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Innsbruck is the fifth-largest city in Austria and the provincial capital of Tyrol , as well as one of the largest cities in the Alps . It is in a valley of the river Inn between mountain ranges of above 2000 m above sea level, halfway between Bavaria and northern Italy , and is a hub of a region popular for skiing and other mountain-related activities and a busy tourist destination. Its popularity as a winter sports resort was underscored by its hosting the Winter Olympic Games twice.
Innsbruck offers the traveler an intriguing mix of contemporary and imperialist history, culture and architecture with a variety of architectural styles waiting to be discovered in every street.
The first mention of Innsbruck was during the reign of Augustus, when the Romans established the army station Veldidena (the name survives in today's urban district Wilten) at the locality named Oeni Pontum or Oeni Pons , which is Latin for bridge ( pons ) over the Inn ( Oenus ), the important crossing point over the Inn river, to protect Via Claudia Augusta, the economically important commercial road from Verona -Brenner- Augsburg .
Innsbruck became the capital of Tyrol in 1429 and in the 15th century the city became a centre of European politics and culture as emperor Maximilian I moved the imperial court to Innsbruck in the 1490s. Many old buildings from the Middle Ages and modern times survived in the heart of old town.
The city is well known for its sporting opportunities, especially alpine sports, as it is in the Alps and surrounded by mountains. Innsbruck also hosted the 1964 and 1974 Winter Olympics. Several ski resorts are situated inside the city territory or within short distance. Innsbruck was one of the centers of snowboard boom in the 1990s and the derived distinct subculture endured until today. The population of skateboarders, snowboarders and people alike is therefore above average and nothing unusual to the people. This culture is also celebrated by a lot of events in and around Innsbruck especially in the winter season, attracting (predominantly young) people from all around the world.
There are two universities and several colleges in Innsbruck, with over 30,000 students altogether, making the city's nightlife very lively.
Innsbruck has also become one of Austria's most eco-friendly cities, due to a very good public transport system and a partial ban on cars in certain areas of the historic old town.
Innsbruck's distance from the coast and altitude lead to a continental climate. Winters are cold and snowy; summers are generally warmer and wetter, with highly variable weather. Hot and dry days, with temperatures hitting 30°C, are quite common; but can be followed by a cool and rainy spell, with temperatures only around 17°C in the day. Summer nights are cool and temperature often drop quickly after sunset - sometimes falling below 10°C in early morning.
Regular scheduled flights are available from:
Seasonal flights (mostly active during skiing season) are available from many more destinations including the UK, the Netherlands, Greece, and Scandinavia, as well as from Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Kyiv and Moscow. There are also charter flights to several German cities - especially in winter.
The bus line F will take you to the city center (every 15 minutes, on Sunday it departs every 30 minutes). A single ticket costs €3.10 .
Other airports from which Innsbruck can be reached by train include Munich ( MUC IATA , 200 km), Memmingen [ dead link ] ( FMM IATA , 175 km), Salzburg ( SZG IATA , 185 km), St. Gallen-Altenrhein ( ACH IATA , 190 km) and Friedrichshafen ( FDH IATA , 215 km).
Regular direct trains run from Venice , Bolzano/Bozen , Zürich , Munich , Graz , Vienna (via Linz and Salzburg ) and many other destinations.
Austrian Nightjet sleeper trains run twice a week to Brussels, taking 15 hours via Munich, Cologne, Aachen and Liège, as well as to Amsterdam via Munich, Nuremberg, Hanover and Hamburg.
Coming from Germany with the Deutschland-Ticket , take a local/regional train to Mittenwald and continue your ride in the same train to Innsbruck. From Mittenwald to Innsbruck is €10. Buying the ticket on the Austrian train website costs less than buying it on the Deutsche Bahn counterpart . ( updated Mar 2024 )
See Austria#Discounts for fare deals.
The 47.26237 11.39977 3 bus station is right next to the main train station, and accommodates local, interregional and international traffic. There are connections to Seefeld , Wipptal , Ötztal , and Zillertal . International connections offer a budget friendly alternative for train travel, a one way ticket from Munich to Innsbruck with a stop in Garmisch-Partenkirchen costs ca. €11.
Innsbruck is reachable through both of Tyrol's motorways: 47.2608 11.4381 4 Inntalautobahn (A12) and 47.2399 11.3903 5 Brennerautobahn (A13) which intersect in the south of Innsbruck.
During holiday seasons, when Europeans either try to get in or out of Italy over the 47.0051 11.5078 6 Brenner Pass in summer or try to reach or return from ski resorts in winter, heavy traffic should be expected on both motorways particularly during weekends. Snowfall inevitably makes the traffic situation worse, so it is recommended to tune in to Radio Tyrol at 96.4 MHz FM for the latest traffic updates.
Innsbruck can be reached on the Inntalradweg from Passau to St. Moritz. Even in the city this bicycle trail is signposted with small green road signs.
Most one-day visitors don't use any transport: all of the major Old Town sites are within a reasonable walking time.
The classic walk into old Innsbruck follows.
From the main station (Hauptbahnhof) to the city center is a relatively short and enjoyable 10 to 15 minute walk. Walk out of the Hauptbahnhof, cross the street at the train station cross walk, turn to your right, and go down to the next street to your left. Walk on this street until Maria-Theresien Strasse, then turn right toward the city center. Taking this street all the way leads to the pedestrian zone and the Golden Roof.
Big parts of the downtown area are declared (fee-based) short-term parking zones. For longer visits, it is highly recommended to park off-site and use public transportation.
Public local traffic (6 tram-lines, and a dense network of buses) is operated by Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe and a couple of private operators. All public services are organized in Verkehrsverbund Tirol , which means that tickets are valid in every public transport line (including buses, trams and trains). All buses and trams are modern low-floor vehicles.
Sometimes bus lines are split up into different destinations and so it's important to pay attention to the destination displays (outside and inside) and the spoken announcements. Single-fare tickets are €3 in the city fare zone if paid by the driver or €2.40 if purchased at ticket machines. 5-trip tickets are available for €8.00 or €10.00, respectively. Regardless of the door you enter, go to the driver and pay, exact change not necessary. daily tickets, weekly tickets and other sorts of tickets are only offered at multi-language ticket machines to be found at many stations. They can also be purchased at the identically looking machines for short-term parking tickets. You must validate the ticket when you get on your first bus or tram. See the website for all available tickets .
The special bus line "TS" ( "The Sightseer" ) connects the major sights like Schloß Ambras, Bergisel and Alpenzoo to downtown. However special fares apply for this line. If you don't plan to visit every museum it might be reasonably cheaper to use the normal 24 hour ticket without this bus.
Two tram lines lead to two villages in the neighbourhood of Innsbruck.
Tram line nr. 6 connects Innsbruck and the mountain village Igls , which is worth a visit. The line passes the uplands with vast forests and gives some spectacular prospects for travellers either on Innsbruck or on the lovely landscape between Aldrans and Igls. It provides stops immediately near Schloß Ambras and the bathing-lake Lansersee (ice skating in Winter is also possible there). The terminus Igls lies within the city fare zone, so no additional ticket is needed.
Tram line STB is 18 km long and connects Innsbruck with several villages in the Stubaital valley. This tram provides also access to Bergisel (Tirol Panorama) at the station Sonneburgerhof. This station is also situated within die city fare zone. In Mutters, Nockhofweg access to an easy skiing area, the Mutteralm, is provided (10 minutes walk). A beautiful hour's ride will take you at least the small town of Fulpmes. The new red liveried trams offer great scenic views on the journey. It is recommended to make a trip around Halloween, when the larch-trees on the Telfer Wiesen have got their best autumn colour.
A suburban train system called S-Bahn with five routes (S1 - S5) connects Innsbruck to villages and towns around the city, from Landeck to Kufstein or Kitzbühel and from Mittenwald to Brenner . Timetables and fares can be found on the VVT website . Inner city VVT tickets are valid between the Hauptbahnhof and 47.2555 11.3915 1 Westbahnhof (west station), 47.2613 11.3738 2 Hötting , 47.26908 11.3535 3 Allerheiligenhöfe , and 47.26959 11.32872 4 Kranebitten .
Cycling is common in Innsbruck and especially popular among students. Innsbruck has some bicycle paths, but they are not very well interlinked within the city. A map of all bicycle ways/lanes is available here . In 2012, Innsbruck was awarded Fahrradhauptstadt (cycling capital) by VCÖ (an Austrian traffic advocacy group).
Innsbruck offers short-term shared bike system Stadtrad . It is subject to compulsory registration via this page [ dead link ] or machines standing next to the bikes, and requires a credit card number. The registration costs €1 and yields a credit of €1 on the account. A ride less than 30 minutes costs €1, less than 1 hour €3, for every additional hour €3, up to a total of €15 for 24 hours (see their fare overview [ dead link ] ). The locations are displayed on a map on this site [ dead link ] . If you plan on using the bike frequently, you may consider getting an annual membership for €25, which reduces the cost of rentals substantially.
The Innsbruck-Card [ dead link ] offers free entrance to all of Innsbruck's sights, free use of public transportation (including the TS line). It also includes a one-time ascent&descent to Nordkette , Patscherkofel and Axamer Lizum , and a 10% discount to Swarovski Crystal Worlds in nearby Wattens . The Innsbruck-Card is valid for 24/48/72 hours and can be purchased at Innsbruck Information (Burggraben 3), the TI in Hauptbahnhof, and several museums and tourist offices. The latest Innsbruck card fare can be found here [ dead link ] . Since 1 May 2018, rates are €43/€50/€59 for 1/2/3 day cards for adults, and €21.50/€25/€29.50 for children 6-15 years old. And daily or weekly public transport cards are cheap - the "all inclusive" sales pitch is alluring to disoriented travellers, but make sure the discounts are worth the initial price. If you are not seeing these major entrance-fee sites, remember that you may buy more than one daily card at a time, as the 24 hours only starts once validated. Be sure to compare with the price of a weekly ticket too.
The bus line Sightseer (TS) connects the major sights in Innsbruck. However, there is always a cheaper public transport line going to the same destination, though it might take you more time.
A combined ticket for the Tyrolean State Museums [ dead link ] is available for €10, or €6 discount, and offers entry to The Ferdinand, Hofkirche, Volkskunst, Zeughaus and Das Tiroler Panorama Museums until the end of the calendar year. The ticket includes a free audio guide (which is worth getting as information is otherwise only in German) at some locations.
There are a lot of ski resorts in the mountains surrounding Innsbruck, many of which offer free ski buses from the city center so long as you have ski gear and/or a valid ski pass, making it a great place to base one's self. Discount or combo passes can reduce the costs of skiing or snowboarding. In 2022-2023, a "SKI plus CITY pass" combines winter sports discounts with city sightseeing passes.
Below is an overview of notable ski areas easily accessible from Innsbruck. For full information about resorts around Innsbruck and Tirol, see Bergfex.com .
Ice skating is a popular winter activity and there are several public outdoor rinks with evening hours and rental skates (ask for directions to the nearest eislaufplatz ). Olympiaworld has an outdoor rink and its TIGLS Arena is used for ice hockey.
It's a bit safer and tamer than bobsledding, but it's still plenty fast and exciting...it's called Bobrafting and you can do it on the Olympic bobsled run in Igls.
The Alpine weather can be unpredictable, and with rain likely to fall in every season, having indoor alternatives to outdoor activities is a must when visiting Innsbruck. For those who enjoy puzzles and riddles, there are 11 room escape games to play in the city.
The Nordkettenbahnen are 3 alpine vehicles bringing visitors from the historic centre of the city all the way up to the top of the Nordkette mountain, from where the summit at an altitude of 2334 m can be reached by foot. The first section is the Hungerburgbahn HBB , a funicular departing in 47.27101 11.3954 Congress station</span>\",\"marker-symbol\":\"-number-around\",\"marker-color\":\"800080\",\"description\":\"\"}}"}}'>5 Congress station . The middle section is the Seegrubenbahn cable car, and the top section is the Hafelekar chairlift. When buying tickets online , the code BONALPINA will give you a 10% discount on tickets for the Nordkettenbahnen.
Malls: There are several shopping malls in Innsbruck:
Furthermore, there are several warehouses, especially in the suburb of Neu-Rum.
Shopping areas: There are numerous shops in central pedestrian areas like Maria-Theresien-Straße, the Old Town, Franziskanerplatz, Sparkassenplatz and Anichstraße as well as Museumstraße. You will also find shops/stores in quarter centers of Wilten (tram lines 1, 6 and STB) and Pradl (tram line 3).
Souvenir stores in the Old Town offer souvenirs of varying origin, but the Tiroler Heimatwerk (Meranerstraße 2) offers real Tyrolean handcraft. However most of the shops are real tourist traps and are overpriced by far. You will probably find more authentic and cheaper souvenirs in one of the surrounding villages of Innsbruck.
Buy creative footwear:
All these are in the city centre:
Tyrol’s capital is a sight to behold. The jagged rock spires of the Nordkette range are so close that within minutes it’s possible to travel from the city's heart to more than 2000m above sea level and alpine pastures where cowbells chime. Summer and winter activities abound, and it’s understandable why some visitors only take a peek at Innsbruck proper before heading for the hills. But to do so is a shame, for Innsbruck is in many ways Austria in microcosm: its late-medieval Altstadt is picture-book stuff, presided over by a grand Habsburg palace and baroque cathedral, while its Olympic ski jump with big mountain views makes a spectacular leap between the urban and the outdoors.
Must-see attractions.
Schloss Ambras
Picturesquely perched on a hill and set among beautiful gardens, this Renaissance pile was acquired in 1564 by Archduke Ferdinand II, then ruler of Tyrol,…
Grabbing attention with its pearly white facade and cupolas, the Hofburg was built as a castle for Archduke Sigmund the Rich in the 15th century, expanded…
Innsbruck’s pride and joy is the Gothic Hofkirche, one of Europe’s finest royal court churches. It was commissioned in 1553 by Ferdinand I, who enlisted…
Goldenes Dachl
Innsbruck's golden wonder and most distinctive landmark is this Gothic oriel, built for Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I (1459–1519), lavishly festooned…
Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum
This treasure trove of Tyrolean history and art moves from Bronze Age artefacts to the original reliefs used to design the Goldenes Dachl. Alongside…
Rising above Innsbruck like a celestial staircase, this glass-and-steel ski jump was designed by much-lauded Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. It's 455 steps or…
Volkskunst Museum
The Volkskunst Museum presents a fascinating romp through Tyrolean folk art from hand-carved sleighs and Christmas cribs to carnival masks and cowbells…
Dom St Jakob
Innsbruck's 18th-century cathedral is a feast of over-the-top baroque. The Asam brothers from Munich completed much of the sumptuous art and stuccowork,…
Tips & Advice
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in partnership with getyourguide
This city in the Austrian Alps is an all-seasons destination with world-class skiing, beautiful hikes, and a charming old town.
Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.
Best time to visit, how to get there.
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Nestled in an alpine valley on the banks of the Inn River and backed by photogenic peaks, Innsbruck, the fifth-largest city in Austria and the capital of the state of Tyrol, is a longtime destination for winter sports that provides access to many notable ski areas. When the cold weather rolls in and the flakes fall, people come from all over Europe and beyond to take advantage of the snow-covered terrain. Visitors can check out some of the venues from the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games such as the Bergisel Ski Jump. There’s also an impressive system of scenic cable cars that brings riders up the craggy mountains for eye-popping panoramas.
And while high-altitude pursuits may be the main draw, this compact city in the Alps offers way more than just frosty fun. Even during the off-season, travelers visiting the “Bridge Over the Inn” can admire the churches and gabled houses that line the narrow streets of the Old Town, check out Schloss Ambras Innsbruck, and go hiking.
Scroll on for local tips to plan the perfect getaway to Innsbruck that combines thrilling adventure, gorgeous architecture, and tasty Austrian food — no matter what time of year you decide to visit.
Related : T+L’s Guide to Vienna, Austria
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The family-run Hotel Leipziger Hof exemplifies the mix of past and present that Innsbruck does so incredibly well. The downstairs spaces are draped in darker tones and heavier fabrics, while rooms feel refreshed with light wood and sleek furnishings. There's also a fifth-floor spa area with a sauna and infrared chairs to relax in after skiing.
In the middle of the historic Gothic part of the city, you’ll find the Best Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler . “Built in 1390, it's one of the oldest buildings in Innsbruck,” says Tyrol-based ToursByLocals guide Alexander Bader . “It’s also quite walkable and makes a great home base for exploring.”
Situated on the river, Hotel Innsbruck offers a convenient address near the Old Town landmarks as well as comfortable rooms and winter gear storage. Angelika Mair, a local Innsbrook guide with Alpine Adventures , favors the spa, which features an indoor pool, Finnish sauna, aromatherapy steam bath, and floating tub.
The Penz Hotel sits inside a sleek glass building, and the modern, design-forward ethos also comes through in the stylish common areas and sophisticated rooms that are equipped with all the requisite conveniences. “The rooftop bar is great for grabbing a drink,” says Mair. “The property also puts out one of the best breakfast spreads in the city.”
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Try a new winter sport..
Skiing put Innsbruck on the map, and barreling down the Alps at full speed remains a fan-favorite activity. That alpine terrain makes it a great place to try other winter sports, too. “Snowboarding, bobsleighing, and tobogganing are popular with visitors in the colder months,” says Mair. “And, of course, everyone gets really excited to visit the Bergisel Ski Jump.”
One of the best things to do in Innsbruck is to stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town. “You will see architecture from the Habsburg Empire,” says Bader. Emblematic landmarks include the Imperial Palace, Court Church, and the famous Golden Roof. The Austrian Alps in the background create a frame-worthy photo op against all the historic buildings.
“Don’t miss the chance to visit Schloss Ambras Innsbruck, the first museum in the world and one of the most significant sights in all of Austria,” explains Mair. The 1563-built Renaissance castle teeters above the city at an altitude of 2,073 feet and houses a treasure trove of armor, weapons, and art. Be sure to carve out some time to stroll the magnificent gardens.
Innsbruck boasts a remarkable cable car system that goes from the city center to the summit in just 30 minutes. Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the futuristic Hungerburgbahn funicular stops at a mountain plateau. From there, riders can hop on the Seegrubenbahn and Nordkettenbahn to the top for even more eye-popping vistas.
When the snow melts, the sunny peaks come alive with diverse flora and fauna. Spring through fall is a spectacular time to explore the alpine scenery on foot, peep native animals, stop at mountain huts for delicious food, and soak in the sweeping views.
Related: 7 Best Ski Resorts in Europe
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More than just a superb farm-to-table restaurant, die Wilderin goes a step further with nose-to-tail cooking, which means using the entire animal. Proteins are paired with locally grown vegetables and herbs for a delicious, memorable meal that’s rooted in a sense of place and served in a warm setting.
Accented with wood-beamed ceilings and ornate chandeliers, Stiftskeller is a classic restaurant with an old-school yet lively ambiance, a nice beer garden, and traditional Tyrolean specialties like spinach dumplings with Vorarlberg cheese sauce. “It’s also great for larger groups if you’re traveling with family or friends," adds Bader.
Vegan food isn’t necessarily the first thing people expect to find in Innsbruck, so Olive is a pleasant surprise. The welcoming atmosphere and sustainable alpine decor set the tone for thoughtful plant-based dishes.
Geography buffs and gourmands probably won’t be all that surprised to learn that you can find excellent Italian cuisine in Innsbruck, given the boot-shaped nation sits just south of Austria. Trattoria & Pizzeria "Da Rocco" serves flavorful, comforting cheese plates, pasta, fish, meat, and pizza that celebrates fresh ingredients from Italy.
For an unforgettable fine dining experience in Innsbruck, book a table at Restaurant Oniriq . Diners rave about the seven-course tasting menu that consists of artfully plated dishes and wine (or non-alcoholic beverage) pairings.
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Innsbruck is very much a winter sports destination, so its busiest season is December to March. That said, visitors shouldn’t discount the quieter off-peak months for hiking and other alpine activities. The city also hosts charming holiday markets each festive season.
Most international travelers bound for Innsbruck fly into Munich International Airport (MUC). The journey from the Bavarian capital takes about two hours and 15 minutes by car or a half-hour longer by train. If you’re already in Europe, it’s even easier to reach Innsbruck thanks to the efficient, well-connected rail system and regional flights into Innsbruck Airport (INN).
Innsbruck is super walkable with many of the top attractions located close to one another. Cycling lanes make it easy to bike if you’d rather ride around on two wheels. And the cable cars offer a scenic mode of transport for high-altitude adventures.
There are tourist locations for ‘seeing’ and others for ‘doing’: Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol , is both. Perfect for both summer and winter holidays, Innsbruck is a charming city of medieval origin nestled between Alpine peaks of extraordinary beauty: a successful marriage of urban and mountain ambience.
It is a city where you can enjoy romantic experiences such as shopping at the Christmas market, an afternoon at the thermal baths and a visit to the bell museum, or you can test your courage with continuous adrenalin rushes by throwing yourself down 70% steep ski slopes, reaching 100 kmh on an Olympic bobsleigh run or throwing yourself off a 192 metre high bridge (and these are just a few examples!).
In the evening, you can retreat to a typical restaurant to enjoy the specialities of Tyrolean cuisine , perhaps adding a classical or folk music concert to the evening programme, or regain your strength in the hotel and then let loose to the rhythms of dance and electronic music.
Situated at 574 metres above sea level, the old town of Innsbruck is pretty and full of cultural and historical attractions, framed by the beautiful Tyrolean Alps that seem to sprout from every corner: it is well worth a visit.
The symbol of Innsbruck is the Golden Roof Museum , a loggia that Emperor Maximilian I had built so that he could watch the tournaments taking place on the square below.
The 2,657 tiles that decorate the roof are not made of gold but of more humble copper, yet no one would dare argue with the name by which the building is known: the glitter of the sunlit roof could hardly be called anything other than ‘golden’, and it is no wonder that this is Innsbruck’s most famous image.
The museum housed inside the loggia will introduce you to the bizarre Emperor Maximilian I, customs of his time and the history of this magnificent building. During the visit you can imitate the nobleman Maximilian and admire the town square from above.
Another wonder of the Innsbruck of yesteryear is the Court Church , built in the 16th century to house the remains of Emperor Maximilian I, who died in 1519. It is the most monumental and somewhat useless imperial tomb in Europe: magnificent but empty (the emperor was buried in the Wiener Neustadt fortress).
It must be said that with so much pageantry before our eyes, the emperor is not missed 28 magnificent bronze statues, depicting ancestors and idols of Maximilian I, flank his tomb monument; the church holds other valuable art treasures including works by Albrecht Dürer , Alexander Colin and Peter Vischer the Elder .
An unmissable attraction for lovers of sport, contemporary architecture and panoramic views is the Bergisel ski jump, an iconic construction designed by award-winning Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid that looks almost like a huge glass and steel staircase stretching towards the sky – to call it a ‘sports facility’ would sound reductive.
The trampoline is still used today for professional training sessions and international level competitions: it is possible to watch training sessions from May to July, while the highlight is held in January.
At any time of the year, tourists can take a lift up to the viewing terrace at the top of the 50-metre-high tower to enjoy a magnificent view of the city of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains.
At the foot of the ski jump there is a small museum dedicated to the history of ski jumping and its legendary protagonists: admission to the museum is free with the ticket for the panoramic terrace.
Thanks to the Nordkettenbahn cable car, you can reach an altitude of 2000 metres from the city of Innsbruck in only 20 minutes. This futuristic cable car was designed by Zaha Hadid, the same mind behind the impressive ski jump, and takes you to the top of one of the jewels of the Alps, the Nordketten mountain range.
You can choose to stop at Seegrube or climb another 300 metres up to Hafelekar; once at the top you can enjoy the breathtaking spectacle of the Alps and then choose from various walks, some short and within everyone’s reach, others more difficult. On Fridays, the cable car also operates in the evenings.
Innsbruck can also boast its own imperial palace , built as a castle by Archduke Sigismund the Wealthy in the 15th century and extended by Emperor Maximilian I in the following century. However, it was Maria Theresa in the 18th century who transformed it into the elegant palace we can admire today.
After careful restoration, the palace has returned to its original splendour and can be admired in all its glory. The room that most amazes visitors is the sumptuous Riesensall or Hall of Giants, adorned with portraits and frescoes of Maria Theresa’s children.
Just outside Innsbruck, perched on a hill, is the elegant Renaissance castle of Schloss Ambras , now a museum housing three highly original collections of art, historical artefacts and oddities put together by Tyrolean nobles over the centuries, starting with Archduke Ferdinand II in the 16th century.
The Armour Collection will catapult you back to the Middle Ages while visiting the Art and Wonders section you will see unique pieces such as… a petrified shark, a chair for trapping drunken guests and other oddities. After so many oddities, the Portrait Collection will seem like something you’ve seen before, but pay attention to it because it includes paintings by the likes of Titian, van Dyck and Vélazquez.
The well-kept gardens of Schloss Ambras , rich in old plants, are a popular Sunday excursion destination for families in the area.
In Innsbruck you can find a large number of interesting museums . Here are the ones not to be missed:
For those who do not like to sit still, Innsbruck is the ideal destination: the possibilities for sports and activities in summer or winter are practically endless.
Skiing is certainly one of the most popular sports, and Innsbruck’s ski slopes are nothing short of legendary. You can enjoy classic downhill skiing as well as cross-country skiing and snowboarding , with hundreds of kilometres of slopes suitable for all levels.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore the beautiful mountains in the area with trekking ; the more experienced can try their hand at challenging via ferratas and climbing .
Mountain biking tourism is also increasingly developing. There is a variety of mtb trails suitable for all levels, including the challenging Nordkette Singletrail downhill circuit that will test the most daring riders.
Other sports you can enjoy in Innsbruck are canyoning, rafting, paragliding and extreme sports. If you are a thrill-seeker, here are two experiences you absolutely must not miss.
The first is bungee jumping from the Europabrücke bridge : this is one of the scariest jumps you can do in Europe.
The other is to experience the thrill of boarding a bobsleigh in the company of a professional sportsman and whizzing along at 100 km/h on the Olympiabob-bahn , the Olympic bobsleigh track built for the 1976 Olympics: it is 800 metres long and has 10 dizzying curves.
Olympiaworld Olympiaworld is the jewel in the crown of Innsbruck’s sports facilities: an ultra-modern complex spread over thousands of square metres where numerous sports can be practised in every season, with equipment suitable for all levels, from families to professional players. Olympiaworld is also the venue for major events such as concerts and sports competitions.
The Innsbruck Christmas market certainly comes after those in Vienna and Salzburg, but it is still one of the most famous in Austria.
From mid-November until Epiphany, the Aldstadt, the historical heart of Innsbruck, is festively decorated and the Marktplatz hosts the traditional Christmas market, where you can buy lovely Christmas decorations, taste Tyrolean delicacies and warm yourself with mulled wine.
Beware of the Krampus On December, the eve of St Nicholas, the traditional Krampus race takes place. Krampus are demon-goats equipped with chains and baskets who come out to hunt down naughty children and take them with them to hell. Children scream in terror, while adults have a great time watching these crazy masked men. The Krampus is a typical Christmas figure in parts of northern Italy, Austria and Bavaria in southern Germany.
Innsbruck is a very lively city with a busy calendar of events reflecting the many souls of the Tyrolean capital.
Of course, there is no shortage of major sporting events, such as the fun-filled Tobogganing World Cup and the Four Ski Jump Tournament in which the world’s best ski jumpers compete, but Innsbruck’s calendar also includes cultural events such as classical and baroque music festivals or dance parties for the young.
With its particular characteristic of a medium-sized city surrounded by mountains, Innsbruck offers suitable accommodation for different types of holidaymakers: you can choose between hotels in the city and hotels in the mountains , from the most traditional to the most modern.
The range of accommodation in and around Innsbruck also includes holiday homes and flats, rooms in private homes, campsites and hostels. For something special treat yourself to one or more nights in a spa hotel , perhaps with a view of the mountains.
How to get to innsbruck.
The city of Innsbruck has a modern international airport, but unfortunately does not offer many direct flights . The best connected cities are Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Eindhoven and of course Vienna.
By train you can arrive in Salzburg or Vienna and from there easily reach Innsbruck, which is well connected to all major Austrian cities. An inexpensive option, although a bit more inconvenient, are the buses of international low-cost companies.
What's the weather at Innsbruck? Below are the temperatures and the weather forecast at Innsbruck for the next few days.
Location around.
Innsbruck, nestled in an alpine valley between two mountains, is the capital of the state of Tyrol and the largest of alpine cities. For the tourist, it's almost equidistant between Munich and Verona and has excellent rail connections to Salzburg, Vienna , and slightly more tedious transport to Hallstatt .
Innsbruck is well known as a winter sports center. Several modern winter Olympics and Paralympics have been held there, as well as the First Winter Youth Olympics in 2012.
Tourism is Insbruck's main source of income. Its main train station, Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof, is one of the busiest in Austria.
But Innsbruck's charms don't stop when the snow melts. The historic center is a fine one, and Innsbruck is the showplace for Tyrolean traditions and handicrafts. Allow two to three days. The major sites can be done as a day trip from Salzburg or Vienna.
