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One Day in Innsbruck Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

Posted on Published: May 17, 2022  - Last updated: May 27, 2022

Categories Austria , Blog , City Guides , Europe , Travel Guides

Even if you only have one day in Innsbruck, it’s a spectacular destination that will leave a lasting impression. Innsbruck has the amazing attractions and restaurants of a big city while feeling like a charming small town. There are so many fantastic things to do in Innsbruck, so it’s easy to fill your schedule. Plus, you’ll be left wanting more (so you’ll need to return ASAP!).

Justin and I spent about a day and a half in Innsbruck. I’ve prepared this one day in Innsbruck itinerary because I feel like the “must see Innsbruck” attractions can be experienced in one full day. If you have two days in Innsbruck, that’s even better. You can take a slightly more relaxed approach to your trip or sprinkle in a few more activities.

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Innsbruck will always be one of our favourite places in the world because it holds many memories for us. Justin proposed to me at the top of Nordkette, Innsbruck’s mountain! It is one of the most beautiful and romantic places to receive a marriage proposal. If you’re thinking about popping the question, I can attest that it is very magical!

In this Innsbruck travel guide, I’m going to show you how to plan the ultimate trip to Innsbruck, spending one or two nights in the city. You’ll learn all about:

• Where to stay in Innsbruck
• Why you should get the Innsbruck Card
• A detailed itinerary of how to spend your day in Innsbruck
• Best restaurants and cafes in Innsbruck

Getting to Innsbruck

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Innsbruck, Austria

We spent two nights at Nala Individuellhotel in the heart of Innsbruck. It’s within walking distance of most popular Innsbruck attractions, but it’s also a really quiet place to stay. The hotel dates back to the 1950s, but it’s been completely renovated with a modern design. Justin and I stayed in one of the Garden Apartments, which is like having your own place in the middle of a peaceful oasis.

Garden Apartments at Nala Hotel

To reach our room, we walked outdoors from the main lobby and past a soothing fountain, lush plants and blooming flowers. When you stay in a Garden Apartment, you can wander from your room to spend time in this idyllic spot. When you aren’t exploring Innsbruck, you can curl up with a cup of coffee and a good book here. The Garden Apartments have their own private entrance, surrounded by greenery, and private outdoor seating area, too.

The apartments themselves are like small homes that make you feel as though you’re temporarily living in Innsbruck. There’s a couch with a TV, a small seating area, a kitchenette with everything you need to cook a good meal, a Nespresso coffee maker, a spacious bathroom, and a separate sleeping area with another TV.

While we spent most of our time out exploring Innsbruck, it’s so wonderful to have a comfortable place to return to in the evening. We awoke to the gentle sounds of the outdoor fountain and the sounds of birds chirping. I was amazed to hear so many birds throughout the day. Staying at the Nala Hotel contributed to feeling completely enchanted by this city.

Breakfast at Nala Hotel

The breakfast at the hotel was so delicious that it gets an entire section of its own! This is not your average buffet breakfast. Nala Hotel takes great care to serve fresh and healthy selections, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

There’s lots of fruit, breads, potatoes, soy milk, bean salads and even hummus. You can request a coffee or cappuccino from your server, which was the perfect way to start the day. It’s a buffet, so you can eat as much as you like. Breakfast at Nala Hotel is one of the best perks of staying here, and I know that you’ll love it, even if you have dietary preferences or food allergies.

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More Places to Stay in Innsbruck

Looking for more hotels in Innsbruck to compare pricing, location, and more? Check out the interactive map below to view all hotels and apartments in Innsbruck. Add your travel dates and click each property to learn more.

Get the Innsbruck Card for 1 Day in Innsbruck (or 2 Days, or 3 Days!)

If you’re spending one, two, or three days in Innsbruck, we highly recommend getting your hands on the Innsbruck Card . Even if you only want to visit a couple of attractions, you’ll save money and there are quite a few perks.

There are a few different cards in Innsbruck, so make sure you get the one actually called the Innsbruck Card. There’s also a Welcome Card and the Ski Plus City Pass for the wintertime. We don’t have experience with either of these cards, but we do have experience using the Innsbruck Card for 24 hours.

The Innsbruck Card gives you access to all of the museums, a roundtrip ticket to Nordkette, admission and transportation to Swarovski Crystal Worlds, access to other cable cards and lifts around town, access to the hop-on-hop-off bus and more. You can purchase the Innsbruck Card for 24, 48, or 72 hours.

The card’s validity begins from the moment that you use it to access an attraction or service. In some cases, you’ll show your card to receive an attraction ticket. For Nordkette, we simply scanned our Innsbruck Cards and gained access to the cable cars. The Innsbruck Card comes with a brochure that fully details how and where to use the pass.

For instance, the Innsbruck Card costs €53 for 24 hours (€63 for 48 hours and €73 for 72 hours). With the 24 hour pass, we went to Nordkette (€42) and Swarovski Crystal Worlds (€28.50 with transportation), which is a savings of €17.50 per person with the Innsbruck Card. If you’re visiting for two or three days, there’s even more value in getting the card. Get your Innsbruck Card here.

One Day in Innsbruck: Exploring Old Town in the Morning

After breakfast at the hotel, spend your morning exploring Old Town (Altstadt). Innsbruck has one of the prettiest Old Towns. No matter where you walk, you’re surrounded by mountains that tower above the brightly painted buildings. There are rows of colourful houses with a backdrop of snowcapped peaks. It’s unbelievably beautiful!

Wander Around Innenstadt

If there’s one thing that you must do in Innsbruck, it is exploring Altstadt. Innsbruck’s Old Town has stunning architecture and rows of colourful buildings lining the streets. Aim to spend at least a few hours simply wandering around Old Town and Innenstadt (Innsbruck’s City Center).

Innsbruck has a wonderful public transportation system, but we loved walking all over Innenstadt. It’s easy to navigate and very walkable. There’s lots of shopping on the main street, Maria-Theresien-Straße, as well as the side streets. There are popular shops and even a shopping mall with items that you’ll find in many places around the world, as well as souvenir shops with unique gifts.

Attractions in Innsbruck’s Old Town (Altstadt)

There are many attractions in Old Town Innsbruck and you can walk between all of them. One of the most popular places to visit in Alstadt is the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl). It’s thought to be the city’s most famous landmark.

It dates back to 1500 and the roof has 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. The structure was built for Emperor Maximilian I to celebrate his marriage to Bianca Maria Sforza. While we only observed this beautiful building from its exterior, there is also a small museum inside.

Another popular attraction in Old Town is the City Tower (Stadtturm). Your entrance to the City Tower is included with your Innsbruck Card or you can also get your city tower ticket in advance. It’s a 15th century watchtower and former prison with a small museum. Walk up its spiral staircase for amazing views of the city.

A few other attractions in Old Town Innsbruck that you should check out include the Innsbruck Cathedral, the Imperial Palace (Hofburg), the Court Church, and the Tyrolean Folk Museum. You’ll also likely pass by the Triumphal Arch, a prominent Roman-influenced archway that was built in the 18th century.

Visit Innsbrucker Hofgarten (Innsbruck’s City Garden)

Visiting Innsbrucker Hofgarten, the city’s public garden and park, is one of the best free things to do in Innsbruck. It’s still located within Innenstadt, across from Congress Station where you’ll catch the Hungerburgban Funicular to venture up to Nordkette.

Depending on the time of year, you might have the opportunity to see many flowers in bloom. We visited Innsbruck towards the end of April in the spring. Flowers began to blossom on trees and there were many flower gardens, too. All in all, it’s a really peaceful and pretty place to be. Sit on a bench and soak up your surroundings.

Lunch in Innsbruck, Austria

As Justin and I actually spent a day and a half in Innsbruck, we had the chance to try two different restaurants. Choose one or the other, depending on your mood and what you feel like eating. If you follow a vegan diet like I do, please check out my vegan guide to Innsbruck .

Swing Kitchen

Swing Kitchen is a vegan fast food restaurant with locations in Innsbruck, Graz, Vienna, Berlin, and Bern. On the menu, you’ll find vegan burgers, crispy nuggets, fresh salads, fries, and tempting desserts. I also love how there are a variety of fountain beverages with unlimited refills.

I ordered the Vienna Burger (Crunchy vegan schnitzel paired with crisp salads, sun-kissed tomato, fresh cucumber and red onions, on a bed of homemade garlic sauce with fresh chives) and Justin got the Smokey Pepper Burger (Soya patty with crispy bacon, ajvar, garlic sauce, red onion, spring onion and greens). Both were super yummy!

Vapiano is a collection of Italian restaurants throughout Austria with two locations in Innsbruck. We visited the one in Innenstadt. While it’s not a strictly vegan restaurant, they have a vegan menu on their website and the vegan options are listed very clearly on the menu at the restaurant.

There’s pizza, pasta, salad, appetizers, and even dipping sauces that are vegan. We ordered some pasta and flatbread that was really yummy! Justin and I visited Vapiano on our first half day in Innsbruck after a long train ride. It’s the perfect food to eat when you’re really hungry as it is super satisfying.

One Day in Innsbruck: Nordkette, Innsbruck’s Mountain

Nordkette is known as the jewel of the Austrian alps and it’s not to be missed. Taking the Nordkettenbahnen (Nordkette cable cars) is one of the most memorable things to do in Innsbruck. You can’t miss these stunning views. It’s something you absolutely must do when you’re in Innsbruck.

You’ll spend a couple of hours taking the funicular and cable cars up to the top. The journey is all part of the fun! You start in Innsbruck’s old town and travel to the top of Innsbruck. At the top, you’ll stand high above this beautiful city and its surrounding mountains.

A roundtrip ticket on the Nordkettenbahnen is included in the Innsbruck card . If you haven’t purchased an Innsbruck card, you can purchase your Nordkette ticket in advance. A ticket includes a roundtrip journey on the funicular and two cable cars to the Top of Innsbruck.

Hungerburgbahn Funicular

First, you will take the Hungerburgbahn Funicular from Congress Station (across from the Hofgarten) to Hungerburg Station. This is a funicular not like any that I’ve ever experienced. It is an architectural and engineering feat with views like no other.

You step aboard the small train and it travels through a couple of small tunnels. At one point, you’ll pass another car going in the opposite direction. The tunnel is mostly one way, but it’s timed out perfectly in this one spot where the trains can pass each other.

When you drift out of the tunnel, you can admire the most incredible alpine scenery as the funicular takes you higher up the mountain. There are a couple of stops on the way, but you’ll get out at the last stop.

Walk out of the station and you’ll approach Hermann Buhl Platz, a square named for the famous mountaineer. You can check out the panoramic views of Innsbruck down below and also go for a walk around the cute town here. Ultimately, you’ll head over to the cable car station, a short distance from Hermann Buhl Platz.

Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Seegrube

Next, take the Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Seegrube. The cable car moves at a relatively quick pace as you travel up and up. You can see for miles around in all directions, down to Innsbruck below, across the treetops and up towards the mountains.

After this cable car ride, you can get out at the platform and check out more views of Innsbruck and the mountains. The Seegrube sits at an altitude of 1,905 m (6,250 ft). You can relax at this spot and unwind at some of the benches and picnic tables outside. However, it gets colder the higher you go up the mountain. Be prepared!

Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Hafelekar

Board the final cable car to the last platform at Hafelekar. This is a shorter cable car ride that goes almost to the very top. Hafelekar is located at an altitude of 2,334 m (7,401 ft). There’s a restaurant at this platform where you can dine with a view.

This is where you’ll also find the “Top of Innsbruck”. From the exterior of the cable car station, hike up a small hill to get to the very top of Nordkette. It is only about a 5-10 minute walk, depending on how many times you stop to soak up your surroundings.

Walk to the Top of Innsbruck

The best views are from the very top, so you definitely need to take that last trek up to the Top of Innsbruck. Once you reach the top, you are surrounded by the mountain peaks and scenery of Innsbruck down below.

This is a really special place for us. Justin proposed to me at the Top of Innsbruck! It was such an amazing moment. He waited until there wasn’t anyone around and asked if I wanted to marry him. Of course, I said yes, and cried some tears of happiness! After he proposed, it started to snow very gently, and that made the moment even more special.

We traveled up to Nordkette as boyfriend and girlfriend, and returned down to Innsbruck as an engaged couple! Justin and I have been together for such a long time, so some of you might have thought that we were already married (I discovered this when I posted the engagement announcement on Instagram!). Soon enough, we will be. Now, we just need to decide where to get married!

Coffee and Cake in Innsbruck

Who doesn’t love a coffee break? As a massive coffee fan, I always build coffee breaks into my itineraries. It’s nice to have a midday boost and perhaps a little snack to tide you over until dinnertime. Here are my top picks for cafes in Innsbruck.

Haepinest is a third-wave specialty cafe and bistro that’s very vegan-friendly. While you can order a coffee and a slice of cake, they also have a small menu of offerings, too. For instance, there’s usually a vegan sandwich of the day.

When Justin and I stopped at Haepinest, it was extremely busy and there wasn’t any seating indoors or outdoors. That wasn’t a problem. We took our coffee and cookies to go and enjoyed them on a bench at the nearby Hofgarten. My oat latte was delicious and so was the chocolate chip cookie.

Verenas is another vegan-friendly cafe in Innsbruck with a slightly larger selection on the menu and a better variety of vegan cakes. When you walk up to Verenas, you’ll see all of their cakes and sweet treats on display in the window.

I visited Verenas the morning before we left, even though I just had breakfast at the hotel. But, I wanted to try some of their vegan cakes, so I ordered a couple of slices for takeaway. Justin and I ended up enjoying them in the afternoon when we arrived in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany .

We tried a slice of the chocolate banana bread and the hazelnut cake, plus I also got an oat latte. Everything was really delicious and I highly recommend checking out Verenas Cafe.

Vegan Donuts at Dunkin’ Donuts

It might seem like an odd suggestion to recommend an American coffee chain when visiting Innsbruck, but they’ve launched vegan donuts in a few European cities and Innsbruck is one of them. We got a couple of donuts and brought them back to our hotel room.

I actually made a coffee in the room using the Nespresso machine rather than buy coffee at the Dunkin’. The donuts were so good! There are also so many different flavors, too.

One Day in Innsbruck: Late Afternoon Trip to Swarovski Crystal Worlds

The last main thing you’ll do today in Innsbruck is visit Swarovski Kristallwelten (Swarovski Crystal Worlds). The Innsbruck card includes admission to Swarovski Crystal Worlds, as well as the roundtrip shuttle bus ride.

It is located about 25 minutes outside of Innsbruck’s city center. If you have your own transportation and you don’t have an Innsbruck card, you can buy your Swarovski Crystal Worlds ticket in advance (it does not include the shuttle ride).

Taking the Shuttle Bus from Innsbruck to Swarovski

Getting to Swarovski Crystal Worlds is easy with the official Swarovski shuttle bus. You can’t miss it. It’s a big, green bus with Swarovski written across it. You can find the pickup times on the Swarovski website and noted inside your Innsbruck card pamphlet.

Essentially, the shuttle bus ventures back and forth between Innsbruck and Swarovski Crystal Worlds four times daily. You can catch the shuttle bus in town just outside of the main train station in Innsbruck or across the road from Congress Station at the bus stop.

We caught the shuttle bus from Congress Station and had no problems at all. If you are visiting during a busier time of the year, you might think to catch the bus from the main station. Once the bus fills up and there are no seats left, unfortunately, you need to wait until the next bus arrives (which would be hours later). The shuttle stops at the main station first, so you should board there to ensure you get a seat.

We also went to Swarovski Crystal Worlds later in the day, catching the bus at 16:40. Then, we took the last shuttle back into town at 19:00 (when Swarovski Kristallwelten closes). Towards the end of the day, we mostly had the place all to ourselves! This made it much easier to take photos and video of the exhibits.

Outdoor Exhibits at Swarovski Kristallwelten

While most of the displays are inside the impressive labyrinth of rooms inside Swarovski Kristallwelten, you can find a number of exhibits outside, too. Don’t miss these ones as they’re quite impressive and interactive as well.

First, the one that you definitely can’t miss, The Giant. This is the thematic centerpiece for Swarovski Crystal Worlds, created by artist, André Heller, to commemorate Swarovski’s 100th anniversary in 1995. To enter the interior of Swarovski Kristalwelten, you’ll walk through the head of The Giant.

There’s also the Garden area, which includes the carousel, the labyrinth, Crystal Cloud & Mirror Pond (under renovation when we visited), and a number of outdoor art exhibits. Go for a wander outdoors before or after you check out the indoor exhibits.

Indoor Exhibition at Swarovski Kristallwelten

Once you venture into the head of the Giant, you’ll be treated to a fantasy world inspired by crystals in 18 different rooms. The Chamber of Wonders has interactive art exhibits by world famous artists, like Chandelier of Grief by Yayoi Kusama.

There are stunning Swarovski pieces of clothing, shoes, hats, and jewelry worn by musicians and celebrities. Many of the rooms transport you into a magical fantasy world. The art installations play with colour and light in very intriguing ways.

Through every doorway and around every turn, you never know what to expect. Each chamber brings a new sense of awe and wonder. At the very end of the Chamber of Wonders, there’s the extensive Swarovski store that’s a must visit for fans of the crystals. Justin and I had a great time exploring Swarovski Crystal Worlds as part of our one day itinerary.

More Places to Visit in Innsbruck

If you’re thinking about spending two days in Innsbruck, three days in Innsbruck or longer, here are even more things to do in Innsbruck that didn’t make our itinerary this time around. We’ll have to return to check them out.

• Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras)
• Bergisel Ski Jump (from the Winter Olympics)
• Hofburg Palace
• Tyrolean Folk Art Museum
• Cathedral of St. James

Restaurants for Dinner in Innsbruck

As I mentioned previously, Justin and I visited Innsbruck for a day and a half. So, we had the chance to try two different restaurants for dinner. I’ll describe both and share what we ate, so you can choose your favourite one. For more veggie options around Innsbruck, take a look at my vegan Innsbruck guide .

Restaurant Olive

Olive is a posh vegan restaurant in Innsbruck featuring dishes lovingly created from scratch with fresh, high quality ingredients. You’ll most likely need a reservation to dine here. We didn’t have a reservation and thankfully, they were able to snag us a couple of spots at the bar.

The restaurant is closer to fine dining than casual, so there are only a few items on the menu for appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Justin ordered the burger and I ordered the cashew spinach lasagna. Everything is completely vegan and tastes really delicious. There’s a lot of care and attention into preparing these dishes, and it shows. I only wish that I had room for dessert because everything looked amazing.

Green Flamingo

We learned from our mistakes of not booking a reservation at Restaurant Olive and secured one at Green Flamingo the following night. Again, I’m really glad that we made a reservation because this place was also packed. It looks like vegan restaurants in Innsbruck are in high demand!

Green Flamingo is a more casual, vegan comfort food restaurant. It’s designed with various pop art, vegan slogans, and shelves with vegan cookbooks. The menu is quite extensive and it was really hard to decide what to order. We started with some beer and mozzarella sticks that came with a sweet chili sauce. The sauce and the mozza sticks tasted so good together. I’ve never had that combination and I think I’m going to have to try it at home.

For the main course, I ordered the gyros sandwich and Justin got the gourmet hotdog. Both dishes came with a big pile of French fries. There are so many yummy sounding dishes on the menu that I’d love to return to try some different ones that next time we’re in Innsbruck. But, we can highly recommend everything that we ordered. It was really delicious. We both left feeling happy with full bellies.

Evening in Innsbruck: Beer on the Patio

It’s time to end the evening with some drinks on the patio. Innsbruck has beer gardens and patios outdoors, which I highly recommend if it’s warm enough outside. Otherwise, every suggestion here has indoor seating as well. If you’re a beer drinker, you really should try the locally brewed craft beer in Austria.

Marktbar am Inn

When we were wandering around Innsbruck, we stopped at a small patio near the Inn River. This turned out to be an excellent place to stop for a beer. It’s a lively part of town and great for people-watching. Plus, there are beautiful views of the rows of colourful homes lining the river. Whether you stop here in the late afternoon sunshine or in the evening, the Marktbar am Inn is a great find.

Stiftskeller

We walked past Skiftskeller on a few occasions and it was on my list, but we sadly didn’t make it there. Next time, Justin and I will definitely visit for a pint or two. You can enjoy the beer garden outdoors in the warmer weather. They proudly serve Augustiner beer from Munich, brewed according to the German Beer Purity Law of 1516.

360 Degrees Cafe

Justin and I didn’t have the chance to visit the 360 Degrees Cafe Wine Bar Lounge , but it was recommended to us by someone who lived in Innsbruck for a few years. We spent most of our time in Innsbruck on a Sunday, and that’s the only day that the establishment is closed.

It’s all about having a drink with a view. Whether it’s a cup of coffee, a cocktail or a glass of wine, you’ll enjoy 360 degree sweeping views of the city. By day, you’ll be able to gaze across the city and off to the mountains. By night, you’ll be high above all of the twinkling lights.

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

Whether you’re looking to spend one day in Innsbruck, two days in Innsbruck or longer, the first step is getting there. Depending on where you’re traveling from, you may want to fly directly to Innsbruck. Innsbruck is home to the Innsbruck Airport, the largest international airport in Tyrol (western Austria). Here is where you can find the best deals on flights to Innsbruck .

In our case, we took the train from Verona to Innsbruck on a Europe trip that took us through northern Italy, Innsbruck and Bavaria. Book your train tickets in advance. Generally speaking, the farther you book in advance, the better rates you’ll receive.

Getting Around Innsbruck

Justin and I found that Innsbruck is incredibly walkable. We walked everywhere we wanted to go, with exception of Swarovski Crystal Worlds. In that case, we took the complimentary Swarovski Crystal Worlds shuttle that was included with our Innsbruck Card.

There was one instance where we considered taking an Uber, but there were no Uber cars available. For this reason, I wouldn’t rely on Uber. Public transportation is also included with your Innsbruck card. But, for the most part, we walked everywhere we wanted to go.

If you’re looking to travel around Tyrol and Bavaria, I suggest taking a road trip. Many cities and small towns are accessible by train. However, some of them can have a few transfers and it’s always easiest to have a rental car. Driving your own car around Austria and Germany gives you lots of freedom to go where you like. Here is where you can compare rental car prices to find the best rates.

Want to see more photos of Innsbruck?

View all of our travel photography in one place! You can browse and buy any of our pictures in the form of canvas prints, things for the home, and more!

More Things to Do in Austria

Looking to plan a trip to Austria? Here are some more travel blog posts about our trips to Austria that might help you plan your holiday:

• Best Things to Do in Salzburg
• Vegan Guide to Salzburg
• Salzburg Place to Stay (Luxury Apartment Accommodation Review)
• Mondsee and St. Gilgen – Day Trip From Salzburg

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary

Published on June 5, 2023

by Neota Langley

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Innsbruck, the picturesque capital of Tyrol in western Austria, is a charming alpine city nestled in the heart of the snowcapped Austrian Alps. With plenty of unique experiences to discover, spending 1, 2 or 3 days in Innsbruck is a must for any trip to Austria. Use this Innsbruck itinerary to discover this city’s rich history, natural splendour and cosy Austrian cuisine. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Innsbruck?

Innsbruck may be much smaller than the likes of Vienna or Salzburg , but there is plenty to see and do in the city itself, as well as exploring the surrounding Austrian Alps. With so much to discover, it can be tricky to work out how many days to spend in Innsbruck.

With just one day in Innsbruck, you’ll want to focus on the heart of the city. Explore the Old Town with its colourful medieval buildings and cobblestone streets, and majestic Imperial Palace. You’ll have time to visit a selection of museums and galleries, but if you want to explore more of the surrounding mountains, it’s best to extend your stay. 

If you have a little longer, with 2 days in Innsbruck, you’ll have plenty of time to get to know the city and explore the nearby attractions such as the Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum or the ‘Top of Europe’ the Nordkette Mountain. Discover hiking trails or simply take in the incredible views – on a clear day, you can see Italy in the south and Germany to the north. 

Ideally, you will want to dedicate a full 3 days. This way, you can explore the city and take a day trip to the surrounding attractions without feeling rushed. Visit more of the captivating museums and galleries, experience the endless hiking trails, go on a guided tour or even take to the skies in a glider plane.  

Getting To & Around Innsbruck

Reaching Innsbruck by plane is quick and easy, whether you are already in Europe or are flying in from further afield. Innsbruck Airport (INN) is the closest airport to the city and offers both domestic and international flights.

