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Der Föhn, dem wir schon am Dienstag das freundliche und milde Wetter zu verdanken haben, wird am Mittwoch weiterwehen, doch mit abgeschwächter Intensität. Die Bewölkung wird daher dichter werden, vor allem nachmittags. Schauer sind durchaus möglich, bleiben insgesamt aber selten.

Auch der Donnerstag bietet noch kein beständiges Bild: Die Sonne kommt zwar wieder etwas öfter zum Vorschein, Schauer sind dennoch möglich.

Am Freitag erscheint in der Biskaya dann ein neues Tief und zwar in Sturmstärke! Es löst hier bei uns sofort wieder Föhn aus verbunden mit der Zufuhr warmer Luft.

Können wir helfen? Kontaktieren Sie uns!

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Wo kann ich übernachten? Welche ist die schönste Wanderung für mich und meine Familie? Was ist in der Stadt geboten? Die Fragen an unsere Kollegen in den örtlichen  Tourismus Informationen sind so vielfältig wie unsere Region. Und die Antworten maßgeschneidert auf die jeweiligen Bedürfnisse. Mit viel Wissen und praktischen Tipps für die Urlaubsgestaltung helfen unsere Experten vor Ort. Auch für unsere Hoteliers und Vermieter sind sie die richtigen Ansprechpartner.

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Unsere Tourismus Informationen befinden sich zentral gelegen in Innsbruck und den Ortschaften der Region – damit es unsere Gäste nicht weit haben. Unsere Kollegen in den Büros kennen die Gegend wie ihre Rucksacktasche und können bei (fast) allen Fragen helfen. Am besten vor Ort in unseren Tourismus Informationen vorbeischauen. Wir freuen uns auf deinen Besuch!

Tourismus Information Innsbruck

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  • Where to Go

Innsbruck is the place to go if you want to combine your city trip with experiencing unspoilt Alpine nature.

Top Highlights in Innsbruck

Explore innsbruck's lifestyle, innsbruck: city + mountains.

Nestled amidst majestic peaks, this breathtaking city offers a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. You can stroll its streets full of Baroque and Gothic architecture in the Old Town, or discover one of the hip districts such as Mariahilf or St. Nikolaus where Innsbruck’s uni students like to meet for a drink. After, you can take a cable car from the city centre, and in just 20 minutes, reach the Seegrube at 2,000 m (6,562 ft). Here you can take in spectacular views of the Inn valley and the surrounding mountains.

Must-Sees in Innsbruck

Explore Innsbruck’s picturesque old city, and make your way to the  Golden Roof  (Goldenes Dachl). Stroll along the bustling Maria Theresien Street and stop off at  Das Schindler , a Gault Millau-awarded restaurant, for a delicious meal. Explore Innsbruck’s young, hip areas: Mariahilf, St. Nikolaus, and Wilten square with their distinctive local shops, vegan restaurants and unique bars. Or visit an unusual museum such as the  Grassmayr Bell Foundry .

Fancy some imperial splendour?  Ambras Castle  with its magnificent gardens, small waterfalls, and free-range peacocks takes you back to the Renaissance period. The Imperial Palace, Ottoburg, and the Wilten Basilica all tell of Innsbruck’s eventful past and its great figures including Philippine Welser, the secret wife of Archduke Ferdinand I, Andreas Hofer, the Tirolean freedom fighter, and last but not least Emperor Maximilian I, who built many of the monuments that survive today.

About Innsbruck

Traces of settlers in what today is called Innsbruck, date back to the early Stone Age. During Roman times the city was called Veldidena, and became an important supply base for the Romans, after they built a road across the Brenner Pass in the 15 th century BC. The name Innsbruck came up during 1187, when the Inn Bridge was constructed. In 1429, Innsbruck became the capital of Tirol under Maximilian I. The city hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976, and so became the famous (winter) sport destination it is today.

Innsbruck Mariahilf Innsbruck Tourismus / Christian Vorhofer Innsbruck media_content.tooltip.skipped

Innsbruck Austrian National Tourist Office / Ruedi Homberger media_content.tooltip.skipped

Castle Ambras, spanish hall Innsbruck Tourismus / Edward Gröger media_content.tooltip.skipped

Bike break in the city - Innsbruck Innsbruck Tourismus / Tom Bause media_content.tooltip.skipped

Tiroler Landestheater Innsbruck Tourismus / Christof Lackner media_content.tooltip.skipped

Seegrube Nordkette Innsbruck Innsbruck Tourismus / Christof Lackner media_content.tooltip.skipped

Bergisel Ski Jump Innsbruck Tourismus / Christof Lackner Bergisel, Innsbruck media_content.tooltip.skipped

Innsbruck, hiking, Patscherkofel, Boscheben W9 Studios / Colette Verra media_content.tooltip.skipped

Tiroler Gröstl Tirol Werbung / Kathrin Koschitzki media_content.tooltip.skipped

The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)

The imperial palace, ambras castle, maria theresien strasse, swarovski crystal worlds, innsbrucker nordketten cable cars, bergisel ski jump, your summer holiday in innsbruck, museums & culture in innsbruck, christmas markets in innsbruck & tirol.

Innsbrucker Altstadt Innsbruck Tourismus media_content.tooltip.skipped

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.

You can easily go shopping in the morning, enjoy some great, local specialities (for example a delicious, hearty Tiroler Gröstl ) for lunch in one of the many excellent restaurants, and then hop on the Nordkettenbahn and take a hike above 2000 metres above sea level in the afternoon.

Innsbruck in 3 Days

Explore the 'Capital of the Alps' through its Alpine-urban charm.

Hotels in Innsbruck & Surroundings

Explore Tirol's stunning landscapes and authentic hospitality from this curated list of hotels that embody the true Tirolean spirit.

Innsbruck Card - Your Key to City + Mountains

One card for all sights and attractions

Related Guides:

Innsbruck Tourist Information and Tourism

(innsbruck, tyrol, austria), innsbruck tourist information and tourism: top sights, more innsbruck information / fast facts and orientation.

  • Country: Republic of Austria (Osterreich)
  • Location: Tyrol (Tirol) / South-West Austria
  • Status: city / federal state capital of Tyrol
  • Area: approximately 41 square miles / 105 square kilometres
  • Population: approximately 120,000
  • Language: Austrian German / Southern Austro-Bavarian dialect
  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Time zone: CET / GMT + 1 hour
  • Country dialing code: +43
  • Telephone area code: 0512
  • Average daily Innsbruck January temperature: 0°C / 32°F
  • Average daily Innsbruck July temperature: 25°C / 77°F

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  • 1.1 Climate
  • 2.1 By plane
  • 2.2 By train
  • 2.5 By bike
  • 3.1 On foot
  • 3.3.1 By S-Bahn
  • 3.4 By bike
  • 4.1 Churches and cathedrals
  • 4.2 Castles and palaces
  • 4.3 Buildings
  • 4.4 Memorials
  • 4.5 Museums
  • 5.1 Winter sports
  • 5.3 Nordkettenbahnen
  • 5.4 Spectator sports
  • 6.1 Inner City
  • 6.2.1 Clothes and footwear
  • 6.2.2 For children
  • 7.2 Mid-range
  • 7.3 Splurge
  • 9.2 Mid-range
  • 9.3 Splurge
  • 10.1 Religious services

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.

innsbruck tourist information office

Understand [ edit ]

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.

innsbruck tourist information office

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.

Climate [ edit ]

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.

Get in [ edit ]

innsbruck tourist information office

By plane [ edit ]

Regular scheduled flights are available from:

  • TUI fly Belgium 2x per week from Antwerp
  • Austrian Airlines from Vienna and Frankfurt
  • Transavia from Rotterdam and Amsterdam
  • EasyJet from Berlin , London-Gatwick (also with British Airways ) and 2x per week from Bristol
  • Lufthansa from Frankfurt and Berlin -Tegel
  • TUI Airways from London-Gatwick and Manchester
  • Czech Airlines from Prague
  • British Airways from London-Heathrow
  • Sibir Airlines from St. Petersburg and Moscow

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).

By train [ edit ]

innsbruck tourist information office

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.

By bus [ edit ]

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.

By car [ edit ]

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.

By bike [ edit ]

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.

Get around [ edit ]

Map

Most one-day visitors don't use any transport: all of the major Old Town sites are within a reasonable walking time.

On foot [ edit ]

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.

By public transport [ edit ]

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.

By S-Bahn [ edit ]

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.

See [ edit ]

innsbruck tourist information office

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.

Churches and cathedrals [ edit ]

  • 47.268204 11.39528 1 Hofkirche , Universitätsstraße 2 . Innsbruck's Hofkirche has the most important emperor's tomb monument (of emperor Maximilian I) in Europe. Especially characteristic are the larger-than-life bronzes ("schwarze Mander") that show members of different dynasties. Entrance: €3, reduced: €1.50, free with the Innsbruck-Card .  

innsbruck tourist information office

  • 47.269367 11.394143 2 Cathedral of St. James ( Dom zu St. Jakob ), Domplatz . Baroque styled cathedral, with works of Lucas Cranach the Elder. From 1717-1724 it was rebuilt (after damage from an earthquake) according to the plans of Johann Jakob Herkomer and Johann Georg Fischer. Free entrance .  
  • 47.254114 11.398326 3 Wiltener Basilika , Haymongasse/Pastorstraße . Baroque styled church with Rokkoko-stucco, built from 1751-1756. Free entrance .  
  • 47.253723 11.400444 4 Stift Wilten , Klostergasse . Premonstratensian monastery with a baroque collegiate church, not far from Wiltener Basilika. Free entrance .  

Castles and palaces [ edit ]

Buildings [ edit ].

innsbruck tourist information office

  • 47.24675 11.39974 1 Bergisel Sky Panorama Café , Bergiselweg 3 . Daily 09:00-18:00 . Café on top of the ski jump, with a great view over Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains. They have good Apfelstrudel (apple cake). ( updated Sep 2018 )

innsbruck tourist information office

Memorials [ edit ]

innsbruck tourist information office

Museums [ edit ]

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.

innsbruck tourist information office

  • 47.267328 11.397734 20 Tiroler Landesmuseum . Ferdinandeum , Museumstraße, Scientific collection , Feldstraße and Museum im Zeughaus , Zeughausgasse  
  • 47.28608 11.39913 22 Small Cable Railway Museum ( Seilbahnmuseum ), Höhenstrasse 145, Hungerburg ( in the base station of the Seegrubenbahn ), ☏ +43 512 293344 , [email protected] . Daily 08:30-17:30 . A small museum dedicated to the history of cable railways, focusing mainly on the history of the Nordkette Cable Railways. Set up in a former classroom, the museum has an authentic replica on display of the very first cable car that made the journey to the top of the Nordkette mountain. Its collection features many pictures and artifacts detailing the past and present technology involved in the construction of alpine transportation systems. Free . ( updated Sep 2018 )

Parks [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

innsbruck tourist information office

Winter sports [ edit ]

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.

innsbruck tourist information office

Below is an overview of notable ski areas easily accessible from Innsbruck. For full information about resorts around Innsbruck and Tirol, see Bergfex.com .

  • Nordpark [dead link] is accessible via the tram line 1, the bus lines 1, 4, A, D, E, J and T. The Nordkettenbahn goes up to Seegrube and Hafelekar, where many hiking routes and trip routes start. The Nordpark Singletrail is one of the most ambitious mountain bike freeride routes of Europe.
  • Patscherkofelbahn . Accessible via bus line J, destination "Patscherkofelbahn" or "Olympiaexpreß" and tram line 6 to Igls. Tram line 6 is particularly worth taking - a beautiful meandering route up the mountain and included in the city zone of Innsbruck's public transport. Much better value than the Hungerburgbahn on the Nordkette. The Patscherkofel is a skiing region south of Innsbruck, that has a number of timbered ski-runs of the former olympia-routes. In summer it is a great region for hiking along the forestline.
  • 47.19566 11.303208 1 Axamer Lizum . Large ski resort with a variety of challenging terrain and runs. Lots of terrain for off piste skiing or snowboarding. Hosted several downhill skiing events in the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Easily accessible from Innsbruck using the free ski bus (picks up at Innsbruck Hauptbahnof). €49 adult (high season) . ( updated Dec 2022 )
  • Stubaital . Offers several ski resorts in the winter.  

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.