Innsbruck Airport, Flughafen Innsbruck , is a mere 4 kilometers from the city center. It provides flights to other Alpine destinations as well as to larger airports like those in Frankfurt , London , and Vienna. City bus F takes 18 minutes to reach the city and the central train station.
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In Winter there's skiing , of course. In summer there's the Altstadt, the old town, which offers access to many attractions tourists come to Innsbruck for, including the Goldenes Dachl, the Golden Roof, a landmark from the 1500s with a balcony roof decorated with glistening fire-gilded tiles. There is a museum inside.
For views of the incredible setting of the Alps only major city, climb the 148 steps of the Stadtturm , the city clock tower built in 1450. It gets you 167 feet over the city. At the very least the climb will make you hungry for a lunch, perhaps some Hauspfandl (filet of pork with garlic, caraway, and brandy with green beans and bacon and spaetzle) at Weisses Rössl, a popular hotel restaurant conveniently located in the city center of Innsbruck.
If climbing is your thing, you can also climb the 455 steps of the Bergisel Ski Jump Tower designed by architect Zaha Hadid in 2001. Once you're at the top, besides the 360-degree view of the Tirol mountain scenery, there's a restaurant inside--so you don't have to worry about finding one while panting from the exertion. You can also take the funicular, but what fun would that be? The Innsbruck card includes this attraction (see below).
The Imperial Palace was completed in 1465. It's an elaborate Gothic castle with heated banquet hall which would eventually become one of the most important homes of the Habsburgs and the most culturally significant buildings outside of those in Vienna.
Tyrolean State Museums offer a glimpse into the arts and crafts of the cultures that have settled in the Austrian Alps. Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum on Museumstraße 15 holds artifacts from the Stone age to present times, over 30,000 years of art and history. Zeughaus is the former weapons depot of Emperor Maximilian I which will explain the Tyrol's archaeology, silver mining, salt extraction, tourism and participation in the World Wars. Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum is a museum of mountain folk art, from miniature nativity scenes to costumes.
Innsbruck's Alpine Zoo in Europe's highest zoo, featuring more than 150 species of Alpine animals. If you're lucky enough to plan a vacation that spans Thursday night, you're in for a treat, "From mid-July to the end of August, the Alpine Zoo offers a " tour in the evening" through the zoo under the special guidance of biologist Dirk Ullrich, who will provide a lot of information about the Alpine animal world. This guided tour takes place every week on Wednesday at 6 p.m. The meeting point is at the beaver enclosure, and the tour is a complementary part of the admission fee."
Finally, if you're into ornate imperial tombs, the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519) should make your bucket list. It's inside the Hofkirche or Court Church. The tomb is flanked by 28 larger-than-life bronze statues, "which are known locally as the "Schwarzen Mander" (black men) and represent the Emperor's relations and role models," according to the museum literature.
An interesting option for travelers is the Innsbruck card which offers free entrance to all museums and visitor attractions as well as many interesting transportation benefits, including 5 hours of free bicycle rental. The card is offered in one, two, and three-day durations; it is expensive and becomes a much better value when more than one day is selected since you couldn't possibly do all the card offers in a single passing of the sun.
If you're the type of traveler who'd like to be somewhat independent but would also like to have a day planned in advance, Viator offers a package that includes dinner, a "snack" of famous sachertorte at Café Sacher Innsbruck, and dinner at Goldener Adler Restaurant, a highly rated restaurant with a loyal local following, according to a Frommer's review . For more information, see Innsbruck Combo: Innsbruck Card, Traditional Café, and Austrian Dinner .
Besides the Weisses Rössl mentioned above, the four-star Romantik Hotel Schwarzer Adler is near the train station and has had recent renovations that include complimentary internet and an airport shuttle service.
You may wish to rent a vacation home or apartment for your stay in Innsbruck. HomeAway lists over 45 vacation rentals in the area.
Viator offers a couple of interesting nights out if you're looking for something special to do in Innsbruck. For example, you can take a Candlelit Mountain Dinner and Gondola Ride or see a Tyrolian Folk Show .
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Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023
The Austrian Alpine city of Innsbruck lies in the state of Tyrol in the wide Inn Valley at the intersection of two important traffic routes between Germany and Italy, and between Vienna and Switzerland. One of Austria's most popular year-round vacation destinations, Innsbruck has retained its medieval Old Town (Altstadt) with its narrow, twisting streets and tall houses in Late Gothic style.
Many of the city's most popular places to visit are clustered close to the Old Town, whose charming narrow streets provide tourists plenty of things to see and do. It's the perfect spot to begin exploring this historic city, and offers up plenty of excellent dining opportunities, as well as unique (and often classy) places to stay.
Beautiful vistas of the surrounding ring of mountains are everywhere. To the north rise the jagged peaks of the Nordkette (North Chain), in the Karwendel range. To the south, above the wooded Bergisel ridge, are the 2,403-meter Saile and the Serles group. And to the southeast, above Lanser Köpfe, lies the rounded summit of the 2,247-meter Patscherkofel, popular with skiers.
No surprise then that Innsbruck's also a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The sports facilities built for the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games still draw crowds of skiers and are the scene every year of national and international competitions.
To help you make the most of your time, be sure to refer often to our list of the top tourist attractions in Innsbruck, Austria.
Experience the "top of innsbruck" from the nordkette, visit the court church & emperor's tomb, see the famous golden roof, take a tour of the hofburg, innsbruck's old imperial palace, catch a concert at innsbruck cathedral, get your art fix at the tyrolean state museums, stroll along maria-theresien strasse, explore the hofburg district, grassmayr bell foundry & museum, walking tour along the river inn, alpenzoo innsbruck, visit the opulent ambras castle, the bergisel's olympic legacy, swarovski kristallwelten, seefeld: scenery and superb skiing, wilten parish church and basilica, take a day trip to feste kufstein, innsbruck, austria - climate chart, more must-see destinations near innsbruck.
The semi-circular quarter of the Old Town (Altstadt) is enclosed by a ring of streets known as the Graben (Moat) and is now a lovely pedestrian area where you can stroll through 800 years of history. With its narrow housefronts, handsome doorways, oriel windows, buttressed medieval houses, and arcaded-façades, Innsbruck's Old Town is a delight to explore on foot.
And take your time. This well-preserved area is filled with many fine examples of old Tyrolese architecture and southern influences, along with sumptuous Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo buildings.
Highlights of a walking tour include the beautiful Baroque Helblinghaus , noted for its splendid stucco façade with cherubs and other decorative ornamentation. Nearby is the 16th-century Golden Eagle (Goldener Adler), an old inn once as popular with emperors as it was with writers like Goethe.
Also worth visiting is the 57-meter-high Stadtturm . This impressive medieval watchtower was built in the 14th century along with the adjoining Old Rathaus . Be sure to check them out for their great views of the Old Town.
Other interesting landmarks include the Ottoburg , a residential tower built in 1494, and the Deutschordenshaus (House of the Teutonic Order) built in 1532. Also worth seeing is the Burgriesenhaus (Castle Giant's House), built in 1490 for a court giant.
Whether you're looking for fun things to do in winter or summer, you'll find it at the Nordkette, the closest mountain to Innsbruck. The best way to get to the top of the mountain is by riding the city's Hungerburgbahn funicular. Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, this modern funicular railway begins in the very heart of the city and crosses the River Inn before heading up to the Innsbruck suburb of Hungerburg, a journey of just eight minutes.
From here, a short stroll takes you to the platform of the Nordkette Cable Car. This must-do attraction takes you farther up to Seegrube and on to 2,300-meter-high Hafelekar for 360-degree views – a thrilling and scenic experience, whatever the weather.
Restaurants and viewing platforms are situated at each stopping point, and several hiking trails take off across the mountains. The ride is included with the purchase of a handy Innsbruck Card, an affordable pass that allows entrance to all the city's most important attractions.
Address: Rennweg 3, Innsbruck, Austria
Official site: www.nordkette.com/
Innsbruck's spectacular Court Church, the Hofkirche , was completed in 1563 in the local Late Gothic style. This three-aisled hall-church, with its narrow chancel and off-center tower, holds many notable interior features, in particular its 18th-century high altar and side altars, and a choir screen from the 17th century.
The most important part of the church, however, is the spectacular Tomb and Museum of Emperor Maximilian I . Built in the 16th century, it's widely considered to be the finest work of German Renaissance sculpture. Conceived as a glorification of the Holy Roman Empire, the central feature of the monument is its massive black marble sarcophagus with a bronze figure of the Emperor from 1584, surrounded by a wrought-iron screen and 24 marble reliefs depicting events in the Emperor's life.
Also of note are the 28 bronze statues of the Emperor's ancestors and contemporaries. These include statues of Count Albrecht IV of Habsburg and King Arthur of England, the latter regarded as the finest statue of a knight in Renaissance art. Handy multi-media guides are provided with admission.
Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck
The arcaded Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, lined with handsome old merchants' houses, enters the Old Town quarter from the south and makes straight for the famous Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl). This magnificent Late Gothic oriel window, roofed with gilded copper tiles, was built in 1496 to commemorate Maximilian I's marriage to Bianca Maria Sforza and served as a box from which the court watched civic festivities in the square below.
Made up of 2,657 gilded copper tiles, the Golden Roof's lower balustrade is richly decorated with coats of arms, while the open balcony above shows ten figural reliefs. The house behind, the Neuer Hof, was a former ducal palace rebuilt in 1822.
Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck's old Court Palace, the Hofburg – a former imperial palace originally built in the 15th and 16th centuries – was remodeled in Baroque and Rococo style in the 18th century upon instructions from Empress Maria Theresa. The palace has now been set up as a museum, and is best viewed on a guided tour (available in English), which includes its luxurious apartments with their fine painted ceilings.
Particularly memorable is the Giant Hall (Riesensaal). This spectacular grand hall consists of polished marble and is decorated in white and gold, with three large ceiling frescos from 1775. It is also home to a fine collection of portraits of the Imperial family.
Other highlights include Maria Theresa's Rooms, Empress Elisabeth's Apartment, the Ancestral Gallery, the Furniture Museum, and the Painting Gallery.
Address: Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Located in the Domplatz, Innsbruck Cathedral (Innsbruck Dom) – also known as the Cathedral of St. James – was granted cathedral status in 1964. Notable for its imposing twin-towered west front and the high dome over the choir, it was built in Baroque style in 1724 and fully restored after World War II.
Interior highlights include its ceiling paintings, particularly the Glorification of St. James, its rich stucco work by the Asam brothers, and a richly-carved 18th-century pulpit. The High Baroque marble altars from 1732 feature a famous image of the Virgin, Maria Hilf , from 1530.
In the north aisle is the imposing monument designed by Hubert Gerhard dedicated to Archduke Maximilian, Grand Master of the Teutonic Order. The cathedral hosts regular concerts that are open to the public.
Address: Domplatz, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck is home to a number of museums of international repute, particularly those that fall under the Tyrolean State Museums umbrella. A must-see is the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum (Tyroler Volkskunstmuseum) adjoining the Hofkirche in the new Abbey (Neues Stift).
Here, you'll enjoy viewing an extensive local art collection representing a variety of Tyrolese themes, along with replicas of traditional brick-built houses with oriel windows from the Upper Inn Valley. Other exhibits include a rich store of costumes, traditional furniture, tools, glass, pottery, textiles, and metalwork.
Also worth seeing, the Tyrolean State Museum (Tyroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum) features collections relating to the history and art of Tyrol. Highlights include numerous works from the Gothic period. There's also an impressive gallery of Dutch and Flemish masters, and collections from pre- and early historic times.
Other notable museums worth seeing include the excellent Armoury (Museum im Zeughaus), with its collections of weapons and armor, and the fascinating Tyrol Panorama Museum . The latter is centered around a huge panoramic painting of the city and region.
Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Lined with handsome 17th- and 18th-century houses and numerous shops, bustling Maria-Theresien Strasse is backed by a magnificent vista of the mountains to the north. It's a delight to explore and should feature on your Innsbruck travel itinerary as a "must-do."
In the middle of this wide, old street, directly in front of the Town Hall (Rathaus), stands St. Anne's Column (Annasäule).Erected in 1706 to commemorate the withdrawal three years earlier of Bavarian troops on St. Anne's Day and surmounted by a statue of the Virgin Mary, St. Anne stands on the base near St. George, the patron saint of Tyrol, and other saints.
Also of note is the Altes Landhaus . This monumental Baroque palace was built in 1728 with a sumptuous and elaborately articulated façade. It now houses the Provincial Assembly and Provincial Government (Landesregierung).
Other highlights include a 14-meter-high war memorial; the Alpine Club Museum (Alpenverein Museum), with its extensive collection of Alpine art and historic climbing equipment; and the Servite Church , built in 1615 with a fresco of the Holy Trinity.
The Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte), located at the southern end of Maria-Theresien Strasse, was erected in 1765. It was built to mark the marriage of her son Leopold (later Emperor Leopold II) to the Spanish Infanta Maria Ludovica.
In addition to its Imperial Palace and church, the area around the Hofburg offers several attractions worth seeing. Of particular interest is the Silver Chapel , built in 1587 as the burial chapel of Archduke Ferdinand II and named after a silver image of the Virgin and embossed silver reliefs on the altar.
Other highlights are the Old University (Alte Universität), founded in 1562 as a Jesuit college, along with the University Library and the Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche). The church is famous for its mighty 60-meter-tall dome built in 1640.
The Capuchin Convent (Kapuzinerkloster) was built in 1593 and is notable for its chapel altar with a painting of the Virgin by Lucas Cranach the Elder from 1528. The Tyrolean Provincial Theater (Tiroler Landestheater Innsbruck), built in 1846, hosts operas, musicals, dance, and theatrical performances. Also worth visiting is the Hofgarten , with its Art and Concert Pavilion.
For a truly fascinating experience, be sure to include the Grassmayr Bell Foundry and Museum on your Innsbruck travel itinerary. One of the world's leading makers of church bells, the company was founded in Austria more than 400 years ago.
Now 14 generations later, it's the oldest family-run company in the country. Equally impressive is the fact the company's bells ring out in over 100 countries worldwide, and are in use by eight religions.
A highlight of a visit is seeing the old casting hall. Here, you'll see one of the original furnaces, itself over 200 years old and still used and able to smelt an impressive 10 tons of bronze. A tour will take you behind the scenes, and on a day when castings are being made, you may be lucky enough to see the more modern furnace in use to cast bells weighing up to 37 tons.
Live castings only happen once a month, so try to plan accordingly. The on-site museum showcases the evolution of church bells and their role in western culture.