From the airport, it’s just a short distance of about 4 kilometres to the city centre. You can choose to take a short taxi ride, airport shuttle or public bus into the city centre.

In some cases, if you are flying in from further afield, it may be more convenient to fly into a major airport such as Munich or Vienna . From there, it’s quick and easy to get to Innsbruck by train. 

Innsbruck is a major railway hub with excellent train connections from just about anywhere in Europe. The city is served by regional, national, and international trains, with direct trains from Vienna, Zurich , Cologne and even Amsterdam . You can view train schedules here.

The main train station, Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof, is centrally located and well-connected. Travelling by train is the more environmentally friendly option but also offers incredible scenic views of the alpine landscapes along the way, including the Alberg Pass.

Another more affordable option is to travel by bus. Innsbruck has a reliable bus network, both domestically and internationally. Several bus companies operate services to and from Innsbruck, connecting it with various European cities. The bus station, Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof, is conveniently located next to the train station. You can view bus schedules here.

Innsbruck is also easily accessible by car. The A12 and A13 motorways link Innsbruck with neighbouring countries and cities like Munich, Salzburg , and Verona . Austria , like Switzerland , has its own vignette system, so make sure to purchase an annual pass to drive on the motorways if you are planning on bringing your own car. 

Also, be aware the A12 motorway is now part of the Low Emission zone in Tyrol, so you will need a sticker on your windscreen displaying your vehicle’s emission status. If you don’t have one of these, avoid using this particular motorway and use the more minor 171 road, as the fines can be hefty.  

If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which compares prices across major companies.

Once you have arrived in this alpine city, getting around is easy. The best way to explore the centre is on foot. This way, you get to fully immerse yourself in the culture and discover back streets and local craft shops along the way.

If you are spending only one day in Innsbruck or want to really make the most of your time here, familiarising yourself with the bus and tram network is best.

Purchasing an Innsbruck Card will provide you with free travel on public transport around the city, entry to 22 attractions (10 of which are included in this Innsbruck itinerary) and a 3-hour pass for one of the city bikes. These cards are valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours.

1, 2 or 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary

Day 1 – innsbruck old town highlights.

Innsbruck’s charming old town is the perfect place to kick off your visit to this historic city. Over 500 years old, Innsbruck is packed full of culture and history. Wandering the pedestrianised cobbled streets of the old town, you’ll be transported back to mediaeval times.

Taking in the colourful buildings, painted facades, intricate architecture and local craft stores along the way. Don’t miss Maria Theresian Strasse, the street that offers the most breathtaking views with historic buildings framed by the majestic Alps.

Here you will find plenty of shops and cafes where you can spend the morning enjoying some retail therapy – don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs to take home.   

Golden Roof

One of the most iconic landmarks in Innsbruck is the ‘Golden Roof’. Completed in 1500, the golden roof was commissioned by Emperor Maximilian. 2,657 gilded copper shingles were added to the roof to mark his wedding to Bianca Maria Sforza.

You can visit the embellished roof with its dazzling copper tiles from the main square of the Old Town, but for a unique view of the roof and across the city, climb the 148 steps to reach the top of the City Tower (Stadtturm) – tickets can be purchased here.

Imperial Palace/Hofberg

Just a short walk away from the City Tower and the Golden Roof, the Hofburg is a historic landmark and former imperial palace nestled in the heart of the city.

With roots dating back to the 15th century, this grand architectural marvel once served as the residence of the Habsburgs, one of Europe’s most influential royal families, whenever they visited the city. The Hofburg showcases a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. 

Now, you can enter the building to explore its opulent rooms, admire intricate frescoes and delve into the rich history of the Habsburg dynasty. The palace also houses several museums, including the Imperial Apartments and the Treasury, displaying a collection of royal artefacts and regalia.

Outside, the former private gardens are open to the public and are well worth wandering through on your way out. 

After a busy morning exploring the heart of Innsbruck, it’s time to head into the hustle and bustle of the central covered market to pick up some local delights. Just a short walk from the Hofburg and the public park, you’ll find the permanent Market Hall.

Inside, there are plenty of discoveries to be made – from farm-fresh artisan foods to vibrant flowers, This is the perfect place to pick up some lunch and stop for a coffee before heading on to Ambras Castle.  

Ambras Castle

On the outskirts of the city centre, perched on a ridge, Ambras Castle is a magnificent Renaissance castle that stands as a testament to history and cultural heritage.

Built in the 16th century by Archduke Ferdinand II, the castle boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Alps.

Ambras Castle is renowned for its remarkable art collections, including the world’s oldest collection of portraits, the Habsburg Portrait Gallery.

As well as the cabinet of curiosities, an armoury room, an old musical instrument museum and the intricately decorated 43-metre Spanish Hall. You can pre-book tickets here.

Bergisel Ski Jump

Whether you are a winter sports enthusiast or not, it’s well worth visiting the Bergisel Ski Jump, located just to the south of the city.

Hosting the Winter Olympic ski jump in 1964, 1976 and 2012, here you can discover the history of this adrenaline-fuelled sport in the multimedia room and watch live demonstrations as the team trains from May to October (depending on weather conditions). You can book tickets here.

You can also head up two lifts into the modern tower to enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Innsbruck Valley. Here you will also find a modern restaurant offering a delightful culinary experience with breathtaking views of the Tyrol Panorama.

1809’s menu showcases a range of creative and flavourful dishes, highlighting regional and seasonal ingredients. From hearty Austrian classics to innovative international cuisine, there is something to suit every palate. 

If you would prefer to head back to Innsbruck to enjoy some regional cuisine, the old town is the best place to find authentic Tyrolean dishes. Try Stiftskeller located in the cellar of St. Jacob’s Cathedral. This is one of the oldest restaurants in Europe. Alternatively, consider taking a food tour of the city.

Day 2 – Top of Innsbruck, Alpenzoo, Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum & More!

Top of innsbruck/nordkette.

“The Top of Innsbruck” refers to the stunning viewing platform located at the summit of the Nordkette mountain range, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Innsbruck and the surrounding alpine landscapes. Visiting here is absolutely one of the best things to do in Innsbruck. 

To reach the summit from the city centre, walk over to Innsbruck Congress. From there, you take a funicular to the Hungerburg stop. Next, you will take two cable cars, the first to Seegrube and then the next up to Hafelekar. You can pre-book tickets here.

It may seem like a complicated journey, but it is a popular, well-signposted route that only takes around 30 minutes. As you ascend into the mountains, the views across the valley are truly breathtaking.

Arriving at the summit, you’ll be treated to far-reaching views across Italy and Germany. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore from the top, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear, put together a picnic and pack warm clothing (even in the summer).  

Seegrube hike/restaurant

After taking in the summit, the first stop on your descent is Seegrube. This is where you change cable cars, but it is worth spending some time here before continuing back down to Innsbruck.

If you are hoping to find a bite to eat, there is a great restaurant at this station, ‘Seegrube Restaurant,’ where you can enjoy Tyrolean cuisine with panoramic views.

Another stop on the descent from Nordkette is the Alpenzoo. The highest zoo in Europe, the Alpenzoo, is not your average zoo. You won’t find any tigers, lions or giraffes here.

They focus primarily on the animals native to the Alps – ibex, marmot, beaver, otter, wolves and many more in their natural habitat. They are also working on the conservation of native endangered species such as the Bavarian pine vole. You can buy tickets here that combines Alpenzoo & The Top of Innsbruck.

Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum

One of the highlights of any trip to Innsbruck is the magical world of the Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum. More of a theme park than a museum, there is plenty to see and do here, so you will want to dedicate the entire afternoon to exploring the underground galleries, maze, waterfalls and countless displays of crystals. 

To reach the museum, take the shuttle bus from Innsbruck train station. There are four shuttle buses every day, you can check the timetables here . 

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the spectacular waterfall and outdoor displays before heading inside to discover the galleries, including crystal renderings of artwork by famous artists such as Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol.  

The museum is open until 7pm so you will have plenty of time to explore the exhibits, visit the shop and enjoy the on-site restaurant, Daniels Kristallwelten .

Enjoy the extensive menu before winding down at the bar. If you are limited to 2 days in Innsbruck, this is the perfect way to round off your stay with a touch of luxury. 

Day 3 – Neuschwanstein Castle, Achensee, Stubai Glacier or Salzburg

If you have a full 3 days in Innsbruck, you will have time to take a day trip to a nearby beauty spot, book an exciting excursion, or city hop to spend the day exploring a new city. Here are some ideas for your third and final day in this breathtaking city. 

Neuschwanstein Castle

Venture across the border into Germany to visit the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairy-tale castle, perched on a hilltop, is known for inspiring Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. Here you can take a guided tour where you will head inside and learn all about Neuschwanstein and King Ludwig II.

The most iconic viewpoint is Marienbrücke, a 10-minute hike away. This is where you will want to take your photos of the castle perched upon its rocky outcrop. 

Head over to the stunning Achensee, the largest lake in Tyrol. Nestled between the dramatic Rofan mountains and the wild Karwendel mountains, this turquoise alpine lake is a much-loved summertime destination.

Enjoy water activities like swimming, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, or hiking along the beautiful trails surrounding the lake. If you are visiting during the ski season, there are several resorts surrounding the lake, including Christlum, Rofan and Planberg. 

Stubai Glacier

Experience the magic of the Stubai Glacier, one of the largest glaciers in the Eastern Alps, renowned for its year-round snow and breathtaking views.

With extensive ski slopes, snowboarding terrain, and a range of winter activities, it offers an exceptional winter sports experience. In summer, you can explore hiking trails, witness glaciers, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.

If you are more of a city hopper, you can reach Salzburg in around 2 hours by train from Innsbruck. Salzburg is a captivating city with a timeless beauty, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous as the birthplace of Mozart, and his legacy can be felt throughout the city.

With its charming Old Town, baroque architecture, and magnificent landmarks such as Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace, Salzburg offers a feast for history and architecture enthusiasts.

The city also hosts world-class music festivals, including the renowned Salzburg Festival, attracting classical music lovers from around the globe.

Where to Stay in Innsbruck

Hotel Zach – Mid-range travellers to this beautiful Tyrolean city will love this 3-star hotel. Centrally located close to all of Innsbruck’s top attractions, they have a range of lovely rooms to choose from along with a nice terrace and a great breakfast each morning.

Hotel Innsbruck – Those after luxury will love this plush hotel located in the centre of the city of Innsbruck. They have a number of gorgeous rooms to choose from along with countless opulent amenities for guests to enjoy.

Marktbar Studios – If you want to have your own flat while staying in Innsbruck, then these boutique studios are a great option. Located close to all of the top attractions in Innsbruck, they have a range of fully-furnished studios available with everything you may need for your stay.

Montagu Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this centrally-located and highly-rated hostel. They have both dorm beds and private rooms on offer along with great common areas and self-catering facilities for guests to use.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Innsbruck hotels!

Innsbruck is a truly captivating city, effortlessly combining the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains with a rich cultural heritage. A vibrant year-round destination, there is so much to see and do, planning your visit could easily become overwhelming. Using this guide, you will be able to plan the perfect itinerary to suit you.

Are you planning to visit Innsbruck? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect One Day in Graz Itinerary

The Perfect Day Trip to Salzburg from Vienna

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Vienna Itinerary

About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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Home » Destinations » Europe » Austria » How To Spend One Day In Innsbruck: Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

How To Spend One Day In Innsbruck: Itinerary For First-Time Visitors

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Do You Have One Day In Innsbruck? Here’s What to See, Do, and Eat!

Are you visiting Innsbruck and only have one day to explore? From wandering through the Old Town to riding to the top of Innsbruck on the famous Nordkettenbahn, there is definitely no shortage of great sights, food, and attractions to keep you busy.

We visited Innsbruck in November – literally the worst month because some things are closed before Christmas – but still had nice weather and got to see and do lots. We still got to explore the Innenstadt and even made a trip out to Ambras Castle.

That said, we also had some great food in Innsbruck so we decided to write up a whole Innsbruck day itinerary that includes attractions, meals, and even what to do at night! Keep in mind that our guide is more about exploring the actual city than engaging in winter sports!

If you’re exploring Innsbruck (and more of Austria, of that matter), check out these other posts as well:

• Things to Do and See in Innsbruck
• Where to Stay in Innsbruck: Our Detailed Guide
• Explore the Capital: Top Vienna Things to Do + Vienna Hotel Guide

Table of Contents

Breakfast at Breakfast Club

The day has officially begun in Innsbruck and you are going to need to fuel up to make it through! For breakfast, there’s a top spot to head to – and that is Breakfast Club. Known for its massive menu and friendly service, this place is a popular stop.

You can find everything from sweet and savoury breakfasts to vegan options and even a classic British breakfast! It’s located just a short walk south of the Old Town so if you stay in the city centre (or headed there to begin your day), Breakfast Club is a great option. You can check out the English menu at Breakfast Club here .

Address: Maria-Theresien-Straße 49 & 49a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

If you are looking for a faster non-sit down breakfast because you want to get sightseeing, you could always opt for a more on-the-go option and visit a bakery like Der Bäcker Ruetz – Hofbäckerei for takeaway pastries, bread, coffee, etc.

Pro Tip : Depending on where you walk from to get to Breakfast Club, there is shopping on Maria-Theresien-Straße which you can scout out for later. There are also a few significant landmarks on this street like St. Anne’s Column and the Triumphal Arch.

Getting To/Around Innsbruck Before we deep dive into this Innsbruck day guide and exploring the city centre, now is a great time to briefly cover both how to get to Innsbruck and how to get around Innsbruck. Innsbruck is easy to get to via train from other parts of Austria or surrounding countries like Germany, Italy, or Switzerland. The central train station (Hauptbahnhof) is a short walk from the Old Town. In short, the city centre (called the Innenstadt) is very flat and easy to walk around. The surrounding areas are far more hilly with mountains rising up the further you go from the city. The city has a great transit system of buses, trams, and cable cars. You can learn more here about the IVB transit system. Pro Tip: The local transit system has a bus called the “Sightseer Bus”. This bus basically runs as a hop-on-hop-off and has a route that visits the city’s top sights! Innsbruck Tours If you are short on time and want to squeeze what you can into a single day, a day tour/guided tour is a great way to learn about history, eat great food, see sights, etc. ⇒ A Guided Walking Tour of the Highlights ⇒ Experience the City Through an Innsbruck Food Tour

Morning Activity: Explore the Old Town

Of course, you cannot visit Innsbruck without exploring its historic Old Town (Altstadt) in the heart of the city centre – or Innenstadt. The architecture is absolutely beautiful and there is so much history to learn about and even read about at every turn.

So, having said that, we would suggest spending a whole morning just wandering around the Old Town. This is basically what we did and we got to see and do lots in the span of just a few hours. Because of the popularity of the Old Town, you will also find a number of cafes and tourist shops for souvenirs and more.

As there are a number of top attractions you can visit here, we have outlined the main ones below. They are all within walking distance of one another which makes navigation and getting around pretty simple. We visited most of these but want to go back to explore the rest.

• Golden Roof and Museum (Goldenes Dachl): 2657 gold-plated tiles upon a balcony commissioned by the important Emperor Maximilian I in the very early 1500s + informative museum.
• City Tower (Stadtturm): A 15th-century watchtower/former prison with spiral stairs to amazing views of the city + small museum.
• Imperial Palace (Hofburg): A centuries’ old Baroque Palace which housed Habsburg royals with elaborate decor and museum exhibits.
• Court Church: 1550s church houses the elegant tomb of Maximilian I with 28 bronze statues and more significant Tyrolean history.
• Tyrolean Folk Museum: A museum dedicated to showcasing the life and times of the Austrian state of Tyrol re-created through with costumes and festivals.
• Innsbruck Cathedral: 1700s-era cathedral named after St. James featuring an important painting of the Virgin Mary.
• Hofgarten: a large city park/garden area with paths, a playground, and small buildings like a greenhouse, music pavilion, and a small museum.

Lunch at Markthalle

It’s lunchtime in Innsbruck and you’re likely going to be hungry after exploring the Old Town and a bit of the surrounding inner city. Luckily, the lunch stop is not too far from the Old Town!

Head for the Markthalle – a food hall located right along the beautiful Inn River. You actually get great views of the mountains from the riverside near the entrance.

Inside, you’ll find a massive space dedicated to food. From vendors with fresh food, meat, bread, and produce to shops and stalls with spices, wine, and treats – there is something for everyone. Wander around the place to check out what there is to eat.

There are a number of Italian/pasta places clumped together with portions for a decent price but you can also find other cuisines. We stopped for some ravioli and they were delicious! You can learn more about visiting the Markthalle here .

Address: Herzog-Siegmund-Ufer 1-3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Tip: While you are visiting the Markthalle, head outside the entrance, and look across the Inn River to snap a photo of the famous Colourful Houses of Innsbruck!

Afternoon Activities: Explore Outer Innsbruck

After lunch in the city centre, you’re in a perfect position to head a bit further away to explore. Since there are lots of places you could check out surrounding the city centre, we wanted to talk about two main options to cater to different interests: go up the Norkettenbahn or visit Ambras Castle.

(Truthfully, you COULD visit both in the span of a few afternoon hours but if you want to enjoy your time at either one then just visit one).

Nordkettenbahn

Innsbruck is a city known for winter sports thanks to its location in the Alps. However, even if you are not skiing, you can still explore the surrounding mountains and take in the amazing views of the landscape around.

For this, Innsbruck has its own mountain – and you can head up from the city centre in about 20 minutes! The whole cable car ride to the top of the Nordkette mountain range is broken up into pieces starting from city centre:

• First: Congress Station to Hungerburg via the Hungerburgbahn funicular. You can find the Alpine Zoo as a stop along the way.
• Second: Hungerburg to Seegrube via Nordkettenbahn cable car
• Third: Seegrube to Hafelekar via Nordkettenbahn cable car
• Fourth: Hafelekar to “Top of Innsbruck” by walking a short path

You can learn more about getting to the top and the schedule on the Nordkette website here . When we visited in November the tracks were closed for construction so we didn’t get to go up to the top – but we will be back just to have that experience. You can get your full return ticket to the top and back here .

Once you are at the top, you can enjoy the views, stop at the restaurant/shop, and also hike around a bit. If it’s the winter and you want to ski, you can do that too – but check the conditions beforehand before you lug your skis or board up the mountain. If you are travelling to Innsbruck with kids, you might want to stop by the famous Alpine Zoo for a look at the local alpine animals.

Address for Congress Station: Rennweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Ambras Castle

If you don’t want to go up the mountain (perhaps it’s poor weather and visibility would be terrible), then you can always head for another top attraction outside the city centre: Ambras Castle. Known as Schloss Ambras in German, this 16th-century castle has a large collection of art thanks to its former inhabitant Ferdinand II.

Today, you can explore the many exhibits of the castle and also wander the grounds which are quite pretty and very green. We explored the grounds because the Castle itself was closed in November to prepare for Christmas festivities.

In any case, you can check here for your Schloss Ambras ticket . You can get there using the public bus #4134 from Hauptbahnhof to the stop: Innsbruck Schloss Ambras (Aldranser Straße). You can also take the Sightseer Bus, mentioned above in this post!

Address: Schloßstraße 20, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Alternative Afternoon Idea: Okay, if you are super into buying or collecting Swarovski Crystals, then you might be interested in visiting Swarowski Crystal Worlds. This place is very popular among visitors but located outside the city centre. You can get there via a dedicated shuttle bus in about 25/30 minutes from the Old Town.

We didn’t go but it’s a fascinating place to check out with outdoor garden space, shops, art displays, and even stuff for kids. You can get you ticket with shuttle bus included here .

Afternoon Break at Strudel Cafe Kröll

Once you are done with your afternoon activity (whatever that may have been), you should head back to the heart of the Old Town to indulge in a sweet treat and a bit of a rest. For this afternoon break, you could head to Strudel Cafe Kröll. This is what we did and we really enjoyed it!

Known for serving up sweet and savoury strudels – a national dish of Austria, you can either enjoy a strudel there or take it with you to enjoy in a park etc. Eric got a cherry strudel which he loved but a classic would be apple strudel with vanilla sauce.

We had a sit down and even got coffees which were a nice addition. We’d recommend the cafe – they even do breakfast and have other treats on hand but we can’t comment on those! You can check out the menu and more at the Cafe Kröll website.

Address: Hofgasse 6, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Optional Early Evening Activity: Bergisel Ski Jump

If you don’t want to take an afternoon break in the Old Town, there would be time for one last late afternoon activity before dinner. For this, there is no better place to end off the day of wandering than the Bergisel Ski Jump. Used in two Olympic Games and for an annual ski jumping competition, this ski jump is an iconic place to visit that sits high atop the city skyline on Bergisel (a hill).

Regardless of the season, you can visit the sky jump and head up to the viewing platform for wonderful views of the city. There is also a restaurant up there in case you want to have dinner or even just a drink. Oh, and you can take a tram to the platform or climb the stairs (season and fitness level depending)!

Visiting the platform makes a activity before dinner because it is open until 5 pm or 6 pm in winter and summer, respectively. You can get your ticket to visit the Ski Jump and Arena here . Once again, you can take public transit there or you can hop on the Sightseer Bus.

Address: Bergiselweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Dinner: Fischerhäusl

Once you are done taking in the views of the city below and the mountains behind, it’s time for dinner – and do we have a suggestion for you: Fischerhäusl! This rustic and cozy Austrian restaurant is a popular place among locals and visitors because they do a great job serving up an authentic and delicious menu.

We went early without a reservation and were lucky – the place got full and it was packed until we left! The waiter we had as honestly SO fun/friendly – speaking German to Lisa and joking around with Eric in English.

Lisa had Käsespätzle (Egg noodles with cheese) while Eric chose the Tiroler Gröstel mit Ei (a local dish of roasted potatoes with beef and a fried egg). Paired with salad and beers everything was honestly amazing. We had such a great overall experience and hope that if you choose Fischerhäusl you will, too. You can check out the menu/website in German only here .

And we would honestly recommend that you make a reservation (we were just very lucky without one) – especially if you visit during the busy season and/or the weekend. You can also stop in shortly after they open to ask to reserve a table for later that evening.

Address: Herrengasse 8, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Evening Activity: Drinks, Traditional Song, or Theatre

Finally, it’s night time in Innsbruck and if you are looking to end the day right (and have energy left), there are a few different things you can do in Innsbruck at night!

For this itinerary, as always, we like to give different options to cater to different interests: Drinks, Austrian Folk Music, or Theatre!

Drinks in Innsbruck

If you want to make it easy and have a drink, Innsbruck is a great place to do that. The easiest option would be to just stay at the restaurant you had dinner at (Fischerhäusl) for classic local and regional beers. Alternatively, you can head to a few places nearby that specialize in more than just beers.

You might consider heading to Tribaun for craft beer or Café Bar Galerie if you are looking for a place that does cocktails and/or music. It’s really up to your personal preference and energy levels – but they are both in the Old Town so it would only be a short walk from dinner.

Traditional Austrian Folk Performance

If you are looking for a more traditional way to end the night and you haven’t had enough Austrian culture, you might want to experience an Austrian Folk Music Performance!

Put on by the famous Gundolf Family, this performance includes Tyrolean costumes and songs that are performed with dancing, singing, instruments, and even yodeling! You can actually watch the show and eat dinner at the same time if you wanted to make that your dinner stop, too.

Overall, this highly-rated show is a fun way to hear all about Tyrolean culture through sing and dance. The shows are more popular in the summer season but still worth looking into when you visit. They are located just outside the city centre and you can book a ticket here .

Address: Kapuzinergasse 11, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Tiroler Landestheater Innsbruck

Last, but certainly not least, if you want a more formal evening of performance but want to stay in the city centre, you could always check out what’s on at the Landestheater.

This large building is hard to miss being located right across from the Hofburg (Imperial Palace) and puts on numerous shows throughout the year – from music and dance to plays and other theatrical performances.

Most of the shows are likely to be in German but if you want to check it out, go for it! To check what’s on at the Theatre, you can visit the official Landestheater website here (German only, sorry)!

Address: Rennweg 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

And there you have it – a complete guide on how to spend one day in Innsbruck, Austria! There are a number of other attractions you could visit but we think this post is a good mix of the seeing top sights and enjoying great food at a nice pace. Whenever you visit, enjoy the city!