Games [ edit ]

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 Art of Stealing ( Die Kunst des Klauens ): Players take the role of art thieves, and must steal artworks from a villa before the owner returns. For 2-6 players, entry level difficulty, from 10 years old.
  • The Sorcerer ( Der Zauberer ): Race against time in search for a Life Elixir in the laboratory of a sorcerer. For 2-6 experienced players, from 10 years old.
  • The Orphanage ( Das verlassene Waisenhaus ): Players find themselves trapped in an abandoned orphanage where nothing is what it seems to be. For 2-6 players. Contains horror elements, 14 or older recommended. Medium difficulty level.
  • The Haunted Mansion ( Das Geisterhaus ): In the role of real estate agents, players find themselves trapped in a haunted mansion. For 2-6 players, medium difficulty level. Scary elements, 12 or older recommended.
  • The Wrath of Tutankhamen ( Die Rache des Tutanchamun ): Players take the role of grave robbers, getting lost in Tutankhamen's tomb, with only 60 minutes of oxygen to breathe. For 2-6 experienced players, from 10 years old.
  • The Golden Roof ( Das Goldenes Dachl ): Players find themselves in the year 1976, exactly an hour before the start of the Winter Olympic Games , when it is discovered that a single tile from Innsbruck's famous Golden Roof has been stolen. Players need to unravel clues and decipher puzzles to find the missing tile before the opening ceremony starts! Easy difficulty level.
  • Phobia : Players must unravel the mysteries surrounding an inhabitant of Innsbruck, breaking into his house with only 60 minutes before his return. A game with an unexpected ending! Medium difficulty level.
  • The Big Heist ( Der grosse Coup ): Players break into the Ferdinandeum, Innsbruck's Art Museum, and have only 1 hour to get out with a priceless piece of art. Advanced difficulty level.
  • 47.259363 11.397324 4 Riddle Room ( Rätselraum Tirol ), Leopoldstraße 31 , ☏ +43 677 61851232 , [email protected] . M Th Su 14:00-22:00, F Sa 14:00-midnight . New room escape game in the city centre. In the scenario of Dr. Healers Secret Laboratory , one of the players has contracted a mysterious disease after being bitten by a rodent in the Tyrolean Alps. The team must find a cure within 60 minutes, using the secrets at their disposal in Dr. Healer's laboratory. For 2-6 players, game can be played in English or German. €60 for 2 players, €75 for 3 players, €90 for 4 players, €100 for 5 players, €108 for 6 players . ( updated Dec 2018 )
  • Temple Run : Players find the Philosopher's Stone from the Mayas, and venture into the jungle searching for the ancient gold treasure. On the way, adventure awaits, with many puzzles and riddles to solve. Medium difficulty level.
  • Secret Agent : As secret agents, players are tasked by the president to recover a suitcase with state secrets in a race against time. Hard difficulty level.

For those who prefer to gamble in a more glamorous environment, the casino offers an entirely different type of entertainment for adults, read more via this page in a useful review about Austrian best casinos.

  • 47.262291 11.396323 6 Casino Innsbruck , Salurner Straße 15 , ☏ +43 512 587040 . 10:00-03:00 daily . Tyrol's largest adult gaming and gambling centre.  

Nordkettenbahnen [ edit ]

innsbruck tourist information office

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 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.

innsbruck tourist information office

Spectator sports [ edit ]

  • The Tirol Raiders (as of 2015 they bear the sponsored name Swarco Raiders) play American Football in the first division Austrian Football League (that's the actual name). They have been among the top contenders for the championship for most of the 2010s. They played in the big six [dead link] in 2014 and 2015. The big six is the top American Football competition for club teams in Europe.

Events [ edit ]

  • Tiroler Abend with the Gundolf Family . For almost half a century this show is visited by travellers and gives good insight on traditional Tyrolean culture— everybody who likes everything stereotypical about the alpine culture will be served the full menu: Yodeling, traditional dances, plays, music and clothing are mixed with typical surroundings.  
  • New Orleans Festival - Since New Orleans is the partner city of Innsbruck a festival is held every summer featuring a lot of prominent musicians and focussing on Jazz, Blues, Gospels and other styles from the region around New Orleans.
  • The Ski Jump Contest around new year at the Begisel stadium is one of the few moments when Austrians demonstrate true patriotism. As Austrians are very competitive in alpine disciplines this is one of the events that many people follow.
  • For the younger generation the Air & Style Snowboard Contest [formerly dead link] is the high point of the year when the best snowboarders of the world compete in the biggest snowboard event of Europe. The event is the first snowboard competition that ever featured the straight jump, it's accompanied by international bands and a crowd of more than 10,000. Usually it is held either around the beginning of December or end of January.
  • In late spring a lot of clubs and pubs participate in the city event Sound City [dead link] , where downtown Innsbruck becomes a network of discos. Shuttle buses circulate around the city and bring the guests to various locations where a range of international DJs play different styles.
  • The Hafen , the Treibhaus and the p.m.k. are event centers downtown or a little outside of the city. Many concerts, events and parties take place all around the year and are visited by young locals, students and travellers.
  • Note : In the summer season Innsbruck is flooded by tourists from the far east and far west - predominantly older people who are mostly on a European tour - the event calendar adapts to this. The winter season is dominated by younger people, especially students and travellers from all around the world, who provide the city with a vivid nightlife.

Buy [ edit ]

Malls: There are several shopping malls in Innsbruck:

Inner City [ edit ]

  • 47.26543 11.392636 1 Rathaus Gallerien . 2 minutes walk from the Old Town, main entrance via Maria-Theresien-Straße  
  • 47.265481 11.39522 2 Kaufhaus Tyrol . Shopping mall with five levels in the inner city opposite Rathaus Gallerien .  
  • 47.265909 11.404173 3 Sillpark ( just outside downtown—turn right from train station (Hauptbahnhof) ). Walk one block, turn right, walk under a railway—and you are looking at it. All major bus and tram lines take you there.  

Outside Downtown [ edit ]

  • 47.262646 11.430891 4 DEZ ( bus lines C, R, S and T ). Many stores just right around it, such as Ikea.  
  • 47.257515 11.324198 5 Cyta ( S-Bahn S1 or S2, or bus line T ). in the suburb "Völs"  

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.

Clothes and footwear [ edit ]

Buy creative footwear:

  • El Natura Lista in Salamander shop (Maria-Theresien 1; also great choice of Tomy Hilfiger shoes)
  • Think! in Stiefelkater (Marktgraben str. 14, +43 512 583065)
  • GEA , ☏ +43 512-582 829 . "Arts & Crafts" footwear in a funny plain design, not cheap, but very durable (Anichstraße 20,  

For children [ edit ]

  • Humanic Kids , Maria-Theresien 17-19 . Also has discounts in early January, with a decent selection.  

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

All these are in the city centre:

  • 47.264537 11.391762 2 Gasthaus Anich , Anichstraße 15 ( city center, close to Maria-Theresien Strasse ), ☏ +43 512 570450 . M-Sa 09:00 - 24:00, closed on Sundays . Real "Gasthaus" (tavern) with Austrian cuisine. Not too crowded and mostly visited by locals. Big portions. Offers separate smoking and non-smoking areas. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 47.268285 11.392014 3 Magic Kebab ( Magic Pizza Burger ), Innrain 1 ( old town, close to Ottoburg, entrance from Herzog Friedrich Str. ), ☏ +43 512 560203 . Daily till 24:00 . The place looks like a 1970s American diner, usually quite populated. Big portions. €3.20 for a pizza (Apr 2019) ( updated May 2022 )
  • 47.263038 11.395856 4 Ristorante Leonardo da Vinci , Salurner Str. 18 . Italian food. The veggie risotto is tasty. From a culinary point of view, it's like being in an old pizzeria in Napoli. Friendly staff. ( updated Sep 2022 )
  • 47.266817 11.391978 5 Yummy Noodles , Marktgraben 10 . A good Asian restaurant. Great food, large portions, quick service. Good noodles and sushi. From the outside, it looks like a simple diner, but don't let that fool you. Inside it is quite large and cosy. ( updated Sep 2022 )
  • 47.266109 11.389109 6 Simay , Innrain 28 . Tasty pizza. The bread, the meat, the vegetables, the cheese, the sauces, everything is good. There're a few vegetarian options that are very good and tasty. Simply the best kebab shop. ( updated Sep 2022 )
  • 47.269087 11.399215 7 Piccola casa , Universitätsstraße 10 . The only dürüm in town that is actually spicy, if you order spicy. The garlic soup is tasty and quickly served. Very tasty veggie dürum, which is often very greasy elsewhere - not here. Friendly service. ( updated Sep 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • 47.271799 11.358371 8 Buzzihütte , Berchtoldshofweg 14 ( remote; take bus H to Berchtoldshof (or O to Allerheiligen) and walk a steep street upwards ), ☏ +43 512 283333 . Tu-F 08:00-24:00; Sa Su 11:00-24:00 . Traditional cuisine; known for Eiterbeule (identical to Wiener Schnitzel) ( updated May 2022 )
  • 47.269765 11.39079 9 Shere Punjab , Innstraße 19 ( city center, close to the Golden Roof, just cross the bridge ), ☏ +43 512 282755 . M-Sa 11:00 - 14:30, 17:00 - 22:00 . Indian Restaurant. Great portions. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 47.268302 11.392208 10 Mamma Mia , Kiebachgasse 2 , ☏ +43 512 562902 . Excellent Salmon Tagliatelli . No wifi. Walk to the 2nd floor for a more quiet and spacy seating. ( updated Sep 2022 )
  • 47.26774 11.391882 11 FloJos ( Grill, cantina and bar ), Seilergasse 12 ( in the old town near the Golden Roof ), ☏ +43 512 583046 . Daily 10:00–02:00 . Mexican, Caribbean and Creole food. Serving sizes are generous and the ambiance is laidback. ( updated May 2022 )
  • 47.267 11.39174 12 Cafe & Pub Hocus Pocus , Marktgraben 2 ( just south of the historic town ), ☏ +43 512 576968 . M-Th 08:30-24:00, F-Sa 08:30-01:00, So 09:00-23:00 . Small cafe serving a soup and main course for €8.50, or only a main course for €6.50. Simple but good food in a friendly atmosphere. They have board games available, to spend time while waiting for food. Try their home-made ice tea for €3.50. (prices as of Dec 2018) ( updated May 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

  • 47.267969 11.394622 13 Il Convento , Burggraben 29 . Italian cuisine. Very kind owners. Quality food and professional staff. The black risotto is recommended. ( updated Sep 2022 )
  • 47.265531 11.394413 14 Das Schindler , Maria-Theresien-Straße 31 . High—class Cousine with great ambience. The kingfish is tasty. ( updated Sep 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

  • 47.261858 11.383052 1 Zappa Music Bar , Rechengasse 5 ( close to clinic and university main building ), ☏ +43 512 581057 . M-Sa 18:00-02:00 . Every day of the week has special offers and events. Since it's close to the university, there are a lot of students and you might need to call in and order a table.  
  • 47.266473 11.394104 2 Limerick Bill's Irish Pub , Maria-Theresien-Strasse 9 ( close to the old town ), ☏ +43 512 582011 . The place is lively and usually crowded with students and visitors from all over the world, especially a lot of English speakers. Staff is bilingual, so this might be a great place for you to feel home.  
  • 47.257796 11.396114 3 Weekender , Tschamlerstraße 3 , ☏ +43 512 570570 , [email protected] . Daily 18:00 - 02:00 (cafe), club longer . Weekender is a place to have a drink and to dance. Almost every week there are national and international live bands. A must for indie fans!  
  • 47.269402 11.399703 4 The Galway Bay Pub , Kaiserjäger Strasse 4 ( Take a right in front of the goldenes dachl and walk approx. 500m straight ahead ), ☏ +43 512 251541 . Daily 17:00-01:00 . Authentic Irish pub with two large floors. Pub quizzes every Monday (except during summer), Open Mic Night every Thursday. mid range .  
  • 47.267578 11.396443 5 Treibhaus , Angerzellgasse 8 ( next to Old Town ), ☏ +43 512 572000 . Café daily 17:00-01:00 . Almost daily events, e.g. concerts, film/tv screenings, comedy shows and dances. Every Friday free concerts. Spacious café with garden, jazz salon and two big event halls. The all-female staff ("Weiberwirtschaft") serves food and snacks (pizza, kebab) in the café till midnight. cheap .  

Sleep [ edit ]

  • [formerly dead link] Campsite Innsbruck Kranebitten . Kranebitter Allee 214.  
  • Hotel Binders , Dr. Glatzstrasse 20 , ☏ +43 512-33436 , fax : +43 512 33436-99 , [email protected] .  
  • 47.269247 11.397532 1 Hotel Grauer Bär , Universitätsstrasse 5-7 , ☏ +43 512 59 24 , fax : +43 512 57 45 35 , [email protected] . ( updated Jan 2019 )
  • 47.266195 11.408872 2 Hotel AlpinPark , Pradlerstrasse 28 , ☏ +43 512 348 600 , fax : +43 512 364 172 , [email protected] . €98 . ( updated Jan 2019 )
  • 47.264953 11.429139 3 Alphotel , Bernhard-Höfel-Strasse 16 , ☏ +43 512 344 333 , fax : +43 512 344 428 , [email protected] . €87 . ( updated Jan 2019 )
  • Austrotel Innsbruck , Bernhard-Höfel-Strasse 16 , ☏ +43 512-344 333-0 , fax : +43 512 344-428 , [email protected] .  
  • Hotel the PENZ , Adolf Pichler Platz 3 , ☏ +43 512-575657 , fax : +43 512 5756579 , [email protected] .  
  • 47.267838 11.391369 4 Hotel Innsbruck , Innrain 3 , ☏ +43 512 598680 , [email protected] . Modern hotel with many luxury amenities, including lounge bar and indoor swimming pool, in the historic centre of the city. Among the most pricey options to spend a night in Innsbruck and a large radius around it. €92 . ( updated Sep 2018 )
  • 47.26595 11.39369 5 Stage 12 - Hotel by Penz , Maria-Theresien-Str.12 , ☏ +43 512 312 312 , [email protected] . Check-in: 3 p.m. , check-out: 11 a.m . 4-star hotel with 120 rooms, offering a wellness area with fitness room, sauna and steam bath. Trendy bar. ( updated Jun 2021 )
  • 47.25892 11.4103 6 Tivoli Hotel Innsbruck , Olympiastrasse 41 , ☏ +43 512 890404 , [email protected] . ( updated Oct 2022 )

Cope [ edit ]

Religious services [ edit ].