Address: Leopoldstraße 53, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Official site: www.grassmayr.at
Several interesting sights lie close to the beautiful riverbanks and esplanades of the River Inn. A great place to begin your walk is the Mariahilf District , noted for its Baroque Mariahilf-Kirche from 1649 with its 17th-century frescos, and the beautiful Botanic Garden and observatory.
In the district of Hötting , you'll find the splendid Old Parish Church (Alte Pfarrkirche), with its tower rising above the new parish church, built in 1911. Afterwards, make your way to the Hötting Ridgeway (Höttinger Höhenstrasse) for its fine views of the city and mountains.
A good place to end your walk is in St. Nikolaus District a little farther downstream, notable for its Neo-Gothic church. Back in the center, near the Old Inn Bridge (Alte Innbrücke), you'll find the lively Innsbruck Market. In December, this is the scene of a large Christmas Market that spills into the streets of the Old Town.
Just one kilometer north of Innsbruck's Old Town center is the 15th-century Schloss Weiherburg , home to Alpenzoo Innsbruck. This beautifully situated zoo is well known for its collection of mountain animals from the world's Alpine regions, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.
More than 2,000 animals from 150 different Alpine species are kept here, along with an abundance of marine life in the world's largest fresh-water aquarium. Two restaurants are located on-site, along with a large adventure plyaground, making this a wonderful outing for kids of all ages. Meanwhile, the kids can play as parents relax and enjoy the views and park-like setting.
Just a little farther downstream from the zoo, on a hill above the River Inn, is the villa suburb of Mühlau , notable for its attractive Baroque church from 1748.
Address: Weiherburggasse 37, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Official site: www.alpenzoo.at/en/
Just a short drive southeast of Innsbruck, the palatial Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras) was the residence of Archduke Ferdinand from 1563-95. In the Lower Castle (Unterschloss) are two rooms containing a fine collection of arms and armor, while on the first floor of the Kornschüttgebäude is a valuable art collection, including many sculptures and applied arts.
In the Upper Castle (Hochschloss) is the bathroom of Ferdinand's wife Philippine Welser, a rarity as one of the few private bathrooms surviving from the 16th century and featuring a 1.5-meter-deep copper tub.
The splendid Spanish Hall between the Lower and Upper Castles is of the earliest examples of German Renaissance interiors. Constructed between 1507 and 1571, it has a beautiful coffered ceiling and many wonderful frescos of Tyrolese nobles. The grounds and courtyard are also worth exploring.
Address: Schloßstraße 20, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Official site: www.schlossambras-innsbruck.at/en
To the south of Innsbruck rises the 746-meter-tall hill known as Bergisel, famous the world over for its superb winter sports facilities. Highlights include the new Olympia ski-jump (Bergiselschanze) – constructed to replace the earlier Olympic structure – along with its stunning new tower, built in 2003, offering superb views over the city.
Long before the Olympics, the hill had become famous as the site of the heroic battles of 1809 when Tyrolese peasants freed their capital from French and Bavarian occupying forces. On the north side of the hill, below the ski jump, stands a memorial to those who fought for their freedom, including the Andreas Hofer Monument built in 1893, a memorial chapel from 1909, and the Tomb of the Tyrolese Kaiserjäger (Imperial Riflemen). The hill is easily reached via the scenic Stubai Valley Railway.
An easy 20-kilometer drive east of Innsbruck is Swarovski Kristallwelten (Crystal Worlds). This excellent museum and art gallery was designed to showcase the world-famous company founded by Daniel Swarovski in 1895.
Its 17 chambers display impressive artworks in crystal, and highlights include the superb Crystal Dome, the Crystal Theatre, and the enchanting Crystal Forest installations. Along the way, you'll see impressive displays of the unique pieces made by contemporary artists from around the world.
The centerpiece of the outdoor features is the fascinating Giant, a large landscaped waterfall in the shape of a human head that spews water from its mouth. A number of art installations and sculptures decorate the surrounding gardens.
A Swarovski store is located on-site, along with a play area for children and a stunning carousel.
Address: Kristallweltenstraße 1, Wattens, Austria
Official site: https://kristallwelten.swarovski.com
Well known as Austria's leading ski destination, the best of Innsbruck's many slopes are no more than a short bus ride from the city's hotels and resorts. All told, six different ski areas are linked by shuttle services, with a single ski pass covering in excess of 500 kilometers of trails.
The nearby ski village of Igls has spectacular views over Innsbruck and ski runs suitable for all levels. Expert skiers will want to head for the Hungerburg-Seegrube , the gateway to the challenging runs of the Hafelkar . The Axamer-Lizum, the slopes of the village of Axams , 10 kilometers outside Innsbruck, and the Tulfes and Mutters areas also offer good intermediate terrain.
One of the most popular year-round destinations is the small village of Seefeld. Now a popular resort, the village stretches out over the valley. The village's center is marked by the 15th-century parish church of St. Oswald with its fine frescos, sculptures, Gothic font, and wall reliefs.
Also worth visiting is the Wildsee at the southern end of town, an attractive small lake with a beach and swimming pools. Come summer, these same mountains are popular for hiking and mountain biking.
In Innsbruck's southern district of Wilten stands the twin-towered Wilten Parish Church, one of the finest Rococo churches in northern Tyrol. Built in 1755, the building's interior is decorated with superb ceiling frescos by Matthäus Günther and stucco-work by Franz Xaver Feuchtmayer. On the high altar is a 14th-century sandstone figure of Mary under the Four Pillars .
Opposite the church is the large complex of buildings of Stift Wilten, an old abbey founded in 1138 and remodeled in Baroque style in 1695. Highlights include the 17th-century church with its large Gothic figure of the giant Haymon to whom legend attributes a share in the foundation of the monastery, and the Throne of Solomon above the high altar.
Although an hour's drive from downtown Innsbruck, the beautiful old Tirolese border town of Kufstein is well worth including in your travel itinerary. This popular holiday spot, with its attractive lake scenery, offers superb hiking and climbing adventures in the Kaisergebirge .
One of the top things to do in Kufstein is simply taking a stroll through the town, past the remains of old walls and moated towers, its many pleasant squares with their fountains and monuments, and the many historical buildings. The highlight of a visit, though, is Feste Kufstein (Kufstein Fortress), the beautiful old castle that rears high above the town on a precipitous crag.
First recorded in 1205, the fortress is notable for its 90-meter-high Emperor's Tower (Kaiserturm). The massive Heroes' Organ (Heldenorgel), built in 1931 with 4,307 pipes and 46 stops, plays daily at noon in memory of those who died in two world wars and can be heard many kilometers away.
The Kaiserturm also houses a local history museum, the Heimatmuseum , and is used as a venue for concerts and festivals.
Address: Kristallweltenstraße 1, 6112 Wattens, Austria
Official site: www.festung.kufstein.at/en/herzlich-willkommen.html
The Palaces of Vienna : The beautiful Austrian capital of Vienna offers many fun things to do and beautiful palaces to visit. Topping your list should be the Imperial Hofburg Palace , former home of Austrian royalty and now open for guided tours. The elegant interior of the Schönbrunn Palace is also worth seeing, especially the exquisitely decorated Imperial Apartments. Finally, the Belevdere Palace features two palaces: the Upper and Lower Palaces, and is especially notable for its beautiful gardens.
Top Places to Visit in Austria : The elegant city of Salzburg is rich with cultural history and known the world over for its music (it was the birthplace of Mozart) and art galleries. For a chance to explore Austria's medieval history, be sure to add Old Town Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top attractions of Graz , to your itinerary. Here, you'll enjoy no end of well-preserved old townhomes and historic buildings. Austria's third largest city, Linz is home to a wide variety of important art galleries and museums, and makes for an excellent day trip.
Austria Vacation Ideas : To experience some of the best mountain scenery in Austria, head for the mountainous region of Kitzbühel , an area known for its excellent outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Although less mountainous, the scenery around the pretty city of Klagenfurt is well worth exploring, especially around the Wörthersee, a popular destination for hiking. The Hallstätter See is another lovely area to explore, especially among hikers, backpackers, and bikers.
Courtesy of Photography by Gergo Kazsimer | Getty Images
For a taste of the Austrian Alps with the charm of a small mountain town, consider spending a few days in Innsbruck. You'll tour historic sites, ski its gorgeous peaks and take in stunning views from its cable cars and funiculars. The host of both the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, Innsbruck is a lovely mountain town dotted with history and in love with winter sports. With the arrival of the first snow, skiers and other cold-weather junkies flock to Innsbruck for its fresh powder and Old-World charm. And while winter brings out the best in this town along the Inn River, the picturesque summers are also worth your notice with ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking or just sightseeing.
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Best months to visit.
The best times to visit Innsbruck are the winter and summer. This is a winter-sport enthusiast's paradise, so you will find it full of skiers and snowboarders during the long winter months. In the summer, days can be warm, with temperatures reaching the mid-70s, though you could still need a jacket when temperatures drop at night. Fall is the cheapest time to visit, but you'll find many attractions close for the month of November, so you may miss out on some of the top things to see. Innsbruck also experiences an alpine wind that, while warm, can be quite strong, reaching speeds of more than 90 miles an hour, so hold on to your hat!
Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center
What You Need to Know
Innsbruck is home to a lot of local traditions and self-described "oddities" that knowing about ahead of time can help you acclimate to with the locals. For example, Innsbruck residents tend to be blunt, so don't take offense, and try greeting them with a casual “Hallo.” Keep an eye out for the Tyrolean Shooters, too. This band of marksmen, so named for this region of Austria and clad in traditional Austrian dress, are a part of most festivals and celebrations.
You'll also hear the church bells ring throughout the day, recalling a time when people would stop and say a prayer when they heard the bells. When visiting churches in Innsbruck, cover your shoulders and knees. A long skirt or pants may work well for women, along with a scarf to quickly cover the shoulders during the warmer months. Men should remove any hats before entering, as well.
Austria's official currency is the euro; you may want to check the current exchange rate before your visit. Additionally, German is the official language, though many residents speak English, especially in the areas frequented by tourists. A 10% tip will suffice for good service when drinking or dining, or for a single drink or low-cost meal, simply round up to the nearest euro. Also, keep in mind that many restaurants and pubs close on Sundays, which are observed as a day of rest. Those that are open may serve the traditional Austrian Sunday meal of pork and dumplings. If you'll be having a drink when in Innsbruck, just like you'd say "cheers" in America, you'll want to say "prost" while looking each person in the eye as you clink glasses.
Austria and the Alps have their own unique style of cuisine, which borrows from German fare. Innsbruck incorporates a good bit of Viennese-style foods, as well, like traditional pastries, strudels (go for apple) and cakes, which you'll find throughout the city, as well as Gruner Veltliner wines, beer and varieties of schnapps.
When in Innsbruck, you'll want to try Kaspressknödel, a cheese dumpling that is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Other local dishes include Tyrolean bacon dumplings, spinach dumplings and "Schlutzkrapfen" (crescent-shaped ravioli with potato filling).
For a taste of this traditional cuisine, head to Agidihof for Tyrolean fare crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its homemade pastries, ice cream and veal dishes. What's more, the menu changes with the seasons to incorporate fresh produce. Restaurant Ottoburg sits in one of the oldest buildings in Innsbruck and serves traditional Tyrolean fare with hints of Mediterranean flavors. On the menu, you'll find homemade Schlutzkrapfen, steaks, monkfish and pike perch. Who could turn down a homemade apple strudel for dessert?
You'll also want to make time to dine (and drink) at a traditional beer hall or biergarten. Stiftskeller located in the city's Old Town area is a popular option. You can pair your traditional Tyrolean food with Bavarian beer for the ultimate Austrian foodie experience. Typical dishes include barley soup, whole suckling pig with sauerkraut and pretzel dumplings, and, of course, wiener schnitzel.
Innsbruck is a pretty safe place to visit, and according to the U.S. Department of State, Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe with violent crime rarely occurring. You might find pickpockets and bag snatchers in public areas and on public transportation, so be vigilant with your belongings. It's also a good idea to keep your bags with you when traveling by train. The U.S. Department of State advises that many cities in Austria have occasional public demonstrations, which are usually not violent, but can disrupt transportation.
The best way to get around Innsbruck is on foot. It's a walkable city with many of the top attractions in the old town or within walking distance from one another. There is also plenty of hiking, should you have the energy to head up into the mountains for fabulous views. The city's dedicated cycling lanes and the small amount of traffic also make Innsbruck bike-friendly.
If you need a little more help getting in between attractions, the city has a simple bus system, which is free with an Innsbruck Card. Cable cars and funiculars will take you into the mountains for hiking and other outdoor activities, not to mention great panoramas, while trains may be best left for when you need to get to other nearby towns or major European cities.
While driving a car is an option in some areas, it can be difficult in winter when many mountain roads close. Taxis are available, and many visitors take a cab to get from the airport to town. Innsbruck Airport (INN), which serves the city with flights from around Europe, is situated less than 3 miles from the center of old town and is easily accessible by taxi or bus.
U.S. visitors to Austria must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure, as well as at least one blank page available for stamping. Americans can stay up to 90 days without a visa. There are no vaccinations required to visit Austria. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .
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Innsbruck, Austria is the fifth largest city in Austria, and the capital of the mountainous Tirol region. Skiers flock to Innsbruck in the winter for skiing, while summer is popular for hiking and other outdoor adventures.
Innsbruck is also known for a unique combination of modern and Imperial architecture, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Alps. With all of the things to do in Austria, these are a few of our favorites.
As the capital of the historic Tirol region, Innsbruck will definitely be enjoyed by those with an interest in European history.
With the Innsbruck card, you’ll be able to see the main attractions, top cultural spots, and interesting museums for the most affordable price possible.
The cards are valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours from their first use, with prices ranging from €43 to €59 for adults. They can also be used to catch all public transport for free. So, your first thing to do here is to pick up an Innsbruck card!
Wondering what exactly there is to do in this Austrian city? This guide will detail all of the top tourist attractions and show you 30 things to do in Innsbruck, Austria.
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Table of Contents
Innsbruck’s Old Town, or Altstadt is a great place to hang out any time of year. Lined with buildings as old as 800 years, Old Town is packed with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants.
A popular tourist site in Old Town is the Golden Roof, a symbol of the city. The small roof dates back to 1,500 and is made of over 2,500 copper tiles fired to the color of gold.
Running through Old Town is Maria Theresa Street, or Maria-Theresien-Straße, named for the woman who ruled the Hapsberg dynasty for a time.
Most of the shopping is concentrated along this street. In the winter, Innsbruck Old Town comes alive with Christmas lights and a Christmas market with stalls of food, drink and gifts.