As always, Happy Innsbruck Day Waddlin’, – L&E

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One Day in Innsbruck Itinerary – Top things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

Located in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck is a small, picturesque town in Austria. Its late-medieval architectural marvels are heart-stirring, while its majestic peaks take your breath away. Innsbruck is famous for its fascinating nature and world-famous monuments, as well as its well-known province, Tirol. The Old Town mixes Gothic and Baroque architectural styles into a sweet cultural blend, while the town’s smaller districts serve as a student meeting hub. In short, spending one day in Innsbruck is well worth it!

Plan your trip to Innsbruck

1. What’s the best time to visit Innsbruck? 2. A few facts about Innsbruck 3. One Day in Innsbruck Itinerary 3.1. Morning in Old Town 3.2. Lunch at the Markthalle 3.3. The Nordpark Cable Ride 3.4. The Ambras Castle 3.5. Get drinks in Innsbruck 3.6. Dinner 4. Where to stay in Innsbruck, Austria? 5. Day trips from Innsbruck 6. Extra tips for visiting Innsbruck

What’s the best time to visit Innsbruck?

The best times to visit this charming little town are the summer and winter seasons . For those passionate about skiing or snowboarding, a winter season spent in Innsbruck is the perfect Christmas gift.

During the summer, the temperature can reach the mid-70s (mid-20s in Celsius), so even if it’s hot during the day, you might need to use a light jacket at night. The months of June-August are rated the best months to visit Innsbruck. College students are out of town during this time, so the town is quieter and more enjoyable.

Some tourists rated the months of March-May great for visiting Innsbruck. Remember that during the spring season, the temperature can hit the mid-40s (below 10 degrees Celsius).

If you’re aiming for better offers, prices go down during the fall season; this might also be something to consider. However, most attractions close between the months of September and November, so if you’re choosing to visit Innsbruck in the fall, you might miss out on some of them.

A few facts about Innsbruck

Innsbruck, the capital of the Tirol province, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Its story began in the year 1180, when it was declared a small market town owned by the Bavarian counts of Andech. Due to its strategic geographical position and surrounded by Germany, Switzerland and Italy, the region has developed into what it’s become today – a wonder of the Alps.

Located at the intersection of Central European roads and having hosted the Olympic Games in 1964 and 1976, this town’s activity grew quite rapidly. Today, Innsbruck is the home of renowned Austrian colleges, tasty beer, and a quickly expanding textile market.

If you’ve decided to spend at least one day in Innsbruck, your stay must include a visit to the Golden Roof , the city’s landmark. You should also check out the Ambras Castle’s beautiful gardens and tiny waterfalls and include the Imperial Palace on your walking tour.

If you’re here during the upcoming Christmas season, don’t forget to pay a visit to the famous Christmas Market . There are also a bunch of concerts and shows to check out, if you’re an art lover. One last thing – don’t forget to include the Nordpark Cable ride in your itinerary.

One Day in Innsbruck Itinerary

In case you can’t afford to spend more than one day in Innsbruck, here are your top activities to consider. This one-day itinerary includes the town’s best sights and delicious food options, as well as all of the must-see attractions. Transportation between sites might be omitted, as Innsbruck is best tasted when explored on foot.

TIP:  Check out the best tours Innsbruck has to offer!

Morning in Old Town

Your morning visit to the Old Town cannot be short. Plan to spend at least two to three hours here, taking pictures and admiring the incredible views. The city center’s architecture is one of a kind, so leave enough time to take it in. The must-sees:

The Golden Roof and Museum , as mentioned. Very informative, important for a better understanding of Innsbruck’s history.

The Imperial Palace , a must-see for its Baroque-like décor and elegance.

The City Tower , the town’s landmark. A former prison with amazing views featuring a small museum.

The Court Church , where Maximillian I is buried. Essential to better understand Innsbruck’s history.

The Tyrolean Folk Museum , worth it for its festivals and pretty costumes.

Hofgarten , a great park to spend some quality time in nature. It features a music pavilion, a museum, a playground, and other small buildings worth seeing.

You’ll also find a bunch of coffee shops, tourist shops, and souvenirs to bring back home with you. So, explore the Old Town as long as you wish before heading to lunch.

Lunch at the Markthalle

Having explored so much of the city, you’ll be veeeery hungry. So, it’s high time you explored the Markthalle. This food hall will make you consider moving to Austria forever because this huge space is dedicated to food only. You’ll find lots of fresh pastries, produce, meat, and wine to taste. One of my favorite dishes is the Italian ravioli at one of the stands.

Don’t forget to take some pictures while you’re here. This place is located on top of a massive building, facing the Colorful Houses of Innsbruck and the Inn River. The view is breathtaking once again.

The Nordpark Cable Ride

After lunch, it’s time for a beautiful cable ride . The Alps are worth exploring, even from afar. You’ll be visiting the Nordkette mountain range if you take this route. It’s worth mentioning that the cable ride is divided into two portions, so you must leave enough time for this activity as well. The first leg goes from Hungerburg to Seegrube, and the second one from Seegrube to Hafelekar. You can choose either one, they’re both worth exploring.

If you plan on spending more time in the air, you could check out the Hungerburgbahn funicular just to visit the Alpine Zoo and the famous Congress Station.

At the top of each peak you’ll find nice restaurants and coffee shops and will be able to enjoy some outstanding views.

The Ambras Castle

Your next stop is the Ambras Castle , a 16 th -century castle renowned for its art collection. The castle’s grounds are worth exploring and, if visiting between November and December, check out the castle’s Christmas festivities. They’re amazing!

Get drinks in Innsbruck

Austrian beer is quite exquisite, so you cannot leave Innsbruck without a trip to Tribaun or the Café Bar Galerie . Get yourself some crafted beer and head to dinner.

Check out a traditional Austrian folk performance right before dinner. The costumes, the songs, the dancing, the instruments, the energy, the people will amaze you. The Tyrolean Evenings Family Gundolf events are located just outside the city, so take a cab if needed.

For dinner, try Fischerhausl . This is a very popular option for locals, so you’ll enjoy the best and most traditional dinner in the city. Make a reservation in advance as it can get crowded quickly.

Where to stay in Innsbruck, Austria?

AC Hotel by Mariott Innsbruck

Salurner Strasse 15, Innenstadt, 6020 Innsbruck

AC Hotel by Mariott in Innsbruck is probably the most luxurious stay around. A panoramic view of the Alps, an excellent restaurant, a casino right next to it… Honestly, you’ll feel a bit like James Bond here. AND you’re in the city center. The rooms are awesome, naturally, with huge TVs and AC, plus the building has 14 floors, so you may want to pick a room up high for an amazing view.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Wilhelm-Greil-Straße 11, Innenstadt, 6020 Innsbruck

Hotel Zach is a great choice for your stay because it offers an impeccable service at an affordable price. It is close to the historic city center, was fully renovated in 2016 and has very comfortable and well-equipped rooms that come with free WiFi, a private bathroom and a desk.  Oh, and the breakfast here is very, very good, too!

Astoria Resort

Geigenbühelstraße 185, 6100 Seefeld in Tirol

Now, if you REALLY want to live it up, Astoria Resort is the place you need to visit. It has an enormous and exceptionally beautiful park surrounding it, a huge spa center and boasts an incredible view. Everything you could ever want from a five-star hotel is here, and you will be thoroughly pampered in this amazing resort.

Montagu Hostel

7 Höttinger Gasse John Montagu, 6020 Innsbruck

Montagu Hostel   is a great budget option for a night or two, but the best thing about it is its great location – you are right in the city center in an amazingly picturesque part of the town. Plus you can enjoy a bar and an incredible view of the mountain, so the stay here will be quite memorable.

Day trips from Innsbruck

If you’re planning to extend your trip and check out the surroundings, here are some of the most interesting day trips from Innsbruck.

Crystal world

All things here SHINE! The Swarovski Crystal Worlds is an experience attraction, consisting of a park, art museum, retail area, and restaurant. A very special day trip from Innsbruck indeed.

Full of fascinating history. It is home to a local history museum and the huge, open-air Heroes Organ.

It’s like you’re in heaven. The lake can be reached by Streetcar Line 6 from the city. The lake is popular due to its green environment, so this is a day trip from Innsbruck where you just take it easy.

Check out the Tyrolean Sea (is Tirol’s largest lake and is surrounded by five small villages),

…and there are other options available if you’re planning on staying even more.

Extra tips for visiting Innsbruck

Here’s what I wish I knew before visiting Innsbruck.

– Learn a bit of German before heading to Austria – it’ll help!

– Ride the bus if you don’t want to explore the whole city on foot.

– Try to explore the whole city on foot – it’s inspiring!

– Don’t say no to cable rides, even if you’re afraid of heights. You’ll regret it.

– Visit Innsbruck between April and October to have access to everything.

– Pack a jacket and some winter boots!

– Plan on spending more than one day here to get the whole Innsbruck experience.

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

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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.

Being the main transport hub of the larger Tyrol region in Austria, Innsbruck is  perfectly located  to explore the vast expanse of stunning mountains, alpine lakes and peaceful meadows.

Innsbruck by itself is large enough to warrant a  few days of city exploring  with all of its cultural attractions and great food, but most people go here to at least pair their city break with some  outdoor activities .

It’s quite rare to find a town of this size and service level so close to  raw nature .

Hiking  is accessible at all levels and  cable cars  can help everyone enjoy the majestic views from up high.

Daredevils  might try their hand at mountain biking or climbing, and in winter the whole region transforms into a  skiers paradise  with an almost endless amount of prepared slopes.

Innsbruck takes its name from the  river Inn  which splits the city in two. “Bruck” means bridge.

Geographically, Innsbruck is located at  574 metres above sea level  with mountain ranges to both the north and the south.

Innsbruck is a relatively small “big” city, so as long as you base yourself  in  Innsbruck, you can  probably walk mostly everywhere  or use public transport to quickly get around.

With that said, almost all of the city’s attractions are  centred around the Old Town , so basing yourself here can make for a lot less time getting to and from where you want to go.

Especially so if you’re only in Innsbruck for a  few short days .

We  personally  chose to stay near the central station to still be within walking distance to everything while saving a little bit of money compared to staying  in  the Old City – although the area arguably isn’t  as  nice.

Search for the best value accommodation in Innsbruck here (adlink) .

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) .

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) .

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) .

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.

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.

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.

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 .

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 !)

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.

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.

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) .

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.

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.

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 .

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 .

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.

Being a small and compact city, Innsbruck is very  walkable . There are sidewalks everywhere.

Public transport is also readily available.

The  tram  is the vehicle of choice for getting around quickly. Using the tram system to get to the mountain village of Igls or to Fulpmes in the Stubai Valley are popular, cheap excursions.

The  bus system  is also easy to navigate and runs all night.

Innsbruck Airport  (Kranebitten Airport) is located just a few kilometres west of the city and serves both regional and international flights with connections to the rest of Europe.

The  central train station  (Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof) is one of Austria’s busiest train stations and from here you can also travel all over Austria and Europe by train. OBB is the national railway company of Austria.

Long-distance busses  also tend to stop near the central station.

If you stay centrally in Innsbruck and travel in your own car,  parking  can be expensive. We parked our car in the  car park below the central station . Here you’ll also find a free charging station for your EV.

Innsbruck can be visited in all seasons. But what’s the best season?

It’s up to your needs and wants. There are four distinct seasons in the alps, each with its own pros and cons.

Summer  is ideal for hiking with warmer temperatures, but can also get crowded.

Winter  is a beautiful time to visit and optimal for skiing in the region.

In between  in the low seasons, you get less snow or sun, but you can easily get lucky with both (as we have written about in our travel guide to visiting Tyrol in Autumn ) as well as deal with fewer crowds. Prices are also lower.

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

• 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 .

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:

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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How to Spend One Day in Innsbruck, Austria: Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do

Nestled in a valley below the tall, snowy peaks of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is a city full of character set among a breathtaking landscape. The perfect blend between historic charm and wild nature, it is a must-visit on any Tyrol itinerary! To make the most of your stop in this quaint city and enjoy it on a low budget, these are the best things to do with one day in Innsbruck !

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

Is one day in Innsbruck enough?

Let’s address what everyone’s thinking – is one day enough time to see the city? One day in Innsbruck is enough to fully explore the city center and experience a few activities on the city’s outskirts.

But if you can extend your trip to 2-3 days in Innsbruck, you will be able to accomplish visiting everything in the city center, as well as all the city has to offer on its outskirts. I wish we had had more than one day in Innsbruck to be able to really experience the city to the fullest!

You may not be able to tackle all the activities on this list, but I wanted to include as much as possible so you could design your Innsbruck one-day itinerary just to your liking !

That being said, you truly can squeeze so much into one day because of the size, walkability, and the number of transportation options available in Innsbruck .

And all activities are budget-friendly – most are free and a select few hover around 10€ per person. You can experience the top things to do in Innsbruck without breaking the bank!

The Best Time to Visit Innsbruck

The best time to visit Innsbruck depends on what you love to experience while you travel. If you love exploring cities, then summer is the time to come to Innsbruck. If you love winter sports, then you’ll find Innsbruck is made for you and should visit during the winter months!

Prices are cheaper in spring and fall since they are the low tourist seasons and the weather tends to vary greatly between cold and rainy.

The Best Things to Do In Innsbruck in One Day

Explore altstadt.

Everyone will tell you the best thing to do in Innsbruck is explore Altstadt, the Innsbruck Old Town. And although it may be cliché to say it – exploring Altstadt is truly one of the best parts about visiting Innsbruck!

The old buildings are bewitchingly beautiful in their detailed facades, frescos, and colors. The streets are windy and narrow, yet open frequently to a new, unexpected courtyard or some of the most bustling town squares. It’s a city full of little surprises!

Eat Strudel at a Strudel Café!

Wo doesn’t love dessert? The traditional dessert in this part of the Alps is strudel and thank goodness because it is so delicious!

And better yet – Innsbruck has its own strudel café! I know, I freaked out too.

The Kröll Strudel Café is located within the Old Town, just at its edge near Hofburg Palace.

They create artisan strudel in all kinds of flavors – and not just sweet desserts. They also do savory strudels, like spinach and feta. You could even make this your breakfast stop! The experience of eating Austria’s traditional dessert in one of the most historic settings alone is worthy of your Innsbruck itinerary!

Climb the Stadtturm Clock Tower

Climbing the historic town center’s clock tower os one of the most budget-friendly, fun things to do in Innsbruck. To enter costs 4.50€ per person. You can buy tickets in person but be aware they only accept cash!

The views from above are stunning, especially if you can visit on a sunny day when the Nordkette peaks are showing off in their full glory!

Visit the Golden Roof

The Golden Roof, or Goldenes Dachl, is Innsbruck’s most famous attraction. The tiles are actually made of copper and painted with a then sheet of gold. Completed in 1500, it was created by Emperor Maximilian I to commemorate his marriage and used by the couple to overlook events in the square.

However, the Golden Roof is so much more than just its tiles. The structure is intricately decorated with storytelling carvings, paintings, and coats of arms.

One of the reasons I also recommend climbing the clock tower is because you’ll have a unique perspective of the gleaming Golden Roof!

Relax Outside the Court Church & See the Emperor’s Tomb

The Court Church, or Hofkirche, is one of the most magnificent churches in Innsbruck.

From the outside, the church stands above its own little square with a sweet garden, a fountain, and benches to take in the view. On the inside, the church holds the empty tomb of Emperor Maximilian I. It costs 8€ to enter.

Take Photos at the Iconic Colorful Houses on the Inn River

You can’t go to Innsbruck without taking a photo at its most iconic spot: the neatly arranged, colorful houses dotted along the Inn River.

The best place to get your photo is on the opposite side of the river beside the Markthalle. There is also a stand-alone black structure that I believe is a viewing area, but it was closed when I visited!

Some of these houses today are residences, hotels, and shops. To be honest, they look so much more colorful from across the river than if you walk right up to them!

Eat Local at the Markthalle

Speaking of the Markthalle, you should check it out! The Markthalle is basically a local farmer’s market where you can get fresh produce along with typical food and other products from the region of Tyrol.

There are also a set of restaurants as part of the Markthalle where you can have an authentic and local lunch!

Window Shop on Maria Theresien Strasse

Maria Theresien Strasse is the town square of Innsbruck and where the city bustle is at its best. There are tons of modern stores in Innsbruck’s trademark colorful and ornately decorated buildings to admire and window shop.

In the center of the square is St. Anne’s Column , a tribute to when in 1703, the Austrians overtook the Bavarian troops during the War of Spanish Succession on St. Anne’s Day. Today, many locals and tourists alike sit beneath it on its surrounding steps – the perfect place for people-watching!

Pro Tip: You’ll find there is no shortage of historic buildings in Innsbruck. All historic buildings are marked with a white plaque that states the name of the building and a brief history in both German and English. Look out for these!

Visit the Triumphal Arch

At the end of the Maria Theresien Strasse is another iconic landmark in Innsbruck: the Triumphal Arch. There’s not much more to do here than admire the setting, size, and beauty of this gateway to the city.

Walk Along the Arthur Haidl Promenade

On the opposite side of the Inn River, you will find a more chilled version of Innsbruck, a laidback residential area. Along the river is a wide promenade that is more peaceful to walk along in comparison to the boardwalk on the side of the river next to the city center.

While I wouldn’t say walking the Arthur Haidl Promenade is an essential thing to do in Innsbruck if you only have one day, it is interesting to have the opposite perspective and see the historic city center as the backdrop to the Inn River.

See Crazy Expensive Jewelry Displays at the Swarovski Store

Did you know that Swarovski is based just outside of Innsbruck, Austria? It’s a huge deal here. So much so that the Swarovski store in the city center of Innsbruck has a mini-museum before you actually enter to shop.

The mini-museum is small, but the pieces and decoration of the room itself are insane! It’s worth a five-minute stop in.

Good to know: If you have more than one day in Innsbruck, you should head to the nearby town of Wattens to visit the Swarovski Museum (Swarovski Kristallwelten). It costs 19€ to enter but the unique grounds and bejeweled rooms and displays are one of the most unique things to see in Innsbruck.

Admire the Hofburg Imperial Palace

The Hofburg Imperial Palace was home to the Hapsburg family during their reign as kings of Austria. The palace is huge and a marvel to observe just from the outside.

Fun fact: It’s one of the three most important buildings in the entire country. Now inside the palace are multiple museums and exhibitions which you can enter for around 10€.

Stroll through the Hofgarten

The Hofgarten is a sprawling park in the middle of the city, close to the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Not only is it the perfect place to take a break from the city rush and also dive into some of the city’s history.

The park dates back to the early 1400s when it was exclusively used by the imperial family!

There are large trees all throughout the park but you can still see the mountains peaking through when you look up, which offers a unique perspective of them without all the buildings. In the center of the park is a pavilion where the city hosts events and the historic Catalpa tree that looks like it’s growing sideways!

And just on the edge of the park is a greenhouse called Palmenhaus, open Monday-Friday only for a few hours. It is full of diverse plant species, including a super rare flower called the giant Victoria water lily. If you’d like to visit, it costs 4€ and you can inquire more here . (You’ll have to Google Translate the page to English!)

Take the Hungerburg Funicular

The cable car all the way up to Nordkette costs 42€, so it’s not the most budget-friendly option for a view over the city (and I accidentally took a picture of Nordkette station instead of the one I actually recommend you take – whoops!)

The one I recommend for a cheaper view and cable car experience is the Hungerburg funicular at 11€ per person.

The reason I wanted to include a picture of the station is that the design is incredibly unique – it actually is nearly the same as the Nordkette station which is what caused the confusion! Nonetheless, it was designed by Zara Hadid who also designed the Olympic ski jump in the city.

Step Into the Shoes of an Olympian at the Bergisel Ski Jump

Being in the heart of the Alps means one thing – winter sports are everything! So much so that Innsbruck is home to the Bergisel Olympic Ski Jump.

At 50 meters high on Bergisel Hill, the ski jump is an important venue for hosting competitions but also for tourism. It overlooks all of Innsbruck, facing the Nordkette mountain range, and the building is of a completely unique design itself.

Besides seeing the stadium, there is also a viewing terrace and café at the top of the tower. Entry to the Bergisel Ski Jump costs 10€.

Taste the Sacher Cake from the Original Bakery

The Sacher Cake, or Sacher Torte, is an uber-rich, super chocolatey dessert that was invented in the city of Vienna in 1832. While you may be in a different Austrian city, the bakery with the original recipe is also located in Innsbruck in none other than the Imperial Palace!

If strudel isn’t your favorite, then swap your dessert stop at Kröll Strudel Café for Café Sacher .

Dive into Tyrolean History at the Folk Art Museum

You may start to get the gist that Innsbruck is full of history and loves to show it. Being the capital of Tyrol in western Austria, which is such a unique corner of the Alps and the world, Innsbruck hosts the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum which is actually one of the most renowned heritage museums in Europe!

The folk museum costs 9€ to visit.

Good to know: If you are all about Alpine culture, then you’ll also love the fact that Innsbruck has an Alpine zoo! You can do the Hungerburg funicular and the zoo on a combined ticket of just 17€.

Schloss Ambras

I actually was unable to visit Schloss Ambras, or Ambras Castle, because of my time constraint visiting Innsbruck for only one day. The castle is located on the edge of the city but is supposed to be one of Innsbruck’s best sights! Tickets to Ambras Castle cost 12€.

How to Reach Innsbruck

Innsbruck has its own airport, Innsbruck Airport (INN)! It’s just 4 km from the city center, to which you can take bus line F or the train. If you’re hopping around Europe, it’s likely you’ll be able to find cheap flights between local airports like this one!

If you are arriving by car, you’ll likely arrive from the highway. Innsbruck has a few exits, but the one that gets you to the city center is Innsbruck West.

Innsbruck has many parking options, most of them underground or standing parking garages. All cost about the same – strangely, they tend to charge per half hour instead of per hour. Nearly every garage cost 2.60€ per hour. The biggest variation I found was 10 cents.

We parked in InnenSTADT Garage Innsbruck, which was a perfect location – walkable to the entire city center and in the lively university area of the city.

If you are traveling in other parts of Austria and looking to do an Innsbruck day trip, you’ll find some organized day tour offerings like Salzburg to Innsbruck.

If you’re traveling around Europe, you may have options via Flixbus to reach Innsbruck in the cheapest way possible!

The train station in Innsbruck is conveniently located right in the center of the city. To purchase train tickets, you can use search engines like Omio or book directly through the train company OBB .

Good to know: There’s also an app in Austria called wegfinder that allows you to search all public transportation options for the best route along your trip!

How to Get Around Innsbruck

The best way to get around Innsbruck and the city center is on foot . The main things to do in the city are just a short walk away from each other, so you can see a lot in one day just by walking. That being said, wear comfy shoes – they may just be short walks, but they add up throughout the day!

To reach places on the outskirts of Innsbruck, like the Olympic ski jump or Ambras Castle, you can take public transportation like trams and buses . Consider purchasing the Innsbruck City Card if you’re trying to see lots of things with one day in Innsbruck – it includes rides on all public transportation as well as free or discounted entry to some attractions.

There are also funiculars and cable cars as I mentioned to reach viewpoints and hiking trails on the surrounding mountains.

You could also get around Innsbruck by renting a bike – it’s a super bike-friendly city. However, biking alongside the car/bus/tram/people traffic looked very hectic, so I wouldn’t recommend getting around by bike if you’re not used to biking in a city.

Travel Tips for Visiting Innsbruck in One Day

• Innsbruck is a very bike-friendly city! There are bike paths next to nearly every sidewalk. Be careful to not walk in the bike paths , or you’ll get run over!
• Along with that, if you are driving in Innsbruck, you must stay attentive. There are cyclists and pedestrians crossing the street at all times and wherever they wanted, as well as trams and buses going every which way! With the tram tracks, lines can be hard to see on the road! Check out detailed information about road tripping in my guide to driving in Austria .
• Bring cash. I noticed lots of areas in Tyrol took cash only and I was surprised we ran into several places in Innsbruck with the same rule!
• Many people speak English in Innsbruck – but I would brush up on your German for getting around! Almost no road signage or menu is translated (at least you’ll have to ask for an English menu).

Final Thoughts

I hope you have found at least a few things on this list of things to do in Innsbruck that have made it onto your itinerary! I’m a traveler who’s always trying to make the most of the short time I have to visit places and I understand how hectic it can feel planning a quick trip to or stopover in a city.

Luckily, Innsbruck is the perfect size to explore in one day and feel like you’ve accomplished seeing and doing the best there is on offer. I hope you have the perfect day in Innsbruck!

What are you most looking forward to seeing in Innsbruck? Tell me in a comment!

Save this guide to Pinterest for future reference!

