In our latest research into the world’s longest and deepest tunnels, we’ve identified the 10 longest tunnels that are open to drivers.
Spanning locations from Switzerland to Japan, this list highlights some of the most impressive road tunnels across the globe. Before kicking off with our list of the world’s longest road tunnels, it’s worth noting that even longer tunnels do exist, but many of these are designed for purposes other than road travel, such as railways or aqueducts.
If you’re planning to visit any of the destinations featured in this article, SIXT offers car rental services worldwide, making it easy to explore each location at your own pace and witness the mesmerizing tunnel views that await on the other side.
10 Longest Highway Tunnels in the World
In this section, we explore the 10 longest highway tunnels in the world, highlighting their location, length and what makes them unique. If you’re planning to experience them firsthand, hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and with SIXT, you can pick up a modern, well-equipped vehicle in many of these destinations, making your journey through these iconic tunnels as smooth and comfortable as possible.
1. Laerdal Tunnel
Country: Norway
Length: 24.5km
At 24.5km, the Laerdal Tunnel in western Norway is the longest tunnel in the world for road traffic. Connecting the small villages of Laerdal and Aurland, it opened in 2000 as a vital link between Oslo and Bergen.
To make long-distance driving more comfortable, a team of psychologists contributed to the interior design to reduce monotony. Sections are specially illuminated to imitate natural light, creating a surreal driving experience.
With many branches throughout Norway, including at major airports, SIXT has your car rental needs covered. Regardless of whether you need an SUV with four-wheel drive or a compact car, we have something for you.
2. WestConnex M4/M8
Country: Australia
Length: 22.4km
The WestConnex project in Sydney is a modern engineering feat. By linking the M4 and M8, it has created a massive underground bypass that significantly reduces travel time through one of Australia’s busiest cities.
The best way to experience the expansive and varied Australian landscape is with a SIXT rental car. SIXT has branches in all major cities, including Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, as well as more remote areas like Darwin.
3. Yamate Tunnel
Country: Japan
Length: 18.2km
At 18.2km in length, the Yamate Tunnel is the third-longest highway tunnel in the world. Building work took a long time, from 1992 to 2015, as individual sections were designed, built and opened in different years. It sits roughly 30 meters below the surface, helping to alleviate the heavy traffic of the Shuto Expressway.
SIXT car rental in Japan gives you the opportunity and flexibility to explore on your own time. From sedans to compact vehicles, our Japanese branches offer daily or long-term car rentals and flexible booking options. Let us connect you with the right car for your trip.
4. Zhongnanshan Tunnel
Country: China
Length: 18.0km
Cutting through the Qinling Mountains, the Qinling Zhongnanshan Tunnel spans 18.02 km and takes about 15 minutes to travel through. This tunnel is famous for its interior aesthetics, which include artificial plants and lights with various colours and patterns to keep drivers focused and calm during the transit.
5. St. Gotthard Road Tunnel
Country: Switzerland
Length: 16.9km
At 16.9km in length, the St. Gotthard is the longest tunnel in Europe for motorists. It provides a crucial transit route through the Swiss Alps and is used by around 17,000 vehicles daily. Emerging from this tunnel into the crisp mountain air of either Göschenen or Airolo offers some of the most stunning views in our campaign research.
In a SIXT rental car in Switzerland, you can explore the country, from the slopes of St. Moritz to the shores of Lake Geneva. You can choose from manuals, automatics, eco-friendly electric cars, family-friendly station wagons, economical compacts, rugged SUVs, and more.
6. Tiantaishan Tunnel
Country: China
Length: 15.6km
The 15.6km Qinling Tiantaishan Tunnel is located in Baoji City, Shaanxi Province, China. It traverses the Tiantaishan Mountain in the Qinling Mountains and is a component of the Baoji-Pingkan Expressway.
As part of the construction of the Tiantaishan Tunnel, a new smart lighting system was developed that delivers a more natural light inside its depths. This also provides different light patterns and designs on the tunnel’s walls to ward off boredom as drivers traverse its 9.67-mile length.