Skiing is what put Innsbruck on the map. Olympia Ski World encompasses nine ski resorts in the Innsbruck region.
The name comes from the fact that Innsbruck has hosted three Winter Olympic games at local ski resorts between 1964 and 2012.
The resorts have everything from expert slopes to beginner slopes for the whole family. All ski resorts are conveniently accessible by a free shuttle bus from the center in Innsbruck.
You can buy passes for individual resorts, or if you will sample multiple slopes, look into the Olympia World Skipass.
Another remnant of ski championships in Innsbruck is the Bergisel Ski Jump. The stadium seats over 25,000 and annually hosts ski jump competitions.
It’s an active training venue, so you might see someone training while you tour the facility. You can walk from Innsbruck, or take a bus. Then a lift is available to take you to the top of the jump for views over Innsbruck, not to mention the view a ski jumper sees when they’re about to take off!
Surprisingly, skiers even train here in the summer, with a spongy green mat masquerading as snow-cover for the landing.
The Bergisel Ski Jump towers above Innsbruck and is built along the side of the Bergisel Hill. The stadium itself has the capacity to hold 26,000 people and has hosted prestigious tournaments and competitions.
To see the perspective of the skiers who compete here, you can head to the top of the 50-metre-high ski jump yourself. Fortunately, it only takes a few minutes by cable car to get there.
The current dramatic tower at the top designed by Zaha Hadid was built in 2002 and provides an incredible lookout over the city. There’s also a cafe and restaurant if you don’t want to say goodbye to those views just yet.
Bergisel – Skijump Area
Adjacent to the Bergisel Ski Jump, you’ll find the Tyrol Panorama. The Museum presents the history of Tyrol. The centerpiece of the museum is a 1,000 square meter panoramic painting which depicts a key battle from 1809.
The painting took one artist and four helpers just three months to paint. Other exhibits at Tyrol Panorama cover religion, nature, politics, anthropology and local culture.
Outside the museum, there is a 2.2 kilometer trail circling the mountain for amazing views of the surrounding areas.
One of the more unusual things to do in Innsbruck is to visit the Tirol Panorama Museum. The museum most notably showcases the Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting, a 1,000-square-metre canvas depicting the Tyrolean Rebellion of 1809.
The Tyrolean Stage exhibition also explores the themes of politics, nature and religion.
The detailed displays are a great way for visitors to learn about the history of the area. The museum is located south of the city centre at Bergisel, but absolutely worth the trip.
Any European destination worth a visit has a castle, and Innsbruck is no exception. Ambras Castle is a Renaissance Castle built in 1563. The hilltop site once housed a medieval fortress which was rebuilt into a castle for the wife of Archduke Ferdinand.
He also built a museum to house his collection which you can tour, in addition to the castle, courtyard and gardens.
One of the best places to visit in Innsbruck is Ambras Castle. Formerly a medieval fortress, Archduke Ferdinand II had the landmark converted into a stunning Renaissance palace.
The castle holds the largest collection of art, books and armouries in all of Europe. Most notable is the Portrait Gallery with over 200 valuable and historic paintings from the Habsburg Dynasty.
Inside the Chamber of Art and Wonders at Ambras Castle, you’ll find many rare and unique objects. Ferdinand II was known as one of the most prominent art collectors of his time, so you can expect cultural displays like nothing else.
The breathtaking Spanish Hall above the Lower Castle is a wonderful example of German Renaissance architecture.
The 43-metre-long space has an elaborately carved wooden ceiling and contains 27 portraits of all of Tirol’s rulers. The hall is currently in use as a concert venue in the evenings.
Best of all, Ambras Castle sits atop the hills above Innsbruck, looking out across the city and offering stunning views of the region below.
One of the highest elevation zoos in Europe, Innsbruck’s Alpenzoo is a fun stop on your Innsbruck itinerary.
The zoo has about 2,000 individual animals, focusing on local animals like the chamois and ibex.
While most of the displays and interpretations are in German only, an English-language pamphlet is available to pick up when you enter.
Alpenzoo Innsbruck and Hungerburgbahn General Admission
Also known as the Innsbruck Cathedral, is an 18th century Baroque cathedral in Innsbruck’s Old Town.
The church has painstaking details in the two bell towers, dome and nine altars inside. Admission is free, although a small fee is required to take photographs.
A visit to Innsbruck Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of Saint James, is without a doubt one of the best free things to do in Innsbruck.
For nearly three centuries, the bells have tolled at this Romanesque, Roman Catholic cathedral.
Innsbruck Cathedral notably holds the tomb of Archduke Maximilian III of Austria in the northern aisle, as well as the renowned 16th-century Mary of Succor painting above the altar.
Also impressive are the extravagantly decorated interiors and the series of pillars supporting the high saucered dome.
While the exterior looks somewhat imposing, the ceiling frescoes are painted in pastel-like hues, creating a dreamy atmosphere inside.
Hofburg is a common name in Austria, and there are two Hofburg Palaces. One is in Vienna, and the other is here in Austria. Along with Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, these make up three of the most significant buildings in the Austria.
The Innsbruck Palace was one of the favorite residences of the Hapsburgs, rulers of Austria from the 15th to the 18th century. Visitors can access the throne room, imperial apartments, a chapel and the gardens. Make sure you grab an audio guide for your walk through the palace.
A must-see in Innsbruck is the Imperial Palace. Better known as Hofburg, the palace is one of the top three most significant cultural buildings in Austria.
Though originally built by Archduke Sigmund the Rich in the 15th century, the palace has since undergone several expansions, including structural Baroque alterations in the 18th century.
The luxurious former residential complex has become home to five differently themed museum areas, just waiting for your visit. See the rooms of Empress Maria Theresa, the 19th-century apartment of Empress Elisabeth, the Ancestral Gallery, the Furniture Museum, and the Painting Gallery.
Each museum reflects various political, cultural and historical aspects of the Hofburg throughout the centuries. The Giant’s Hall and the Lorraine Room will also give you a sense of splendour and elegance.
Innsbruck’s watchtower stands over the city, with a green copper dome. The tower was built in the 1400’s as an observation point monitoring the city for fires or intruders.
An observation deck offers stunning views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains. You’ll have to climb 148 steps to see that view, though.
Seeking more of those great views over the city? Climb up the Town Tower. For only a few euros, you can go high above the Old Town and see things from a new perspective from the observation deck.
The Stadtturm, as it’s known in German, is a watchtower from the 1400s, so you can imagine what it was like to be on the lookout for danger and be in charge of protecting the city during the Middle Ages. Its 51-metre height may not seem anything special these days, but the stature was a point of pride for residents during the 1450s. 100 years after the tower’s initial construction, the delightful copper onion dome was built on top.
Nordkette is the mountain range that looms over Innsbruck, and offers year-round recreation for residents and visitors alike. Even the ride up into the range is an adventure. First, you take a funicular to the Hungerburg station.
Then two consecutive cable cars takes you to over 2,200 meters for incredible views. The single-track mountain biking trail is one of the most difficult in Europe, and rock climbing is also popular here. In the winter, some of the steepest trails for skiers and snowboards can be found here.
If you’re here in the winter, don’t miss the Cloud 9 Igloo Bar, at the top of the first chairlift .
About 10 kilometres north of Innsbruck is the snow-capped Nordkette Mountain Range, part of the Karwendel chain of mountains in Austria and Germany. One of the top things to do in Innsbruck, Austria is to ride the cable car to the top of Nordkette.
The 20-minute journey to the Hafelekar Peak at 2,250 metres requires a few changeovers: Begin at the Nordkette funicular and go to Hungerburg Station.
Change here for the lift to Seegrube, then get on your final cable car to Hafelekar. The valleys below are absolutely breathtaking, so you won’t regret making the effort.
There are activities to do on Nordkette at any time of year, from rock climbing and hiking to skiing and snowboarding.
You can also see the adrenaline junkies mountain biking along the Nordkette Singletrail, a challenging, high-alpine terrain recommended only for those with experience.
Likewise, the steep Hafelekar Gully trail in the winter should only be tackled by expert skiers and snowboarders.
Cable Car Round-Trip from Innsbruck to Hafelekar
A ten-hectare park next door to Altstadt, Hofgarten is a great respite from Innsbruck’s busy Old Town. Walking paths are lined with trees and a small river runs through the park.
Although for the most part, these are formal gardens, there is a playground for children to enjoy. When you get thirsty, there’s also a beer garden in the Hofgarten.
Another famous church in Innsbruck is Hofkirche, a Gothic royal court church built in 1553. The site also contains a mausoleum with a tomb that was created for Emperor Maximilian I, although he’s not buried there as his life ended in scandal, so the tomb remains empty.
The church also has life-size bronze statues of Maximilian’s ancestors and heroes, including King Arthur. You can choose from an audio guide or a guided tour for your visit to Hofkirche.
Next to the Hofkirche is the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, and a combo ticket can be purchased to access both attractions.
Considered by many to be one of the best regional heritage museums in Europe, it contains an impressive collection of cultural artifacts from the Tyrol region.
Exhibits include furniture and housing, clothing and costumes, all of which tell the anthropological story of how Tyrolean residents cooked, lived, and socialized over different periods of time.
A short distance from Innsbruck is a museum of the Swarovski crystal company. The museum was created in 1995 and covers over seven hectares.
It’s one of the most popular attractions in Austria, with over 13 million visitors since opening. The Crystal Cloud has 800,000 hand-mounted crystals suspended over a black mirror pool.
The exhibits are indoors and outdoors , with four water shows. After strolling the grounds, allow some time to shop in the largest Swarovski store in the world, which features unique items only available in Austria.
Did you know that the world-famous Swarovski crystals are produced right outside of Innsbruck? 20 kilometres east of the city is Wattens, home to the Swarovski Crystal Worlds museum.
You’ll be greeted into this world of art and design by a giant made from grass, with glistening jewel-like eyes and a water fountain from his mouth.
The giant, designed by André Heller, watches over the Chambers of Wonder at the museum.
Internationally recognised artists have used crystals in their own ways to create 17 showrooms of art, each with a different theme and interpretation.
Wondering which rooms you absolutely shouldn’t miss? The Crystal Dome follows the scientific principles of geodesy and utilises 595 mirrors to create the illusion of being inside an actual crystal
. Lee Bul’s Into Lattice Sun is a utopian landscape that challenges one’s perception of vastness and depth, both literally and philosophically. The vibrant El Sol was inspired by the geometry of Aztec and Mayan pyramids, as well as artist Fernando Romero’s Mexican heritage.
There’s also Silent Light, a spectacular yet eerie sparkling crystal tree, designed by Alexander McQueen and Tord Boontje.
The Swarovski Kristallwelten is a place to escape into a world of wonder and infinite possibilities. Once you’re done inside, you can explore more of the expansive garden outside.
You’ll discover even more contemporary art installations and structures, including the extravagant Crystal Cloud and Mirror Pool.
Another fun day trip from Innsbruck is the medieval town of Kufstein. Only 75 kilometers from Innsbruck, you can reach Kufstein from Innsbruck by train, and spend a day wandering the small town.
The is marked by a fortress on a hill over the village, which is accessed by funicular or a footpath. In addition to the fortress, there’s a local history museum, narrow streets lined with traditional Tyrolean houses and the Riedel glass factory.
Interestingly, one of the top Innsbruck attractions is, in fact, a roof. This special Golden Roof, known in German as Goldenes Dachl, is decorated with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles that give the appearance of gold.
This gesture to Emperor Maximilian I and Bianca Maria Sforza in honour of their wedding was completed in 1500. The balcony below the roof was frequently used by the two to watch over festivals and events happening in the square below.
You’ll spot this shining, shimmering roof any time you step foot in the historic Old Town. It has become a proud symbol of the city, so you certainly won’t be the only one stopping in admiration.
The black and white Court Church was constructed in the 16th century in honour of Emperor Maximilian. It was designed in the traditional German hall church style with contemporary Renaissance and late Gothic influences.
Maximilian’s tomb made of black marble sits inside a cage within the church, guarded by 28 bronze statues. While the tomb itself is impressive, it’s completely empty!
The emperor is actually buried in Wiener Neustadt at the Castle Chapel. You can, however, pay your respects to Andreas Hofer, a local Tirol hero who led a revolt against Napoleon in the early 19th century.
There’s no shortage of welcoming, hearty restaurants to dine at in Innsbruck, but what should you order to get the local experience?
One staple dish is Tirolean Speckknödel, round boiled bread and bacon dumplings consumed with a broth. Another favourite is Tiroler Gröstl, a satisfying fried dish of bacon, onion, potato and egg.
If you’re vegetarian, order Kasspatzln, which are soft egg noodles with grated cheese and fried onion. Still hungry? Dig into some Schlutzkrapfen, a ravioli-style meal stuffed with potato and served sprinkled with herbs.
Any visit to Tirol also requires a bite of kiachl, a local fried yeast dough pastry. After dinner, indulge in moosbeernocken (a pancake-like treat made from bilberries) and strauben funnel cake.
30 minutes east of Innsbruck is the Schwaz Silver Mine. These mines were one of the most productive in history, once employing over 7,000 people simultaneously.
Get a sense of what it was like for medieval miners and travel 800 metres below the earth by train.
Your tour guide will give you an understanding of what a day’s work down here was like 500 years ago in the search for silver and copper. It’s a fascinating tour that utilises light and sound effects to enhance your experience.
37 historic farms at the Tirol Farmstead Museum offer an interesting insight into the area’s pre-industrial period. Visit preserved blacksmiths, mills, lumberjack huts and inns brought to Kramsach from neighbouring valleys.
See how people once lived and worked through media installations and changing exhibitions detailing daily life.
This spacious, open-air museum allows you to wander the three-kilometre circular path in your own time, with the option to take a two-hour-long guided tour as well.
Tirol’s largest lake is the beautiful Lake Achensee. If you’re visiting Innsbruck during the summer, head to Achensee for a day of swimming and scuba diving off the shore of Maurach.
During the warmer months, the shallow waters remain a pleasant 20 to 22°C. Another fun option is to hire a pedalo or an electric boat to sightsee around the lake while staying dry.
The southern inlet is surrounded by the luscious green Rofan Mountains, ensuring your dip in the lake is as relaxing and picturesque as possible.
Flohmarkt Hafen is one of Innsbruck’s weekend flea markets, set up near Inn River. Here you can pick up some unique souvenirs for cheap, including old postcards and vintage clothing.
Stop by any Saturday from seven a.m. to two p.m. to grab yourself a bargain or two.
On Sundays, check out the Cyta Flohmarkt in the neighbourhood of Völs. From eight a.m. to one p.m. you’ll be able to peruse a wide variety of old and new treasures.