  • Dom St. Jakob [dead link] , Domplatz 6 (Old Town). Su 10:00, 11:30; M-F 09:30; M-Th 08:00 (Unterkirche)
  • Jesuit church , Karl-Rahner-Platz [1] [formerly dead link] . Sa 18:00 (English), 19:00; Su 11:00, 18:00, 21:30; M-Sa 07:30 (Krypta), 19:00; Th 21:30 (Krypta) The only English Mass in the city.
  • Kapuzinerkirche [dead link] , Kaiserjägerstraße 6 (near the bus parking at Hofgarten). Su 10:00; M-F 06:30, 09:00
  • Alte Spitalskirche zum Hl. Geist [dead link] , Maria-Theresien-Straße 2 (Old Town). Su 09:30; M-F 18:30
  • Servitenkirche , Maria-Theresienstraße. Sa 17:30; Su 06:30, 10:00, 17:30; M-F 06:30, 10:30, 17:30
  • Herz Jesu [dead link] , Maximilianstraße 8 (south of Old Town). Sa 18:00; Su 07:00, 09:30, 11:00 (Croat.), 18:00; M-F: 07:00, 08:00, 18:00
  • Islamic Center Tirol ( Islamisches Zentrum Tirol ), Andreas Hoefer Str. 17 a, tel. 0043512562146
  • Israelitische Kultusgemeinde Innsbruck ( Jewish Community Innsbruck ), Sillgasse 15 , ☏ +43 512 586892 , [email protected] .  

Go next [ edit ]

  • 47.39889 11.56083 2 Eng — the largest alm in Europe and one of the most remote settlements in the Alps
  • 47.283333 11.5 3 Hall in Tirol — historic salt mining city with the best preserved old town centre in western Austria
  • 47.35 11.7 5 Schwaz — famous for its silver mine
  • 47.0298 10.7473 3 Kaunertal — glacier and a skiing resort
  • 46.9833 11.1167 4 Stubaier — glacier and a skiing resort

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View from 2.100m on top of Schlick ski resort / Fulpmes, Austria. Please check it black background :-) Have a good day!..<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NikolaJuricPhotography">My facebook page / Nikola Juric Photography</a>.<a href="http://nikiso.com">My website / nikiso.com</a>..© Nikola Juric

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.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Renaissance Schloss Ambras (castle).

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,…

People are passing around the palace Hofburg in Innsbruck, Austria.; Shutterstock ID 550745233; Your name (First / Last): Daniel Fahey; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Online Editorial; Full Product or Project name including edition: Hofburg Innsbruck POI

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…

Hofkirche

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…

Golden Roof, Innsbruck, Austria

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

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…

Bergisel

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

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

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,…

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Innsbruck   Travel Guide

innsbruck tourist information office

Courtesy of Photography by Gergo Kazsimer | Getty Images

innsbruck tourist information office

Why Go To Innsbruck

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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  • # 9 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe

Best of Innsbruck

Best hotels in innsbruck.

  • # 1 in Hotel Alpin Spa Tuxerhof
  • # 2 in Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol
  • # 3 in Alpin Resort Sacher

Hotel Alpin Spa Tuxerhof

Best Things to Do in Innsbruck

  • # 1 in Maria-Theresien-Strasse (Maria Theresa Street)
  • # 2 in Altstadt von Innsbruck (Old Town)
  • # 3 in Schloss Ambras

innsbruck tourist information office

Popular Tours

Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck

Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck

(41 reviews)

from $ 329.88

Private Full-Day Tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes including Braies from Innsbruck

Private Full-Day Tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes including Braies from Innsbruck

(9 reviews)

from $ 374.01

Tyrolean Folk Show Ticket in Innsbruck

Tyrolean Folk Show Ticket in Innsbruck

(227 reviews)

from $ 38.62

Innsbruck Travel Tips

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!

Weather in Innsbruck

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

  • Don't visit in November If you choose to visit during the month of November, understand that you may not get to see all of the top attractions , as many close for the entire month.
  • Travel can be difficult during the winter In a region that sees snow into April, many area roads may close due to snow and ice. What's more, between Nov. 1 and April 15 you can be fined for not using winter tires on your vehicle.
  • Many restaurants and pubs close on Sundays You may need to find an alternate plan for meals on Sundays, as many establishments close for a day of rest.

How to Save Money in Innsbruck

  • Invest in the Innsbruck Card This card , which starts at 43 euros (about $48) for a 24-hour period, grants the holder entry into various attractions and cable cars, as well as access to public transportation for a set period of time.
  • Avoid a winter visit Flight, accommodation and lift ticket prices are at their peak during the winter months. If you're hoping to ski on a budget, consider an early spring trip.
  • Be prepared for Old Town prices Strolling through the city's Old Town is a must when visiting Innsbruck. But according to past travelers, the area's shops and restaurants are overpriced.

Culture & Customs

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.

What to Eat

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.

Getting Around Innsbruck

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.

Entry & Exit Requirements

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 .

Innsbruck is one of the best winter vacations in Europe .

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Innsbruck City Info

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Innsbruck (literally means 'bridge over the Inn') is the provincial capital of Tyrol and the fifth-largest city in Austria by population. It is situated in the valley of Inn river between mountain ranges above 2000m (6562ft) above sea level.

This beautiful alpine destination, with breathtaking scenery, and snow-capped mountains, is one of the most favourite winter sports destinations. It hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976. Also, it hosted Winter Paralympics in 1984 and 1988.

Top Innsbruck FAQs

Q.1) What is the capital city of Austria? Ans: Vienna is the capital and largest city in Austria. Innsbruck is the capital city of the federal state of Tyrol in western Austria and lies about 400kms from Vienna.

Q.2) What is the official language spoken in Innsbruck? Ans: The official language spoken in Innsbruck is German. However, as English is the second language in the educational system, Austrian citizens understand and speak it fluently.

Q.3) Which are the mountains surrounding Innsbruck? Ans: Innsbruck is located in the Inn Valley, surrounded by Nordkette (Hafelekar, 2,334m or 7,657ft in the north, Patscherkofel (2,246m or 7,369ft) and Serles (2,718m or 8,917ft) in the south.

Q.4) What is the population of Innsbruck? Ans: As of 1st January 2018, the population of Innsbruck was 132,493.

Q.5) What is the weather in Innsbruck like, and when is the best season to go to Innsbruck? Ans: Innsbruck is a unique city visited by travellers during both the winter and summer seasons. The location of Tyrol (Tirol) is such that its outdoors can be enjoyed all year round. During the winter months from late December until early April, skiers love the slopes of the Alps, while the same mountains in summer become the base for campers.

Q.6) What is the currency of Innsbruck, and where could I exchange foreign currency? Ans: The currency used in Austria is Euro. Foreign travellers can exchange their local currency at ATMs, exchange bureaus, and banks. Banks in Austria charge a fee for every transaction plus a small fee for every traveller's cheque.

Q.7) What is the electric current-voltage in Innsbruck? Ans: The electric current is 220V, 50Hz. You'll need a two-pin Europe adapter for appliances that operate on 110V.

Q.8) What type of clothing should I carry when travelling to Innsbruck? Ans: Depending on when you're travelling to Innsbruck, carry a lot of warm clothes during winters when temperatures can drop to -10°C (50°F) . Also, carry winter accessories such as gloves, caps, and appropriate shoes. During summers and rains, bring along rain gear and clothing to keep you cool.

Q.9) What are the tipping practices followed in Innsbruck? Ans: In Austria, restaurants include tax and service charges in their bills, but it is customary to round up the total while paying. Taxi drivers receive 10% of the meter fare, while bell porters receive €1 per bag.

Q.10) What is the Time Zone of Innsbruck? Ans: The Standard Time Zone for Innsbruck is CET (UTC+1) . Daylight saving time during summers is CEST (UTC+2) hours. The time zone abbreviation is CET - Central European Time.

Q.11) What are the visa requirements for Innsbruck? Ans: Please visit our Visa Requirements page for more details.

Q.12) What are the emergency numbers in Innsbruck? Ans: The emergency numbers to call for if in distress and need help.

  • Ambulance: 144
  • European emergency number: 112
  • Fire Department: 122
  • Police: 133

The ambulance (Rettung) will offer English speaking doctor. It is better to know some medical terms in German.

  • Accident - Unfall
  • Emergency- Notfall
  • Heart - Herz
  • Heart Attack- Herzanfall
  • Severe Pain - Heftige Schmerzen

Q.13) What is the country code and area code for Innsbruck? Ans: The country code of Austria is +43, while the area code is 0512.

Q.14) What are the major attractions of Innsbruck? Ans: The major attractions of Innsbruck are Goldenes Dachl, Imperial Hofburg, Hofkirche, Alpenzoo, Schloss Ambras, Bergisel Ski Jump, Tyrolean State Museum, Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum, Stadtturm and Triumphpforte.

Q.15) What are the Important Phrases in German while conversing with locals? Ans: Learning a few phrases in German is always helpful, especially when you have to converse with the locals at restaurants, taxi stands, hotels, markets and during emergencies.

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Innsbruck, Austria

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.

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Best Hotels in Innsbruck

  • Best Things to Do in Innsbruck

Best Restaurants in Innsbruck

Best time to visit, how to get there.

  • How to Get Around

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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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Hotel Leipziger Hof

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. 

Best Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler

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.”

Hotel Innsbruck

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

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.”

George Pachantouris/Getty Images

Best Things to Do in Innsbruck 

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.”

Stroll through the Old Town.

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.

Visit Schloss Ambras Innsbruck. 

“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. 

Take a cable car up the mountains. 

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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die Wilderin

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. 

Stiftskeller

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.

Trattoria & Pizzeria "Da Rocco"

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. 

Restaurant Oniriq

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. 

Cavan Images/Henn Photography/Getty Images

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).

How to Get Around 

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.

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Nestled in the Alps and encircled by ski resorts, Innsbruck is a compact city cradled by towering mountains. It has a rich history: Maximilian I based his imperial court here in the 1490s, placing the city at the heart of European politics for a century and a half. This combination of historical pedigree and proximity to the mountains has put Innsbruck firmly on the tourist trail.

Domplatz and the Hofburg

The hofkirche and volkskunstmuseum, hungerburg plateau, landesmuseum ferdinandeum, maria-theresien-strasse, schloss ambras, skiing and other activities, tailor-made travel itineraries for austria, created by local experts.

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Discover 'The Sound of Music' in Salzburg, swim in the lake at Zell am See, go hiking in the mountains of Kitzbühel, and get to know the world's most famous castle Neuschwanstein in Bavaria. Start and end to the tour is Munich and you can easily extend your days here.

Standing on Domplatz, the ostentatious Domkirche St Jakob (Mon–Sat 10.15am–6.30/7.30pm, Sun 12.30–6.30/7.30pm) is home to a valuable Madonna and Child by German master Lucas Cranach the Elder, although it’s buried in the fussy Baroque detail of the altar.

The adjacent Hofburg , entered around the corner, has late medieval roots but was remodelled in the eighteenth century. Its Rococo state apartments are crammed with opulent furniture (daily 9am–5pm; €9).

At the head of Rennweg is the Hofkirche (Mon–Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 12.30–5pm; €7), which contains the imposing (but empty) mausoleum of Emperor Maximilian . This extraordinary project was originally envisaged as a series of 40 larger-than-life statues, 100 statuettes and 32 busts of Roman emperors, but in the end only 28 of the statues were completed.

Housed in the same complex, the Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum (daily 9am–5pm; €11 including entry to Hofkirche and Landesmuseum), features a huge collection of folk art and objects including re-creations of traditional wood-panelled Tyrolean interiors.

A good starting point for hikes is the Nordpark , on the slopes of the Nordkette range, accessible from the swish Hungerburgbahn cable railway. Looking like a funky spaceship, the Zaha Hadid-designed Congress station is opposite the Hofgarten; take it to Hungerburg, then continue on a two-stage sequence of cable cars to just below the summit (daily 8.30am–5pm, Fri also 6–11.30pm; €27.20 return). The rewards are stupendous views of the high Alps and access to all sorts of hikes.

A short walk south, the Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum , Museumstr. 15 (Tues–Sun 9am–5pm; €11, including Hofkirche and Volkskunstmuseum), contains one of the best collections of Gothic paintings in Austria; most originate from the churches of the South Tyrol (now in Italy).

Innsbruck’s main artery is Maria-Theresien-Strasse , famed for the view north towards the great Nordkette, the mountain range that dominates the city. At its southern end the triumphal arch, Triumphpforte , was built for the marriage of Maria Theresa’s son Leopold in 1756. Halfway along, the Annasäule , a column supporting a statue of the Virgin, commemorates the retreat of the Bavarians, who had been menacing Tyrol in 1703. Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse leads on into the centre, opening out into a plaza lined with arcaded medieval buildings. At the plaza’s southern end is the Goldenes Dachl , or “Golden Roof” (though the tiles are really copper), built in the 1490s to cover an oriel window from which the court of Emperor Maximilian could observe the square below. The Goldenes Dachl Museum (May–Sept daily 10am–5pm; Oct & Dec–April Tues–Sun 10am–5pm; €4.80) has engrossing displays on the city’s history, though it offers only a brief glimpse of the balcony.

Set in attractive grounds 2km southeast of the centre, Schloss Ambras (daily 10am–5pm, closed Nov; €10; tram #6 or bus #C from the train station) was the home of Archduke Ferdinand of Tyrol. It features the impressive Spanish Hall, built from 1569–71, and exhibitions of armour and curios amassed from around the globe. Don’t miss the inner courtyard covered in sixteenth-century frescoes, including depictions of the triumph of Bacchus.