Now you’re set to spend one day in Innsbruck that you’ll remember forever!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

Find me on: Web | Instagram

You may also enjoy:

The best guide to visiting abbey of san galgano, tuscany’s oldest …, only have 3 days in vienna here are 22 unmissable things to do.

Just crossing Innsbruck towards Dolomites. So may like to eat breakfast and lunch and in between just explore. ty very much

I’m glad you’ve found it helpful – Innsbruck and the Dolomites are such special places! Have a wonderful time!

Thank you Michela. This was very helpful in planning our itinerary.

I’m so glad!

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Top Innsbruck Attractions: 21 Absolute Best Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a charming alpine city located in western Austria boasting pastel-hued houses lining the green waters of the River Inn set below the jagged snow-capped peaks of the Alps. Cross the river and you’ll find yourself in a tangle of medieval alleys full with ornate Baroque and Rococo architecture. Innsbruck is famous for its excellent skiing and resorts, its folk traditions , the nearby Swarovski Crystal Worlds , historic landmarks from the Habsburg Empire including the baroque-style Hofburg Palace and Gothic Hofkirche Church, Ambras Castle, and the Golden Roof (German: Goldenes Dachl). All this is surrounded by incredible Alpine views with countless vantage points around the city. 

From where to eat, what to see and do, where to stay, and general Innsbruck travel tips, here are the top Innsbruck attractions that will ensure you see and experience the very best things to do in Innsbruck.

Where is Innsbruck?

Innsbruck is the capital of the historical region of Tyrol (German: Tirol), in the Alps which includes Northern Italy and western Austria. Innsbruck sits just 32km south of the German border and 478 km from Austria’s capital, Vienna.

Looking for something in particular? Use these links to jump around.

Included in this Innsbruck city guide

• Map of Innsbruck
• Innsbruck language guide
• Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria
• Where to eat and Drink in Innsbruck

Where to stay in Innsbruck

How to get to innsbruck.

• How to get around Innsbruck
• Innsbruck Itinerary: How to spend 3 Days in Innsbruck

What language do they speak in Innsbruck?

Even though the state of Tyrol is small and the official language is German, there are numerous local dialects, acronyms, and phrases that may confuse visitors, even German-speaking ones! English is also widely spoken as it’s taught in schools so you’ll find that Austrian citizens speak English fluently.

In addition to the majority languages such as German and Italian, languages such as Ladin, Cimbrian and Mócheno are also spoken in Tyrol.

As with any destination you travel too, it’s a great idea to learn some basic survival phrases that will show respect towards the locals and help break the ice. So, with that in mind. Here are some Tyrolean phrases to learn and use during your trip.

• Hallo, Grias-di (one person, informal), Grias-enk (group) – Hello!, Good Day!
• Grüs Gott (general – welcome to, respectful) – Good Day!
• Guten Morgen  – Good morning 
• Guten Tag – good afternoon
• Guten Abend – good evening
• Gute Nacht –  good night 
• Ciao, tschüss,auf wiedersehen/auf Wiederschaugn – Goodbye!
• Pfiat-di, Pfiat-enk, Pfiat-eich = Goodbye!
• Bitte – Please
• Danke – thank you 
• Vielen Danke – Thank you very much
• Danke schön – polite
• Wie viel kostet es? – How much is it?
• Es tut mir leid , ich verstehe kein Deutsch  – I’m sorry, I don’t understand German

Want to learn more German? Get my free German travel phrase guide here.

Map of Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

Click on this interactive map and see where this itinerary will take you. I’ve created this map using Google Maps which you can save and use as you travel around. Click on any pin for more information.

• Things to do in Innsbruck – Blue pins
• Where to eat in Innsbruck – Green pins
• Where to stay in Bristol – Yellow pins

Best things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

1. cross the innbrücke .

There are 12 bridges that connect Innsbruck’s 20 districts, but the most important and well-known this one called, Innbrücke which also appears on the city’s coat of arms.

Another reason to visit the Innbrücke is for the wonderful views and endless photo potential with the row of colourful buildings lining the river set directly below the towering mountains.  

Tips for visiting Innbrücke

• From the south side of the bridge, walk east along the waterfront towards Marktplatz to see all the wonderfully bridge houses. 
• The bridge itself tends to get busy from 9 am, so the best time for photos is definitely in the early morning. Alternatively, walk further down and take a shot from a distance.
• Address : Innbrücke,6020, Innsbruck, Austria

2. Climb the Town Tower (Stadtturm)

For one of my favourite views of Innsbruck, head inside the Stadtturm and climb the 133 steps that lead up to the 31-metre-high viewing platform. What you’ll get are spectacular 360-degree views of the city’s medieval streets and the Nordkette Mountains. You can even see the famous Bergisel Ski Jump located to the south.

Tips for visiting Stadtturm

• Admission: Entrance is 4,50 € or free with the Innsbruck City Card which can also be purchased on-site. 
• Only cash is accepted. There is, however, a cash machine located a few meters down from the Stadtturm entrance. As you exit, turn right. It’s located in the wall. Here is a map reference. 
• It can get very windy and cold at the top of the tower, so dress warm in cooler months so you can enjoy the views longer.
• Opening times: Stadtturm is open daily: June-September 10:00 – 20:00; , October – May 10:00 – 17:00; 
• Check for extended opening hours over the Christmas period. When I was there, they didn’t close until 8pm!
• Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 21, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official Innsbruck tourism website for more details

3. See the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) and Goldenes Dachl Museum

The Golden Roof was completed in 1500, to mark the wedding of Emperor Maximilian I  to Bianca Maria Sforza on 16 March 1494. The Emperor and his wife used the balcony to watch festivals, tournaments, and other events that took place in the square below.

To see the inside of the balcony, visit the Goldenes Dachl Museum which forms part of a two-storied museum documenting the era of Emperor Maximilian I.

Tips for visiting Goldenes Dachl and Goldenes Dachl Museum

• Admission : Entrance to the Goldenes Dachl Museum is Adults: 5,00 €, Reduced tickets (senior citizens [=60+], students and children): 2,50 €; or free with the Innsbruck City Card .
• Opening times: Goldenes Dachl Museum is open Monday to Saturday (May-September) 10:00 – 17:00; Tuesday to Sunday (October-April) 10:00 – 17:00; Closed in November.
• You can see the Golden Roof for free with the best view from Herzog-Friedrich-Straße.  The best-elevated view is from the Stadtturm, so be sure to keep an eye out for it.
• Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

4. Visit the Court Church (Hofkirche)

Located to the left of the entrance is a monument of Tyrol’s national hero, Andreas Hofer. Andreas Hofer was a Tyrolean innkeeper and drover, who in 1809 became the leader of the Tyrolean Rebellion against the revolutionary Napoleonic invasion during the War of the Fifth Coalition. He was subsequently captured and executed and is still celebrated as a folk hero, freedom fighter and Austrian patriot. 

Tips for visiting Hofkirche

• Admission : Entrance to the Hofkirche is Adult 7€; Reduced 5€; Under 19 y/o – free entry, or free with the Innsbruck City Card .
• For a unique vantage point of the church, visit the adjoining Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage which will give you access to an overhead balcony. For more details, see no. 8 in this list.
• Opening times: Hofkirche is open Monday to Saturday 09:00 – 17:00; Sundays and public holidays 12:30 – 17:00; 
• Address : Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official Hofkirche tourism website for more details

5. See St. Anne’s Column

Tips for visiting St. Anne’s Column

• The area around St. Anne’s Column is located in a shopping district on Maria-Theresien-Straße which can make this part of town busy. Located nearby are two large shopping centers RathausGalerien and Kaufhaus Tyrol worth visiting. 
• Address: Maria-Theresien-Straße 18, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

6. Take the Funicular to Hungerburg, Seegrube and the ‘Top of Innsbruck’

The best view of Innsbruck is from the Nordkette Mountains and getting there is super easy with the Innsbruck funicular and gondola (German: Nordkettenbahnen) with various stops along the way. Within 20 minutes you’ll be whisked from the city centre to the snowy mountain tops for some truly incredible views. Each stop seems to out-do the one before.

After the funicular takes you over the River Inn via a tunnel and bridge, there are four main stops along the Nordkette route worth visiting. The first is called Alpenzoo where you’ll find Alpine Zoo – one of the highest elevation zoos in Europe. See no. 7 in this list for more details. 

There is a restaurant here too and outdoors seating so make sure you grab an apfelstrudel   (apple strudel) and enjoy the view.

Hafelekar, the Top of Innsbruck

There is another small cafe up here and an outdoor viewing area. Hafelekar is where the most experienced skiers come to join the ski run of Hafelekarrinne. This is one of the steepest ski runs in Europe with a gradient of 70%! Eek!

Tips for taking the Innsbruck Funicular and visiting Nordkette

• Weather : Try and time your visit according to the weather. Once you reach Seegrube, the conditions will be a lot cooler due to the elevation and snow on the ground all year round. The Top of Innsbruck is cooler again and can be windy. When I visited in December the viewing area was very icy and slippery making hard to move around and see the view below. A few people even fell over. If you have these crampons or ice grippers , definitely pop them on! Ain’t no shame.
• Funicular : Hop on the Funicular at Congress Innsbruck – a 4 minute walk from the Golden Roof located at Rennweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. See Congress Innsbruck map reference
• Price : The entire journey from Congress Innsbruck to the Top of Innsbruck is €38 , which means the Innsbruck City Card literally pays for itself. 
• Innsbruck-Hungerbrug round trip is 9,90 € or free with the Innsbruck City Card . 
• Hot tip: The Innsbruck City Card is only valid for one trip so if you decide you want to go to Hungerburg one day then to visit the Top of Innsbruck another day, your card won’t be valid for a second trip. Your best bet is to pay for the ticket to Hungerburg then use your Innsbruck City Card for your second journey which would otherwise cost €38.
• To Hungerburg (Mon-Fri) 07.15 – 19.15; (Sat-Sun, public holidays) 08:00 – 19.15
• To Seegrube (Mon-Sun) 08.30 – 17.30
• To Hafelekar (Mon-Sun) 0900 – 17:00
• Check the official Nordkette website for more details

7. Visit the Alpine Zoo (Alpenzoo Innsbruck)

Personally, I’m not into visiting Zoos as I much prefer seeing animals in the wild like going whale watching , however, for some Alpine animals this can be almost impossible. I’ve included the Alpine Zoo here as the zoo is very popular  and the highest themed zoo in Europe. 

The Alpine Zoo is home to brown bears, wolves, bearded vultures, lynx, Alpine ibex, chamois, marmots, and the golden eagle which was nearly wiped out in the 19th century. Some species in found in the zoo have now recovered thanks to breeding programmes and reintroduction into the wild, which has included animals from the Alpine Zoo.

Tips for visiting the Alpine Zoo

• Adults € 12,00 
• Students / retirees (+ ID) € 9,50 
• Handicapped person (50-70%) € 6,00 
• Children (6 – 15 years) pupils (ID) € 6,00 
• Small children (4 – 5 years) € 2,50 
• Opening times: The Alpine Zoo is open daily 09:00 – 18:00 (April-October); 09:00 – 17:00  (November-March)
• Start your day early to make the most of your ticket so that you can visit the zoo before heading further up the Nordette mountains.
• Address : Weiherburggasse 37a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

8. Visit the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage (Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum)

My favourite part of the museum was visiting each of its 14 carefully restored wood-panelled parlours ranging from Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo periods, and originating from all regions of Tyrol, including North Tyrol, South Tyrol and Trentino .

As I mentioned earlier, not to be missed is the unique vantage point visitors to the museum get of the Court Church located next door. The entrance to the balcony is located on the upper floor and around to the left at the back of a dark room. As you walk past, a sensor will detect your movement and a door will open out onto the balcony.  Ask the museum staff to point you in the right direction if you’re lost or unsure as it’s not clearly marked.

Tips for visiting the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage

• Admission : Entrance to the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage is free with the Innsbruck City Card or you can purchase a Combi ticket Adult: € 11; Reduced: € 8; Under 19 y/o – free entry, which includes entrance to the Tyrolean State Museum, Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, Tirol Panorama, Museum of the Tyrolean Imperial Infantry, and the Hofkirche.
• Opening times: The Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage is open daily 09:00 – 17:00
• Multimedia guides are in German, English, Italian, and French are included in the admission price
• Check the official Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage website for more details

9. Visit the Tyrolean State Museum (Ferdinandeum)

The museum contains a variety of displays and exhibits ranging including Romanesque and Gothic masterpieces, a large collection of artworks by Dutch artists such as Rembrandt and  Modern Gallery featuring a collection of Austrian and Tyrolean art.

Tips for visiting the Ferdinandeum / Tyrolean State Museum

• Admission : Entrance to the Tyrolean State Museum is free with the Innsbruck City Card or you can purchase a Combi ticket Adult: € 11; Reduced: € 8; ; Under 19 y/o – free entry, which includes entrance to the Tyrolean State Museum, Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, Tirol Panorama, Museum of the Tyrolean Imperial Infantry, and the Hofkirche.
• Opening times: The Tyrolean State Museum is open daily 09:00 – 17:00
• Multimedia guides are in German, English, Italian, and French are included in the admission price.
• Address: Museumstraße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official Tyrolean State Museum website for more details.

10. Visit the Tirol Panorama

The Tirol Panorama is a cyclorama depicting the Third Battle of the Bergisel where the Tyrolean rebels, led by Andreas Hofer (remember him from the Hofkirche?), fought off Napoleonic invaders on August 13, 1809. 

The battles actually took place in the exact spot the Tirol Panorama is located today. The cyclorama is 1,000 square meters (10,764 square feet) and part of a museum following the history of Tirol. 

The Tirol Panorama is also linked to the Kaiserjäger Museum (Museum of the Tyrolean Imperial Infantry) by an underground passage.

Tips for visiting the Tirol Panorama

• The best way to reach Tirol Panorama is by taking the Sightseer Hop on-Hop off bus, free with the Innsbruck City Card . Check the timetable here
• Admission: Entrance to the Tirol Panorama is free with the Innsbruck City Card or you can purchase a Combi ticket Adult: € 11; Reduced: € 8; ; Under 19 y/o – free entry, which includes entrance to the Tyrolean State Museum, Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage, Tirol Panorama, Museum of the Tyrolean Imperial Infantry, and the Hofkirche.
• Opening times: The Tirol Panorama is open Wednesday-Monday 09:00 – 17:00.
• Multimedia guides are in German, English, Italian, French, and Spanish are included in the admission price.
• Address : Bergisel 1-2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
• Check the official Tirol Panorama website for more details

11. Walk the Panorama Loop Trail (Panoramaweg Bergisel)

Tips for walking the Panoramaweg Bergisel

• The walk isn’t very challenging and is suitable for most fitness levels.
• I recommend wearing walking shoes with a good grip as some parts can be narrow or slippery, especially after rain.
• The walk starts at the back of the Tirol Panorama car park. 
• The trail is divided into two parts – one trail leads to the observation deck while the other will take you to the trail loop itself. At the very start of the walk at the car park, there is a terribly marked path that leads to the left and down the hill and winds around to the river edge, this is the panorama walk. Alternatively, you can go to the observation deck first, in which case you will take the trail that leads up the hill. Both trails do meet up later in the walk but it just means you will need to double back at some point to see both trails.
• You’ll need roughly 2.5 hours walking at a slow-medium pace, to see both trails but this will depend on how often you want to stop to take photos.

12. Visit the Bergisel Ski Jump and restaurant

The Bergisel Ski Jump is a spectacular ski jump designed by architect Zaha Hadid. The same architect who designed the Nordpark Railway Stations to Nordkette. The Bergisel Ski Jump stands at 47 meters tall and holds up to 28,000 spectators. On the top floor is a fine dining restaurant where you can charge and refuel after your walk through nature.

Tips for visiting the Bergisel Ski Jump

• If you’re not already at Tirol Panorama, the best way to get to the Bergisel Ski Jump is by taking the Sightseer Hop on-Hop off bus, free with the Innsbruck City Card . Check the timetable here
• Admission: Entrance to the Bergisel Ski Jump is free with the Innsbruck City Card or Adults: € 10; Children (6-14 years): €5
• Opening times: The Bergisel Ski Jump is open daily (June – October) 09:00 – 18:00; Wednesday-Monday 10:00 – 17:00 (November – May). The Ski Jump is subject to closing to events, so check the official website for details.
• Last admission half an hour beforehand.
• Address : Bergisel 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official Bergisel Ski Jump website for more details

13. See the Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte)

Unfortunately, the Empress’ husband, Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor, and the father of the groom died suddenly during the celebrations. The Baroque structure pays tribute to both the wedding of the young couple on its south side; with the north side commemorating the death of Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor.

Tips for visiting the Triumphal Arch 

• The best view is from the south side with the mountains in the background.
• Please be careful when crossing the street and avoid standing on the little traffic island. 
• Address : Leopoldstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

14. See the home of Swarovski crystals at Swarovski Kristallwelten

Swarovski Kristallwelten (Swarovski Crystal Worlds) opened in 1995 and is located in the town of Wattens where the company is still headquartered today. 

It’s not easy to explain how amazing this place is since its an audiovisual experience that must be experienced in person. What I will say though is that each room has its own theme and has been designed by internationally and nationally recognised artists, designers, and architects, such as Brian Eno, Tord Boontje, Niki de Saint Phalle, Jim Whiting, Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí, and Yayoi Kusama, who have all used crystal to create a unique experience.

Tips for visiting Swarovski Kristallwelten

• There is a free shuttle bus that departs in front of the Innsbruck main train station (Hauptbahnhof) and in front of the Hofburg Imperial Palace (Congress/Hofburg).  Check the timetable here .
• The shuttle bus can be busy both ways so arrive at the bus stop well ahead of departure time to avoid disappointment.
• Admission: Entrance to the Swarovski Kristallwelten is free with the Innsbruck City Card or Adults: €19; Disabled: €15; Children (0-5 years): Free
• Opening times: The Swarovski Kristallwelten is open daily from 08:30 to 19:30
• Last admission is one hour before closing time 
• Address : Kristallweltenstraße 1, 6112 Wattens, Austria
• Check the official Swarovski Kristallwelten website for more details

15. Wander around Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras)

Other Ambras Castle highlights include the Portrait Gallery featuring over 200 paintings, the Saint George Altar of Emperor Maximilian I, and the Spanish Hall. The Spanish Hall is a beautiful hall stretching 43 metres long and built during the Renaissance in order to host balls and other festive occasions.  The walls are covered in 27 colourful full-figure portraits of Tyrolean rulers, from Count Albrecht I of Tyrol to Archduke Ferdinand II.

Tips for visiting Ambras Castle

• The best way to reach Ambras Castle is by taking the Sightseer Hop on-Hop off bus, free with the Innsbruck City Card .
• Admission : Entrance to the Ambras Castle is free with the Innsbruck City Card or Adults: €8; Concessions: €6; Children (0-19 years): Free
• Opening times: The Ambras Castle is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00. Closed in November.
• Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time 
• Address : Schlossstraße 20, 6020 Innsbruck
• Check the official Ambras Castle website for more details

16. Visit the Hofburg Imperial Palace

Museum highlights include the Giant’s Hall, Guards’ Hall, Lorraine Room and Chapel and the apartment of Empress Elisabeth which has been restored and contains mainly 18th-century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art. 

Tips for visiting the Hofburg

• Unfortunately, photography isn’t allowed inside the palace.
• Admission : Entrance to the Hofburg is free with the Innsbruck City Card or Adults: €9,50; Children (0-19 years): Free
• Opening times: The Hofburg is open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Closed in November.
• Last admission is at 16:30
• Address: Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official Hofburg website for more details

17. Visit the Grassmayr Bell Foundry

The Grassmayr Bell Foundry is Austria’s oldest family-run business and one of the largest bell manufacturers in the world. Now that’s something to support! Founded by Bartlmä Grassmayr in Habichen in 1599, the Grassmayr Bell Foundry has supplied bells for eight religions to over 100 countries across every continent.

Grassmayr Bell Foundry is an interactive museum and perfect for families with young children. Inside the sound studio, a selection of bells of various sizes and mallets you can use to strike the bells with. Diagrams are provided to explain how to identify the tone of a bell. Very cool!

Tips for visiting Grassmayr Bell Foundry

• Admission : Entrance to the Grassmayr Bell Foundry is free with the Innsbruck City Card or Adults: €9; Children (6-14 years): €5; Children (Under 6 years): Free
• Opening times: The Grassmayr Bell Foundry is open Monday – Friday 10:00 – 16:00; Saturdays (May – October) 10:00 – 16:00
• Address: Leopoldstraße 53, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official Grassmayr Bell Foundry website for more details

18. Visit the AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center

Use interactive work stations to understand the science behind your senses at the AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center. This unusual museum was created with the aim to increase awareness of the importance of hearing for communication, quality of life and human development. The exhibits are interactive, enable self-determined learning, and do not require any previous knowledge and have a playful component. Such a cool concept and very well executed!

Tips for visiting AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center

• The museum isn’t very large. Allow yourself an hour to see all the exhibits.
• Admission: Entrance to the AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center is free with the Innsbruck City Card or Adults: €9; Concession: €7; Children (< 15 years): €5,0; Children (under 6 years): Free
• Opening times: The AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center is open Tuesday – Sunday 10:00 – 17:00; Public Holidays: Closed.
• Address : Wilhelm-Greil-Straße 23, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Check the official AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center website for more details

19. Go skiing

20. Be a Guest on an Olympic Bobsled

It’s not every day you get a chance to feel the rush of being a passenger in an Olympic Bobsled. Hold on tight as you race down the 800-metre-long ice track in an original guest bobsleigh and experience first hand what makes this winter sport so incredible. The guest bobsleigh reaching up to 90 kilometres per hour and zips around ten curves and one “Kreisel” corner. 

Tips for Guest Bobsledding

• Admission : € 35 per person
• Anyone over the age of 12 years and at least 1.30 metres tall can take part in a guest bobsleigh ride. 
• Bobsleighs hold one pilot and five guests making it ideal for large groups.
• Visit  the official website for more details

21. Take a day trip or join a tour

Experience traditional Austrian folk music culture as the Gundolf Family entertains you with a 1.5-hour program. Listen to authentic folk music, see Tyrolean dance and “shoe-slapping,” and hear traditional yodeling while enjoying a drink or 3-course meal.

Go paragliding in Stubai Valley with transportation and soar above the Stubai Valley in this short excursion from Innsbruck to the Stubai Valley.

Let a local guide bring the city to life and join the Innsbruck highlights walking tour 

Feeling hungry? Get to know and love the Tyrolean capital from the culinary side. Accompanied by a local, enjoy typical delicacies and specialties on this Innsbruck food tour.

Escape the city and get back to nature with a Patscherkofel Mountain Winter Hike where you’ll see mountain peaks for miles.

Where to eat and drink in Innsbruck

360° cafe  / restaurant lichtblick.

Breakfast Club

Who said breakfast should only be eaten in the morning? The Breakfast Club serves everything from Norwegian omelets to waffles and rice pudding – all day, every day. This cozy and friendly restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy your morning coffee or catch up with friends.

Ludwig Das Burger Restaurant

This popular burger joint serves up some of the best burgers in town. Service is speedy and they offer both vegetarian and vegan options. This place is always busy to arrive early or book ahead.

my Indigo am Rathaus

Restaurant Oniriq

Restaurant Oniriq offers a fine dining experience with seven creative and loving courses in a casual, family atmosphere. The menu changes every 6-8 weeks, guaranteeing a unique experience every time.

Café Sacher Innsbruck

Treat yourself with the original Sacher-Torte in the Hofburg Imperial Palace. This elegant café exudes old-world Habsburg charm.

Adlers Hotel

Enjoy a rooftop dinner at Adlers Hotel, one of Innsbruck’s world-class restaurants. Located on the 12th floor and a rooftop bar on the 13th, this restaurant has  amazing city and mountain views.

Blackhome Innsbruck City Centre

For an excellent location at an affordable price, Blackhome Innsbruck City Centre is a great option. It’s located on the River Inn and right in front of the famous Innbrücke. I stayed here for the week and loved it. The room was large and came with a table and chair, sofa, a kitchenette with a microwave and a huge bathroom. The only downside was that these are unmanned serviced apartment, which meant I had to leave my bags at the luggage lockers at the train station on my last day (Note: you’ll need coins for the machine). Check in was easy and the reception was very responsive to email. Check prices and availability here

If you’re travelling alone or as a couple, there are plenty of other Airbnb options all over the city at very affordable prices. Airbnb has numerous convenient options to choose from. If it’s your first time get US$65 OFF here or get £50 OFF your first stay here , when you sign up using my unique reader referral link.