In good weather, there’s a mobile coffee cart on site to get your early morning caffeine fix.
If you’re not in Innsbruck on the weekend but still want to find some vintage goods, you can try your luck at a few of the regular second hand stores.
WARDROBE and Kostnix, both on Höttinger Gasse, have a funky selection of clothing and artwork to look through.
Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.
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The capital of the mountains.
Innsbruck is the sophisticated, bustling small-town capital of Tyrol in western Austria holding everything you might need while giving you access to endless adventures in the great outdoors.
The Nordkette Range with its tall, dramatic spires looms high over the soothing river running through the city, perfectly capturing the vast range of experiences on offer here.
Not only is Innsbruck incredibly tourist-friendly with world-class attractions for all tastes, it’s also simply very liveable .
Be careful not to get stuck here if you have anywhere else you need to be!
We really enjoyed our time in Innsbruck and hope this travel guide gives you an overview of why you might like it, too.
Table of contents
Where to stay in innsbruck, 12 best things to do in innsbruck, where to eat in innsbruck, how to get around innsbruck, how to get to innsbruck, when to visit innsbruck, 6 budget tips for travelling in innsbruck, what to bring to innsbruck, minimise your impact.
Being the main transport hub of the larger Tyrol region in Austria, Innsbruck is perfectly located to explore the vast expanse of stunning mountains, alpine lakes and peaceful meadows.
Innsbruck by itself is large enough to warrant a few days of city exploring with all of its cultural attractions and great food, but most people go here to at least pair their city break with some outdoor activities .
It’s quite rare to find a town of this size and service level so close to raw nature .
Hiking is accessible at all levels and cable cars can help everyone enjoy the majestic views from up high.
Daredevils might try their hand at mountain biking or climbing, and in winter the whole region transforms into a skiers paradise with an almost endless amount of prepared slopes.
Innsbruck takes its name from the river Inn which splits the city in two. “Bruck” means bridge.
Geographically, Innsbruck is located at 574 metres above sea level with mountain ranges to both the north and the south.
Innsbruck is a relatively small “big” city, so as long as you base yourself in Innsbruck, you can probably walk mostly everywhere or use public transport to quickly get around.
With that said, almost all of the city’s attractions are centred around the Old Town , so basing yourself here can make for a lot less time getting to and from where you want to go.
Especially so if you’re only in Innsbruck for a few short days .
We personally chose to stay near the central station to still be within walking distance to everything while saving a little bit of money compared to staying in the Old City – although the area arguably isn’t as nice.
Search for the best value accommodation in Innsbruck here (adlink) .
Located next to the Triumphal Arc, AC Hotel by Marriott is just on the outskirts of the Old Town . For walking around Innsbruck, this is ideal .
There are other 4-star hotels in the city, but we think this looks like the best one .
The rooms are beautifully designed , people rave about the quality of the breakfast buffet and the service level is consistently high.
AC Hotel by Marriott in Innsbruck also offers a fitness room and a sauna .
Check prices and availability at AC Hotel by Marriott (adlink) .
Nala Individuellhotel is an oasis in the middle of the city .
The green garden looks incredibly inviting and the whole hotel is designed to be relaxing.
Most of the rooms aren’t huge, but they have all the amenities you expect including bonuses like soundproofing, allergy-friendly furniture and unique designs .
If you’re looking for a value-for-money place to stay in Innsbruck in walking distance to everything, Nala Individuellhotel is a great option.
Check prices and availability at Nala Individuellhotel (adlink) .
For travelling on a budget to Innsbruck, consider staying at Haidegger Appartements.
There is free parking on the street as well as a free bus at the doorstop that takes you into central Innsbruck in just 15 minutes.
The location outside the city gives you amazing views towards the mountains.
Each studio apartment comes with a well-equipped kitchen , further helping you to reduce the price of your stay, as well as a private bathroom and a balcony .
Check prices and availability at Haidegger Appartements (adlink) .
Here are the 12 best things to do in Innsbruck, Austria.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the old town of Innsbruck, which is also known as the Altstadt , is a must-visit.
Being the cultural and geographical heart of Innsbruck , it’s impossible to miss.
The Old Town has been beautifully preserved with buildings that date back to medieval times, giving it a very cosy, authentic feel.
The Goldenes Dachl (“little golden roof”) is probably Innsbruck’s most famous attraction .
2,657 fire-gilt copper tiles adorn the roof making it exceptionally shiny .
Don’t just come here for the roof. Make sure to also look up around you as some of the most charming buildings and lovely old streets are in its vicinity.
Maria-Theresien-Straße is the commercial centre of Innsbruck and also a must-visit while in Innsbruck.
The baroque architecture is revered and makes for a stunning foreground to the mountains.
Do some shopping, sit at an outdoor café or simply get a feel for the small-town hustle and bustle of Innsbruck here.
Located just south of the Old Town of Innsbruck, the Triumphal Arch from 1765 used to be the southern entrance to the city.
There’s not much to “do” here exactly, but it’s a cool photo spot .
The Imperial Palace ( Kaiserliche Hofburg ) has returned to its former glamour after extensive restoration work and now gives a unique insight into the lives of Innsbruck’s former emperors and empresses.
A must-visit if you (like Victoria) are into tv shows like The Crown and Bridgerton – or if you just enjoy sumptuous luxury in general ( just take a look at that main hall !)
We also visited the Tyrol Panorama Museum , located within walking distance just south of town with stunning views over the roofs of Innsbruck as well as the mountains.
The museum is mainly famous for the Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting taking up the whole 360 degrees in a round room with a total size of more than 1,000 square metres of canvas. Quite impressive.
For the culturally inclined (or for those rainy days) there are lots of other museums to visit in Innsbruck.
Here are a few of them:
The mountain range of Nordkette (also called the jewel of the alps ) stands tall above Innsbruck and can be reached directly from the city centre.
The Hungerburg funicular takes you from the river to Hungerburg in just 8 minutes. From here you can take the Seegrube to an altitude of 1,905 metres and from there go all the way to the top of the line with the Hafelekar to 2,256 metres.
It’s a lot easier than it probably sounds.
Up here the views really open up on both sides , allowing you to see across Austria’s largest nature park, the Karwendel Nature Park, to the north, and the city including the Stubai Valley to the south.
In October , it was quite warm on the lower two levels, but we were glad we had brought warm clothes for the top where the wind was quite fierce.
Even in summer, we imagine packing layers is a good idea.
We used our Innsbruck City Card (adlink) to get to the top. You can also buy a roundtrip cable car ticket in advance (adlink) .
Home to one of the 4 ski-jumping competitions of the 4 Hills Tournament every year, the Bergiselschanze ski jumping facility in Innsbruck is a must to visit for ski-jumping enthusiasts.
Open daily, you can tour the entire facility, including the funicular, the tower lift, the panoramic café and the terrace on the jumping tower with great views over the city.
For a more down-to-earth experience than ski jumping, head to one of Innsbruck’s many parks and gardens.
Rapoldi Park , for example, is centrally located by the river and offers plenty of opportunities for having a relaxing time.
Simply walking along the river on both sides is also a favourite pastime for locals and visitors alike which we also personally enjoyed.
For an even more spiritual experience, head to one of Innsbruck’s fine churches .
The Hofkirche (Court Church) is centrally located and just as lavish as the name suggests.
Innsbruck Cathedral (Dom zu St. Jakob) is also very pretty, as is the Wilten Abbey Basilica .
If you intend to experience just a few of Innsbruck’s attractions, the Innsbruck City Card will quickly become your friend.
Valid from 24 to 72 hours, with prices from €53 to €73 per adult (half for children aged 6-15), the card gives you free entrance to pretty much every attraction you might be interested in visiting including public transport in Innsbruck and entrance to the Nordkettenbahnen (which is €42 by itself).
In other words, the card will pay for itself in no time.
Read more about the sights, attractions and transport included in the Innsbruck City Card (adlink) .
While we visited Tyrol, we also spent a few days in the Stubai Valley, located very close to Innsbruck.
Getting here is easy and in no time a whole world of mountain adventures open up. It’s wonderful.
Hiking is probably the most popular activity here, and there are trails for all seasons and levels. The views are gorgeous everywhere here.
In winter, skiing is the name of the game and on the Stubai Glacier, you can usually ski all the way from October to June.
Read more about what to do in Stubai in our guide to visiting the valley here .
Though the alp region’s traditional fare is not particularly famous for its use of vegetables (quite the opposite…), there are plenty of healthy, green meals to be had in Innsbruck.
You’ll find most restaurants and cafés in or near the Old Town .
Read more about where to eat in Innsbruck in our vegan eating guide here for the best restaurants and cafés.
Being a small and compact city, Innsbruck is very walkable . There are sidewalks everywhere.
Public transport is also readily available.
The tram is the vehicle of choice for getting around quickly. Using the tram system to get to the mountain village of Igls or to Fulpmes in the Stubai Valley are popular, cheap excursions.
The bus system is also easy to navigate and runs all night.
Innsbruck Airport (Kranebitten Airport) is located just a few kilometres west of the city and serves both regional and international flights with connections to the rest of Europe.
The central train station (Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof) is one of Austria’s busiest train stations and from here you can also travel all over Austria and Europe by train. OBB is the national railway company of Austria.
Long-distance busses also tend to stop near the central station.
If you stay centrally in Innsbruck and travel in your own car, parking can be expensive. We parked our car in the car park below the central station . Here you’ll also find a free charging station for your EV.
Innsbruck can be visited in all seasons. But what’s the best season?
It’s up to your needs and wants. There are four distinct seasons in the alps, each with its own pros and cons.
Summer is ideal for hiking with warmer temperatures, but can also get crowded.
Winter is a beautiful time to visit and optimal for skiing in the region.
In between in the low seasons, you get less snow or sun, but you can easily get lucky with both (as we have written about in our travel guide to visiting Tyrol in Autumn ) as well as deal with fewer crowds. Prices are also lower.
To minimise your impact during your visit, follow these guidelines:
Thanks for getting all the way to the end.
We hope this city guide has been useful for your travel planning! What do you think about Innsbruck?
If you’ve been to the Tyrolean capital, it would be awesome to hear your best tips in the comments. Any hidden gems we missed?
If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We’re only glad to help.
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Maybe don’t ignore safety warnings: how i survived a joshua tree national park bee attack, where the appalachian trail actually ends (it's not north america), read update.
Discover More Attractions In Innsbruck
When travelers dream of European adventures in Austria, they think of monumental Vienna, picturesque Hallstatt, or even lovely Salzburg. One of Europe's undiscovered gems , they often forget to include Innsbruck: the fifth-largest city in Austria and the capital of the mountainous Tyrol region. Charming Innsbruck has imposing architecture, breathtaking views, and thrilling outdoor activities in the surrounding Alps.
Stretching over the River Inn, the name Innsbruck means bridge over the Inn . The city's history stretches back millennia, but Innsbruck was notably a crossroads along an imperial Roman road, the easiest path for crossing the Alps. Emperor Maximilian I lived in Innsbruck and put the city on the map as a hub of politics and culture. The powerful Hapsburg dynasty resided in Innsbruck, bringing some of Austria's most significant castles, palaces, and artwork.
Today, Innsbruck is an excellent travel destination for museumgoers, history buffs, and art lovers. Surrounded by mountains, Innsbruck has hosted two Winter Olympics and is also a paradise for hikers, bikers, and skiers.
Discover all the Old World charm and outdoor attractions of Innsbruck in the ultimate guide here.
The capital of Austria's Tyrol region is a beautiful city with a treasure trove of historical landmarks worth seeing. In this refreshed article, find out more top sights that shed light on the storied past of Innsbruck
Nestled in the foothills of the Alps and as a prominent seat of power throughout the European past, Innsbruck offers tourists unlimited things to do. The Tyrolese offers several reasons why tourists travel to Austria , from splendid architecture, cultural museums, and historical palaces to scenic outlooks, outdoor activities, and zoos, Innsbruck has an attraction for everyone.
The best way to embark on an adventure in any European city is to start in the old town center. Not only can tourists get a taste of the city's source of history and culture, but it's also an excellent starting point to dive deeper into other attractions.
Decorated with stately Baroque buildings, some over 500 years old, The Altstadt in Innsbruck is impressively well-maintained. In the Old Town, travelers can shop for souvenirs, find traditional restaurants, people-watch while enjoying a coffee, or have drinks at a bar.
Visitors should explore the Old Town by getting lost among its cobblestone streets and charming alleyways. Tourists can enter the Altstadt by strolling down Maria-Theresien Strasse : a fully pedestrianized street with beautiful architecture and impressive monuments like The Triumphal Arc and St. Anne's Column .
The Old Town is also a spectacular source of information. Travelers should visit Innsbruck Tourismus , a tourism office, for current advice, city maps, and guidance organizing everything to do in the city.
There are so many historical landmarks to see and experience in Innbruck's Old Town. The best way to explore all the top spots is to take a guided tour with a local who understands the area well.
Innsbruck's most iconic landmark is the Goldenes Dachl : The Golden Roof. The brilliantly gilded awning dazzles guests in the Old Town.
Adorned with 2,657 golden shingles, the Gothic-style roof was built in the late 15th century for Emperor Maximilian I. Tourists can admire the sparkling canopy from one of the many restaurant or coffee shop patios in the town square below.
If a selfie doesn't suffice, history buffs should visit the Golden Roof Museum inside. Visitors can view the Old Town from one of the balconies and browse relics from the Middle Ages. In addition, the museum showcases historical photographs and both centuries-old and multimedia exhibits on Emperor Maximilian, Tyrol's transformative figure.
The Golden Roof Museum offers exhibits for children.
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Cathedrals are often dramatic sites in European cities, towering above rooftops and revealing stunning historical and cultural treasures. The Cathedral of St. James, also known as the Innsbruck Cathedral , is no exception.
Built in the early 1700s in Innsbruck's Old Town, the elegant stone facade impresses with two majestic bell towers and a dome. Eight working bells ring from the towers and echo through the streets. More importantly, the lavish Baroque interior will amaze visitors.
Colossal marble pillars support vaulted ceilings decorated with frescoes illuminated by abundant natural light. The sweeping interior is guarded by a stunning altar at the front and a marvelous organ above the main entrance.
Guests will also find the tomb of Archduke Maximilian III (Grandmaster of the Teutonic Knights).
Watch out for regular concerts held at the Cathedral of St. James that the public can freely attend and target noon to hear the peace bells ringing.
Related 10 Most Beautiful Cathedrals In The World
Another imposing centerpiece of Innsbruck's Old Town is the Hofkirche , German for the Court Church.