Innsbruck is great for outdoor activities; the tourist office has a wide range of brochures. Of Innsbruck’s ski areas the closest to the city is Nordpark , accessible via the Hungerburgbahn, with its fabulous panoramas, snow park for skiers and snowboarders and taxing expert-level runs. The other ski areas – including the Patscherkofel, Axamer Lizum, Glungezer, Muttereralm, Schlick 2000, Kühtai and Rangger Köpfl. – are all on the opposite, southern, side of the valley and offer mellower terrain ideal for relaxed, wide-turn skiing. At Stubai Gletscher glacier skiing is possible from October to June.

In winter, lift passes cover all these ski regions: the Stubaier Gletscher, for example, has day-passes for €46 (less for part of the day), while the Olympia SkiWorld pass covers the whole Innsbruck area, including ski buses from the town centre, and costs €132 for three days. Passes are available from all lift stations or the Innsbruck tourist office.

Many cycling and mountain-bike routes are accessible from central Innsbruck, though some of the trails are for experts only: for bike rental try Die Böerse , Leopoldstr 4 (Mon–Sat 9am–6/6.30pm). Innsbruck’s tourist office runs an extensive programme of free guided walks – including sunrise and night-time hikes – from late May to late October.

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Innsbruck Sightseeing: 18 Best Things to Do

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Innsbruck, the capital of Austria’s Tyrol region, really is the city for everyone.  Where else can you have lunch and shop in a charming town, enjoy iconic architecture and historic sites, then move to the top of a mountain for epic views, a leisurely afternoon coffee or a romantic dinner? This essential guide will help you plan your day (or more!) of Innsbruck sightseeing.

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What's in this Article

Where is Innsbruck?

Innsbruck, Austria, is located 165 kilometres from Munich, Germany, 185 kilometres from Salzburg and 478 kilometres from Vienna, the Austrian capital.

Map showing location of Innsbruck in Austria.

From Munich , Innsbruck is just 1 hour 30 minutes by train (services depart at least hourly), and 1 hour 50 minutes by car.  Private transfers from Munich Airport are available and Flixbus offers an hourly service with a journey time of around two and a half hours.

The fastest way to reach Innsbruck from Salzburg is by train – journey time 1 hour 50 minutes.  Hourly services operate between the two cities. Allow two hours if travelling by car.

A Vienna to Innsbruck train service operates every hour with a journey time of just over four hours. If you’re short on time, regular flights operate between Vienna and Innsbruck and take 90 minutes.

Travellers coming from Switzerland should allow 3 hours 30 minutes for the Zurich to Innsbruck train ride (services every two hours). 

18 Best Things to Do in Innsbruck Austria

From shopping to dining, and royal palaces to ski resorts, you will find many wonderful things to do in Innsbruck any time of year.

Innsbruck Old Town

Brightly painted buildings in Innsbruck Old Town.

When planning your Innsbruck sightseeing, your first port of call should be the charming Altstadt (Old Town), a small area of brightly painted medieval houses on cobblestone streets.

The main thoroughfare of the Old Town is the wide Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, which opens out into a central plaza lined with arcades. 

Here you will find countless cafes and souvenir shops as well as an Innsbruck must see attraction, the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl).

Golden Roof

The Golden Roof.

A blend of Gothic and Baroque architecture, the Innsbruck Golden Roof was built in the early 15th century to serve as a royal box for Emperor Maximilian I so he could sit in luxury and watch tournaments in the square below!  

The roof is capped with 2,657 gold-plated copper tiles and is an awesome sight.

As one of the most popular Innsbruck attractions, the square below the Golden Roof is always busy with sightseers during the day, all keen to get that postcard-worthy photograph.

We recommend you visit in the early morning or in the evening when all the day trippers have left the city. You may even find you have the square all to yourself.

Parish Cathedral St. Jakob

Inside Cathedral St Jakob in Innsbruck

Just a minute’s walk from the Innsbruck Old Town is the elaborate Parish Cathedral St. Jakob.

Based on designs by the Baroque architect Johann Jakob Herkommer, the church was rebuilt between 1717 and 1724 on the site of an earlier Gothic church. 

It is roofed with domes and has a lavish baroque interior. One of its chief treasures is a precious Madonna and Child on the main altar, painted by German master Lucas Cranach the Elder.  

A wander round this elegant church will leave you in awe as you marvel at the intricate works of art.

Triumphal Arch

The three arches of the Triumphal Arch in Innsbruck.

The Triumphal Arch – or Triumphpforte in German – is one of Innsbruck’s most iconic sights. It can be found at the southern end of Maria-Theresien Street, and features breathtaking marble friezes.

While there are famous, historic arches in various parts of Europe – such as the Arc de Triomphe in Paris or London’s Marble Arch – the Triumphal Arch Innsbruck was constructed in a Roman style. Like Marble Arch, there are three arches you can pass through here, rather than just one as at the Arc de Triomphe.

In fact, the Innsbruck arch predates the 19th century ones in London and Paris. It was built in 1765 for Empress Maria Theresa and was constructed to commemorate both her son’s wedding and the life of her husband. Each side of the arch represents either the sadness caused by the death of Francis I Stephen of Lorraine or the joy at the uniting of the Duke of Tuscany and his Spanish bride Maria Ludovica. 

The marble friezes decorating the arch are the work of Balthasar Ferdinand Moll, a famous Viennese sculptor of the Baroque era.

The Triumphal Arch and its friezes are one of the top tourist attractions in Innsbruck.

St. Anne’s Column

St. Anne's Column.

St. Anne’s Column can also be found on Maria-Theresien Street in Innsbruck. It’s named to mark where the final Bavarian troops departed from Tyrol in 1703 during the War of the Spanish Succession.

This took place on St. Anne’s Day, hence the building of the commemorative column. You can find the tall, slender column around halfway along the street when heading towards the Golden Roof.

The column is surrounded by statues of Tyrol patron saints, including of course St. Anne, and topped by a statue of the Virgin Mary. By night the column is illuminated, so it’s easy to see.

Another Innsbruck landmark not to miss is City Tower . This has an onion-shaped dome crafted from copper and is over 150 feet – or 50 metres – high. The 1400s tower is also used as an observation deck.

If you’re feeling energetic, climbing the 133 steps up the City Tower will reward you with great views over the city from the 31-metre-high viewing platform.

> Buy your ticket for Innsbruck’s City Tower here .

Maria-Theresien-Strasse

Brightly colored buildings and people walking down Maria-Theresien Strasse in Innsbruck.

Maria-Theresien Street (or Strasse) is the most iconic street in Innsbruck. Various historic landmarks of the city can be found along the length of it, including St. Anne’s Column and the Triumphal Arch, as noted above.

The city’s Baroque past is clearly evident here and the history of the thoroughfare dates back for more than seven centuries. There are plenty of ancient and magnificent buildings to see as you stroll along the length of it.

The less historic attractions of Maria-Theresien Strasse include gelato parlours, cafes, shops and a retail mall. It’s a great place to browse or to take a coffee break during your Innsbruck sightseeing. 

You can sit and people-watch at one of the lovely outdoor cafes, or admire the brightly coloured buildings as you stroll along beside the River Inn.

Imperial Palace

Exterior of the Imperial Palace Innsbruck.

For those with a fascination for all things royal, you won’t be left wondering what to do in Innsbruck.

The Imperial Palace, also known as Hofburg Innsbruck or Kaiserliche Hofburg, is one of Austria’s most significant structures. The palace is a major attraction, and was first built for Archduke Sigmund the Rich.

Incredible splendour awaits those who step inside the palace to explore. The chapel, Guard’s and Giant’s Hall, the Lorraine Room, and particularly the Empress Elisabeth Apartment, show off the great wealth of the Habsburg Dynasty.

The collection of 18th century artworks, furnishings and tapestries is unparalleled and gives visitors an authentic sense of what it was like to live in Innsbruck during that era. 

Imperial Church

The Court Church of Innsbruck is situated on the border of the historic district, and is famous as the final resting place of emperor Maximilian I. The emperor ordered the building of 40 bronze statues, but just 28 of them were ever completed.

Originally St. George’s Chapel at Wiener Neustadt Castle was intended as the emperor’s burial site, but the bronze sculptures were too heavy. Thus the Court Church was commissioned by his grandson, Ferdinand I. 

In terms of art, history and as a final resting place, the 1553 Court Church – or Hofkirche -is one of Tyrol’s most important landmarks.

Ambras Palace

Exterior of Ambras Palace.

Ambras Palace was built by Archduke Ferdinand II of Tirol in the 16th century and was his favourite residence. It is divided into a lower and an upper castle set in the remains of a medieval fortress.

The lower castle was constructed by the Archduke as a museum for his various collections, including arms, armour, art and books, all of which can still be seen today.  

The upper part of the palace houses the Habsburg’s Portrait Gallery, an awe-inspiring collection of works by some of Europe’s most famous artists.

> Check prices and buy your tickets for Schloss Ambras .

Bergisel Ski Jump

View of Innsbruck from Bergisel Ski Jump.

Towering high above the city on Bergisel Hill sits the Bergisel Ski Jump, another of the most popular Innsbruck tourist attractions.

The first ski jump was erected here in 1925 and in 1964 and 1976, the Innsbruck Ski Jump was the venue of the Winter Olympic Ski Jumping competitions. 

Even if you’re not into extreme sports like ski jumping (and I can’t blame you!), it’s worth taking the lift to the top of the tower for fantastic views over the city of Innsbruck.

If you would like to partake in some winter sports, Olympiaworld at Igls allows visitors the chance to have a go at ice skating and bobsledding.

Ski Resorts Near Innsbruck

If you are visiting Innsbruck Austria in winter, the alps are just a 25-minute funicular ride from Innsbruck’s city centre. Innsbruck skiing is among the best in the world.

Ski resorts in and around Innsbruck cater to everyone from beginners to experts, and with skis, boots and all the other necessary equipment available for hire, you won’t have to carry your gear all the way from home.  

Snow-covered ski lift at Kitzbuhel.

Here are some of the best ski resorts near Innsbruck:

  • Nordkette: Located just a short tram ride from the center of Innsbruck, Nordkette offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, with a variety of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
  • Axamer Lizum: Just a 20-minute drive from Innsbruck, this Innsbruck ski resort is a great option for intermediate and advanced skiers. Axamer Lizum hosted the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics and offers over 40 kilometers of ski runs.
  • Kühtai: About 45 minutes from Innsbruck, Kühtai is a high-altitude resort that’s popular for its reliable snow conditions. With over 44 kilometers of runs, it’s a great option for skiers of all levels.
  • Patscherkofel: Located just south of Innsbruck, Patscherkofel is a smaller resort with around 18 kilometers of runs. It’s a great option for families and beginners, with gentle slopes and plenty of ski schools.
  • Stubai Glacier: About an hour’s drive from Innsbruck, Stubai Glacier is a year-round skiing destination that offers over 100 kilometers of runs and dramatic views. It’s a popular choice for advanced skiers due to its challenging terrain and off-piste opportunities. 
  • Kitzbuhel: One of Austria’s premier ski resorts and towns is located just about midway between Salzburg and Innsbruck. With world-class skiing and ski lifts extending from the centre of town, Kitzbϋhel is another great choice for a ski vacation.

There are numerous rustic inns and mountain huts dotted across this unique Tyrolean region where you will receive a warm and hospitable welcome in the cold of an Innsbruck winter.

Innsbruck Christmas Market

Huge Christmas tree at Innsbruck Christmas market at night.

If you’re planning an Innsbruck Christmas, festive markets can be found below the Golden Roof and at Marktplatz alongside the River Inn. 

You can also join a two-hour Innsbruck Christmas tour to learn about Austrian traditions and customs, and explore the beautifully decorated streets of the Old Town with a professional, knowledgeable guide.

> Check prices and details for the Innsbruck Magical Christmas Tour .

Further reading: Best Places to Spend Christmas in Austria

Hungerburg and Alpenzoo

Funicular that connects Innsbruck to Alpenzoo.

If you are visiting Innsbruck with kids, head to Hungerburg, regarded as the Innsbruck mountain, where you’ll find Europe’s highest zoo, the Alpenzoo.

The Alpine Zoo is home to a large collection of alpine creatures, including bears and ibexes, and makes a great day out for the whole family.  

To get to Alpenzoo Innsbruck , you can walk up the hill to the zoo – just 20 minutes from the city centre – or take the Hungerburgbahn (funicular railway), which the kids are sure to love.

> Check details and prices for Alpenzoo.

You can take the Innsbruck cable car and continue on from Hungerburg to Nordkette , which is known as Top of Innsbruck. At 2,256 metres above sea level, you are guaranteed fantastic 360° views over the city and the mountains.

> Check details and ticket prices to Nordkette.

Tyrolean Folk Evening

Another fun thing for the whole family to do is to attend a Tyrolean Folk Show . Be entertained by traditional Tyrolean folk music, dancing and yodelling, whilst enjoying a delicious three-course meal.

> Check prices and details for the Tyrolean Folk Show.

Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Giant face with crystal eyes and waterfall mouth at Swarovski Crystal Worlds.

Another of the most popular Innsbruck things to do is to visit the Swarovski Crystal Worlds at Wattens, just 10 kilometres from Innsbruck. This multi-media museum features all things crystal and is set in a beautiful park.  

Here you can discover the history of Swarovski crystal, enjoy lunch or a coffee and then shop to your heart’s content in the large gift shop which stocks hundreds of beautiful Swarovski pieces, from jewellery to homewares and collectibles.