7. Muzhailing Tunnel
Country: China
Length: 15.2km
Located in Gansu Province, China, the construction of the Muzhailing Tunnel presented significant challenges. The site’s high altitude and active seismic conditions made it especially vulnerable to earthquakes.
Despite these difficulties, the project successfully used NPR anchor cabling technology. This method stabilizes the tunnel by securing it to the surrounding rock, allowing the structure to flex and withstand ground movement without failing.
8. Zigana Tunnel
Country: Turkey
Length: 14.5km
Opened recently to modernize the Silk Road route, the Zigana Tunnel connects Trabzon and Gümüşhane. It bypasses the treacherous Zigana Pass, ensuring safe travel even in harsh winter conditions.
When you rent a car in Turkey from SIXT, the journey becomes part of the adventure. Find the ideal vehicle for your Turkish adventure among our vast fleet. Choose from SUVs, vans, station wagons, and different sizes of sedans.
9. Ryfylke Tunnel
Country: Norway
Length: 14.3km
The Ryfylke Tunnel is an undersea road tunnel in Rogaland County, Norway. It is 14.3km long and connects the two municipalities of Strand and Stavanger in southern Norway. Sitting 292m below sea level, it is the longest and deepest undersea road tunnel in the world.
With a rental car in Norway from SIXT, you can explore as much of the country’s beautiful scenery as you desire. Regardless of whether you need an SUV with four-wheel drive to hit the countryside or a compact car to zip through Oslo, we have something for you.
10. Arlberg Road Tunnel
Country: Austria
Length: 14.0km
The Alberg Road Tunnel is a major highway tunnel running beneath the Arlberg mountain range in western Austria. Stretching nearly 14.0km, it connects the regions of Tyrol and Vorarlberg, serving as a vital year-round route through the Alps.
With a rental car in Austria, you can experience scenic alpine drives like the Alberg Road Tunnel at your own pace. Whether you’re heading through mountain passes or exploring charming villages, having the flexibility of your own vehicle makes it easy to explore Austria’s spectacular landscapes.
The Longest Tunnel in the US for Cars
The United States is home to some impressive road infrastructure and its longest highway tunnel is no exception.
The Whittier Tunnel
City/State: Alaska
Length: 4.05km
The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel (Whittier Tunnel) is the longest tunnel in the US for motorists. This tunnel is 2.5 miles in length and takes 6.5 minutes to pass through.
Not only was this tunnel carved through a mountain for highway traffic, but it was also constructed for the railroad, making it a unique “dual-use” tunnel where cars and trains share a single lane. The flow of traffic is regulated by computers to prevent vehicles and trains from passing through at the same time.
Named after Anton Anderson, a U.S. Army engineer who served as the chief engineer for the railroad during World War II, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel features on our list of 11 famous Tunnels in the US named after influential figures.
Road Trip Tips for Driving Through the World’s Longest Tunnels
Driving through these massive structures requires focus and preparation. Here are some actionable insights for your next subterranean adventure:
- Check your fuel: There are no gas stations inside a 24km tunnel. Ensure your tank is full or your EV is charged.
- Remove sunglasses: Always take off your shades before entering to allow your eyes to adjust to the artificial lighting.
- Use low beams: Even if a tunnel is well-lit, you should always use your dipped headlights (low beams) when driving through a tunnel.
- Keep your distance: Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front; many long tunnels have blue lights or markers on the walls to help you judge distance.
For more detailed advice, see our guide on how to drive through a highway tunnel safely.
Choosing a SIXT Rental Vehicle for Long Tunnel Drives
Exploring the world’s longest tunnels is an unforgettable driving experience. Choosing the right rental vehicle can make all the difference, giving you the comfort, reliability and performance needed for long car journeys. Whether you opt for a premium sedan for a smoother, quieter ride, a spacious SUV for more rugged surroundings or an electric vehicle for a more efficient journey, renting a SIXT rental car offers the flexibility to travel at your own pace and make the most of every mile. Discover our full fleet and find your perfect rental vehicle.
