modane, France, with Bardonecchia, Italy. A one-way toll costs €54.10.

  • Tunnel du Grand-Saint-Bernard:

Connecting Martigny, Switzerland, and Aosta Valley, Italy, with a €31 one-way toll.

  • Mountain Passes:

Other options include Col du Petit-Saint-Bernard, Col des Montets, and Montgenèvre Pass, though these may face closures due to snow during winter.