There’s a great playground for kids, too.

> Check prices for entry to Swarovski Crystal Worlds and transfers from Innsbruck .

Private Guided Tours

innsbruck tourist information office

It’s easy to visit Innsbruck’s many attractions on your own, but if you’d like to delve deeper into the city’s history and really get to feel its heartbeat, booking a private guided tour is a great idea.

A knowledgeable, local guide can customise a tour to your interests and give you all their tips to make the most of your visit to Innsbruck.

More Information About Innsbruck Austria

The Innsbruck Tourist Office can provide more information on all of the sights and activities mentioned above. The office is located at Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 21 (near the Golden Roof) and is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 4.30pm.

To help you plan what to see in Innsbruck before you arrive, you can browse an interactive Innsbruck tourist map here . 

Getting around Innsbruck is easy with the Innsbruck City Card . This all-in-one ticket includes public transportation and one time entry to many of the city’s museums and attractions, as well as discounts to many other attractions.

> Check details about the Innsbruck City Card .

Brightly colored buildings along the River Inn.

If you are looking for Innsbruck day trips and prefer to take an organised tour, options are available from both Munich and Salzburg:

  • This Munich to Innsbruck day trip is a good choice. 
  • You can join a private day trip from Salzburg to Innsbruck .

If you’d prefer a break from the city, there are lots of alpine trails and crystal clear lakes close to town. While Innsbruck is popular for skiing, there are also plenty of things to do in Innsbruck in summer. The beautiful lakes and hiking trails make great day trips from Innsbruck.

Where to Stay in Innsbruck

Whatever your budget, there are Innsbruck hotels and accommodation to suit every traveller.  Three of the most popular hotels in Innsbruck are:

Grand Hotel Europa 5*

The five-star Grand Hotel Europa dates back to 1869. It’s centrally located on Sudtiroler Platz, and is around seven minutes’ walk from Maria-Theresien-Strasse in the centre of historic Innsbruck.

The main train station is easily accessible from the hotel and it’s just a ten minute drive to the airport. 

Grand Hotel Europa offers 122 Italian-style rooms with modern amenities like high speed WiFi, a mini bar and a small fridge.

The hotel also offers a wealth of facilities including a gym, outdoor pool, snack bar and a wellness centre with sauna. There is also a bar, lounge and restaurant on site. 

> Check current prices and book your stay at Grand Hotel Europa.

Street in Innsbruck Old Town.

BW Goldener Adler 4*

Located just a one minute walk from the famous Golden Roof, the four star Best Western Plus Goldener Adler in Innsbruck is a comfortable and luxurious place to stay. It’s ideal for those who want to explore the historic heart of the city.

While the building itself is notable, inside you’ll find elegantly styled rooms combining classic and modern touches. Enjoy cable TV, complimentary WiFi and a well-equipped gym.

The centrally located hotel has a bar and restaurant serving Tyrolean and international dishes. Outdoor dining is available during the warmer months. 

> Check current prices and book your stay at BW Goldener Adler.

Weiner schnitzel on a plate.

Hotel Innsbruck 4*

This Innsbruck accommodation is also a centrally-located, four star property. Located by the river, it’s perfect for anyone who wants to discover the historic Old Town district. 

The hotel is more modern in style, so it suits those seeking a more contemporary property in the Austrian city.

Hotel Innsbruck offers a range of air-conditioned accommodation, including a selection of single, double, triple and family rooms. All have flatscreen TVs.

The spa at the hotel is a key feature and includes an adults-only naturist zone. A large heated swimming pool, a range of saunas and a sunny terrace make this a relaxing place to stay in the heart of the city. 

> Check current prices and book your stay at Hotel Innsbruck.

The Golden Roof and the plaza below.

For more, browse ratings and current prices for Innsbruck hotels and apartments on Booking.com .

I hope this list of Innsbruck sightseeing and tourist attractions has helped you plan your visit. This beautiful city, with its picturesque location, should definitely be included in your Austrian holiday itinerary. 

Regardless of what time of year you plan to visit Innsbruck, I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this beautiful city just as I have.

For more Austria travel inspiration, read our Austria travel guide .

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Carolyn's love affair with Europe started on her first visit over 30 years ago and it continues, just as strong, today. She visits Europe annually and enjoys writing about her discoveries and sharing her tips with fellow travellers.

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Innsbruck: A City Break Guide to the Heart of the Alps

  • March 23, 2023

Nick Harvey

  • Travel Guide Austria

Table of Contents

Innsbruck: A City Break Guide

Introduction to innsbruck.

Innsbruck, Austria, a picturesque city in the middle of the Austrian Alps, welcomes visitors with a special blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. This lovely city serves as the capital of Tyrol and is home to a wide variety of tourist attractions, from world-class skiing and snowboarding to beautiful Alpine scenery. This guide will help you make the most of your time in Innsbruck by showing you the best attractions and activities the city has to offer. Let’s get started!

A Glimpse into Innsbruck's Charm

A glimpse into innsbruck's past.

Innsbruck’s history dates back to the Roman era when it served as a strategic military outpost. However, the city truly flourished during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance under the rule of the Habsburgs, who transformed Innsbruck into a cultural and political centre. The iconic Golden Roof, constructed for Emperor Maximilian I, symbolises the city’s historical significance. Throughout the centuries, Innsbruck has evolved, preserving its rich heritage while adapting to modern times.

Innsbruck: A Modern Alpine Gem

Today, Innsbruck seamlessly blends the old with the new, offering a diverse array of attractions and experiences. Visitors can explore the city’s historical landmarks, such as the Imperial Palace and St. Jacob’s Cathedral, or enjoy contemporary marvels like the Bergisel Ski Jump and Swarovski Crystal Worlds. As the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck serves as an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts, providing easy access to skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking adventures. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, showcased through museums, galleries, and traditional Tyrolean cuisine, further enhances the appeal of this modern Alpine gem.

5 Key Takeaways

Historical charm and modern attractions : Innsbruck offers a unique blend of history and modernity, with attractions ranging from the iconic Golden Roof and Imperial Palace to Swarovski Crystal Worlds and the Bergisel Ski Jump.

Natural wonders and outdoor activities : Surrounded by the stunning Austrian Alps, Innsbruck provides easy access to the Nordkette Mountains, Alpenzoo, and a wide array of outdoor pursuits, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking.

Rich cultural experiences : Innsbruck’s vibrant culture is showcased through its museums, such as the Tyrolean State Museum and Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, as well as local markets and traditional Tyrolean cuisine.

Efficient public transportation and diverse accommodation : The city’s compact size and efficient public transport system, including the Innsbruck Card, make it easy to explore. A wide range of accommodation options caters to different budgets and preferences.

Year-round destination : Innsbruck is an ideal city break destination throughout the year, with each season offering unique experiences, from skiing in winter to hiking in mild spring and summer weather, and enjoying the picturesque autumn foliage.

The Charm of Old Town

Innsbruck’s Old Town, or Altstadt, is a delightful mix of colourful, centuries-old buildings, and narrow, winding streets, which transport you back in time. Here are a few iconic attractions you won’t want to miss:

Golden Roof

Built in the 16th century, the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) is Innsbruck’s most famous landmark. This ornate balcony boasts a roof of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles, which shimmer in the sun. The Golden Roof was constructed to celebrate the wedding of Emperor Maximilian I and offers stunning views of the Old Town.

Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace (Hofburg) is a striking example of Baroque architecture and was once the residence of the Habsburg emperors. A tour of the palace takes you through opulent state rooms, the imperial apartments, and an impressive art collection. For up-to-date ticket prices, visit the official website .

St. Anne's Column

Located in the heart of Innsbruck’s Old Town, St. Anne’s Column (Annasäule) is an elegant marble monument, erected in 1706 to commemorate the withdrawal of Bavarian troops. The column is topped by a statue of the Virgin Mary and is surrounded by four saints, representing the city’s protection.

The Modern Side of Innsbruck

Innsbruck’s contemporary attractions perfectly complement its historical charm. Some of the top modern sights include:

Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Just a short drive from Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Swarovski Kristallwelten) is a dazzling experience for all ages. This unique attraction combines art, architecture, and crystal in a series of interactive installations and exhibits. For the latest ticket prices and information, visit their official website .

Bergisel Ski Jump

The Bergisel Ski Jump is an iconic modern structure that towers above Innsbruck, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, this impressive ski jump is used for international competitions and also features a restaurant and viewing platform at the top. You can find more information and ticket prices on the official website .

Natural Wonders Around Innsbruck

Innsbruck is surrounded by stunning Alpine landscapes, making it an ideal base for exploring the great outdoors. Some of the top natural attractions include:

Nordkette Mountains

Easily accessible from the city centre, the Nordkette Mountains offer breathtaking views and a range of outdoor activities. Take the Nordkette Cable Car for a scenic ride to the summit, where you’ll find hiking trails, a panoramic viewing platform, and the stylish Restaurant Seegrube. Visit the Nordkette website for more information.

Innsbruck’s Alpenzoo is a unique alpine zoo that focuses on the conservation of native species. Perched on a hillside overlooking the city, this zoo is home to over 2,000 animals representing 150 species, including ibex, brown bears, and golden eagles. Check the Alpenzoo website for up-to-date ticket prices and opening hours.

Outdoor Activities

Innsbruck is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a wealth of activities on offer all year round:

Skiing and Snowboarding

Innsbruck is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, with several ski resorts in close proximity to the city. The popular Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck features nine ski areas, catering to all skill levels. For more information on ski passes and resorts, visit the Innsbruck Tourism website .

The area around Innsbruck offers numerous hiking trails, ranging from leisurely walks to challenging mountain treks. Some popular routes include the Goetheweg, Zirbenweg, and the Innsbruck Almenweg. The Innsbruck Tourism website provides details on various hiking trails and maps.

Related Articles: Austria’s Best Hikes

Mountain Biking

Innsbruck and its surroundings offer a variety of mountain biking trails for all skill levels. Whether you prefer leisurely rides or challenging singletrack, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. Check out the Innsbruck Tourism website for trail maps and information.

Cultural Experiences

Innsbruck’s rich history and vibrant culture are reflected in its many museums and galleries:

Tyrolean State Museum

The Tyrolean State Museum (Tiroler Landesmuseum) showcases the history, art, and culture of Tyrol through a diverse collection of exhibits. Highlights include the prehistoric collection, medieval art, and the impressive Kuntskammer, a treasure trove of precious items. Visit the museum’s website for admission prices and opening hours.

Tyrolean Folk Art Museum

Adjacent to the Imperial Palace, the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum (Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum) offers a fascinating insight into the region’s traditional crafts, costumes, and customs. This museum houses an extensive collection of items such as woodcarvings, religious artifacts, and textiles, providing a glimpse into Tyrolean life through the ages. For more information on opening hours and ticket prices, visit the museum’s website .

Culinary Delights

Innsbruck’s culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Tyrolean cuisine and international flavours. Here are some food experiences you won’t want to miss:

Traditional Tyrolean Cuisine

Sample authentic Tyrolean dishes at local restaurants and gastropubs, such as Tiroler Gröstl (a hearty mix of potatoes, onions, and bacon), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), and Knödel (dumplings). For a memorable dining experience, visit one of Innsbruck’s historic inns, like the Goldenes Adler or Weisses Rössl.

Local Markets

Innsbruck’s local markets offer a taste of regional specialties and fresh produce. The bustling Marktplatz is a great place to sample local cheese, cured meats, and freshly baked bread. If you’re visiting in December, don’t miss the city’s enchanting Christmas markets, where you can enjoy festive treats like Glühwein (mulled wine) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies).

Accommodation Options

Innsbruck offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Choose from charming boutique hotels in the Old Town, such as the Hotel Schwarzer Adler or Best Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler, or opt for modern luxury at the AC Hotel by Marriott Innsbruck. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option, consider staying in one of the city’s guesthouses or hostels.

Accommodation can be found at Booking.com

Getting Around Innsbruck

Innsbruck’s compact size and efficient public transportation system make it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. The Innsbruck Card, available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, offers unlimited use of public transportation, as well as free or discounted entry to many attractions. For more information on the Innsbruck Card and public transportation, visit the Innsbruck Tourism website .

Innsbruck is best explored on foot!

When to Visit

Innsbruck is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, while spring and summer bring mild weather, ideal for hiking and exploring the city. Autumn offers spectacular fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit.

Related articles: Best time to visit Austria

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • How far is Innsbruck from Vienna? Innsbruck is approximately 480 km west of Vienna. The journey by train takes around 4 to 5 hours, while driving takes about 5 to 6 hours.
  • What language is spoken in Innsbruck? German is the official language in Innsbruck. However, many locals also speak English, particularly in tourist areas.
  • Is Innsbruck a good destination for families? Yes, Innsbruck is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities and attractions suitable for all ages, including the Alpenzoo, Swarovski Crystal Worlds, and various outdoor adventures like hiking and skiing.
  • What is the currency in Innsbruck? The currency in Innsbruck is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and at local markets.
  • What is the best way to get from Innsbruck Airport to the city centre? The best way to reach the city centre from Innsbruck Airport is by taxi or public bus. Taxis are available outside the terminal, and the journey takes about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take bus line F, which connects the airport to the city centre and runs every 15 minutes during peak hours.

Recommended Tours

Final thoughts.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Austrian Mountains, Innsbruck is an enthralling city that combines the charm of Old World Europe with modern attractions. Innsbruck is an ideal city break location since it has so much to offer: history, culture, and a wide variety of outdoor pursuits.