Innsbruck airport is easily reached via direct flights from most major UK airports. I use this site to look for the best deals and prices 

Innsbruck is easily reached via international trains (1h 45 min direct from Munich) as well as directly from Salzburg (1 h 45 min) and Vienna (4 h 15 min). Book your train tickets here

• From Vienna: A12 motorway.
• From Switzerland: A12 motorway. Through the Arlberg Road Tunnel or toll-free via the Arlberg region.

How to Get around Innsbruck

From the airport to the city centre.

From Innsbruck train station (Hauptbahnhof):

The F bus runs every 15m from the station and costs €2,50. The bus stop is located in front of the station. You will need to cross the road and look for stop H then catch the F (Flughaven) bus. 

If you’re based closer to the Old Town, get bus M from Marktplatz which heads towards ‘Stadion’ and alight at the train station. The bus comes every 10-15min.

Around Innsbruck city

Alternatively, you can buy a 24-hour ticket for the Sightseer Hop on-Hop off bus either form the drive or at the Tourist Information located at Burggraben 3 and in most hotels. The ticket is valid within the Innsbruck public transportation network (IVB) which includes local trams and buses.

Innsbruck Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Innsbruck

If you’re only in Innsbruck for a couple of days or on a long romantic weekend, here is a suggested 3-day itinerary to ensure you see the very best of Innsbruck:

Day 1: Innsbruck’s Altstadt (Old Town) 

Head to the Hofburg Imperial Palace to learn more about the Habsburg Dynasty before taking a stroll along the charming Maria-Theresien-Strasse for an afternoon of shopping. Have dinner in any of the recommended spots listed above.

Day 2: Crystals and Castles 

Day 3: Mountain Views

Watch my vlog of the Best Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

Like it? Pin it for later!

Sources blog.tirol / Innsbruck.info / Austria.info

Over to you!

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3 Different Ways to Spend 1 Day in Innsbruck Itinerary

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When I first thought of Innsbruck, I pictured it as just another alpine resort, filled with thrilling adventures and incredible outdoor activities. But after exploring the city, I realized my initial impression was off the mark. Between its breathtaking views, charming spots , and beautiful cultural treasures , Innsbruck offers a well-rounded travel experience .

Compared to other Austrian cities like Vienna and Salzburg , Innsbruck is relatively small. So, at first, I also thought a quick day trip would be enough unless I planned on multi-day hiking. But I was pleasantly surprised! Innsbruck indeed boasts a wealth of attractions and activities . In fact, you’d need a couple of days in Innsbruck just to fully immerse yourself in all the highlights and must-see places that this city has to offer.

Anyhow, just because you’re on a one-day trip to Innsbruck and you can’t see all of its must-see attractions doesn’t mean you won’t feel like you’ve truly experienced the city. Truth be told, there’s no need to see every single attraction . At the end of your day, it’s all about choosing the spots that genuinely fascinate you! Yes, spending a day in Innsbruck can be enjoyable in a variety of ways .

In my view, there are three optimal ways to spend a day in Innsbruck, each offering a unique experience of the city.

• First, you can focus on Innsbruck’s top attractions : a morning visit to the Old Town, followed by an afternoon at Nordkette.
• Second, you can immerse yourself in the culture, art, and architecture of Innsbruck : start with the Old Town in the morning, then head to Ambras Castle in the afternoon.
• Lastly, you can dedicate the entire day in taking in Innsbruck ’s scenic beauty : Nordkette in the morning, the Old Town in the early afternoon, and the Innsbruck Panorama Painting in the late afternoon.

Remember , exploring the Old Town Innsbruck should be a top priority , as it’s home to many of the city’s most notable landmarks! Also, as a wanderer, the narrow streets of the Old Town are already a delight to explore. Here, you can catch sight of the city’s most iconic landmarks set against a backdrop of mountains. The alleys themselves offer dramatic scenes , with the mountains visible through the gaps between buildings. Seilergaße, Keibachgaße, Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, and Maria-Theresien-Straße are definitely my top picks!

Above provides a visual overview of all the experiences, discoveries, and sights you can enjoy during your one-day trip to Innsbruck.

Recommended Things to Do

As mentioned earlier, several places of interest and different types of attractions await you in Innsbruck. These include museums, heritage sites, churches, viewpoints, and of course, mountain outdoor attractions. However, if you’re planning a one-day trip to this city, I suggest prioritizing any of the following : Nordkette, Ambras Castle, Tirol Panorama Museum, and Old Town Innsbruck . In the Old Town, you can find picturesque streets, the Innsbruck Cathedral, the Golden Roof, Stadtturm, Hofkirche, and Hofburg .

Based on what I’ve discovered, visiting these attractions allows you to experience the unique charm of Innsbruck as a travel destination . What’s great about these attractions is that you only need one ‘golden ticket’ to access and explore them — the Innsbruck City Card . This card also provides you with unlimited use of Innsbruck’s public transportation , including the funicular and cable cars in Nordkette. We’ll talk about more benefits of the Innsbruck City Card later on.

Allow me to provide an introduction and a brief overview of each attraction and activity I recommend in Innsbruck.

Innsbruck Cathedral

Don’t be fooled by its simple facade, Innsbruck Cathedral is one of the city’s most astonishing landmarks . Step inside and you’ll be greeted by the city’s most remarkable frescoes and stucco works.

Saint James Cathedral, also known as Innsbruck Cathedral, is an 18th-century Baroque Roman Catholic Church in the historic center of Innsbruck. It’s a primary city landmark, housing two cultural treasures: the 16th-century Mary of Succor painting and the 17th-century canopied tomb of Archduke Maximilian III, the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights. The cathedral’s interior, designed by the renowned Asam Brothers from Bavaria, is breathtaking. The Asam Brothers’ stuccoes and frescoes, particularly the ones creating optical illusions, are marvels that make the cathedral a must-see in Innsbruck. A visit of 15 to 30 minutes is sufficient to appreciate its beauty, unless attending a mass service or concert.

• Golden Roof

This is the crown jewel of Innsbruck. When you visit the Golden Roof , make sure to take in the stunning facade, explore the museum, and catch the view from the balcony. And don’t leave without snapping a selfie!

Innsbruck is home to many impressive structures, but the Golden Roof stands out. It’s not just a symbol of the city, but its main attraction. Built in the 1500s by Emperor Maximilian I to celebrate his marriage to Bianca Maria Sforza, it’s a balcony from which they would watch city festivities. The Golden Roof is known for its 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles that dazzle spectators. It also features murals and reliefs depicting Maximilian I’s life. Located on Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, the city’s main street, it’s a must-see for its historical significance. Don’t miss the museum inside for a deeper understanding of this landmark. Plan for about 30 minutes to fully appreciate the Golden Roof and its museum.

Stadtturm (City Tower)

This is one of the best viewpoints in Old Town Innsbruck. Climb Stadtturm to see 360-degree views of the city with the mountains in the backdrop. A unique view of the Golden Roof awaits on top.

The Stadtturm, or City Tower, is a 15th-century landmark in Innsbruck’s historic center, near the Golden Roof on Herzog-Friedrich-Straße. It was once a lookout post for city guards. Its Renaissance-style roof and upper tower are distinctive features of Innsbruck’s skyline. The Stadtturm offers 360-degree views of Innsbruck from a 31-meter high deck. To reach the deck, you’ll need to climb 148 steps. From there, you can see landmarks like the Golden Roof, Hölblinghaus, local churches, and the Nordkette mountains. Plan for about 30 minutes to climb, enjoy the view, and read about the Stadtturm’s history near the tower’s turnstile.

Within this church, the hidden treasures of Innsbruck are securely housed. Visit Hofkirche to witness the grandeur of Maximilian’s Cenotaph and marvel at the spectacular Black Men statues that encircle the cenotaph.

The Hofkirche, or Court Church, is a must-see in Innsbruck. This 16th-century Gothic church houses significant treasures, including the cenotaph of Emperor Maximilian I and the statues of the Black Men. The cenotaph features intricate ironwork and marble carvings that depict key events from Maximilian I’s reign. The Black Men statues, slightly larger than life, represent various members of the House of Habsburg, including legendary figures like King Arthur. A visit to the Hofkirche, located within the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum and a short walk from the Golden Roof, offers a captivating half-hour exploration of Innsbruck’s cultural heritage and artistry.

Tirol Panorama Museum

Located on the outskirts of the city in Bergisel, the Tirol Panorama Museum is one of Innsbruck’s most significant cultural institutions. A visit to the museum offers a chance to see the Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting — a fascinating insight into the city’s rich history.

The Tirol Panorama Museum is known for the Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting, a 1,000 square meter artwork that depicts the Tyroleans’ bravery during Napoleon’s invasion. This immersive piece transports visitors back to the Battle of Bergisel. In addition to the panorama, the museum houses the “Tyrolean Stage,” a permanent exhibition showcasing the region’s nature, religion, and politics. It’s also home to the Museum of the Imperial Infantry. Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring, but those planning to relax at the scenic pavilion behind the Museum of the Imperial Infantry should allocate additional time. This spot offers a beautiful view of Innsbruck and Nordkette.

This landmark stands as a tribute to Innsbruck’s rich past as a former capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Visit Hofburg to admire stunning architecture and explore interactive exhibits about its emperors and archdukes.

The Hofburg, or the Imperial Palace, is a significant landmark in Old Town Innsbruck. It was the Habsburgs’ home for years and underwent extensive renovations during Emperor Maximilian I’s reign, making it a notable late Gothic period building. The palace gained further architectural interest from renovations by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century, which introduced Baroque elements. Today, the Hofburg is a museum with five themed areas, including Maria Theresa’s Rooms and Empress Elisabeth’s Apartment. It also features an Ancestral Gallery, a Painting Gallery, and a Furniture Museum. Visitors can expect to see stunning interiors, royal artworks, and learn about the palace’s political and cultural history. It’s recommended to spend at least an hour or two to fully appreciate the Hofburg. The Giants’ Hall, with its Austrian Rococo frescoes by Franz Anton Maulbertsch, is a must-see.

Old Town Innsbruck

Make sure to wander the streets of Old Town Innsbruck . You’ll find it packed with scenes so picturesque , you’ll be inspired to capture countless photos with your camera.

Innsbruck’s Old Town is a tourist attraction in its own right, and exploring it is a must-do for any visitor. This area is the city’s most beautiful part, filled with narrow alleys, colorful houses, elaborate landmarks, and scenic views. It’s suggested that you add an extra two hours to your itinerary for this area. This allows time to photograph landmarks, enjoy a meal with a view, or take a leisurely stroll. These additional two hours are on top of the time you’ll spend visiting Saint James Cathedral, Golden Roof, Stadtturm, Hofburg, and Hofkirche.

Ambras Castle

Ambras Castle, Innsbruck’s very own, is nestled in the city’s hilly outskirts. A visit to Ambras Castle offers a glimpse into the love story of Archduke Ferdinand II and Philippine Welser, an opportunity to admire more stunning architecture, and a chance to explore the “world’s oldest museum.”

Ambras Castle in Innsbruck has a unique history, rooted in the love story of Archduke Ferdinand II and Philippine Welser. This 16th-century Renaissance castle, now one of the top attractions in Innsbruck, was a gift of love from Ferdinand II to Philippine. Today, it’s an inspiration for various works of art worldwide. The castle, one of the world’s oldest museums, houses armors of renowned knights from the era of Emperor Maximilian I to Emperor Leopold I. Visitors can explore the castle gardens and intricately designed halls, including the Spanish Hall, a showcase of German Renaissance architecture. This hall features an intricate wood-inlay ceiling and walls adorned with 27 full-length portraits of the Tyrolean rulers. A visit to Ambras Castle is a captivating experience, sure to leave you inspired.

Innsbruck’s own Nordkette mountain range is the epicenter of outdoor activities in the city. With its spectacular scenery and its proximity to the city, it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss. Going to Nordkette from Innsbruck is straightforward.

Nordkette, located north of Innsbruck, offers stunning viewpoints, amazing restaurants, and thrilling outdoor activities. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and is home to Europe’s highest zoo, the Alpine-Zoo. Nordkette’s easy access from the city and its unique offerings make Innsbruck a must-visit. The funicular in Old Town Innsbruck takes you to Hungerburg for panoramic city views. But the journey doesn’t stop there. A cable car ride takes you to Hafelekar, Innsbruck’s highest viewpoint, known as the “Top of Innsbruck.” Here, you can enjoy views of the Alps and the rugged peaks of the Karwendel Mountains. On clear days, you might see a sea of clouds over the Inn Valley. Plan for 3 to 4 hours to visit Nordkette, but you may want to stay longer to fully enjoy all it has to offer.

Did you know? You could technically visit all the recommended tourist spots in Innsbruck in a single day using the hop-on-hop-off Sightseer Bus. But, if you’re planning to thoroughly explore each of them, doing it all in one day is practically impossible. You can buy 24-hour tickets for the Sightseer directly on the bus, at the Tourist Information on Burggraben street, and at many hotels. If you have the Innsbruck City Card , your Sightseer tour is on the house!

Ways to Spend a Day in Innsbruck

As I’ve mentioned earlier, I’ve got three great options for you to spend one day in Innsbruck.

• If it’s your first time in the city, I recommend using the itinerary to the main attractions of the Innsbruck , exploring the Old Town and visiting Nordkette. This will give you a taste of what Innsbruck is all about: a stunning city nestled among breathtaking mountains — a well rounded approach .
• However, if the weather isn’t cooperating, don’t worry. Use the itinerary about immersing yourself in the culture, art, and architecture of Innsbruck . Since the mountains might not be as enjoyable in the rain or if the clouds obscure the views in Nordkette, it’s a good idea to explore more of the city’s attractions.
• On the other hand, if the weather is perfect or if you’re already familiar with Innsbruck, why not try the full appreciation of the city’s beautiful natural scenery itinerary?

The three one-day itineraries I’ve prepared for you can be followed at a leisurely pace . Ideally, they can all be completed in more or less eight-hour visit to the city . Before you set off, though, I recommend double-checking for any updates or announcements about the specific tourist attractions to ensure a smooth journey in Innsbruck. Make sure to check the opening hours for any changes, and keep an eye on your weather app and the webcams in Nordkette’s viewpoints!

Option 1: Visit the Main Attractions

To fully appreciate Innsbruck, visit a variety of points of interest that encompass all the city has to offer: iconic structures, picturesque landscapes, historical locations, and artistic wonders. Below is the itinerary that will help you accomplish that.

• Triumphpforte
• Golden Roof (and museum): 30 minutes
• Stadtturm : 30 minutes
• Hofkirche : 30 minutes
• Innsbruck Cathedral : 30 minutes
• Helblinghaus
• Goldener Adler
• Marktplatz & the colorful houses of Innsbruck
• Emile-Béthouart-Steg (optional)
• Nordkette : 4 Hours (afternoon and dinner)

On the morning of this one-day journey to Innsbruck, we’ll primarily explore the Old Town. This area allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s unique, artistic, and historic charm.

• Begin at Triumphpforte , located at the southern end of Maria-Theresien-Straße, just a five to seven-minute walk from the train station. Adorned with stuccoes and reliefs depicting Innsbruck’s historical royals, Triumphpforte serves as a beautiful introduction to the city’s rich heritage that awaits you.
• Head north along Maria-Theresien-Straße , ensuring your camera is at the ready to capture the lovely architecture that awaits you at the intersection of Maria-Theresien-Straße and Meraner Straße, just a few moments into your stroll. Keep an eye out for the following magnificent buildings: Altes Landhaus (No. 43), Palais Troyer-Spaur (No. 39), Palais Fugger-Taxis (No. 45), and Palais Trapp (No. 38) .
• Keep heading north to explore further until you reach Annasäule (Anna’s Column), situated in the heart of the pedestrianized section of Maria-Theresien-Straße. Take a moment to admire the column and soak in the lively atmosphere of the square or street, experiencing its vibrant vibes.
• If you’re interested, consider entering Spitalkirche to marvel at its exquisite stucco work adorning the ceilings.
• Enter the historic center of Innsbruck by following Herzog-Friedrich-Straße , which seamlessly continues northwards from Maria-Theresien-Straße. Keep walking along this charming street until you reach two iconic landmarks: the Golden Roof and Stadtturm.
• Take a moment to admire the Golden Roof and feel free to capture some memorable photos if you wish. As you face the Golden Roof, you’ll notice Hölblinghaus , a truly exquisite building, located on your left. It stands as one of the most elaborate structures in Innsbruck.
• Step inside the Golden Roof and explore the museum within its walls. Uncover details about the history of the Golden Roof and its connection to Emperor Maximilian I. Lastly, ascend to the balcony area and enjoy an overlooking view of Old Town Innsbruck, just as Emperor Maximilian I did during the 1500s.
• Leave the Golden Roof and make your way to Stadtturm . Ascend its 148-step staircase to enjoy a breathtaking view overlooking Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, as well as a panoramic 360-degree vista of Old Town Innsbruck. Consider reading the information boards located beside the turnstile for a more enriching and insightful visit to the tower.
• Descend from the viewing deck of Stadtturm and continue your journey towards the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum , which serves as the entrance to Hofkirche . To reach Hofkirche/Tyrolean Folk Art Museum efficiently, take Hofgasse, the street situated to the east of the Golden Roof (on your right side if you are facing the landmark). A leisurely stroll of approximately 5-7 minutes will lead you there promptly.
• Upon reaching the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum , you can proceed directly to Hofkirche by passing through the courtyard. However, if you have a penchant for uncovering unique art and feel that you have covered the previous attractions relatively quickly, I highly recommend taking the time to explore the museum. It’s a wonderful opportunity to discover remarkable artwork and further enhance your visit.
• Immerse yourself in the magnificence of Maximilian I’s cenotaph , marvel at the striking statue of the Black Men , and admire the grandeur of Hofkirche’s interior. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty and historical significance that these features offer during your visit to Hofkirche.
• Following your visit to Hofkirche, continue your leisurely stroll northwards (towards the Nordkette) along Rennweg , the road is perpendicular to the facade of Hofkirche. As you make your way, be sure to take in the breathtaking sight of the elegant east facade of Hofburg , which graces the road and offers a stunning display of architectural beauty.
• Turn onto Herrengaße , the street located directly across from Landestheater . Proceed along this street, and after passing through the arches, keep an eye out for a small pedestrian path to your left. Follow this path as it will guide you to Domplatz , the location of Innsbruck Cathedral . 
• I recommend taking a moment to pause and enjoy a brief respite at the quaint square in front of Innsbruck Cathedral. As far as I know, there are benches available where you can sit and unwind , immersing yourself in this serene oasis.
• Afterward, venture inside Innsbruck Cathedral to behold its magnificent interior, filled with awe-inspiring beauty and craftsmanship.
• After your visit to Innsbruck Cathedral, make your way back to Herzog-Friedrich-Straße by taking the route through Pfarrgasse . Once you reach Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, continue along its remaining stretch to discover more splendid buildings in the heart of the historic center.
• Keep an eye out for notable landmarks such as Ottoburg, Altes Regierungsgebäude, and Goldener Adler , each showcasing their unique appearance and architectural beauty.
• Before making your way to Herzog-Otto-Straße, which runs alongside the Inn River, from Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, I recommend taking a slight detour to Keibachgasse . This street is located beside Goldener Adler and leads to Seilergasse — a delightful and picturesque street. Along Seilergasse, you can capture remarkable photos of Stadtturm framed by the buildings that line this narrow and charming street. It’s a wonderful opportunity to capture the essence of Innsbruck’s architecture and charm.
• Head towards Marktplatz to bask in the visually captivating scenery of the Colorful Houses of Innsbruck and the majestic Nordkette mountain range. This location stands as one of the city’s most iconic spots, so be sure to capture some memorable photos!
• You’ll find a few restaurants in Marktplatz where you can enjoy a delicious lunch. Take your time to savor the atmosphere and culinary delights before continuing your exploration of Innsbruck.

The historic center of Innsbruck is relatively compact , and it is indeed possible to explore it fully within an hour, particularly if you maintain a brisk pace and quickly discover its highlights. However, I would advise against rushing through it. Instead, I encourage you to take your time and appreciate even the smallest beautiful details that abound .

Notice the plaque of Andreas Hofer on the wall of the artistic Goldener Adler, or the delightful cake-like embellishments of Helblinghaus . There are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered, particularly along Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, Seilergaße, and Keibachgaße. Don’t miss the opportunity to uncover these little gems.

While dining at the scenic restaurants in Nordkette is undoubtedly a fantastic experience, I highly recommend considering lunch within the historic center of Old Town Innsbruck for a potentially memorable culinary and visual delight . To satisfy both your taste buds and your eyes, I suggest trying the restaurants and cafes located in Marktplatz . From the alfresco seats in the square, you can savor your meal while indulging in the iconic view of Innsbruck’s colorful houses, with the majestic mountains serving as a breathtaking backdrop.

The Old Town of Innsbruck encompasses nearly every aspect that makes Innsbruck a wander-worthy tourist destination. While you can already enjoy the pleasant mountain scenery from this area, it’s easy to see why Nordkette is an unmissable destination for an awe-inspiring nature experience in Innsbruck. Nordkette offers experiences that are sure to leave you breathless. Also, if you are traveling with your kids, the zoo in Nordkette is an opportunity to enjoy further yur afternoon in Innsbruck.

So, to ensure a well-rounded experience in Innsbruck, I recommend making Nordkette your afternoon destination.

If you happen to find yourself in Marktplatz after exploring the Old Town, you can take a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverside path parallel to Herzog-Otto-Straße , heading downstream. Before reaching the riverside garden (Innsbrucker Hofgarten), take a right turn, and you will arrive at the Congress Hungerburgbahn station . This station serves as the gateway to the various tourist attractions in Nordkette, allowing you to embark on your captivating adventure in the mountains all afternoon. 

Option 2: Discover the Culture, Art, and Architecture

Innsbruck, nestled amidst towering mountains, is a paradise for mountain lovers. What if there is a bad weather? Don’t let it spoil your fun. If there is rain and the peaks are shrouded in clouds, pivot to plan B – dive into the city’s vibrant culture. Explore landmarks, marvel at architectural wonders, and immerse yourself in art at local museums. Here’s a one-day itinerary that puts Innsbruck’s rich heritage front and center.

• Keibachgaße
• Innsbruck Cathedral (30 minutes)
• Hofburg (2 hours)
• Hofkirche (30 minutes)
• Ambras Castle (3 hours, afternoon)

Since Ambras Castle doesn’t open until later in the morning, I recommend spending the first part of your day in Innsbruck exploring the delightful Old Town. This area is filled with museums, churches, and quaint palaces. Your focus will be on soaking up the culture, art, and architecture of this city. Naturally, you’ll stumble upon a wealth of fascinating historical treasures along the way! Here’s a rundown of how you can make the most of a day in Old Town Innsbruck.