The church houses Tyrol's most important artistic monument: the cenotaph of Maximilian I , surrounded by 28 larger-than-life bronze statues. A jewel of European craft skills, the ornate tomb is encircled by reliefs and red marble columns.
Known locally as The Black Men, although they include eight women, the bronze statues represent royal power and consciousness passed down through the ages, protecting the tomb. The figures depict heroes such as King Arthur or Joanna The Mad.
Visitors can admire the cenotaph and statues with the magical sense that they are peering at history's ancestors straight in the eye.
An especially mystifying experience is attending a nighttime mass at the Hofkirche.
A trip to Tyrol wouldn't be complete without visiting the Ambras Castle and Palace .
The region's most popular tourist attraction, the castle was famously home to the historical figure Archduke Ferdinand II. In the 1500s, the Archduke ordered that the 10th-century Ambras fortress be converted into a fine Renaissance castle as a gift for his wife. A prominent collector of art, the palace continues the tradition of Ferdinand II as a present-day museum.
Exhibits include manicured grounds, an armory, the Hapsburg Portrait Gallery, the Chamber of Art and Wonders, and most importantly, the spectacular Spanish Hall: a famous site for classical concerts.
The Ambras Castle is located on the southern edge of Innsbruck, and visitors can conveniently arrive by tram or bus.
Book an entry ticket online in advance to skip the long queues waiting to enter Ambras Castle. Also, visitors with the Innsbruck card don't need a ticket to access the castle.
The Hofburg , or Imperial Palace, is the former residence of the Hapsburgs, one of Europe's most important dynasties. With its original elements constructed in 1460, tourists can find the Hofburg in Innsbruck's Old Town, on a larger residential complex that includes attractions like the Hofkirche, the Innsbruck Cathedral, the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum , and the lush Hofgarten (court gardens).
One of Austria's most significant cultural buildings, the Imperial Palace welcomes guests with a spotless white facade and an elegant royal interior. The palace museums showcase the life and times of the Hapsburgs, who lived at the Hofburg for over 450 years.
The five themed museums include Empress' Rooms and Apartments, a Furniture Museum, a Paintings Gallery, and an Ancestral Exhibit.
Some must-see rooms in the sprawling palace include the State Rooms, the Chapel, the Imperial Apartments, the Hall of Giants, and the Court of Arms Tower.
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A popular tourist attraction in Innsbruck is the Swarovski Kristallwelten .
Just fifteen minutes east of Innsbruck by car, the peculiar and wondrous museum was created for the Swarovski crystal glass manufacturer. The complex contains gardens, a restaurant, a store, and exhibits.
The Giant , a landscaped bejeweled head, ushers visitors into the Chambers of Wonder, with several galleries showcasing famous artists' interpretations of glass artwork, including Andy Warhol and Salvador Dalí.
Museumgoers can also find a labyrinth and carousel on the grounds.
Last admission is 6 PM | Tickets can be purchased online or at the front desk | Various discounted prices offered
A tourist attraction in Innsbruck with incredible views is the Bergisel Ski Jump .
The hill has been used since the 1920s for ski jumping competitions, most notably for the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976. The ski jump tower soars 453 feet in the air with a stomach-churning drop. Visitors can take elevators to a viewing terrace overlooking the ski jump, with a restaurant and coffee shop.
Thrill seekers will want to climb the additional 455 steps to the top of the ski tower for breathtaking views and a taste of the ski jumpers' anticipation.
The Bergisel Ski Tower offers travelers magnificent views and a chance to watch skiers practicing their sport.
Next to the Bergisel Ski Jump is the Patscherkofel observation point, where tourists can head for more panoramas of the city and the entire Inn Valley.
The Nordkette Mountain Range looms over Innsbruck and offers incredible tourist activities any season of the year.
Perhaps some of the cheapest skiing in Europe , skiers can hit the slopes at Nordkette from summer to winter. With beginner to advanced ski routes, adventurists can find the ski station just north of Innsbruck.
Families and warm-weather travelers can instead opt for several different cable car experiences at Nordkette . The journey takes only twenty minutes but offers a lifetime of jaw-dropping views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains.
The cable car makes several stops throughout its climb in the Karwendel National Park . Each station provides riders something different, from scenic outlooks to hiking and biking . The trails cater to everyone, from beginners to advanced.
The wait to enter the cable cars at Nordkette can be frustrating, but visitors can skip the lines by booking a ticket online before getting to the site.
What could be one of the world's best zoos , animal lovers will enjoy a visit to the Alpenzoo in Innsbruck.
Just north of the city near the Nordkette Ski Station, the Alpine Zoo in Innsbruck specializes in housing and protecting native and endangered species of the Austrian Alps. With over 2,000 animals, guests can marvel at the daring Alpine ibex, mighty brown bears, playful otters, and many majestic birds.
Just a short drive from the zoo and farther downstream, tourists will encounter the historic neighborhood of Muhlau, famous for its gorgeous 1748 Baroque church.
Located about an hour from downtown, the old border town of Kufstein presents a nice escape for explorers looking to venture beyond the city limits. It is renowned as an idyllic holiday destination, thanks to the beautiful lake scenery and exciting climbing and hiking opportunities in Kaisergebirge.
Visitors will enjoy walking along the town's peaceful streets, which host relics of moated towers, ancient walls, several squares with fountains, and interesting historical buildings. Be sure to check out the Feste Kufstein , or Kufstein Fortress, with a rich history dating back to 1205.
Its notable features include the Emperor's Tower, which rises to a 90-meter height, and the glorious Heroes' Organ with over 4000 pipes and 46 stops.
For deeper insight into the history of Kufstein, enthusiasts should visit Heimatmeuseum, which also doubles up as a concert and festival venue.
The majestic Wilten Parish in the district of Wilten delights first-timers with its twin towers and stands among the best Rococo-style churches in the north of the Tyrol region.
Although constructed in 1755, the building has never lost its charm through the years, a credit to the magnificently decorated interior, which features intricate ceiling frescos and unparalleled stonework.
Just across from the church is a sprawling building complex with structures established in 1138. Here, visitors can marvel at the architecture of the 17th-century church and its gigantic Gothic figure of Haymon.
Maria Theresien Street is among the more famous areas in Innsbruck, boasting a history of almost seven centuries. The prominent street just outside the Old Town offers a glimpse into the city's Baroque past, lined with medieval palaces belonging to the aristocrats and historical landmarks like the Triumphal Arch and St. Anne's Column.
The area also features several quaint restaurants and cafes, making it a popular townfolk meeting point. Maria Theresien Street also hosts a popular Christmas market, among the most festive ways to celebrate Christmas in Austria .
Maria Theresien Street is just a 10-minute walk from Innsbruck's main train station and will be a cool site for a lazy afternoon walk to unwind or people-watch after a long day.
For just a few dollars, guests can scale the 51-meter-high Innsbruck City Tower for a unique birds-eye perspective of the city. Located next to the iconic Golden Roof, the historical landmark was built in 1450 and used as a point of relaying alarms to the public in the event of attacks and other dangers.
It also served as a vantage point patrolled by guards looking out for any signs of distress. Today, the tower is a popular observation station and attracts many tourists. The short climb to the top includes about 130 steps, where stunning views of Innsbruck, Nordkette, and the Bergisel await.
Visitors pay around $5 to access the lookout at the top of Innsbruck City Tower, but those with an Innsbruck card can access it freely.
Austria is marked by rolling green pastures and the rocky snow-capped Alps. The rural yet mountainous landscape has shaped its cuisine, defined by heavy carbs and meats or dense bread and pastries.
Tourists can find the best of traditional Austrian cuisine on the streets of Innsbruck alongside international flavors. Typical Austrian dishes everyone should try include:
Influenced by their neighbors to the south, travelers can also eat at traditional Italian trattorias in Innsbruck. Additionally, there are hamburger joints, Asian-inspired restaurants, and lively bars and beer gardens.
Café Central
Breakfast Club
Gasthaus Anich
Stiftskeller
Trattoria-Pizzeria Due Sicilie
360° Cafe
The best place to stay while vacationing in Innsbruck is in the center. The small city offers plenty of luxury to budget stays in the center, placing guests in the heart of the history, culture, and wonder of Innsbruck.
A hotel in the center conveniently keeps travelers at walking distance from bars, restaurants, and attractions, perfect for leisurely exploring the city and escaping back for a midday nap to recharge.
If visitors are road-tripping through Austria or prefer a quieter stay, they will find several hotels outside the city center. These hotels offer easy parking and scenic views of the Austrian countryside and Alps.
Keeping Innsbruck's timely public transportation in mind, tourists can always quickly reach the city center.
Weisses Rössl
The Penz Hotel
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Hotel Central
Hotel Mondschein
B&B Hotel Heimgartl
Haus Hubertus
Innsbruck experiences the best of all seasons and is an excellent year-round travel destination. While each season offers something slightly different, tourists can generally expect sightseeing in the city to be warmer than recreational activities in the mountains. In addition, the city is known for its strong Alpine winds.
Summer is one of the best times to visit Innsbruck because of the warm days and cool nights. The weather is perfect for hiking in the nearby mountains or strolling through city streets. Innsbruck is generally quieter in the summer, devoid of university students and skiing crowds. July does pose the highest chance of rain, however.
As an Alpine city, winter is also one of the best times to visit Innsbruck. The city is one of many things that show how beautiful Austria is in the winter . Snow-capped mountains and white rooftops welcome winter travelers eager to experience the city's many skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Tourists should prepare for cold days and freezing nights. Accommodation rates are the most expensive in February due to the skiing crowds.
On the other end, fall is the lowest tourist season in Innsbruck. Travelers can score better deals but should plan for cooler weather, a chance for snow, and certain attractions closing or shortening hours.
Finally, there are many things to do in Austria in the springtime . Tourists can enjoy attractions opening up and warmer city weather. The Alps are still snowy, so visitors can ski in the mountains without the inflated winter prices.
There are many convenient ways to get around in Innsbruck.
The best way to get around Innsbruck is on foot . With little traffic and all the main attractions close to one another, walking is the most comfortable way to experience the city.
The small amount of traffic also makes Innsbruck bike-friendly . Dedicated bike lanes lead to popular destinations like the airport, shopping centers, and universities. Many bike shops throughout the city offer rentals.
For a small city, Innsbruck has a dense network of trams, buses, and funiculars to get tourists around to more distant attractions, nearby towns, and mountain destinations. The bus and tram routes run around the clock and offer single-use tickets, multi-trip passes, and day cards.
Tourists will enjoy the hop-on-hop-off Sightseer bus, and partygoers can use the Nightliner buses .
Tickets are cheaper purchased at tram and bus stop machines, compared to paying the driver.
Driving around Innsbruck is generally not recommended for tourists. Parking spaces are tight and limited in the city center. The best option is to leave the car at a Park & Ride facility or the hotel lot and use the efficient public transportation system. Avoid parking next to dotted white lines because these are designated for residents.
The central train station in Innsbruck connects travelers to destinations all across Europe. The ÖBB train lines service Innsbruck and offer trips from as low as $10.50 to cities like Vienna or Berlin. The WESTbahn train lines provide daily connections to the eastern side of Austria.
Innsbruck Airport lies just to the west and offers convenient flights to other European countries. Munich International Airport is a two-hour drive north of Innsbruck.
Innsbruck is easily accessible by car along several major highways. Travelers can rent a car from major European companies like Avis, Budget, or Europcar from nearby airports.
Road trippers should carry their national license and an International Driver's Permit to drive in Austria. All cars must have the Austrian Toll Sticker . Ten-day vignettes can conveniently be purchased at gas stations for about $10.50.
With so many sites and attractions in Innsbruck, tourists can feel overwhelmed planning their trip and deciding what to see or where to spend their money. Travelers should know that The Innsbruck Card takes a lot of the organizing and planning off their hands.
Visitors can choose between a 24, 48, or 72-hour card, including entrance to 22 museums and attractions, free public transportation, one round-trip cable car ride, and free use of the Sightseer hop-on-hop-off bus.
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Innsbruck is one of Europe's lesser-known destinations that should nevertheless be on every traveler's bucket list.
The small city is an excellent day trip near castles in southern Germany or stunning Austrian towns like Hallstatt and Salzburg.
The perfect day in Innsbruck begins in the Old Town (Altstadt). Tourists can try the Apfelstrudel , Austria's national pastry, for breakfast and explore the marvelous streets and architecture. Iconic sites include the brilliant Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), the imposing Innsbruck Cathedral , and the mystifying Hofkirche (Court Church).
Later, culturally inclined tourists should peruse one of Innsbruck's many museums, palaces, and castles, like the Ambras Castle , Imperial Palace , or the bizarre and bejeweled Swarovski Kristallwelten museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can instead spend the perfect afternoon in Innsbruck going up the looming Nordkette mountain range by cable car for hiking, biking, or skiing.
Regardless, all visitors should catch jaw-dropping sunset views at the Bergisel Ski Jump before returning to the lively Old Town for dinner and drinks.
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Prächtige Häuser mit farbenfrohen Wänden charakterisieren die Innsbrucker Altstadt. Was bewegte die Menschen schon vor 500 Jahren dazu, ihre Gebäude derart aufwendig zu gestalten? Guide Monika Frenzel nimmt uns mit auf eine Stadtführung durch das mittelalterliche Innsbruck.
Wagen wir ein kleines Experiment: Stell dir einen antiken Tempel und einen Straßenzug im europäischen Mittelalter vor. Wahrscheinlich sind das Ergebnis strahlend weißer Marmor und eine düstere Schlammschlacht, durch die sich pestgeplagte Miesepeter schleppen. Beides ist angesichts der Bilder, die uns Hollywood gern verkauft, mehr als verständlich. Aber um es mit den Worten von Monika Frenzel, Historikerin und Gründerin von Per Pedes Tirol , zu sagen: „Farbe war schon immer gefragt, auch in der Antike.“ Sie hat mir für MyInnsbruck erklärt, warum die Innsbrucker Altstadt – entgegen den Erwartungen – so wunderbar bunt und detailreich gestaltet ist.
Was wir heute als Altstadt kennen, ist zwischen 1490 und 1520 entstanden und zählt zu den sogenannten Inn-Salzach-Städten. Soll heißen, Städte entlang dieser Flüsse teilen sich in Nordtirol, Oberösterreich und Salzburg einige Merkmale wie große Stadtplätze, Kirchen leicht abseits des Zentrums und die farbenfrohen Fassaden.