Nick Harvey

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A Complete Travel Guide to Innsbruck, Austria: 12 Best Things to Do in the Charming Old City

A Complete Travel Guide to Innsbruck, Austria: 12 Best Things to Do in the Charming Old City

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

Why visit Innsbruck

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.

Innsbruck by the river with mountain views

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.

Victoria at Nordkette

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) .

Morning Innsbruck

Luxury: AC Hotel by Marriott Innsbruck

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) .

AC Hotel by Marriott

Value for money: Nala Individuellhotel

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) .

Nala Individuellhotel

Budget: Haidegger Appartements

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) .

Haidegger Appartements

Here are the 12 best things to do in Innsbruck, Austria.

  • The Golden Roof
  • Maria-Theresien Strasse
  • Triumphal Arch
  • Imperial Palace
  • Tyrol Panorama Museum
  • Other museums in Innsbruck
  • Bergisel Ski Jump
  • Parks and walks
  • Stubai Valley

1. Old Town (Altstadt)

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 Old Town of Innsbruck

2. The Golden Roof

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.

Golden Roof

3. Maria-Theresien-Strasse

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.

Maria-Theresien-Straße

4. Triumphal Arch

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 Triumphal Arch in Innsbruck with the Nordkette Range behind it

5. Imperial Palace

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 !)

Imperial Palace

6. Tyrol Panorama Museum

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.

Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting

7. Other museums in Innsbruck

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:

  • Ambras Castle  is a Renaissance castle showcasing past decadence, located on a hill about an hour of walking or a 20-minute tram ride from the Old Town.
  • In  The Audioversum , it’s all about science and wonder. The interactive museum lets guests experiment with new ways of listening.
  • Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art  is just that – a museum collecting and showcasing the most important cultural treasures from Tyrol. It’s considered one of the finest heritage museums with a regional focus in Europe.
  • For glitter, head to  Swarowski World . Several crystal rooms showcase different artists’ interpretations. The Giant at the entrance is a sort of landmark for the attractions of Innsbruck.

innsbruck tourist information office

8. Nordkette

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) .

Nordkette views

9. Bergisel Ski Jump

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.

The Bergisel Ski Jump seen from below

10. Parks and walks

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.

River Inn

11. Churches

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 .

Wilten Abbey Basilica

The Innsbruck City Card

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) .

12. Stubai Valley

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 .

Alex hiking Stubai

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 .

Here are our 4 favourite places to eat in Innsbruck:

  • Green Flamingo  – 100% vegan, 100% tasty.
  • Verenas  – Breakfast, vegan cakes & coffee.
  • Vapiano  – Italian dining with vegan options.
  • Cigköftem  – All-vegetarian Turkish snacks.

Read more about where to eat in Innsbruck in our vegan eating guide here  for the best restaurants and cafés.

innsbruck tourist information office

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.

Waling in Innsbruck

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.

Street parking Innsbruck

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.

  • Summer  (high season): July & August.
  • Autumn  (low season): September & October.
  • Winter  (high season): November, December, January, February, March & April.
  • Spring  (low season): May & June.

Innsbruck in autumn foliage

  • Travel in low season  (September, October, May and June). Accommodation prices are lower, offers might be had and there are fewer tourists.
  • Book your hotel well in advance . Even in the low season, the best accommodation offers tend to get snatched up quickly.
  • Consider renting a small studio apartment with a kitchen . Eating out in Innsbruck is delicious but can also quickly eat into your budget.
  • Drink tap water . Not only is it better for the planet, it’s also better for your wallet. The tap water in Innsbruck is  perfectly safe . So bring a refillable bottle.
  • Walk, walk and walk some more . Walking around Innsbruck is free, easy and good for your soul. You’ll find many hidden gems along your path.
  • Consider getting the Innsbruck Card  if you intend to visit more than one attraction and use public transport to get around. The savings  can  be considerable.
  • Travel insurance (adlink) . Never travel without it!
  • A good  camera  –  here’s a guide to the gear we use .
  • Sunscreen (adlink) . Even with cold air, the sun can be strong at altitude. Especially if it’s reflected in the snow.
  • A refillable water bottle  and  snacks  for active excursions.
  • Sturdy hiking shoes .

innsbruck tourist information office

To minimise your impact during your visit, follow these guidelines:

  • Avoid single-use plastics , including straws.
  • Dispose of waste properly .
  • Bring your own drinking water  in a refillable bottle.
  • Take only photos, leave only footprints . Let everything stay in its natural place. No stone-throwing or stacking.
  • Be considerate of other visitors .
  • Respect wildlife.

Thanks for reading

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.

Pin for later:

Everything you need to know about Innsbruck including what to do, when to visit, where to eat and where to stay

Our favourite travel resources:

  • Booking.com for cheap hotels.
  • Momondo for the best flight deals.
  • SafetyWing for travel insurance. We also like World Nomads and True Traveller . All three compared here .

Our camera gear:

  • Panasonic GH5 . Used for all of our photos and videos.
  • DJI Mavic 2 Pro . Best drone out there!
  • Sirui Tripod . Lightweight and strong.
  • See all of our camera gear here .

Related articles:

  • Why You Shouldn’t Pick Up Baby Sea Turtles - They’re the cutest. But here’s why you should (probably) leave them alone
  • A Vegan Eating Guide to Innsbruck in Austria: The Best Restaurants & Cafés - Everything you need to know about finding the most delicious vegan and vegetarian places in the Tyrolean capital
  • Autumn in Tyrol, Austria: Hiking, Skiing & Other Amazing Things to Do in Low Season - We visited Innsbruck and the Stubai Valley in October and loved it
  • Review of Hotel Sonnenburg in Austria: Exclusive Comfort at 1,650 Metres - We review our stay at Hotel Sonnenburg in Lech am Arlberg, Vorarlberg in Austria
  • The Best Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads and Long-Term Travellers (That You Can Buy On the Road) - We review and compare three different travel insurances that you can buy on the go

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The ultimate 3 days in innsbruck itinerary: best things in do in innsbruck, austria.

Looking for the perfect 3 days in Innsbruck itinerary? I've got you! Click to read the best things to do in Innsbruck and start planning your trip!

Disclosure :  This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support. 

When I told people that I would be in Western Austria for a conference, most told me that I had to visit the country’s most popular cities for tourists: Vienna and Salzburg. But after seeing beautiful photos of Innsbruck, I knew I had to visit. This 3 days in Innsbruck itinerary is the best way to see one of Austria’s charming towns. 

If you’re wondering if Innsbruck is worth visiting , I can say it absolutely is! It’s small enough to see the best attractions in Innsbruck in a few days but large enough that there’s no shortage of things to do.

It’s affordable and easy to get around, and it’s a little off the beaten path – all with great scenic views of the Alps. It doesn’t get much better than that! 

Table of Contents

Arrival in Innsbruck / How to Get to Innsbruck

Innsbruck is located in Western Austria and is easy to get to from just about anywhere in Europe. 

Innsbruck has an international airport located just 10 minutes from the center of town. I definitely recommend booking flights into Innsbruck if you’re already in Europe – it’s super easy to catch a bus or taxi into town from here. Best of all, it’s a smallish airport, so check-in is fast and easy when it’s time to leave. Psst: Book your airport transfer ahead of time here . 

It’s also easy to get to Innsbruck by flying into a larger international airport like Munich or Salzburg. Getting to Innsbruck from Munich  or Salzburg  takes about 2 hours by train once you get from the airport to the main train station in either city. This is the best option if you’re coming from the United States, as well. 

Getting to Innsbruck by train is easy from just about anywhere in Europe. Innsbruck is a major hub with lots of connections from Munich, Vienna, Salzburg, Venice, and Zurich, but the travel time is going to vary a lot depending on where you start and what route you take.

When booking a train to Innsbruck, don’t be so quick to book the fastest option. The scenic route from Munich winds through the Alps and passes by a ton of storybook towns. It’s absolutely gorgeous and well worth the extra time.

Pro Tip: I recommend buying tickets ahead of time using Omio . They get more expensive the more you procrastinate and Omio shows you all the route options available via various rail companies. 

Best Time to Visit Innsbruck 

Innsbruck is a well-known destination for winter sports (it hosted the Winter Olympics twice – in 1964 and 1976!), and if skiing is your jam, there are over 301 miles of trail through the Alps.

I’m not a huge fan of the cold though, so I prefer the warmer weather between May and September. There’s still going to be snow on some of the peaks, and I’m not sure I’d call it warm even in the middle of summer, but it’s a good time to get out and hike those trails and admire the pretty flowers that are everywhere!

Another great time to visit is from late November to December . Though I don’t celebrate Christmas, there’s something even more magical about Innsbruck all decked out for the holiday season. Plus, Innsbruck has some of the most charming Christmas markets anywhere. Christmas markets in Europe – particularly Austria and Germany – are worth being a little cold for.

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Innsbruck Transportation: How to get around Innsbruck

My favorite way to explore Innsbruck is on foot. You really get a good feel for the old city that way, plus you can pop in and out of shops and cafes and museums as you want. That said, if you want to make the most of your 3 days in Innsbruck Austria, it’ll help to get familiar with the bus and tram system .

If you purchase the Innsbruck card , most of the tram routes will be included, but when in doubt, just ask. There’s a tourist information office in the city center where you can buy the card, get transportation maps, and get help with figuring out the bus and tram routes.

Another fun option for transportation in Innsbruck is bike rental. A 3-hour city bike rental is included in the cost of the Innsbruck card so if you’re a cyclist, this can be a really fun way to get a sense of what to see in Innsbruck on your first day. And if you like biking around, there are several places around town to rent bikes for longer.

Should I get an Innsbruck Card?

There’s a lot to love about Innsbruck, but one unexpected highlight is how easy planning is with the Innsbruck Card . I don’t always think cards like this are worth it, but the Innsbruck card covers almost all of the best places to visit in Innsbruck, Austria.

The prices and attractions are subject to change, so be sure to verify that it makes sense before you purchase one. It comes in options for 24 hours, 48 hours, and 72 hours in Innsbruck. I got the 72 hour Innsbruck card and it covered all the attractions I visited. It gave me free admission to museums, the cable cars to Nordkette Mountain, and public transportation. Talk about a bargain!

I can’t recommend it enough and every attraction in this Innsbruck itinerary is included on the Innsbruck card. Purchase it here .

3 days in Innsbruck Itinerary: Best Things to Do in Innsbruck

There are so many Innsbruck attractions that it can feel overwhelming to plan what to do in Innsbruck in 3 days. But don’t worry – I’ve got you. This Innsbruck 3 day itinerary will help you see all the top attractions in Innsbruck without feeling rushed.

Innsbruck Itinerary: Day 1 in Innsbruck

Breakfast at strudel-cafe kroell.

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I typically eat breakfast at my hotel if they provide it, but you can’t go wrong by starting your Innsbruck trip with breakfast at the incredible Strudel-Cafe Kroell .

This café specializes in strudels , and I definitely won’t judge you for eating their famous apple strudel for breakfast! They’ve also got a range of savory strudels – the vegetarian strudel might actually be better than the apple version – plus a full breakfast menu.

Walk the Streets of Alstadt von Innsburg (Old Town)

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Innsbruck’s Old Town is a pedestrian-only area of cobblestone streets and medieval buildings . This part of the city is over 500 years old and it’s the place to start your visit to one of the best cities in Austria. 

While walking through Old Town, don’t miss Maria Theresien Strasse . Of all the pedestrian streets in Old Town, Maria Theresian Strasse is the most breathtaking. It’s lined with gorgeous buildings and incredible views. It can get a little crowded at times and a lot of the shops are familiar chains, but there’s a really vibrant atmosphere here that will help you get a feel for what Innsbruck is all about.

Visit the Golden Roof

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The Golden Roof is part of Old Town, but it’s one of the most unique things to see in Innsbruck and is considered an attraction all on its own. Built by Emperor Maximillian, it gets its name from the nearly 2,700 copper tiles that adorn the roof.

Inside is a small interactive museum about Austria that won’t take a ton of time and gives a good overview of the area. Even if you’re not into museums, it’s a really cool sight from the outside. 

Catch the View from City Tower (Stadtturm)

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Now that you’ve gotten acquainted with Innsbruck from the ground, it’s time to take in the views from above . A relatively short climb of 148 steps will take you to the top of City Tower , and it’s well worth it once you get to the viewing deck. It’s so beautiful from up there, it’s hard to believe it’s real! Bonus: it’s a 2-minute walk from The Golden Roof.

Lunch at Gasthof Weisses Rossl

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Don’t miss out on the local fare at Gasthof Weisses Ross ! T heir pancakes with plum sauce are a popular menu item, but everything here is a classic Tyrolean dish that you’ll be glad you tried. 

Learn about the History of Bells at Grassmayr Bell Foundry 

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After lunch, take a short stroll (or public transport) to the Grassmayr Bell Foundry . It’s a really unusual museum about the history of bells (which is actually a lot cooler than it sounds). They’ve been making bells here since 1599 . Today, you can find Grassmayr Bells in over 100 countries. Wild!

The “tour” is more of a self-guided, interactive experience, but there’s always someone available to answer any of your questions. The museum is small, but trust me – it’s worth the visit! 

Tour the Hofburg

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The Hofburg, also known as the Imperial Palace , is one of Austria’s most famous landmarks and a stunningly gorgeous palace . It takes about 1-2 hours to tour on your own or with an audio guide, which I recommend for anyone who isn’t familiar with Austrian history.