• The best place to start your morning in Innsbruck’s Old Town is at the southern end of Maria-Theresien-Straße . It is only a short walk from the station, and it is home to the Triumphpforte , or Triumphal Arch. This landmark, which is decorated with historical figures from Innsbruck’s past, is an excellent introduction to the city’s rich history.
• After marveling at the Triumphpforte, stroll northwards into Maria-Theresien-Straße to begin immersing yourself in the timeless charm of Innsbruck. You can admire the architecture, people-watch, or simply enjoy the atmosphere .
• Just a 3-minute walk to the north from Triumphpforte, around the intersection of Maria-Theresien-Straße and Meraner Straße , you’ll find a cluster of beautiful buildings. Prepare to be wowed by Altes Landhaus (No. 43), Palais Troyer-Spaur (No. 39), Palais Fugger-Taxis (No. 45), and Palais Trapp (No. 38) .
• Keep walking north until you reach the pedestrianized section of Maria-Theresien-Straße. It’s one of the most beautiful and vibrant parts of Innsbruck, with colorful buildings and a bustling atmosphere. Take your time to stroll along the street and admire the unique facades of the buildings. Don’t miss the graceful and unique-looking buildings on the west side of Maria-Theresien-Straße, especially near its intersection with Anichstraße .
• While you’re in Maria-Theresien-Straße, be sure to check out Annasäule (Anna’s Column) and Spitalkirche . The latter is a great place to get a preview of the stunning architecture you’ll find in other attractions around Innsbruck.
• After exploring Maria-Theresien-Straße, head north into the historic center of Old Town Innsbruck. Cross Marktgraben road to reach Herzog-Friedrich-Straße , the main street in Old Town’s historic center.
• The Golden Roof gleaming at the end of Herzog-Friedrich-Straße will undoubtedly tempt you to walk straight to it. However, instead, you should first turn left onto Schlossergaße to see some hidden gems. Schlossergaße leads to Keibachgaße and Seilergaße , where you will find picturesque scenes.
• Just a few steps down Schlossergaße, you will immediately see Kolbenturm , one of the medieval towers in the historic center of Innsbruck. It is one of the city’s hidden gems , charming for its Trompe-l’œil-decorated façades.
• After passing through Kolbenturm, you will arrive at a small square where Schlossergaße and Keibachgaße meet . If you look towards Keibachgaße, you will see a picture-perfect view of the Nordkette mountain range between the colorful houses that line both sides of the street.
• Keep walking down Keibachgaße until you reach its intersection with Seilergaße . When you reach the corner, turn east and you will see another picturesque view: the Stadtturm towering over the narrow street.
• Continue strolling along Keibachgaße to return to Herzog-Friedrich-Straße. When you reach Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, you will see the Goldener Adler restaurant , which is decorated with colorful murals. Take a few moments to wander around Goldener Adler for some picture-perfect shots.
• Of course, be sure to admire the stunning appearance of the main attractions in Innsbruck, which are also located along Herzog-Friedrich-Straße: (1) the Golden Roof , the symbol of the city, and (2) the Hölblinghaus , the most beautiful building in the historic center.
• Walk westward along Herzog-Friedrich-Straße until you reach Herzog-Otto-Straße, which runs along the Inn River. Continue to Marktplatz , where you can take in the picturesque view of the colorful houses across the river. This is one of Innsbruck’s most iconic views, so be sure to take a photo or a selfie!
• Maria-Theresien-Straße and Herzog-Friedrich-Straße have a wide variety of restaurants, but the ones with the best views are in Marketplatz. Here you can find a few cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating that offer a stunning view of Nordkette and Innsbruck’s colorful houses . Make the most of this opportunity to satisfy both your eyes and stomachs by having brunch or lunch here!
• After visiting Marktplatz, take a pleasant stroll along the Herzog-Otto-Straße riverside footpath . You will be rewarded with panoramic views of Nordkette. Continue walking downstream until you reach Badgaße , the street after Herzog-Friedrich-Straße.
• Walk down Badgaße for a few minutes to reach Innsbruck Cathedral . After Badgaße, you will emerge into Pfarrgaße. Turn left onto Domplatz to reach the cathedral.
• Step inside Innsbruck Cathedral and be amazed by the breathtaking frescoes and stuccoes on the ceiling . Explore the cathedral to find two of Innsbruck’s most important treasures: the portrait of Maria Hilf and the Tomb of Archduke Maximilian III .
• To get to Hofburg from Innsbruck Cathedral, take the small path on the left side of the church (if facing the facade). This will take you to Herrengasse , which intersects with Rennweg to the east. Hofburg’s elegant facade & entrance can be seen on Rennweg.
• Step inside Hofburg and wander through its stately halls and rooms. See the imperial apartments and don’t miss the incredible interiors of the Giant’s Hall .
• If you feel that you have already explored the streets of Old Town Innsbruck too quickly, you might also want to check and enjoy the exhibition about Emperor Maximilian I in Hofburg .
• Once you have finished visiting Hofburg, proceed to the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum , which is also the entrance to Hofkirche . The church and the museum are located at the southern end of Rennweg, so you should be able to find them quickly and visit them.
• Visit Hofkirche and be dazzled by Innsbruck’s most prized possessions: the Cenotaph of Maximilian I and the Black Men . You can also find the tomb of Andreas Hofer, Tyrol’s national hero, inside Hofkirche.
• After visiting Hofkirche, you can continue exploring other streets in the historic center, such as Burggraben and Riesengasse , which are located next to Hofkirche. To get to them quickly, you can pass through the tunnel next to Hofkirche. As far as I know, flea markets are sometimes held in Burggraben. Reisengasse, on the other hand, offers more opportunities for street photography.
• It is advisable to have your lunch before visiting Ambras Castle for the second half of your one-day trip to Innsbruck.

You can tour Old Town Innsbruck faster than you might think, depending on how quickly you move from one sight to another. If you find yourself finishing the exploration of Old Town Innsbruck quickly, you might want to visit the museums in Innsbruck that showcase the city’s culture and history.

• Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art : This museum has many cultural items that tell the story of the region’s history. You’ll see things like handmade crafts, painted chests, tools, and nativity scenes. They also have traditional costumes that show the local fashion.
• Tyrolean State Museum : This museum has seven collections of items from different time periods, from prehistoric times to the Early Middle Ages. You’ll see a variety of arts and crafts in styles from Romanesque and Gothic to Modern.

You can find more information about these museums in the resources section .

For the afternoon part of your one-day trip to Innsbruck, you’ll be heading to Ambras Castle , which is on the city’s southern edge. You’ll need about 3 hours to fully see Ambras Castle , so make sure to get there at least 3 hours before it closes. The last time I checked, Ambras Castle closes at 5 PM, so you might want to leave Old Town Innsbruck between 2 and 2:30 PM. The bus ride from Innsbruck train station to Ambras Castle, on bus number 4134, is about 30 minutes.

I suggest downloading the castle’s smartphone app before you start exploring Ambras Castle. This handy app will be your audio guide, giving you an immersive experience where Archduke Ferdinand I and Philippine Welser virtually guide you through the castle. It’s a great way to make your visit even better. You can find the app in the resources section of this post.

Option 3: Going to Innsbruck’s Scenic Attractions 

Innsbruck’s alpine experiences are some of the city’s top highlights. It makes Innsbruck unique among European destinations. If you’re visiting Innsbruck during the dry months and haven’t yet explored the mountains, I recommend spending a day discovering the city’s mountain landscapes and picturesque spots. Here’s the itineraty outline:

• Nordkette (4 hours, morning)
• Stadtturm (30 minutes included in the 2 hours)
• Colorful Houses of Innsbruck 
• Innsbruck Panorama Museum (2 hours, late afternoon)

Remember: Before you start this one-day Innsbruck trip, it’s important to check the weather and air conditions. The mountain views are amazing on a clear day, but it’s not totally worth going when the weather is bad. I learned this when I went to the mountains in bad weather and all I saw was fog instead of beautiful views. Besides checking the weather forecast, it’s also a good idea to look at live webcam videos from the mountain areas . This can help you decide if it’s a good day to visit the mountain sights based on what you see in the videos.

Starting your journey in Innsbruck at Nordkette is a great choice. Visiting Nordkette first on your one-day Innsbruck trip has three main benefits:

• Less crowd and quietude — Nordkette is a popular tourist destination, especially during weekends and holidays. By visiting in the morning, you can beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience with nature.
• More stunning photos — The morning light can create beautiful scenes, enhancing the natural beauty of the mountains. The soft, warm hues during the early hours can add a touch of magic to your photographs.
• Better opportunities for personal reflection and meditation — The tranquility of the surroundings combined with the awe-inspiring mountain views can provide an ideal setting for personal reflection, meditation, or simply finding a moment of solitude.

Depending on the season of your visit, the first trip to Nordkette can start between 7 and 8 in the morning . If the view looks fantastic, head straight to the Top of Innsbruck or Hafelekar. By reaching the Top of Innsbruck early in the morning, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Innsbruck in solitude or with fewer tourists.

At Seegrube (1905 meters), located near the Top of Innsbruck, there is a restaurant where you can enjoy a memorable dining experience surrounded by the majestic mountains. Here, travelers try the Good Morning Innsbruck meal which is a daily breakfast buffet served at Innsbruck’s highest breakfast location. The buffet includes a selection of regional products, a glass of Prosecco, fresh bread and pastries, sweet and savory spreads, sausage and cheese, smoked salmon, and much more.

While I don’t highly recommend dining in Seegrube, what I do strongly suggest are the hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the rugged peaks of the Karwendel mountains. If there happens to be a captivating sea of clouds, it will surely enhance your desire to hike and explore the mountain top.

Innsbruck, tucked in the Inn Valley and surrounded by towering 2000-meter mountains, offers eye-pleasing alpine views that can be enjoyed even from its historic center . As you plan to see all the amazing sights in Innsbruck, don’t miss the mountain views from the city.

There are many picturesque spots in Innsbruck, but there are three places you should definitely visit after Nordkette: Stadtturm , the colorful houses of Innsbruck from Marktplatz, and Emile-Béthouart-Steg . Here are step-by-step instructions to guide you to each of these attractions.

The first hidden gem I want to share with you is Emile-Béthouart-Steg. This peaceful bridge is located along the Inn River near the northwestern corner of Innsbrucker Hofgarten. It’s a less-known destination in Innsbruck that’s worth a visit.

• Let’s begin our journey at the Congress station , which is where you’ll arrive from Nordkette. From the Congress station, start your leisurely stroll northward (towards Nordkette) along Rennweg until you reach a quaint pedestrian bridge known as Emile-Béthouart-Steg.
• At Emile-Béthouart-Steg, you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Nordkette, visible above the tranquil waters of the Inn River. Unlike other bridges in Innsbruck, this one offers a more peaceful experience, free from the noise of passing cars, with only a few people strolling by .
• From Emile-Béthouart-Steg, start walking southwestward towards the historic center until you reach Marktplatz . Use the scenic pedestrian path along the river that goes through a small portion of Innsbrucker Hofgarten and then beside Herzog-Otto-Straße.
• Once you arrive at Marktplatz, you’ll behold the breathtaking view of the Colorful Houses of Innsbruck , which is one of the most iconic and picturesque scenes in the city.
• You may want to consider spending some extra time in Marktplatz to satisfy both your appetite and your eyes. The square boasts restaurants with alfresco seating , allowing you to indulge in a meal while enjoying the delightful view of the Colorful Houses of Innsbruck!
• A few steps northeast of Marktplatz lies Herzog-Friedrich-Straße , which is one of the most charming sights in Innsbruck. Enter the street and begin meandering through it to marvel at the exquisite buildings such as Goldener Adler, Hölblinghaus, and Golden Roof , until you reach Stadtturm .
• Enter Stadtturm and ascend to its viewing deck for another panoramic perspective of Innsbruck and the Alps. Keep in mind that you’ll need to climb 148 steps to reach the top. Don’t be discouraged though! An immensely rewarding 360-degree panorama of the city awaits you once you’re there.
• If you wish, you can venture inside the Golden Roof and ascend to its balcony for a unique view of the city , right after descending from Stadtturm.
• After admiring these views in the historic center, it’s time to explore the remainder of Old Town Innsbruck. Our first stop is Maria-Theresien-Straße , a pedestrianized street located parallel to Herzog-Friedrich-Straße, just across Marktgraben.
• Maria-Theresien-Straße also serves as a spacious open square , creating a simply picturesque place at the heart of the city. Within Maria-Theresien-Straße, you’ll discover a couple of renowned landmarks, namely Annasäule and Spitalkirche , which you can capture in photographs with Nordkette as a stunning backdrop.
• To remain conveniently close to transportation options, I recommend staying in the vicinity of Maria-Theresien-Straße, particularly near the intersection of Maria-Theresien-Straße and Marktgraben. Here, you’ll find buses and trains that will take you to Bergisel. Bergisel is a hill that houses the Tirol Panorama Museum, which serves as your final destination for this one-day trip in Innsbruck.

While there are many other fascinating spots in Old Town Innsbruck worth exploring, it’s a good idea to go directly to Bergisel (situated south of the city) after your visit to Maria-Theresien-Straße. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to fully enjoy the Tirol Panorama Museum and see other attractions near Bergisel. If you’re interested, you can find more information on the official Bergisel website, which is linked in the resources section of this post.

Getting to the Innsbruck Panorama Painting takes about 20 minutes , whether you choose to use the buses or trams from Maria-Theresien-Straße, or if you prefer to walk. If you decide to walk, just head south along Leopoldstraße from Maria-Theresien-Straße to reach Bergisel.

On your way to Bergisel, you’ll pass by two notable landmarks, the Wilten Basilica and Wilten Monastery . These are easily visible from the Innsbruck Giant Panorama Painting , which is the main highlight of the Tirol Panorama Museum. Inside the panorama, you’ll also enjoy a wide, sweeping view of Innsbruck, which complements your goal of experiencing the city’s scenic beauty.

For the best ‘real’ view of Innsbruck, however, go to the pavilion behind the Museum of Imperial Infantry, located right next to the Tirol Panorama Museum building. Ideally, stay in the area until dusk to witness the lovely sunset in Innsbruck from the pavilion . To make the most of your time while waiting for the sunset, you could either take a short hike nearby or explore other sections of the museum .

If you want more breathtaking views, explore the Panorama Trail , which ends at the Bergisel Ski Jump . However, I don’t recommend climbing the Bergisel Ski Jump, as the view is quite similar to what you can see from the pavilion near the museums.

Lastly, the Tirol Panorama Museum has a restaurant next to it called Restaurant 1809. It’s a great place to enjoy your afternoon snacks or dinner, especially since the restaurant offers scenic views of Innsbruck.

That’s all! I hope my one-day itinerary for Innsbruck helps you plan your visit to this amazing city. With the three suggested activities, you can dive into the city’s fascinating history, soak up its stunning natural beauty, and tap into the spirit of adventure that Innsbruck offers. Check out my Innsbruck Archive for all my Innsbruck articles to help you get the most out of your trip to Innsbruck. If you want to learn more about Innsbruck and the places I mentioned, the resources linked below should be useful.

• Official website of Innsbruck Tourism Office
• Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art
• Tyrolean State Museum
• Ambras Castle Smartphone App (Virtual Guide)
• Nordkette Panoramic Breakfast
• Official website of Bergisel 
• Live Camera View of Innsbruck

Tip: Get Innsbruck City Card

If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck on your Innsbruck trip, you’ve got to check out the Innsbruck City Card (as mentioned earlier!). It’s your all-access pass to the city. You get one-time entry to loads of museums and attractions, free rides on buses and trams, access to a super convenient hop-on hop-off bus service, and even cable car rides. If you’re planning to follow my one-day itinerary that includes Nordkette , this card is a total game-changer. You’ll save a bunch of money, and who doesn’t love that?

Check out how much you could potentially save by using Innsbruck City Card + my one-day Innsbruck itinerary that highlights the city’s best spots.

On the flip side, check out the rough estimate of how much you could save by following my one-day itinerary that spotlights Innsbruck’s picturesque spots + Innsbruck City Card.

Get your Innsbruck City Card now.

After Innsbruck, consider visiting Mittenwald and Garmisch Partenkirchen in Germany, or the Dolomites in Italy. But if you’re seeking an exceptional experience in Austria, Salzburg is the place to be . It’s packed with so many fantastic attractions (a blend of music, scenery, architecture, history, and more) that you might want to plan a two or three-day trip to fully explore the area! If you’re short on time, you can still enjoy Salzburg. Take a look at my 1-day Salzburg budget itinerary .

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Innsbruck in One Day: Your Ultimate Adventure Awaits!

Is it even possible to see the awestruck alpine town of Innsbruck in one day?

Yes, it is!

Innsbruck, the charming capital of the Austrian state of Tyrol, is a city that effortlessly climbs to the top of beautiful alpine towns worth visiting.

Nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and adorned with stunning architecture, Innsbruck offers much to see and do even if you only have one day to spare.

From its world-class museums and imperial palaces to its vibrant Old Town and outdoor adventures, I will share how to plan a day trip to Innsbruck where you will spend an unforgettable one day in Innsbruck.

Table of Contents

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Is a Day Trip to Innsbruck Worth it?

If you are wondering if “ is Innsbruck worth visiting “, even for just a day, it most definitely is. Innsbruck is the kind of destination that leaves you speechless.

All around, towering over you, are the mountains. The jagged rock spires of the Nordkette range are incredibly majestic and are the backdrop for this beautiful alpine town.

Innsbruck, the capital city of the Tyrol, or Tirol region, is known as the capital of the Alps .

Being surrounded by ski slopes during the winter and mountainous hiking trails during the summer makes this a bucket list destination for any adventurous traveller.

What is Innsbruck famous for? The Olympics!

There are only three places that have held the honour of hosting the Olympics more than once, and Innsbruck is one of them. They hosted 2 Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976. And that is what has put them on the world stage as a sought-after destination.

Not that adventurous? No problem, this town has enough charm and tourist attractions to capture anyone’s interest.

And, since it lies very close to the border of Germany, this is a popular day trip from either country. That is how I came to see it.

I spent two weeks driving from one end of the Alpine Road in Germany to the other. Starting in Berchtesgaden , where I took a day trip to Salzburg , another Austrian town worth visiting and ending in Lake Constance Germany .

It was in the middle of my trip, staying in the amazing Garmisch Partenkirchen in Germany, that I decided to spend a day in Innsbruck. Garmisch to Innsbruck is just under an hour.

So I too, had to plan what to do in Innsbruck for a day.

Innsbruck in One Day Ititnerary

1. start at triumphpfort.

There’s no better way to start your Innsbruck in a day adventure than at the Triumphal Arch.

What a view!

I walked through the archway and got my first glimpse of the city with the mountains in the background. The building of the Triumphal Arch was in celebration of Emperor Leopold I and Empress Maria Theresa’s engagement in 1765.

I continued through the Truimphal on Maria Theresien Strasse, a notable street in Innsbruck, gazing upon the well-preserved century buildings on either side. This lively street that features some of Innsbruck’s best shopping.

Walk until you reach Annasaule, a column from 1703 of red marble. Now you’ve reached the start of Old Town.

Let’s explore the heart of Innsbruck.

2. Wander Altstadt Innsbruck

Now it’s time to explore the Altstadt , or Old Town. It’s chock-full of 13th to 14th-century Baroque and Gothic architecture.

All of these beautiful buildings house museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants. The colourful buildings in the Old Town are decorated with murals and intricate metal signs hanging above the shop doors to indicate what lies inside.

Strolling through these attractive little streets was one of my favourite things to do in Innsbruck.

Surprisingly, Old Town is not designated as a UNESCO protected site in Austria , yet!

Stop at an Austrian coffee house, like Cafe Katzung or Kröll Strudel Café to enjoy a delicious pastry and strong coffee as you watch people watch. This was a highlight for me.

3. Visit the Notable Buildings of Altstadt Innsbruck

Several must-see buildings in Altstadt caught my eye.

• Golden Roof, or Goldenes Dachl . Of all the places to visit in Innsbruck in 1 day, this is it! It’s the city’s most popular landmark. What makes it so unique is that the tiny balcony, used as a royal box, is adorned with 2,657 gilt copper tiles. On a sunny day, this balcony glistens in the sun.
• City Tower or Stadtturm . This medieval structure is from the 1400s. For many centuries it was used as a prison, today it serves as a watchtower with spiral stairs leading to incredible views of the city. and stands out from the other buildings due to its bright orangey-red walls of the historic Town Hall. Cost: 4.50€
• Helbling Haus. One of the prettiest buildings in Old Town is Helbling Haus. This impressive building is one of Innsbruck’s finest and most elaborate Baroque buildings.

• Hofkirche or Court Church . The Gothic Church from 1553 is a must-see as part of your Innsbruck itinerary 1 day adventure. The interior is the real showstopper, full of beautiful Renaissance and Gothic details. It’s also where you will find Maximilian’s impressive tomb lined with 28 bronze life-size figures. Cost: 8€
• Hofburg or Imperial Palace. This palace is considered one of the top culturally significant buildings in Austria, making it one of the top places to visit in Innsbruck in a 1-day itinerary. Cost: 9.50€
• Innsbruck Cathedral or Dom Zu St. Jacob . This 1700s church was named after St James. This large cathedral features 57 bells and a fresco ceiling depicting the life of the apostle James.
• Tyrolean Folk Museum. An arts and cultural museum which includes an armoury exhibit (free to enter). Cost: receive a 50% price reduction with a Hofkirche ticket

4. Lunch in Altstadt Innsbruck

While you’re spending time in Old Town, this is the perfect spot to try another restaurant for lunch. I have a couple of recommendations for you:

• Cafe Munding – housed in a Baroque building from 1720 – go to the back, past the coffee house to enjoy a typical Tyrolean meal
• Weisses Rossl – enjoy a traditional Tyrolean meal on their elevated terrace or inside in their cozy traditional dining room
• Markthalle – a large food hall along the Inn River where you can choose from a wide selection of vendors. It’s a casual hang-out spot for locals, even pop-up beer vendors appear outside in the warmer months

5. Admire the Pretty River Houses

What to see in Innsbruck in 1 day? You can’t miss the colourful houses along River Inn, or Inns .

Walk along the bridge running over the fast-flowing river, and maybe even leave a love lock.

You can’t help but not take a picture postcard photo in this popular location. It’s a backdrop that is hard to beat!

6. Stroll Innsbrucker Hofgarten or Innsbruck’s Court Garden

Now it’s time to walk off your hearty Tyrolean lunch with a stroll through Innsbrucker Hofgarten, the city’s public garden and park.

If visiting Innsbruck in the spring as I did, be sure to go here. The gardens are bursting with colour with pretty springtime flowers.

It’s also the place to catch the Hungerburgban Funicular to venture up to Nordkette. Your next activity.

7. Go to the Top of Innsbruck

What to see in Innsbruck in one day is at the top!

Yes, even visiting Innsbruck in one day means you get to visit the Alps right from the centre of town. How cool is that? So, here’s how it works.

The  Nordkettenbahn , features three separate sections:

• Innsbruck Congress Station to Hungerburg via funicular reaching 1,837 ft above sea level
• Hungerburg to the Seegrube station via cable car reaching 6,250 ft above sea level
• Seegrube station to Hafelekar via another cable car reaching 7,401 ft above sea level

1 day in Innsbruck, you’re going to want to save time where you can. That’s why I recommend pre-booking your tickets. Choose from: Innsbruck Congress Station to Hungerburg OR Seegrube station to Hafelekar

Of all the things to do in your Innsbruck one day itinerary, don’t skip this! The views from the Top of Innsbruck will leave you awestruck!

8. Choose your Next Adventure

For your late afternoon activity, the choice is yours! Here are 4 recommended Innsbruck things to do to.

Choose from these Innsbruck places to visit:

• History Lovers. Visit the medieval Ambras Castle from 1565, which was once the residence of Archduke Ferdinand
• Art & Cultural Lovers. Visit Kristallwelten or Swarovski Crystal World, a museum and art gallery designed to showcase the world-famous Swarovski crystal. The most impressive displays include the Crystal Dome, Crystal Theatre, and Crystal Forest. As well, the exterior garden features the Giant, a large landscaped waterfall in the shape of a human
• Animal Lovers. Visit Europe’s highest-elevation zoo that can only be reached by funicular as part of the first stage of the Top of Innsbruck visit (see #6). The zoo animals are ones that you would only find within the Alp region
• Adventure Lovers. Visit Innsbruck Bergiselschanze or Bergisel Ski Jump. Take the funicular or stairs to the top of the ski jumping hill which offers another view, although not quite as spectacular as the Top of Innsbruck. Cost: 9€

Another time saving hack is pre-booking your choosen adventure, will it be the Ambras Castle OR Swarovksi Crystal World OR Alpine Zoo ?

9. End your Innsbruck 1 day Iitinerary

Your one day in Innsbruck is not over yet! Stay a little longer and enjoy a meal and experience the city at nighttime.

Your Innsbruck in one day itinerary can include some of these suggestions:

• Best Restaurants for Dinner – Ludwig (for the best burgers in Innsbruck), Die Wilderin (for the best seasonal and sustainable menu in Innsbruck), Oniriq (one of the best fine dining restaurants in Innsbruck) or Gasthof Goldener Adler (for the best local specialties in an elegant, historic building)
• Best Tyrolean Evening Experience – Enjoy traditional Austrian folk music, “shoe-slapping” dance and yodelling over a 3-course meal. The Gundolf Family has been entertaining guests since 1967. Reserve this fun experience and top-rated activity is a fun night out in Innsbruck.
• Best Cocktail Bars – Liquid Diary (Adolf-Pichler-Platz 2), M + M Bar (Innstraße 45), Dunlin Bar (Meraner Str. 6)
• Casino Innsbruck – enjoy a fun night at the casino – with dinner, entertainment and games (Salurner Str. 15)

FAQs About Innsbruck

How did innsbruck get its name.

Innsbruck got its name from the river Inn that flows through the city. When translated into English, Innsbruck means the bridge over the inn. As far back as the 1100s, there was a bridge that was built over the Inn River. Today, there are 12 bridges in Innsbruck, with the most popular being Innbrücke.