Letztere sind natürlich nicht nur in Österreich zu finden, man denke nur an die Hansestädte. „Dort war die Farbe der Häuser von den Zünften bestimmt“, erklärt Frenzel. In Innsbruck war es wohl eher eine Frage des persönlichen Geschmacks und des Füllstandes der Geldbörse, denn manche Pigmente waren enorm kostspielig. Das Rot der Purpurschnecke etwa, mit dem nur zwei Häuser verziert waren und nur eines gesichert schon im Mittelalter: Das Haus der Maria Theresianischen Normalschule in der Kiebachgasse. Einem Trend folgend wurde es im 19. Jahrhundert im legendären Schönbrunnergelb gestrichen – Begeisterung für die Lebensweise von Royals war scheinbar nicht immer ein britisches Phänomen. Die frühesten Darstellungen von Innsbruck stammen übrigens aus dem Jahr 1420, davor ist nichts über das Aussehen der Stadt bekannt.
Das Gebäude der Theresianischen Normalschule in der Kiebachgasse war einst im besonders prestigeträchtigen Rot gestrichen. Das Nacheifern der Habsburger Lebensweise bescherte ihm einen neuen Anstrich in Schönbrunnergelb.
Der Trend zur bunten Fassade begann erst mit der Errichtung von Steinhäusern, die auf die berechtigte Feuerparanoia von Kaiser Maximilian I. und den nach ihm benannten Maximilianischen Übergangsstil zurückgehen. Im Mittelalter brannten hölzerne Städte oft bis auf die Grundmauern ab, beispielsweise Schwaz während der Freiheitskriege. Der Monarch erließ daher eine neue Bauordnung, die vorsah, dass die alten Fachwerkhäuser durch Steinbauten ersetzt werden sollten. Zwischen diesen sollten Feuertrennwände hochgezogen werden, eine solche ist bis heute zwischen dem Neuen Hof (an dem das Goldene Dachl prangt) und dem benachbarten gelben Gebäude zu sehen. Um den Funken gar nicht erst überspringen zu lassen, verbannte Maximilian alle Handwerker, die mit Feuer hantierten, nach Anpruggen, das heutige Sankt Nikolaus und Mariahilf. Durch diese Vorsichtsmaßnahmen blieb die Innsbrucker Altstadt mit ihrer fast durchgehend spätgotischen Architektur authentisch erhalten.
Zwischen den Dächern von Neuem Hof und Nachbargebäude ist eine jener Trennwände zu sehen, die Innsbruck vor einem feurigen Ende bewahren sollten.
Mit Feuer hantierende Handwerker mussten in Anpruggen, auf der nördlichen Seite des Inns, ihrer Beschäftigung nachgehen.
Die Schönheit mancher Häuser kam erst durch Zufälle zum Vorschein. Fresken waren noch teurer als bunte Fassaden – gerade recht für die vermögende Familie der Grafen Trautson, deren Stadtpalais zu den prächtigsten Innsbrucks zählte. „In Pestzeiten wurden solche Häuser mit Kalk übertüncht, aus Angst vor Ansteckung. Man vergaß die Fresken darunter“, erzählt Frenzel. Ironischerweise war es die Bombe, die im Zweiten Weltkrieg zwei gegenüberliegende Häuser zerstörte, die die Malereien wieder ans Tageslicht holte: Erst durch die Detonation begann der Kalk zu rieseln.
Die Fresken des Trautsonhauses kamen erst durch einen Bombentreffer wieder zum Vorschein.
Die Bürger und Handwerker der Stadt nutzten nicht nur Farbe, um ihre Häuser zu verschönern. Wappen, Maßwerk, Reliefs und dergleichen mehr wurden eingesetzt, oft gefertigt aus Höttinger Brekzie. Dabei handelt es sich um ein Konglomeratgestein, das sich großer Beliebtheit als Umrahmung für Fenster, Türen und ganze Portale erfreute. Meister in der Bearbeitung war die Steinmetzfamilie Türing, die ob ihres Platzbedarfs ebenfalls nach Anpruggen geschickt wurde. Von ihr stammen beispielsweise die Reliefs am Goldenen Dachl . Nicht nur die Ansicht, auch die Aussicht war den Stadtbewohnern wichtig. „Erker waren das Fernsehen des kleinen Mannes“, umschreibt die Historikerin den Stellenwert der Vorbauten. Von den Erkerbänken aus blickten die Menschen hinab und bestaunten Märkte, Spielleute und das bunte Treiben, das sich in den Gassen bot.
Die Häuser in der Altstadt zeichnen sich laut Frenzel dadurch aus, dass sie für eine Stadt mit damals, also um das Jahr 1500, 5000 Einwohnern eigentlich eine Nummer zu groß sind. Das liegt daran, dass Innsbruck ab 1420 Residenzstadt der Habsburger war, die Hofburg ist als Sitz der Landesfürsten das drittwichtigste historische Gebäude Österreichs.
„Man kann Innsbruck nicht auf eine Sportstadt reduzieren, da fehlt etwas“, so die Expertin. Die großzügigen Dimensionen der Häuser zeigen sich besonders in ihrer Höhe und Tiefe. Über typisch V-förmige Grabendächer wurde Regenwasser bis auf den lehmigen Stadtplatz hinabgeleitet, Lichtschächte boten Helligkeit und Platz für Kunstwerke. Die Dielen in den Erdgeschossen mussten groß genug sein, um Fuhrwerken Platz zu bieten. Der einzige beheizbare Raum war die Stube – je höher der Rang der Bewohner, desto näher schliefen sie an ihr. Auf diese Zeit ging auch die Erfindung des Himmelbetts zurück, das Privatsphäre schuf und vor herabfallendem Ungeziefer schützte. Meist fanden sich Innenhöfe, in denen neben den Latrinen auch Kleinvieh wie Schafe und Ziegen untergebracht waren.
Erker, schräg zulaufende Erdbebenpfeiler an Huaswänden, Details in Brekzie: So kennt man die Innsbrucker Altstadt.
Was in dieser Auflistung von Merkmalen fehlt, ist eine anständige Kanalisation. Stattdessen gab es offene Wassergräben, die Ritschen, in die alles außer Schlachtabfälle geworfen werden durfte. „Man muss annehmen, dass Kinder zu allen Zeiten nicht gefolgt haben“, nennt Frenzel einen Grund dafür, warum immer wieder Wellen von Darmkrankheiten auftraten, wenn das brackige Wasser getrunken wurde. Erst mit dem Bau eines Brunnens vor dem Goldenen Dachl fanden die „Leidigen Läuf“ schlagartig ein Ende. Wer mehr über die olfaktorisch fragwürdigen Seiten der Innsbrucker Geschichte erfahren möchte, dem sei die Stadtführung „Anrüchige Geschichte – Innsbrucks Alltag im Mittelalter“ von Per Pedes empfohlen.
Übrigens hatten die Menschen damals nicht nur mit drohendem Feuer, gelegentlichen Überschwemmungen und Pestausbrüchen zu kämpfen. Dank seiner Lage auf einer Erdbebenlinie wurde die Stadt immer wieder erschüttert, was in einer besonders massiven Bauweise resultierte. Einige Türme stürzten in sich zusammen, doch die Bürgerhäuser blieben erhalten. Wer aufmerksam hinsieht, wird immer wieder historische Schutzmaßnahmen entdecken. Zum Beispiel eiserne Klammern, die Hausmauern zusammenhalten, oder massive Stützpfeiler an den bunten Fassaden – wieder aus der bewährten Höttinger Brekzie.
Besonders Türme, wie hier der Stadtturm, waren durch Erdbeben gefährdet.
Bilder, sofern nicht anders gekennzeichnet: Florian Riedl
Headerbild: © Innsbruck Tourismus / Frank Heuer
Zeige mir den ort auf der karte.
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Zwei hoch über Zirl aufragende ruinöse Türme sind der klägliche Rest einer einst bedeutenden Burg- und…
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TOURIST INFORMATION INNSBRUCK AT THE MAIN TRAIN STATION. Südtiroler Platz 7, 6020 Innsbruck im Infopoint der ÖBB. T: +43 664 / 88 65 43 35. [email protected]. Monday, Thursday-Saturday 9.00 am - 1.00 pm Tourist Information Stadtturm. Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 21, 6020 Innsbruck ...
Tourismus Information Stadtturm. Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 21, 6020 Innsbruck. T: +43 664 / 88 65 43 38. [email protected].
Innsbruck Card. The Innsbruck Card is a city card that can be purchased for 24, 48 or 72 hours. It includes numerous sights and mountain lifts, as well as free use of public transport within the city of Innsbruck. THE official website for holidays & leisure in Innsbruck/Tyrol • events • nature • culture • sports • shopping ...
Finden Sie hier die Adressen, Öffnungszeiten und Kontaktdaten der Tourismus Informationen in Innsbruck und Umgebung. Unsere Experten vor Ort helfen Ihnen mit Wissen und Tipps für Ihren Urlaub in der Region.
5. Hungerburg Funicular. Due to Innsbruck's location in the mountains, there are several Cable car routes and Funiculars used as modes of transportation. The Hungerburg Funicular is one of the most impressive and serves as transport between Innsbruck city centre and the Hungerburg district.
Innsbruck: City + Mountains. The morning sun bathes the grey peaks of the Nordkette in a golden light. A sight that brings a sparkle to the eyes of visitors and locals alike. In Innsbruck, you do not go to the mountain, you are IN the mountains. Innsbruck is more than just a city and more than the mountains: it is an alpine-urban experience.
The Innsbruck-Card is valid for 24/48/72 hours and can be purchased at Innsbruck Information (Burggraben 3), the TI in Hauptbahnhof, and several museums and tourist offices. The latest Innsbruck card fare can be found here [dead link]. Since 1 May 2018, rates are €43/€50/€59 for 1/2/3 day cards for adults, and €21.50/€25/€29.50 for ...
Innsbruck. Austria, Europe. Tyrol's capital is a sight to behold. The jagged rock spires of the Nordkette range are so close that within minutes it's possible to travel from the city's heart to more than 2000m above sea level and alpine pastures where cowbells chime. Summer and winter activities abound, and it's understandable why some ...
Best Time to Visit. Innsbruck is very much a winter sports destination, so its busiest season is December to March. That said, visitors shouldn't discount the quieter off-peak months for hiking ...
Reach Innsbruck's highest viewing point, the 2,300m-high top of Innsbruck, thanks to a direct connection from the city. Catch a glimpse of the normally shy wildlife and enjoy a unique panorama of the city and mountain. Buy now. From 47,00 € per person.
Sie inkludiert zahlreiche Sehenswürdigkeiten und Bergbahnen sowie die Nutzung des öffentlichen Verkehrs im Innsbrucker Stadtgebiet. Mehr Erfahren. DIE offizielle Seite für Urlaub & Freizeit in Innsbruck/Tirol • Veranstaltungen • Natur • Kultur • Sport • Shopping • Sightseeing • Hotels • Restaurants. Jetzt informieren!
Innsbruck, nestled in an alpine valley between two mountains, is the capital of the state of Tyrol and the largest of alpine cities. For the tourist, it's almost equidistant between Munich and Verona and has excellent rail connections to Salzburg, Vienna, and slightly more tedious transport to Hallstatt. Innsbruck is well known as a winter ...
Top Attractions in Innsbruck. See all. These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveler reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. 2024. 1. Nordkette. 4,590. Trams. Scenic cable car rides connecting to alpine vistas, with panoramic mountain views and cultural attractions like the local zoo nearby.
Wander Old Town Innsbruck. Experience the "Top of Innsbruck" from the Nordkette. Visit the Court Church & Emperor's Tomb. See the Famous Golden Roof. Take a Tour of The Hofburg, Innsbruck's Old Imperial Palace. Catch a Concert at Innsbruck Cathedral. Get Your Art Fix at the Tyrolean State Museums.
Innsbruck is a pretty safe place to visit, and according to the U.S. Department of State, Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe with violent crime rarely occurring. You might find ...
One of the more unusual things to do in Innsbruck is to visit the Tirol Panorama Museum. The museum most notably showcases the Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting, a 1,000-square-metre canvas depicting the Tyrolean Rebellion of 1809. The Tyrolean Stage exhibition also explores the themes of politics, nature and religion.
The capital of the mountains. Innsbruck is the sophisticated, bustling small-town capital of Tyrol in western Austria holding everything you might need while giving you access to endless adventures in the great outdoors.. The Nordkette Range with its tall, dramatic spires looms high over the soothing river running through the city, perfectly capturing the vast range of experiences on offer here.
See all. These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. 2024. 1. Nordkette. 4,591. Trams. Scenic cable car rides connecting to alpine vistas, with panoramic mountain views and cultural attractions like the local zoo nearby.
Golden Roof, Imperial Palace: what must see when you come to Innsbruck? Top highlights and much more. Discover now! ... ABOUT INNSBRUCK TOURISM Job offers. CONTACT +43 512 / 53 56 [email protected]. BUSINESS Innsbruck Convention Bureau Group travel Online photo archive Press Portal Member Portal
These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. 2024. 1. Nordkette. 4,590. Trams. Scenic cable car rides connecting to alpine vistas, with panoramic mountain views and cultural attractions like the local zoo nearby.
DIE offizielle Seite für Urlaub & Freizeit in Innsbruck/Tirol • Veranstaltungen • Natur • Kultur • Sport • Shopping • Sightseeing • Hotels • Restaurants. Jetzt informieren! ... ÜBER INNSBRUCK TOURISMUS Jobangebote. KONTAKT +43 512 / 53 56 [email protected]. BUSINESS Innsbruck Convention Bureau Gruppenreisen Online ...
Innsbruck's most iconic landmark is the Goldenes Dachl: The Golden Roof.The brilliantly gilded awning dazzles guests in the Old Town. Adorned with 2,657 golden shingles, the Gothic-style roof was built in the late 15th century for Emperor Maximilian I. Tourists can admire the sparkling canopy from one of the many restaurant or coffee shop patios in the town square below.
Walk 4: In the Habsburgs' footsteps. easy. 2.5 KM. Almost everyone who hears the name of Innsbruck immediately thinks of the Golden Roof, and a famous personality is inextricably linked with this special attraction: Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519).
Die Innsbruck Card inkludiert die freie Fahrt mit den Bussen und Straßenbahnen der Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe (IVB) in der Kernzone Innsbruck sowie die Buslinien 501, 503, 504, 456, 650, 469 für die Strecke Innsbruck-Hall. Ebenfalls inbegriffen sind der Sightseer Hop on-Hop off, der Nightliner, der Swarovski Kristallwelten Shuttle sowie ...
In Innsbruck war es wohl eher eine Frage des persönlichen Geschmacks und des Füllstandes der Geldbörse, denn manche Pigmente waren enorm kostspielig. Das Rot der Purpurschnecke etwa, mit dem nur zwei Häuser verziert waren und nur eines gesichert schon im Mittelalter: Das Haus der Maria Theresianischen Normalschule in der Kiebachgasse.