The painted ceilings were some of my favorite sights inside the palace – at least they were until I saw the Silver Chapel. Definitely don’t miss that!

When you leave, be sure to stop by the Hofkirche (Court Church). It’s a really unique church full of art and lined with a ton of massive statues. It might actually be more impressive than the palace. Plus, you can take pictures here (unlike inside the Hofburg). It’s interesting and definitely photo-worthy.

Dinner at Café Sacher

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There are a lot of great regional foods to try in Innsbruck, but if there’s one thing you can’t leave without trying, it’s got to be a piece of Sacher Torte. And where better to have one than at Café Sacher Innsbruck , the place the cake was created .

Café Sacher also has a full menu of delicious Austrian food. I recommend the Rindsgulasch – a Hungarian-style goulash served with bread dumplings.

Innsbruck Itinerary: Day 2 in Innsbruck

Explore nordkette mountain.

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Nordkette Mountain is a great half-day trip, and the journey there is half the fun. There’s a funicular across from Innsbruck Congress that will take you to the Hungerburg stop. From there, you’ll catch the first of two cable cars , first to Seegrube and then to Hafelekar. It takes about 45 minutes each way but it’s a really fun way to travel.

Since I visited in October, I witnessed the weather change from autumn to winter as we made our way up. So pretty! If you aren’t getting the Innsbruck Card, you can get your cable car ticket ahead of time here .

There are a few stops on the way that you might want to take advantage of (either going or coming):

  • Alpenzoo : I don’t usually love zoos. I’d rather see animals out in nature. But the Alpenzoo is unique in that it showcases Alpine animals in a somewhat realistic environment. They even have viewing windows that allow you to see the animals if they’re snuggled up in their winter dens. And yes – the entry ticket is included in the Innsbruck card.
  • Small Cable Railway Museum : There’s a small museum in the Hungerburg station called the Small Cable Railway Museum that’s pretty interesting (it’s so small, I almost missed it! ). My favorite thing was looking at all the pictures and seeing how much Innsbruck has changed over the years.
  • Hungerburg Christmas Market : If you’re spending the holidays in Innsbruck, don’t miss the Christmas Market in Hungerburg. Each market is a little different with different souvenirs and food options.
  • Seegrube Hiking Trail : There’s a short hiking trail that surrounds the Seegrube cable car station. It takes about 30 minutes in total and takes you past a really huge rock and a ton of panoramic views.

One of the first things you’ll see when you reach the top of Nordkette Mountain is a giant cross. From here you can see Italy to the south and Germany to the north!

If you visit in the summer, there are miles of hiking trails and breathtaking views of the city below and the mountains surrounding you. Just be sure to pack warm clothes in case of cold weather. You can check the weather on top of the mountain via a   live webcam . It never hurts to be prepared!

Lunch at Restaurant Seegrube

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After a morning spent hiking, take the time to enjoy some authentic Tyrolean food at Restaurant Seegrube . When people think of Austrian food, they usually think of schnitzel. I don’t eat pork but was delightfully surprised to find that Austrian food easily caters to a wide variety of dietary restrictions . 

Kasspatzln is a popular dish here and it’s perfect after a day of hiking! The dish consists of soft egg noodles, grated cheese, and fried onions on top. It’s basically an Austrian version of mac and cheese, and who doesn’t love mac and cheese?

Other delicious dishes here are the Kasspressknödel, a potato and cheese dumpling that is also highly popular in this region, and Erdäpfelgulasch, a potato goulash.

Marvel at the Bergisel Ski Jump

The Bergisel Ski Jump is located on the south side of Innsbruck. It was used for ski jumping in the Olympics and in various competitions since. You can watch people skiing here and practicing their jumps . It’s really fascinating to see in person – I was in awe and watched them for a while. Watch the video above for a little snippet!

While there, climb to the top or take the funicular for more amazing views of Innsbruck from the Bergisel Sprungschanze & Sky Restaurant . It’s a good place to grab a coffee and an apple strudel while enjoying a panoramic view, especially if you need a caffeine pick-me-up after a heavy lunch.

Dinner at Stiftskeller

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After a long day of hiking, head back to Old Town Innsbruck and look for the Stiftskeller . It’s a big, Biergarten-style restaurant that’s popular with locals and tourists . The tables are long and get shared by various groups of people so it’s a fun way to meet people.

But it’s the garden that makes the Stiftskeller one of the best places to eat in Innsbruck, even in winter when they transform it with holiday decorations. They’ve got an extensive menu with options for everyone, but don’t miss out on the Bavarian pretzels and the graukäse, a Tyrolean sour milk cheese that’s best eaten with vinegar, fresh peppers, and rye bread.

Innsbruck Itinerary: Day 3 in Innsbruck

Tour swarovski kristallwelten  .

The Swarovski Kristallwelten is located 15 minutes outside of Innsbruck via a private bus that leaves from the train station. Not going to lie, this was one of my favorite things to do in Innsbruck. It feels more like a theme park than a museum (which is probably why I loved it so much). 

The outside of the Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum is a spectacular sight, with a maze, waterfall, and beautiful outdoor displays of crystals. Inside, there are seven underground galleries featuring crystal renderings of artwork by artists like Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali, and outside is a stunning garden. There’s even a 3D light show called “Planet of Crystals” that’s a must-do. Get your ticket here .

Lunch at Daniels Kristallwelten

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Your visit to the museum will take about 2 hours, and I highly recommend making lunch reservations at the onsite restaurant, Daniels Kristallwelten (reservations aren’t required but it can get really crowded with long wait times).

The vibe of this place is really cool, and they offer an extensive menu that provides a few lighter alternatives to the typical Tyrolean dishes – including a really good vegetarian pita sandwich and a wide selection of teas.

Soak up History at Ambras Palace

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One of the best things to do in Innsbruck is to see the spectacular architecture, and Ambras Palace is the best place in Innsbruck for this. It’s a Renaissance castle with topiary gardens, a pond, and Europe’s oldest collection of art, armories, and books.

It is a great palace to visit on a sunny day, but if you go in the winter, make sure to bundle up with a hat and scarf!  Get your ticket here .

Dinner at Restaurant Bierwirt

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You couldn’t pick a better place for your last dinner in Innsbruck than Restaurant Bierwirt . Only a ten-minute walk from Ambras Palace, it’s the place to go for traditional Tyrolean cuisine : roasts, venison, cheese, potatoes, and dumplings. So good!

What to do in Innsbruck Austria in 4 days and beyond

If you find yourself with more time to spend in Innsbruck, lucky you! There’s a lot more to do and see in this area. Here are some recommendations for what to do in Innsbruck with a little extra time. 

Go on an Outdoor Adventure

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You can go “upstream surfing” in the heart of Innsbruck, but the winter season also offers plenty to do if you’re an adrenaline junkie. Maybe try paragliding   or taking a ski tour through the mountains . Or better yet, see what it’s like to be an Olympian and ride the bobsled at Olympiaworld ! Side note – I went bobsledding in Sigulda, Latvia , and loved it!

Channel Cinderella at Neuschwanstein Castle

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Just a short trip from Innsbruck is Neuschwanstein Castle , the castle that inspired Disney’s Cinderella castle . The journey and tour will take a full day, but it’s well worth the money and time to visit, especially if you aren’t visiting Munich.

There’s no good way to get there from Innsbruck if you don’t have a car, so booking a tour is a good idea . If you’re driving, make sure you don’t miss Hohenschwangau Castle when you’re there. A lot of people skip it, but I think it’s actually my favorite of the two. Check them both out and let me know what you think.

Eat Your Way Through Innsbruck

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Food is one of my favorite parts of traveling, and Austria has some of the most hearty, delicious dishes. A food tour is a wonderful way to sample the best dishes Innsbruck has to offer. It includes a trip to Markthalle Innsbruck, a farmer’s market where you can sample meat, cheese, and other delights. Book it here .

Take a Day Trip to Feldkirch

Feldkirch is the  second-largest town in the Vorarlberg region of Austria – with an incredible history that dates back to the 1200s! The little town celebrated its 800th birthday in 2018, and the Rathaus Feldkirch has been the town hall for over 500 years. I loved seeing the Schattenburg Castle, where I learned that Feldkirch has seen many battles, including the Battle of Feldkirch in 1799.

Some of the coolest things to do in Feldkirch are touring the castle (now a museum), an animal wild park, a superb hiking mountain, incredible historical architecture at the Regional Courthouse, and the Marktgasse Marketplace. Plus, it’s only a couple of hours by train from Innsbruck, so it’s easy to do in a single day.

Where to Stay in Innsbruck

There are great options for hotels in Innsbruck at any budget. I recommend booking a hotel close to the Old Town . This way, you’re close to a ton of attractions and have lots of options for places to eat in Innsbruck. It’s also worth noting that hotels are generally affordable here, so it’s a great city to splurge a little!

Below are my top recommendations for places to stay in Innsbruck Austria:

Montagu Hostel (Backpacker)

I’ve stayed in a lot of hostels on my travels but the Montagu Hostel is one of the coolest. There’s a big common room and kitchen that are great for meeting new people. But my favorite thing about this Innsbruck hostel has got to be the dormitories. The beds are cozy little cubbies that are super comfortable and feel really private , plus they have secure storage for your belongings. If shared sleeping spaces aren’t your thing, they also offer a private room with a double bed and a female-only room with three beds.

Read Tripadvisor reviews | Book a Stay

Meininger Hotel Innsbruck Zentrum (Budget-Friendly)

The Meininger Hotel is a great option for travelers on a budget. You have the option of booking a private room with single or multiple beds or even snagging a bed in one of the dormitories. The common areas are great for meeting people and the pop-art vibe makes the place feel really fun and funky. Plus, the hotel has views for days over the Nordkette mountains!

Hotel Mondschein (Mid-Range)

You’ll feel like you’re staying in the Tyrol region the minute you step into the Hotel Mondschein. It’s got warm tile and lots of wood in the common areas, even an actual vaulted ceiling over the breakfast area. Because it’s across the river from the old town, it tends to be a little quieter at night , which I really like. I recommend requesting a room that looks out over the river, if possible. 

Read Tripadvisor reviews |   Book a Stay

Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz (Splurge)

Located drop-dead in the center of the Old Town on a pedestrian-only street, this historic hotel was built in 1465 and renovated in 2020, combining the best of traditional-meets-modern . Not only is the hotel a work of art, but it also boasts ultra-comfortable beds, luxe amenities, and epic views of the city. The staff is amazing, the breakfast options are vast and prices are reasonable, making this an excellent place to splurge. 

So there you have it: a 3-day Innsbruck itinerary that I think will convince you that Innsbruck really is one of (if not the) best cities to visit in Austria. And if you’re lucky enough to add more time to your Innsbruck itinerary, you have plenty of additional recommendations for things to do. 

Tell me: What do you think of this Innsbruck itinerary? What else would you do on your Innsbruck trip?

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Amazing Journeys Through Europe

Innsbruck Old Town: What To See & Do

Walk through the rambling lanes of Innsbruck’s old town and you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. Rows and rows of medieval houses will greet you and while some are painted in pretty pastel shades others have gorgeously embellished facades and stained glass windows. No two are exactly alike and you will actually start expecting a fancily dressed Tyrolean lord to come parading down the stairs.

Innsbruck Altstadt

The Old town is full of attractions; the Golden Roof with its 2738 gold plated tiles, the imperial Hofkirche and the grand Hofburg but there are plenty of lesser-known surprises too. There is the ornate building duo; Helblinghaus and Katzunghaus. The Tyrolean State Theater, City Museum, Watchtower all reflect the cultural heritage of this beautiful city. The old town is also famous as the best place to go shopping for souvenirs and fresh produce and the best haunt for local non-fussy food in charming open-air eateries.

Altstadt means Old town and it refers to the historical centre of Innsbruck that dates back to 1000 years and more. Innsbruck grew and expanded from the original ‘Old town’ and the bridge over the river Inn. Once upon a time, important trade passages between Germany and Italy happened over this bridge. In fact, the name ‘Innsbruck’ originated from the term ‘bridge over the Inn’… built in the middle of the 12 th century the bridge is the symbol still seen on the city’s seal and coat of arms.

When you walk through Old town you will see the symbol of the bridge on various parts of the old buildings that dominate this area. The most remarkable part of Innsbruck’s history started around 1313 when a market on the north banks of Inn River was established by Bavarian Andech counts (this is now St Nikolaus suburb). Around 14 th century Berthold V of Istria acquired a large plot of land from the Wilten monastery on Inn’s south bank and built another big market and city structure along with a moat and city wall. This then morphed into Innsbruck’s Old town.

From the 15 th to the 18 th century the best historical sites of Innsbruck were constructed including Court Church, Golden Roof, and Imperial Palace etc. as the Habsburg dynasty came into power.

The old town was bombed about 22 times during the Second World War but it’s still very nicely preserved.  The old town is full of awesome architecture and you will find beautiful houses and palaces with Gothic/ Renaissance/ Tyrolean style around. The Alps surround most of the old town and offers a rather remarkable setting.

Innsbruck is quite a compact city and most of its historical attractions are well concentrated in its old town. Some leading attractions of Innsbruck like Hofkirche , Hofburg , St James Cathedral , Golden Roof and many of its best museums lie in Old Town so there will not be a dearth of things to look at and do.

If you have an Innsbruck Card or at least an Innsbruck welcome card then you can save a lot on the entry fees on these historical attractions. Such Travel passes in Innsbruck are easily available at tourism offices, hotels and even tobacco shops. Some of the top things to do in Altstadt are going on walking tours, checking out individual attractions, shopping, sampling the local food and photographing the wonderful ambience around.