How do you get to Innsbruck?

Getting to Innsbruck is easiest by train. The city of Innsbruck is well connected to other European countries like Munich, Germany, Salzburg, Vienna, and Verona, Italy. The train station is a short walk to the city centre of Maria Theresien Strasse.

How do you get around Innsbruck?

Innsbruck is a small, compact, walkable city making it easy to visit Innsbruck in one day. A fun way for Innsbruck sightseeing is to take the cable car called Hungerburgbahn which it takes you through the city centre and over the bridge crossing River Inn.

What should you not miss in Innsbruck?

The unmissable things to do in your one day in Innsbruck 1. Altstadt 2. Hofburg and Hofkirche 3. Cable car to the Top of Innsbruck 4. Golden Roof 5. Coffee house for apple strudel or sacher torte

What are some tips for visiting Innsbruck?

If you are planning one day in Innsbruck, make the most of your time by booking entrance tickets in advance to avoid any long lines. That includes making lunch and dinner reservations for the restaurants of your choice. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget your camera!

What is the best time to visit Innsbruck?

Innsbruck can be enjoyed in every season. However, the most popular time to visit Innsbruck is winter, followed by summer. Springtime is pretty too with a abundance of spring flowers.

What are the things to do in Innsbruck in the winter?

The top things to do in Innsbruck in the winter include: 1. Axamer Lizum, just 20 km from the city centre offers a snow park and race park 2. Patscherkofel, a former Olympic venue, features a Children’s World and a snow park for freestylers 3. Cross-country skiing locations are Glungezer, Kalte Kuchl, Schartenkogel, and Halsmarter 4. Igls Bobsleigh Centre where you can try luge, skeleton, and bobsleigh runs 5. Bergisel Ski Jump which towers over the city on the lush Bergisel Hill 6. Take a scenic cable car ride- there are a series of 4 starting at the Hungerburg 7. Funicular and ends with the Hafelekar Peak offering the highest viewing point and incredible panoramic views.     8. Visit Olympia SkiWorld collective where you can ski the Alps, ski jump 

How to travel from Salzburg to Innsbruck?

You can travel from Salzburg to Innsbruck by train or car. The Salzburg to Innsbruck train journey is scenic and takes little less than 2 hours, while driving takes a little more than 2 hours.

How to travel from Munich to Innsbruck?

You can travel from Munich to Innsbruck by train or car. The Munich to Innsbruck train journey takes approximately an hour and 45 minutes, whereas driving takes around 2 hours.

As a Holidaymaker

This 1-day itinerary for Innsbruck will have you visit all the “must” sites.

It offers a balance between sightseeing in the charming Old Town with a little adventure. Going to the Top of Innsbruck you will be awestruck by its scenic views, don’t miss that!

I hope you have the opportunity to spend one day in Innsbruck just as I have done.

To help with your trip planning to Austria, find out the resources I use and recommend. And, if you are wanting to add Germany to your itinerary, I will leave you with my Travel Guide to Germany where you will have access to my all of my adventures.

If you enjoy European travel as much as I do, become a subscriber . Each week I send you travel news, tips and inspriation.   

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

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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.

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

Christian Nafzger/Getty Images

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 

Getty Iages

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  

Nataliia Shcherbyna/Getty Images

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.

Related Articles

One Day in Innsbruck, Austria? Complete Guide To A Perfect City Break!

Posted on Last updated: April 16, 2020

For the Social Travel Summit (a professional blogger conference) earlier this year, I travelled all the way to beautiful mountain town of Kitzbühel , located in the Tirol region of Austria. Afterwards, I got to spend two nights in the charming city of Innsbruck , the capital of Tirol and an important university city.

While these conference destination visits are usually over in a flash, I managed to get a nice sense of Innsbruck and combined all my personal highlights in this one day in Innsbruck Austria itinerary for you!

ONE DAY IN INNSBRUCK AUSTRIA ITINERARY

MORNING IN INNSBRUCK

Go up the norkette.

This mountain range is often called the ‘Jewel of the Alps’ and wherever you are in Innsbruck, you can see why: there is a perfect balance between the natural mountain scenery and the vibrant city life.

With the Hungerburg funicular (of which the stations are designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid) to 860 meters, followed by the Nordkette cableway  up to 1905 meters (viewpoint one) and 2256 meters (viewpoint two), you can go all the way to the Hafelekar summit and within 20 minutes enjoy the amazing panorama over the city.

We did this at the end of the day on our trip, watched the sunset and went for dinner, but as the restaurant wasn’t too special (although schnitzels are ALWAYS a good idea in Austria), I can recommend to go up to the top and enjoy the views in the morning before the crowds come in and have a coffee before going down again.

If you’re brave, you can hike down as well and with some extra time, you might want to visit the Alpine Zoo , which is nestled up against the Nordkette.

Try Sachertorte

Austria is the country of coffee, but also of the delicious Sacher Torte . This is a -heavenly- dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam, coated in dark chocolate icing. It was invented by Austrian Franz Sacher in 1832 for Prince Wenzel von Metternich in Vienna . And it should not be missed on your next visit.

At the elegant Café Sacher in Innsbruck, which is located in the Imperial Palace, you can enjoy a really nice Torte in an old world Habsburg atmosphere. I really enjoyed our quick break here with a tasty, although hilariously expensive 7 euros, slice and a lovely cup of tea.

Visit Ambrass Castle

Ambras Castle lies about 4,5 kilometers southeast of the city center on top of a hill, but it’s definitely worth the short drive. The castle was acquired in 1564 by Archduke Ferdinand II who was then the ruler of Tyrol. He transformed the place from a fortress into a livable palace. He established the magnificent Ambras Collection and had a museum built in the lower castle to house it all.

Everything is well-preserved and now you can enjoy the incredible armour collection (including armour for the house giant), the art and curiosity cabinet (where you’ll scratch your head over the chair that was designed to trap his drunken guests) and the portrait gallery with over 200 artworks, including valuable works by famous artists such as van Dyck and Diego Velásquez.

Make sure not to miss the Spanische Saal , a 43m-long banquet hall with a wooden inlaid ceiling, and the beautiful gardens which surely make for a great picnic in Summer.

Oh, you thought I made that Giant up?

AFTERNOON IN INNSBRUCK

Have lunch at weisses rössl.

The Weisses Rössl is a charming Innsbruck hotel in old town and they have a restaurant that makes you truly feel you’re in Austria, if you didn’t have that feeling already. Old walls, wood paneling, beamed ceilings and hearty food… Yup, a winner for me!

Guests have been eating and sleeping here since the 1600s and you can enjoy home cooked and Tyrolean specialties, such as the  Käsespätzle , which I had (so good!). Also don’t miss having Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) for desert.

Explore Old Town Innsbruck

Let’s walk of that Kaiserschmarrn, shall we?

The old center of Innsbruck can show you a fair bit of the city’s history. You can walk for hours, but here are a few places that I recommend you don’t skip, as for me, these were the highlights of all Innsbruck things to do:

• The Golden Roof build by emperor Maximilian I in the 15th century (hard to miss!)
• Hofkirche Court Church , where you can find Maximilian’s impressive tomb aligned with 28 larger than life bronze figures.
• Hofburg Imperial Palace , the former imperial residence where you can follow in the footsteps of Maximilian I and Maria Theresia with interesting audio guides and guided tours.

The Golden Roof, as seen from the ‘Stadtturm’ (city tower)

Hofkirche Court Church

The Hofberg

EVENING IN INNSBRUCK

Have a drink at the bergisel ski jump.

Zaha Hadid fans have so much luck in Innsbruck, because besides the stations, she also designed the incredible 47 meter high  Bergisel ski jump (well the building on top of it) at the outskirts of Innsbruck. After a short gondola ride, you can not only gasp at looking down the actual jump (how do people go down this in their right minds?!), but you have an amazing view over the city. In the tower building, there is a panorama restaurant and a panorama terrace .

The first ski jump was erected here in 1925 and in 1964 and 1976, the Innsbruck Ski Jump was venue of the Olympic Ski Jumping competitions. Zaha Hadid’s building was completed in 2002 and you can visit it daily between  9am and 5pm.

Have dinner at Lichtblick Restaurant

With such gorgeous scenery, you understand why Innsbruck has so many panorama viewpoints and restaurants. Lichtblick is another place you don’t want to skip. It’s located on the top floor of the Rathausgalerien, the city’s Town Hall and Shopping Mall. At the restaurant, they serve a blend of Austrian cuisine, Mediterranean flair and Asian flavours. I really liked the atmosphere here and the food was incredible.

Before going to dinner, make sure to stop at the  360° Bar , which will give you (as the name already gives away) 360 views over Innsbruck. No matter if you’re here during the day or at night, the views are stunning!

EXTRA TIME IN INNSBRUCK?

Here are two more activities we did in and around Innsbruck that I thought were worth mentioning. Perfect if you have some extra time in the area and wondering what other things to do in Innsbruck Austria:

Fly in an open-door helicopter over the mountains

You guys, I’m not going to lie. I was SCARED OUT OF MY MIND sitting in this helicopter with no doors , flying over the mountains of Innsbruck. It’s apparently the first ever company to be able to do this in Europe and once you’re inside the machine, you can see why. You need some skilled people to do this.

Luckily, the guys from MySnapAir, the company where you can book this crazy experience, were super relaxed and made sure we were strapped in tightly. So tight even, that I could hardly move my face or camera ! I did manage to take some cool snaps and even a video, which I will share in a separate post.

After a couple of minutes feeling petrified next to that big, gaping hole beside me, I did manage to relax a bit and even -oh yes- do what makes this flight so memorable: stick my feet out of the helicopter ! Waaaaaah!! So cool!!

I would totally do this again if I get the chance and I can recommend that if you have the time and money to also do this, because it is an experience you will not forget for a long time…

This face was only for Instagram. Inside I’m dying.

Unreal! Sometimes I love my job, haha!

Amaze yourself at Kristalwelten

Now, I am not a jewelry person at all (I have no earrings, a few necklaces and bracelets, but always forget to put them on) and I’m also not really a fan of modern/abstract art, so I’ll be honest with you: Swarovski’s Kristalwelten was not for me.

That said, perhaps I went to this place with the wrong idea as well, because I thought we were going to get a factory tour or at least see how the  Swarovski crystals were made. Long story short: YOU DON’T. In fact, this is one of those ‘only three people in the company know the recipe and they cannot be on the same flight together’- kind of business, full of secrets and magic fairy dust. Or tons of glass and patient people polishing it.. we will never know.

Kristalwelten is more an art experience than an educational experience, so if you’re arriving with that mindset, I’m sure you’ll understand the purpose of the park better. And the different sections are incredible in design, I must agree. Of course, you can also go wild on shopping here as well and if you are a crystal fan, you’ll get some good discounts. The restaurant (Daniel’s) served some great food for lunch, so that I would recommend for sure.

So, yeah, it does make for a fun visit if you’re in the area, but be prepared for a whole lot of craziness and just let it all happen, I guess…

Inside this massive volcano-like hill, there are several rooms with modern art installations

Apparently the biggest crystal in the world!

This is the place I liked most at Kristalwelten. A surreal experience with over 800.000 crystals hanging above you!

INNSBRUCK RESOURCES

Tourism office websites.

• www.innsbruck.info
• www.tyrol.com
• www.austria.info

Where to Stay in Innsbruck?

I stayed at the Austria Trend Hotel Innsbruck Congress . While it wasn’t very characteristic, I had a great view over the mountains, the room and bathroom was bright and spacious and I had a comfortable stay. Of course there are plenty of hotels in Innsbruck to choose from, many with a perhaps more atmospheric feel to it in old town.

Where to Eat in Innsbruck?

Here are all the hotspots we visited that I would recommend to you:

• Cafe Restaurant Lichtblick [ website ]
• Café Sacher Innsbruck  [ website ]
• Restaurant Weisses Rössl [ website ]

What to Do in Innsbruck?

Here are all the activities we did in and around Innsbruck:

• Alpen Zoo (Alpine Zoo) [ website ]
• Schloss Ambrass Innsbruck [ website ]
• Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) [ website ]
• Court Church Innsbruck [ website ]
• Kaiserliche Hofburg (Imperial Palace) [ website ]
• Bergisel Ski Jump Innsbruck  [ website ]
• Nordkette Mountain [ website ]
• MySnapAir Helicopter Ride [ website ]
• Swarovski Kristallwelten [ website ]

Disclaimer:  I visited Innsbruck as part of the Social Travel Summit, organised by iambassador and Visit Tyrol. Thank you Visit Innsbruck for making my stay a memorable one! All photos, videos and opinions in this article are my own, as always.

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I hope you enjoyed this one day in Innsbruck guide!

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Kristall Spaces

Monday 22nd of October 2018

What a great post, nice summery of things to do during a city break

for Solo Travel Over 50

1 Day in Innsbruck Itinerary and Guide

UPDATED 3/15/24

If you’re using my How to See Italy and Austria in 2 Weeks Solo you’re ready to venture into Austria and find out how to spend an amazing 1 day in Innsbruck itinerary that’s full of amazing food and beer, outdoor activities, scenic Alps, history and beautiful architecture, and ideal for those traveling Innsbruck on a budget.

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All You Need for A Day in Innsbruck

Innsbruck solo travel packing essentials, why go to innsbruck, getting around innsbruck, where to stay in innsbruck, best things to do in innsbruck, innsbruck dining, 1 day in innsbruck itinerary, download this innsbruck 1 day itinerary pdf.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book this perfect short-stay Innsbruck itinerary. I even give you my Innsbruck hotel pick and an Innsbruck budget hotel pick as conveniently located city center accommodations for a day in Innsbruck.

I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your Innsbruck 1 day itinerary and get the best Austria travel deals.

Trains to Innsbruck

Buses to Innsbruck

Innsbruck City Center Hostels

Innsbruck City Center Hotels

My Innsbruck Hotel Pick

Innsbruck Budget Hotel Pick

If you’re a first-time traveler to Austria, also use my amazing Austria Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, entry requirements, currency, tipping, using electronics, safety, and a lot more.

Best of Austria and Germany in 14 Days Solo

More austria and germany solo travel.

• Best of Salzburg in 2 Days Solo
• Unforgettable Vienna Solo Travel in 4 Days
• Wachau Valley Wine Tasting Day Trip from Vienna
• Best of Austria and Italy in 2 Weeks Solo
• Fullest 4 Days in Munich Solo Itinerary
• How to See the Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau Castles

Innsbruck on a Budget (or Not)

It is possible to see Innsbruck on a budget as a single traveler. To help provide more Innsbruck budgeting options, peruse my Guide to Budget European Accommodations for additional accommodation-planning.

Let me state here that when I say “budget”, I mean your daily travel expenses could total €150 or less, which is possible. It’s up to you on where you wish to budget (accommodations, excursions, etc.), and how far in advance you book. Some attractions can be seen without a tour, which will save you money, of course.

This 1 day in Innsbruck itinerary and Innsbruck travel guide can work for anyone, however, budget or not.

Ok, now let’s get you to Innsbruck.

Innsbruck is the capital of the Tyrol region of Austria. Nestled in the Inn Valley on the Inn and Sill Rivers, between the Alps and the Nordkette mountain range, Innsbruck is surrounded by jaw-dropping, beautiful scenery. It is no wonder the Hapsburg Royal family chose Innsbruck as the location for their summer home, the Imperial Palace . 

Visiting Innsbruck in one day offers indoor and outdoor activities in and surrounding the town to enjoy at any time of year, especially in winter with skiing and ski jumping being very popular. In fact, Innsbruck hosted the Olympic Winter Games in 1964 and 1976.

Arriving Innsbruck

You could fly into the Innsbruck Airport , but since you’re using my 2 week Italy and Austria itinerary , you’re arriving by train into Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof (Innsbruck Central Station) from Verona .

If you’re using my 14 day Austria and Germany itinerary , you’ll still be arriving by train into Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof but from Salzburg .

Innsbruck is Walkable

The Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof is on the east side of Innsbruck’s city center, from which you can easily walk to your city center hotel or hostel, or take a hotel shuttle if your hotel offers one.

Innsbruck’s historic center rests between the Sill River on the east and the larger, Inn River on the west side. The Innestadt (Downtown) and Altstadt (Old Town) sections of the city center holds Innsbruck’s main activities and attractions, all of which are doable on foot.

If are doing Innsbruck on a budget, don’t worry because you do not need a car rental. Walk, rent a bike, or take Innsbruck public transportation for activities within and outside the city. These are budget and eco-friendly modes of transportation.

CORR ECO-TRAVEL PICKS

More Eco-Travel Tips & Ideas

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To save time on your one day in Innsbruck, I recommend staying within the circled area on the Innsbruck map:

Innsbruck Hotels and More

Innsbruck city center is not very large, so Innsbruck accommodations across all budget types may book quickly. Going in the off season, or booking well in advance, will get you the best Innsbruck accommodation choices and prices.

Many accommodations may not let you check in until 2-4pm, but if available, have them store your luggage until your room is ready so you can get out and enjoy 1 day Innsbruck itinerary.

Book a Travel Sustainable-rated property in Innsbruck , or at least employs these methods into their business to reduce your travel carbon footprint.

Innsbruck Hotels

For location, price, breakfast, amenities (including free-cancellation), eco-friendly and sustainable operations, and customer reviews and ratings, here are my best hotels in Innsbruck recommendations ideal for your 1 day in Innsbruck over 50 (i.e., where I would stay):

• Hotel Central
• BEST WESTERN Plus Hotel Goldener Adler
• The PENZ Hotel

For budget purposes, but not as eco-friendly, my hotel recommendation with breakfast and taxes included at €65 per night is Hotel Goldene Krone Innsbruck . It is in a fabulous location – walking distance to the train station and Innsbruck attractions – with a very nice breakfast, friendly staff, and includes all of the amenities you would need as a mature single traveler.

Eco Travel Tips

In addition to Booking.com’s Innsbruck’s Travel Sustainable properties , Green Globe and Green Key Global also have eco-friendly certified lodging options.

More Solo Tips & Ideas

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Innsbruck Hostels

Innsbruck hostels can be where to stay in Innsbruck on a budget on over 50 single travel. Using the same conditions, with the ability to get a private room, however, I cannot find a suitable hostel to recommend that employ many sustainability initiatives.

The closest recommendation for a hostel in Innsbruck would be Montagu Hostel .

Budget Travel Tips

Hostels in Innsbruck could start from around €35-40/night, depending on what amenities and location you want. Note, these are usually for a bed in a dorm room.

A private room with a private or shared bathroom in an Innsbruck city center hostel may be hard to find and could cost the same, if not more, than a budget hotel.

More Budget Travel Tips & Ideas

• How to Create a Solo Travel Budget
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• Guide to European Budget Accommodations
• How to Travel Carry-On Only
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Much of the top Innsbruck attractions can be done in a one day itinerary should you be able to start early. Most attractions will open at 9 to 10am and close by 5pm, so the earlier you can start your day in Innsbruck the better.

To save time, it may help to get the Innsbruck City Card , which includes public transportation and access to museums, attractions, cable cars, and the hop-on hop-off bus. Get the Innsbruck Card in advance and you’re off.

Keep in mind that some of these are also free things to do in Innsbruck. Bonus if you’re on a budget.

• Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen  – take the Hungerburgbahn funicular from the city center up the mountain, and in 8 minutes you’ll have great views. Then switch to the to a cable car for a ride to the top for spectacular views of Innsbruck.
• Schloss Ambras  (Ambras Castle) – 4.5km southeast of the city center and perched on the hill, this fortress was acquired by Archduke Ferdinand II in 16 th century, which he changed to a palace complete with beautiful gardens and the Spanish Hall (Spanische Saal) as its centerpiece. The gallery also hosts van Dyck and Velázquez original works.
• Innenstadt (Downtown) – stroll the Maria-Theresien Strasse, Innsbruck’s main shopping street filled with quaint shops and outdoor dining. In December to early January the Christmas Market is famous for drawing crowds with its holiday splendor.
• Innsbruck Aldstadt (Old Town) – Just west of the Innenstadt, Aldstadt is filled with more shops and restaurants in centuries old buildings.
• Annasaule (St. Anna’s Column)   – on Maria-Theresien-Strasse, St. Anne’s Column, one of the iconic Innsbruck landmarks, was erected in 1703 and named for St. Anne’s Day when the Bavarian troops were driven from the region at the end of the War of the Spanish Succession.
• Hofburg Imperial Palace  – originally built as a castle for Archduke Sigmund the Rich in the 15th century, it was expanded and upgraded by Emperor Maximilian I in the 16 th century and Empress Maria Theresia in the 18 th century where you can still see her baroque final touches and the Giant’s Hall done in the rococo style.
• Hofgarten  – the adjoining, sprawling gardens idyllic for fresh air and natural beauty at the base of the Alps.

• Hofkirche Cathedral  (Court Church) – a beautiful, 16 th century Gothic structure built as a mausoleum for Maximilian I by Ferdinand I. You can see Maximilian I’s tomb housed in the Silver Chapel.
• Dom zu St. Jakob  (Cathedral of St. James) – 18th century Baroque cathedral dedicated to the apostle Saint James.
• Stadtturm (Innsbruck City Tower)   – Landmark watchtower built in the 1400s with an observation deck & a copper-clad onion dome. Offers amazing views of the Innsbruck skyline and Alps.
• Goldenes Dachl & Museum (The Golden Roof) – Gothic building built for Emperor Maximilian I showcasing 2657 fire-gilt copper tiles. You can tour yourself or purchase an audio guide.

Other Innsbruck Attractions

Here are other great attractions to see that you can see during your day in Innsbruck or on a second day should you have extra time.

• Bergisel Ski Jump
• Swarovski Kristallwelten
• Tyrol Panorama
• Tyrolean Folk Art Museum

Italy and Austria 2 Week Itinerary

Innsbruck events calendar.

If it helps in planning what you would like to see, here is a list of annual events held in Innsbruck and the Tyrol region .

Make Sure to Do This on your Day in Innsbruck

If you need some help on trying to find out where to dine, you cannot go wrong with meandering along the Maria-Theresien Strasse restaurants and bars.  Here are also some additional helpful dining and drinking suggestions:

• Like beer? Do a self-guided Innsbruck beer route to see and sample beers in Innsbruck’s breweries and taverns. Alternatively, make one stop into Tribaun for pizza and a wide selection of craft beers on tap.
• My recommendation for a solid, Austrian meal at a reasonable price is Stiftskeller Innsbruck . Try their warm cheesecake-strudel with vanilla sauce.  Yum .
• Innsbruck also has cheap eats if you’re doing Innsbruck on a budget.

Here is my suggested Innsbruck 1 day itinerary that is bound to keep you busy and completely entertained – from arriving early to after dinner – while enjoying the culture without sacrificing on comfort or activities.

Innsbruck on a Budget Tip

The itinerary below includes staying at the suggested Innsbruck budget hotel , but does not include lunch, dinner, or using the Innsbruck City Card , which could possibly save more money.

This itinerary is an example of how single travelers can see Innsbruck on a budget with top Innsbruck attractions, for possibly at   €150 a day, if booked well in advance and the right tour or entry tickets are chosen.

• Maria-Theresien Strasse/ Anne’s Column / Innestadt exploring
• Innsbruck City Tower
• Goldenes Dachl & Museum
• Innsbruck Aldstadt exploring, shopping, and lunch
• Dom zu St. Jakob
• Hofburg Imperial Palace (free on Sundays)
• Schloss Ambras (with Sightseer Bus ticket) OR Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen
• Hotel, freshen up
• Dinner in Aldstadt or Innestadt restaurant of your choice

For a full 24 hours in Innsbruck, try catching any of the above that you may have missed, or just keep wandering within Innsbruck, to expand your Innsbruck experience before hotel check out.

Save a ton of time planning . Download my has it all has it all at your fingertips Innsbruck 1 Day Itinerary & Guide PDF . A solo female traveler of 28 years, you know I did this Innsbruck solo travel. This Innsbruck Itinerary is from my actual, tried and true self-created and traveled Innsbruck itinerary, not AI-generated with stock photos, so you know it’s an itinerary you can trust.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, older traveler, or budget traveler, this 1 Day Innsbruck Itinerary & Guide PDF is a steal . Formatted for sleek use on all devices, it has clickable links to all of the below , taking out all of the guesswork for your visit to Innsbruck:

• Arrival transportation methods,
• Innsbruck airport transportation to the city center,
• Local transportation methods,
• City center accommodations recommendations (including budget stays),
• What to eat, and where to eat, dining suggestions,
• Dining apps,
• City food and beer walking tours,
• The Innsbruck City Card,
• Top things to do and attractions you’ll be doing in Innsbruck in 1 day with clickable walking maps for easily getting around on your Innsbruck itinerary,
• CORR Travel Austria and Innsbruck Travel Guides,
• Innsbruck events and holiday schedule, and
• Eco-travel and ecotourism resources.

