Background

Europabrücke: A Bridge Between Engineering and Adventure

Witness a marvel of engineering and stunning alpine views at the Europabrücke, a vital link between Austria and Italy, south of Innsbruck.

4.3

The Europabrücke (Bridge of Europe) is an impressive feat of engineering on the A13 Brenner Autobahn in Austria. South of Innsbruck, it offers stunning views of the Stubai Valley and even a bungee jumping opportunity for thrill-seekers.

A brief summary to Europabrücke

  • Brennerautobahn, Schönberg im Stubaital, 6143, AT
  • +43522562570

Local tips

  • Purchase a vignette before driving on the Brenner Autobahn to avoid fines; these are available at gas stations and online.
  • Stop at the Lanz - Raststätte Europabrücke for panoramic views of the bridge and surrounding Stubai Valley.
  • Consider bungee jumping from the bridge for an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst stunning alpine scenery (advanced booking required).
  • Check weather conditions before your visit, especially during winter, as snow and ice can affect visibility and driving conditions.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions in the Stubai Valley, such as hiking trails or ski resorts, for a complete alpine experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    If approaching from Innsbruck on the A13 Brenner Autobahn, continue south. The Europabrücke is a prominent landmark and part of the A13. Be aware of toll fees for the Brenner Autobahn. In 2025, a single trip for the section including the Europabrücke costs approximately €3.00 for cars between Innsbruck-Patsch/Europabrücke-Nösslach. However, you will also need a vignette to drive on Austrian motorways. A 1-day vignette costs €9.30 for cars. Parking is available at the Raststation Europabrücke, a rest area directly adjacent to the bridge. Parking is free. Be aware that this is a truck stop, so parking can be limited.

  • Public Transport

    From Innsbruck, take the VVT Regiobus 590 towards Stubaital. Get off at the 'Schönberg i. St. Gemeindeamt' stop. From there, it's approximately a 25-minute walk (about 2 km) to the Europabrücke. Alternatively, from 'Schönberg i. St. Gemeindeamt', take the Stubuss'l 595 towards Neustift/Volderau and get off at 'Europabrücke'. Bus fare from Innsbruck to Schönberg is approximately €4.30 each way. The Stubuss'l 595 is free. Note that the walk from the bus stop to the bridge viewing points involves some uphill sections.

Unlock the Best of Europabrücke

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Europabrücke

The Europabrücke, or Bridge of Europe, is more than just a way to traverse the Wipptal valley; it's a symbol of engineering ambition and a testament to post-war reconstruction. Located on the A13 Brenner Autobahn, south of Innsbruck, Austria, this imposing structure has facilitated the movement of people and goods between Austria and Italy for over half a century. Construction of the Europabrücke began in 1959 and was completed in 1963. At the time, it was a record-breaking feat, claiming the title of Europe's highest bridge, soaring 190 meters (623 feet) above the Sill River. Its central span, measuring 198 meters (650 feet), was also among the longest in Europe. The bridge's construction was a significant undertaking, requiring innovative engineering solutions to overcome the challenges of the alpine terrain. Sadly, the project came at a cost, with 22 lives lost during its construction, including three engineers. A chapel was built on the west side of the bridge to commemorate them. The bridge's design features a steel box girder superstructure, chosen for its strength and ability to withstand the harsh alpine conditions. The deep, sturdy structure is a marvel to behold. The Europabrücke is a critical component of the Brenner Autobahn, a major European transport route (E45) connecting Austria and Italy. The Brenner Pass, on which the bridge sits, is one of the lowest and most accessible passes through the Alps, making it a vital artery for trade and tourism. While primarily a functional structure, the Europabrücke has also become a tourist attraction in its own right. Its sheer size and dramatic setting amidst the Stubai Valley make it a popular spot for photographs and sightseeing. The rest stop located adjacent to the bridge provides panoramic views of the structure and the surrounding landscape. For adrenaline junkies, the Europabrücke offers a unique opportunity: bungee jumping. Since 2002, thrill-seekers have been leaping from a platform suspended beneath the bridge, plunging 192 meters (630 feet) towards the valley floor.

Popular Experiences near Europabrücke

Popular Hotels near Europabrücke

Select Currency