Walking Around The Old Town

The principal street of the old town is Herzog Friedrich Strasse that’s on the right bank of the river Inn… most people prefer to centre their walk around here. You can walk from here to the bridge on the river Inn for photographing the pretty houses on the banks.  You can do a self-guided historical walk covering all the famous historical monuments that lie on the left side of the old town. You can even walk to the old town from Hauptbahnhof /Autobushof… this place simply invites everyone to ‘walk’.

If you want to do self-guided walks then go up to the tourist information office on Buggraben and take a tourist map that will help you navigate the old town.

Or else, Viator offers nice guided tour options. There is a 90-minute tour that takes you all across Old town and looks at Golden Roof, Innsbruck Cathedral, Court Church, Imperial Palace and the guide briefs the group about the magnificent stories connected to this place. You can check book the tour from this Viator website .

If you are instead looking to take a guided tour, you can choose one from the several Innsbruck local tours offered on this Viator website .

Restaurants & Cafes

There are plenty of nice restaurants in the Old town but you will see loads of people enjoying slices of pizza sitting along the roadside. Coffee is another winner, people sip it all throughout the day but they do so leisurely sitting on a chair/ bench and there is always a ceramic cup and saucer as opposed to a takeaway paper cup. There are some amazing and unnamed gelato shops in the old town and the gelato is sometimes arranged prettily like a flower in a cone.

A great place to enjoy cheap yet delicious food in the Old Town is the open-air restaurants on Marktplatz in front of Markthalle. The middle of that area has lots of tables and benches where you can sit and soak up the sun and ambience while the fisherman type eateries around sell salmon, trout, sausages etc. in Austrian style. Food experimenters can even try Hirsch meat (deer meat), wild boar meat and deer bacon.

You will also find a lot of cafes like Das Konzept and pizza places like Pizza Mann near Sillpark mall. There are traditional Austrian restaurants like Kaiserstube and Asian restaurants like myIndigo as well as Indian ones like Jaipur on (Museumstrabe). For gourmet quality pizza there is Die Pizzerei on Bozner Platz and for great Baguettes, there is ‘Baguette’ on Suedtiroler Platz.

People Watching

The streets of the Old town are excellent for people watching and admiring curious stuff like silver-painted people posing as statues on the street. Be careful though, bikes will zip in and out of the streets without warning and there is always an overhanging smell of cigarette smoke in the air.

The Nordkette store at Herzog Friedrich Strabe is definitely worth a visit even if you don’t buy anything… it’s simply too pretty to miss. You will get fancy gifts, exquisite jewellery and mountain themed souvenirs here. Also on the same street is the renowned Frey Wille that has been selling beautiful accessories and jewellery for more than 60 years. Luxury bags, belts and shoes are also found in abundance though the price tends to be steep.

The old town has its own Christmas Market that runs from November to January and it’s a treat to roam around here. You can pick up some really unique stuff like wood puppets, snow globes with the mountains etched inside, tree decorations and animals clad in typical Tyrol traditional costumes. The market sits just outside the Golden Roof in the old town. Locally made honey is another indigenous item you can buy… local beekeepers sell wild honey at the Saturday market sitting on Wilten Square.

You can also buy other traditional items here like Doggln (felt Tyrolean slippers) and Tyrolean bacon (ham flavoured with juniper berries), cured sausages and artisanal cheeses. Just a short walk away near Maria Theresien Strasse there is the Sparkassenplatz square selling seasonal and fresh produce of the best quality. You will even find Italy’s south Tirol farmers and other producers from Austrian Culinary Excellence zones selling here.

Maria Theresien Straße

The Markthalle in Old town seems to be an old not so pretty concrete building at first but inside it’s a different story. Wine stands, beer booths, fresh strawberries and umpteen stalls selling hot Austrian coffee with tortes. There are some artisan stalls selling handcrafted leather goods, spices and schnapps.

If a mall is what you are looking for then Sillpark is your answer unless and until you want to walk to Maria Theresien Strasse that has more glamorous options like Kaufhaus Tirol and Rathaus Galaerien. One of the best places to shop in the Old Town is the Sillpark on Museumstrabe that contains retail stores from global brands apart from souvenir shops and independent boutiques. Check out stores like H&M, Primark, Spar supermarket, C&A, Fossil, Douglas, and Game Stop etc. There is a maze of big and small eateries here so you will never miss a place to rest your feet.

Horse Carriage Rides

The medieval look of Old town really calls for medieval forms of transport like a horse and carriage ride. You will find lots of horses and carriages parked near Hofgarten (right opposite Congress station). The carriage ride is available in different durations and route formats and the guide will brief you about the local history of the old town on the way.

Notable Landmarks

Most of the buildings in Old Town are remarkable and some of them have stucco work decorating their facades while full-fledged painted scenes deck their exteriors. Some of the buildings have German words painted on them and it’s fun using Google Translate to find out the kind of services that were once offered within their walls. You will notice a woodcarver, glassmaker, tailor and so many other tradesmen who once lived here.

Sightseeing in this city is incomplete without at least one photo stop in front of the Golden Roof . Built by Emperor Maximillian the Golden roof shimmers with 2567 fire tossed copper tiles.

Golden Roof Innsbruck

Helblinghaus stands right across the Golden roof and though lesser-known, its splendid Goth and Baroque façade are remarkable. The Rococo accents in this Anton Gigl created masterpiece are unusual… there are bows, masks and even shells apart from the sculpture. You will find this beauty at Herzog Friedrich Strasse. Next to it, there is Katzunghaus that’s another Baroque style building done up with stucco and statuary.

Nearby there is the lovely Golden Eagle Inn that was once the favourite haunt of emperors as well as writers known as Goethe. Walk some more and you will reach the 57-meter high Stadtturm that’s a 14th-century watchtower. The tower rises high above Innsbruck and was once a prison… now it’s open to visitors and anyone who wishes to climb the many flights of steps to the top and there is a great view of the mountains and the city as a reward.

Walk for about 5 minutes from the Golden Roof and you will reach the Innsbruck Imperial Palace or the Hofburg . Its lavish interiors and extraordinarily magnificent Hall of Giants and Maria Theresa’s apartments are bound to impress.

Hofburg Innsbruck

Right opposite the Hofburg is the Church of the Black Men… Hofkirche contains an empty yet lavishly decorated tomb of emperor Maximillian surrounded by 28 larger than life statues of members of the Habsburg dynasty.

Hofkirche, Innsbruck

Tyrolean State Theatre in Innsbruck on Rennweg street is another must-visit destination in the old town… it hosts top class operas, plays and musicals. A rather folk-inspired ambience and huge seating capacity make this a good venue to catch an orchestra performance or a ballet show. Right next to the Tyrolean State Theater there is the Leopoldsbrunnen that probably qualifies as one of the widest fountains in Europe. Drunk elves with strange leaf-shaped moustaches are inserted on its base while goddesses line the edges of the fountain bowl. The fountain is topped by a statue of Archduke Leopold V (Tyrol’s ruler who is astride a horse). Across the street from this fountain, there is the Hofburg Imperial Palace.

Walking through the old town is in itself a lesson in history and culture but the City Museum explains Innsbruck’s local history in succinct terms. The metamorphosis of Tyrol’s capital into a tourism magnet and its change through the 12 th and 13 th centuries is clearly detailed. Learn a lot about Tyrolean art and browse through ancient documents while admiring the facades of lordly palaces that were lost to time. You will find this thought-provoking museum on Badgasse.

And of course, an Old town tour is incomplete without a stop at the Cathedral of St James with its exquisite frescoes and stucco work that reflects the artistic brilliance of medieval Innsbruck.

Inn River & Innsbruck Cathedral

Though technically not a part of Old Town, many tourists prefer going to Maria Theresien Strasse for admiring another magnificent lot of buildings and attractions including Old Rathaus (town hall) that provides great views over the old town, House of Teutonic Order (Deutschordenhaus) and the Castle Giants House .

Another awesome activity you should do while in Old Town is to try to capture the views of the lovely colourful houses on the banks of the river Inn and admire the way the snow-capped mountains frame them. For the best photographs head over to the Market Square or the Inn Bridge and capture the view from these places.

If you are visiting with kids then check out Audioversum (near Triumphal Arch opposite Landhausplatz)… it has lots of interactive science exhibits, interesting experiment setups and an ambience that children love!! Even this isn’t technically a part of Old Town but it’s just a 3-minute walk away.

How To Reach

The old town is the core of Innsbruck and its largest artery is Herzog Friedrich Strasse. The southern boundaries of the Old Town end at Marktgraben and Burggraben while the divisive line between old and new town is Egger Lienz Strasse. Most of the attractions of the old town like Hofburg, Hofkirche and Golden Roof are on the right bank of the river Inn.

The old town is best explored by foot and you can easily use the two Inn river crossing points (Universitätssbrücke and the Alte Innsbrücke) to cross from one side to the other. From Hauptbahnhof (main train station) or Autobushof (central bus station), the Golden roof is roughly half an hour’s worth of walk. If you are coming by bus/ tram to the right bank of the Inn then the best stop is Marktgraben and for the left bank, the main stop is Museumstrasse.

In case you just have a day to explore then you can buy a public transit day ticket (learn more about transport passes here ) from the tobacco shop (the ticket will cost around 5.10 euros). However, keep in mind that self-help machines only accept credit cards. You can easily reach whatever part of Old town you wish and shop, eat and museum hop on your own.

Many tourists prefer to stay in the Old town as most of Innsbruck’s historic attractions are centred here. Just some blocks away from Hofburg there is Grand Hotel Europa while the Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler (a lovely historic building) is right opposite the famous Golden Roof on Herzog Friedrich Strasse. You can also check out the Hotel Maximillian (which serves the best breakfasts) that’s on the market square opposite the ski bus stop.

Many prefer to embark on the Nordkettenbahnen journey from the Congress station after checking out the old town. But ideally, these two very different kinds of visual treats should be reserved for separate days. The Old town contains enough attractions to keep visitors engaged for at least a couple of days.

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  1. Tourist Information Innsbruck

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    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.

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  10. Innsbruck

    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 ...

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    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 ...

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    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 ...

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    Innsbruck, Austria » City Info. Innsbruck (literally means 'bridge over the Inn') is the provincial capital of Tyrol and the fifth-largest city in Austria by population. It is situated in the valley of Inn river between mountain ranges above 2000m (6562ft) above sea level. This beautiful alpine destination, with breathtaking scenery, and snow ...

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    This city in the Austrian Alps is an all-seasons destination with world-class skiing, beautiful hikes, and a charming old town. Nestled in an alpine valley on the banks of the Inn River and backed ...

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    Many cycling and mountain-bike routes are accessible from central Innsbruck, though some of the trails are for experts only: for bike rental try Die Böerse, Leopoldstr 4 (Mon-Sat 9am-6/6.30pm). Innsbruck's tourist office runs an extensive programme of free guided walks - including sunrise and night-time hikes - from late May to late ...

  16. Innsbruck Sightseeing: 18 Best Things to Do

    The Innsbruck Tourist Office can provide more information on all of the sights and activities mentioned above. The office is located at Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 21 (near the Golden Roof) and is open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 6pm and Sunday from 10am to 4.30pm.

  17. The Innsbruck Card: one ticket for 22+ attractions incl. cable cars

    Discover Innsbruck's highlights. Free entry to 22 museums and attractions, one upward and one downward journey on selected lifts and cable cars in the region, free use of public transport and free use of the Sightseer hop-on hop-off bus - all that and more is included with the Innsbruck Card. The card can be purchased for 24, 48 or 72 hours ...

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    Attractions. Download. Print. Get App. Interactive map of Innsbruck with all popular attractions - Altstadt Innsbruck, Hofburg Palace, Golden Roof and more. Take a look at our detailed itineraries, guides and maps to help you plan your trip to Innsbruck.

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    Innsbruck Tourism: Everything You Need To Know. A quaint slow-paced quiet city, buildings with Baroque & Rococo architectures that were built during the 17th and 18th centuries, snow-capped Alpine range guarding the city borders, and magnificent vistas of nature… this is what Innsbruck greets you with. Stroll along the cobblestone walkways ...

  20. Innsbruck: A City Break Guide to the Heart of the Alps

    The Innsbruck Card, available for 24, 48, or 72 hours, offers unlimited use of public transportation, as well as free or discounted entry to many attractions. For more information on the Innsbruck Card and public transportation, visit the Innsbruck Tourism website. Innsbruck is best explored on foot!

  21. A Complete Travel Guide to Innsbruck, Austria: 12 Best ...

    6 budget tips for travelling in Innsbruck. Travel in low season (September, October, May and June). Accommodation prices are lower, offers might be had and there are fewer tourists. Book your hotel well in advance. Even in the low season, the best accommodation offers tend to get snatched up quickly.

  22. The Ultimate 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary: Best Things in Do in

    There's a tourist information office in the city center where you can buy the card, get transportation maps, and get help with figuring out the bus and tram routes. Another fun option for transportation in Innsbruck is bike rental.

  23. Innsbruck Old Town: What To See & Do

    If you want to do self-guided walks then go up to the tourist information office on Buggraben and take a tourist map that will help you navigate the old town. Or else, Viator offers nice guided tour options. ... Best things to do in Innsbruck; Innsbruck Tourism; Austria Tourism; Europe Tourism; Filed Under: Innsbruck Travel Guide You Need At ...