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if this 1 day in Innsbruck on a budget was helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comment section below. Thank you!

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Innsbruck   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Photography by Gergo Kazsimer | Getty Images

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.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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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

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

Popular Tours

Tyrolean Folk Show Ticket in Innsbruck

(250 reviews)

from $ 38.69

Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck

(42 reviews)

from $ 341.61

Top of Innsbruck Roundtrip Cable Car Ticket

(170 reviews)

from $ 51.96

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 .

Explore More of Innsbruck

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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# 9 in  Best Family Vacations in Europe

# 6 in  Best Christmas Vacations

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2 Days in Innsbruck, Austria: 10 Unmissable Things to do in Innsbruck

December 15, 2023

Paula Martinelli

Planning a dream vacation in Austria and wondering how to plan a perfect Innsbruck itinerary? The good news is that besides being packed with amazing things to do, it is possible to explore the main sites in 2 days in Innsbruck.

If you are still wondering if Innsbruck is worth visiting, the answer is YES! And you are about to find out why. Innsbruck is a small, charming town in Austria that has many interesting things to offer to visitors. The capital of Tyrol is also the fifth-largest city in Austria.

It sits in the valley and is surrounded by stunning snow-capped mountains, offering great views from the city, and it is well-known as the “Capital of the Alps” due to its scenic location.

This Innsbruck itinerary is packed with very helpful tips that will help you to make your Austria itinerary as memorable as mine. Here you will find not only the top things to do in Innsbruck, but also, all you need to plan your visit , the best places to stay, how to get around, and more. So, without any further ado, let’s discover the very best of Innsbruck with this awesome guide!

You will also enjoy these articles:

• Ultimate Guide to Visit Hallstatt
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10. Spend time in the Mountains is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck

2 Days in Innsbruck Overview

Innsbruck was one of my favorite places that I visited in Austria, it is small and easy to visit, and the landscape around is just breathtaking. With its colorful buildings set against the white backdrop, it’s a magical city to visit, especially during Christmas time.

But before we jump to this awesome list of best things to do in 2 days in Innsbruck, check some tips that to help you plan your trip and to make sure you are prepared for the best experience. You can thank me later 😉

Best Things to do in 2 Days in Innsbruck

1. visit the innsbruck old town – aldstadt von innsbruck.

This is the best way to start your 2 days in Innsbruck, especially if you are interested in learning more about the culture and history of Innsbruck, I’d highly recommend signing up for a walking tour with a local guide of Innsbruck. You will pick up so many interesting facts from your local guide and will get a detailed insight into what life is like here.

If you don’t fancy joining a group tour, look online at free walking tour routes and take yourself on a self-guided tour . I’d recommend doing this on one of your first days in the city, to get acquainted with the layout of the area. It will also help you find other attractions you may want to visit later on your trip.

The old town is very compact and scenic, and here you will find some of the most amazing things to do in Innsbruck. Here you will find colorful and inspiring architecture, and stunning facades, while you walk through cobblestone streets. Most of the monuments and important sights are very close to each other, and the town is very walkable, and many other sites in Innsbruck are within walking distance from the Old Town or are connected by tram.

PRO-TIP: A great option for anyone going to spend a 2-day in Innsbruck, is to purchase this Innsbruck PLUS . With this ticket, you can enjoy the highlights of Innsbruck’s Nordkette in a single ticket!

2. Visit the Golden Roof Museum

Next on your list of best things to do in 2 days in Innsbruck should be a visit to the Golden Roof Museum, one of the most famous landmarks of Innsbruck! Here in this museum that was created by Emperor Maximilian I, you will learn about the history of the city of Innsbruck.

It’s a small but interactive museum that’s great for visitors of any age. Make sure you take some time to admire the building and its roof from the outside.

Made up of 2,657 gilded copper tiles, the Golden Roof’s lower balustrade is richly decorated with coats of arms, while the open balcony above shows ten figural reliefs. The house behind, the Neuer Hof, was a former ducal palace rebuilt in 1822.

3. Discover the Swarovski Crystal World

If you are a Swarovski person – I know I am 😉 – you need to add this to your places to visit in Innsbruck. Catch a shuttle from the city center and head out to see the Swarovski Crystal Worlds. I’ve always admired their stunning world-famous jewelry and figurines, so it was incredible to visit this museum.

The highlight of the center is of course the Chambers of Wonder. Even if you have visited before, you’ll be pleased to know they regularly update their displays and designs. The artworks here are created by artists from around the world, and you’ll be amazed by the sheer scale of the displays in the museum. Make sure to check out the gardens as well.

PRO-TIP: I recommend booking a private tour in advance. Explore crystal in all its facets at the Swarovski Crystal Worlds museum in Wattens with a private guide, who previously had worked for Swarovski itself.

4. Discover the Ambras Castle

Located high on the hills above the city, Ambras Castle is one of the most visited attractions in Innsbruck. This Renaissance castle was built in the 16 th Century and was home to Archduke Ferdinand II and his family from 1567 to 1595. Today visitors can enjoy seeing his collections of artwork in the Lower Castle’s museum.

The best part of my visit was the Chamber of Art and Wonders, however, I also enjoyed seeing the portraits in the very impressive Spanish Hall. In the Upper Castle, you will see the Habsburg Portrait Gallery, which features paintings of many rulers from the past. You can visit the site by bus, which will be about a ten-minute ride from the city center.

PRO-TIP: You can book your ticket in advance and skip the line. Head into the hills above Innsbruck and, with your entrance ticket in hand, enter Ambras Castle to begin exploring at your leisure

5. Take the Nordkette Cable Car to Get to the top of Innsbruck

This gondola lift travels right from the city center straight to the top of the mountain. There are two different sections to the ride, but you’ll want to head all the way to the top station, called Hafelekar which is 7,400 ft (2256 m) above sea level.

You’ll be astonished by the views from the Top of Innsbruck. Especially if you’re visiting during the winter months, standing at the top of the mountain surrounded by white snow is indescribable and it’s simply a must-do! The cable car ride itself is also a lot of fun, and an amazing way to appreciate the sheer scale of the mountains!  

PRO-TIP: For full details on tickets in prices you can visit their official website . I also recommend purchasing your ticket prior to visiting as the prices are the same, and they have a 24-hour cancelation policy with a full refund. If you buy the Innsbruck Card you will get discount prices.

6. Go Mountain Cart or Ski at the Muttereralm

If you’re visiting Innsbruck in the summer months , Muttereralm offers a unique attraction. Here you can slide down the 3 miles (5 km) long Mountain Cart track, which starts up at the mountain station and ends all the way down in the valley station. The carts are equipped with a dual-circuit brake system and offer a safe but thrilling experience for all ages.

Now, if you are visiting during wintertime , Muttereralm offers amazing opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, there are 10 miles (16 km) of slopes available. 6 lifts transport the guests. The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 920 and 1,800 m.

7. Watch the Tyrolean evening show with the Gundolf Family

Enjoy an evening immersed in the Tyrolean culture at the Gundolf Family’s show . This show has been taking place since 1967 and features traditional music, folk dancing, and yodeling. Performances take place between April and October, and they also put on some dates in Winter.

The Gundolf Family entrains you for about 1.5 hours with traditional music, dance, and drink a 3-course meal.

PRO-TIP: The venue is easy to reach from the old town with a ten-minute walk or by tram line number 1. You can visit their official website for more information. This is a very popular thing to do in Innsbruck and the tickets likely sell out, you can book your tickets in advance.

8. Climb to the top of the Stadturm

The Stadtturm is the city tower, and it was built back in the 1400s. I recommend heading to the top of the building for the observation deck, which will amaze you with its stunning views of the city.

You’ll need to take 133 steps to reach the top, but the views will be well worth the climb and will cost just a few Euros to catch amazing views of the city!

9. Bergisel Ski Jump Area

This is a must thing to do if you are planning to spend 2 days in Innsbruck, to visit the famous Bergisel Ski-Jump Area . The first ski jump was built on this historic ground in 1925. The sports facility has twice been honored with the task of hosting Olympic events: the Olympic flame burned on the Bergisel at the Olympic Games in 1964 and 1976.

While you are visiting, you will be surprised by the brilliant architectural masterpiece. The bridge construction of the in-run, the building construction of the tower, and the steel construction of the tower head beautifully combine different fields of architecture.

PRO-TIP: The best way to visit the arena is by booking a guided tour around the ski-jump arena, and then uphills with the funicular train. from the top, you will have a perfect 360° degree round view, with a restaurant on top, this is the only restaurant in the world on a ski-jump tower!

This is a must-do if you are planning to spend 2 days in Innsbruck!

Take one of the many lifts available and spend some time up in the mountains in nature. There are so many lifts and trails you can choose from. The main cable car routes to start your adventure on are Patscherkofelbahn, Muttereralmbahn, and Glungezerbahn. After your ride, you can start your hike or simply enjoy some time in the mountain air.

If you are an active traveler like I am, I’d recommend hiking to one of the many peaks. One of the best things to do in Innsbruck is to climb the Via Ferratas , where you can go on an adventure into steep rock faces, and you will be rewarded with tons of adventure, and magnificent views of the unique nature around the Innsbruck region.

PRO-TIP: If you decide to go climb the via Ferrata, the good news is that you don’t need to have any previous experience, as you will be accompanied by a professional guide that will provide you with all the safety gear for the experience. You can check prices and availability here .

More Things to do in 2 Days in Innsbruck

If you are visiting Innsbruck during Christmas time, make sure to check the Best Christmas Market in Innsbruck. With 6 Christmas Markets and more than 200 stalls, Christmas time in Innsbruck is not only colorful and magical but also, very easy to walk around and visit the city and many Christmas Markets.

It is surrounded by the snowy Alps and it is a perfect fairy tale scenario when you visit the Christmas Markets. You can take the cable car up into the mountains for an amazing experience and views of the snow covering the roofs. You have the option to book a tour to  visit Innsbruck Christmas Markets with a local guide .

If you have time to visit Innsbruck, make sure you check the other fun things to do in Innsbruck. I have selected the best tours:

2 Days in Innsbruck | Best Places to Stay

I recommend booking your hotel as soon as you decide on the dates and your Innsbruck itinerary. It is a very popular time of the year o visit Austria and hotels tend to book up quickly.

BEST OVERALL: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz  

Rated: 9.2 Wonderful

It is centrally located in the pedestrian area in the historic heart of Innsbruck, this traditional historical hotel has been built in 1465 and entirely renovated in 2020. Note that they are located in the pedestrian zone and don’t have parking at the hotel.

Hotel Maximilian  

Rated: 9 Wonderful

The family-run  Hotel Maximilian  is located in the heart of Innsbruck’s Old Town, next to a pedestrian zone, offering air-conditioned rooms and free WiFi.

Nala Individuellhotel 

Rated: 9.1 Wonderful

The  Nala Individuellhotel  is located in the center of Innsbruck, with a terrace that overlooks the surrounding mountains, a 24-hour reception, and a bicycle rental, and their breakfast is exceptional!

Best Ways to Get to Innsbruck, Austria

You can save on your rental car when you book through this site . I use and recommend Discover Cars because it is the most reliable rental car source, and it allows you to compare the prices of different places.

Where to eat in Innsbruck

Restaurant Oniriq: Founded in 2017, Oniriq is a restaurant on Innsbruck’s Maria-Theresian-Strasse that focuses on inventive vegetarian fare.

• Address:  Bürgerstraße 13, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Rating:  4.9 out of 5

Bierwirt : Inside a historic 4-star hotel in Innsbruck is Restaurant Bierwirt – a restaurant that has stood for Austrian tradition and hospitality for more than 300 years

• Address:  Bichlweg 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Rating:  4.5 out of 5

Regiothek : Headed by top chef Anjo Ebene, this Innsbruck restaurant offers a modern spin on Tyrolean cuisine with meat dishes and vegetarian alternatives.

• Address:  Herzog-Siegmund-Ufer 1 – 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
• Rating:  5 out of 5

2 Days in Innsbruck Conclusion

And the list of best things to do in Innsbruck goes on… There are so many wonderful things to do in 2 days in Innsbruck.

Even simply admiring its colorful architecture and mountain landscapes, your whole stay will be well worth it. There are so many delicious foods that you can try while in Austria and so many more cities and villages that you could visit.

I hope I was able to inspire you with this list to visit Innsbruck on your trip to Austria. Safe travels!

You may also enjoy reading:

• 10 Most Magical Christmas Markets in Austria
• Winter guide to Salzburg and Christmas Market
• Ultimate Hallstatt Winter Guide
• How to explore Brussels, Belgium in 1-day

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Winter in Salzburg: Expert’s Guide to 17 Things to do + Top Christmas Markets

Hallstatt in Winter Ultimate Guide + 13 Epic Best Things to do

13 Most Magical Austria Christmas Markets to Visit in 2023

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• 1.1 Climate
• 1.2 Tourist information
• 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.

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.

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.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Innsbruck tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

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 ]

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 ]

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 ]

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 .  

• 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 ].

• 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 )

Memorials [ edit ]

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.

• 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 ].

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.

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.

• 47.257823 11.396185 2 Escape Game Innsbruck , Tschamlerstraße 3 , ☏ +43 512 552461 , [email protected] . M-Th 10:00-20:30, F-Su 10:00-22:30 . Indoor room escape type games, with 5 different scenarios. Each scenario takes 1 hour to complete. ( updated Dec 2018 )
• 47.275803 11.439147 3 Room Escape PerplexxX , Bettelwurfstraße 2 ( Bus 504, get off at Rotadlerstrasse , 2 min. walk ), ☏ +43 677 61441095 , [email protected] . W-F 16:00-22:00, Sa Su 13:00-22:00 . Indoor room escape type games with 3 scenarios. Each scenario takes 1 hour to complete. ( updated Dec 2018 )
• 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 )
• 47.277591 11.433499 5 Play The Game , Josef-Wilberger-Straße 9 , ☏ +43 650 2029199 , [email protected] . Indoor room escape games, with 2 different scenarios. Play time: 1hr 15min. Both games are for 2-6 players from 14 years old. 2 players €59, 3 players €79, 4 players €86, 5 players €89, 6 players €99. ( updated Dec 2018 )
• 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 ]

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.

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

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.

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)

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

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 

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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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Hi everyone One, i need your suggestions ..

4 replies to this topic

https://www.salzburg.info/en

If you did want to stay in Bad Ischl and not be bothered with taking the bus from Salzburg, then you could get the 8.31 WESTBAHN service from Innsbruck to Attnang-Puschheim and change trains there to Bad Ischl.

https://westbahn.at/en/

Another alternative would be to stay over in Schladming which is a nice ski resort town. There is a direct train in the morning from Innsbruck (an IC train, I think) and is quite scenic. Lots of accommodation in Schladming but make sure yours offer the Summer card as this gets you lots of free activities including a ride up to the Dachstein glacier at almost 3000 meters! You can then get a train to Vienna from there with only one change in either Leoben or Salzburg.

https://www.schladming-dachstein.at/en

Many thanks for your reply and suggestion,,

I will search about Schladming and i may reconsider it ,, because i am looking for a nice town similar to zell am see and Bad ischl and not close early

Thanks a lot ,, is the Bus 150 near the train station? , in 10 min. Transfer i can catch it?

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Innsbruck Hotels and Places to Stay

Top tips for visiting Austria on a budget

May 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Austria may not be a budget destination, but with some savvy planning there are many ways to make your euros go further © Patrick Daxenbichler / Getty Images

Despite its monarchically lavished cities, alpine villages at the foot of gondola-gliding peaks, and enchanting lakeside hangouts, you don’t need pockets as deep as an emperor to enjoy Austria .  

Much like its Western European neighbours, Austria is a far stretch from being a shoestring destination. But public transportation is inexpensive, guest cards bundle together a staggering stack of discounts, you can wander the grounds of grandiose sites and climb every mountain without spending a cent, and street food balances out the splurge on schnitzel.  

Here’s how to make your budget stretch further on your visit to Austria.   

Daily costs 

• Dorm bed in a hostel: €30
• Basic hotel room for two: €100
• Daily travel card on public transport: €8
• City card, 24 hours: €70
• Museum entry: €15
• Cup of coffee: €4.50
• Three-course restaurant dinner for two: €80
• A glass of Austrian wine: €4
• A pint of beer at the bar: €4
• Average daily cost: €150 

Fly into Vienna for the best choice of budget air fares 

While Salzburg , Innsbruck , Klagenfurt and Graz have airports, Vienna International Airport is Austria’s biggest, serving more flights from budget airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air and Eurowings. 

Travel in the shoulder seasons for cheaper room rates

The winter ski season (December to April) and summer (June to August) are the busiest times to visit Austria. In the spring and autumn shoulder seasons (May, and September to November), you’ll be more likely to snag better-priced rooms, score tickets on popular transport routes and find fewer crowds to make the most of your time at museums and other major sights.  

Book train tickets in advance to get around for less 

The cheapest way to get around Austria is by purchasing advance train tickets. Save half or more on the cost of a standard ticket by booking a bargain fixed-departure-time Sparschiene ticket with national rail operator  ÖBB . But before you book, compare prices with private rail operator WESTbahn , which connects Vienna to Salzburg, Innsbruck and Bregenz with supersaver and flexible tickets. And, depending on your plans, consider whether a  Eurail Austria pass  – which starts at €144 for three days – might be more cost-effective.

Read more:  Everything you need to know about getting around Austria

Get a 24-hour pass for unlimited public transportation 

In big cities, a single ride on public transport might cost as little as €2.40, but don’t pay as you go if you plan to travel several times over the course of a day; you’ll save money with a 24-hour pass, which costs less than €10. 

Plan your days – a city tourist pass could save you money

Palaces, museum complexes and tempting day trips – traveling on a budget shouldn’t mean having to max out on one highlight per day. Depending on your plans, you could save money with city tourist passes in 24-, 48-, or 72-hour variations, which include public transportation and discounts for attractions. 

The  Vienna City Card includes a 20% discount on participating hotels and restaurants.

You’ll get the Innsbruck Welcome Card with a stay of two nights at partner hotels and it includes weekly guided hiking and e-biking tours

The  Graz Card adds on free travel on the Schlossbergbahn and the Schlossberglift, as well as an old town tour.

The Linz Card grants free museum entry, a €10 voucher redeemable on concerts and river cruises and throws in a trundle on the mountain tramway Pöstlingbergbahn.

The Salzburg Card  represents the best value for money. It offers one night of accommodation and free admission to every city tourist attraction and museum that you can squeeze in.

Book at partner hotels with regional discount cards 

If you're roaming a region you can look out for guest cards offering unlimited transport, entry discounts and access to outdoor activities.

If you book a room at a partner hotel in Tyrol , Vorarlberg,  Salzburgerland , Upper Austria and Burgenland and you’ll get a card for free at check-in.

In areas without partner hotel links you can buy regional money-saving cards, such as Carinthia ( Kärnten Card ), Styria ( Steiermark-Card ) and Lower Austria ( Niederösterreich-CARD ), 

Seek out attractions that cost nothing (nature is free) 

UNESCO-protected old towns are open-air museums, and the landscaped gardens of opulent abodes – including those at Schönbrunn and Belvedere  in Vienna and Mirabell Gardens in Salzburg – are public-access enchantments. Beyond the gilded halls, several film and music events across the country don’t require a ticket, including Vienna’s Summer Night Concert in Schönbrunn Palace (June), the Vienna Film Festival (June to September) and Salzburg’s Mirabell Gardens Sunday Promenade Concerts  (May until August). 

For the pinnacle of budget exploration, skip the cable car ticket and pick a hiking route for valley and vineyard highs. And if you don’t find yourself scrambling for a deck-side spot at one of Austria’s bathing lakes, swim in Vienna’s Alte Donau or Salzburg’s Almkanal, instead of pay-for-entry lidos. 

Visit museums for free 

Ticket costs to see Vienna’s assemblage of art and heritage quickly stack up, but more than one million objects are showcased for free at the Wien Museum Karlsplatz , giving you a taster of the city’s millennium of history. There’s also free admission every first Sunday of the month at Hermesvilla  (former escape of Empress Elisabeth, the wife of Emperor Franz Joseph I) in the  Lainzer Tiergarten , the artifact-loaded Römermuseum (Roman Museum) and six houses that were once home to the composers Beethoven, Haydn, Schubert, and Strauss.

Max out the value of your ticket on late-night open days – Vienna’s Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien and Leopold Museum are open until 9pm on Thursdays; the Naturhistorisches Museum until 8pm on Wednesdays; and Salzburg’s Museum der Moderne  stays open until 8pm on Thursdays.  

Across Austria for one night in October, the Long Night of the Museums offers the chance to culture-cram as many museums as you like from 6pm until 1am for the cost of a single €15 ticket.  

Look out for discounts for children, students and over-60s 

From transport to theatre shows, museums to mountain lift passes, showing the relevant ID can get you free or discounted admission.  

Join free walking tours and greeter programmes 

Join walking tours with locals who will introduce you to their city on a “for-tips” basis. Vienna has nine free tours  to choose from. Check out the first free walking tour in Salzburg and Innsbruck’s greeter network . Or guide yourself through Austria's splendor with apps like GPSMYCITY , which currently covers 13 destinations in the country. 

Eat breakfast at a bakery and not your hotel 

Swap pricey continental breakfasts for bakeries with flavorful bread, pastries and coffee. Ströck, Anker, and Der Mann are fresh-out-of-the-oven chains, and neighborhoods are dotted with independent bake shops. 

Scour supermarkets for end-of-day deals

Whether in a Dorf (village) or a Stadt (city), you'll find a supermarket like Billa, Spar, Hofer or MPREIS for a quick, on-the-road fill-up or a budget-friendly at-home feast. For farm-fresh produce, meander mouthwatering markets like Naschmarkt and Brunnenmarkt in Vienna, Kaiser Josef Markt in Graz, and the Market Hall in Innsbruck. 

Download the Too Good to Go app and grab last-minute food bundles from grocery stores, supermarkets, bakeries and take-outs. Some generous goodie bags are under €5.   

Snack on street food 

A rite of passage in Vienna, but found in other cities too, the typically late-night snack stop of a  Würstelstand (sausage stand), is where you can pick up a  Käsekrainer (a sausage stuffed with tiny cheese cubes)   and a beer for less than €10. Thanks to the multicultural crossover, kebab and shawarma vendors abound, as well as Balkan street food like the bosna (hot dog) and ćevapčići (grilled meat).  

Bring a reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated with the purest water straight from the mountains. Vienna’s 1300 drinking fountains bring fresh mountain spring water from the Lower Austrian Styrian Alps to the streets, and 27 of Salzburg’s 49 water fountains flow with the mountain spring elixir dubbed the “ Untersberg Champagne .” All tap water in Austria is safe to drink, thanks to its alpine freshness. This is why the coffee and Spritzer (wine and sparking water) taste so good here. 

Keep planning your trip to Austria:

• Save these top places to visit to your profile
• These road trips in Austria  will take you to all the highlights
• Find the best time to visit Austria for your perfect vacation

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Green Retreats & Refreshing Oasis in Austria’s Cities

I f you are planning a trip to Austria in the summer, then you should definitely start your tourist program by relaxing your body and mind in Austria’s most beautiful gardens, parks, rivers, and last but not least mountains.

Even though shopping or cultural visits in Austria might be exciting, they can drain all your energy. Fortunately, many cities provide simple access to stunning green retreats and scenery for relaxation and rejuvenation.

For a tranquil retreat in Bregenz, Vorarlberg, you can visit the Pfänder, a mountain that is located there with breathtaking views. Also, you can pass by the coast of Lake Constance, which is the perfect place for ultimate relaxation. Innsbruck visitors can take the tram into the forest to see Tirol's breathtaking natural surroundings. Intriguing water features and city mountains with expansive views give Salzburg a sense of renewal. While in Vienna you will be able to enjoy all the numerous parks and other green spaces available there.

INNSBRUCK: EXPERIENCE NATURE ON A TRAM RIDE INTO THE FOREST

A visit to innsbruck in tirol can easily be combined with side trips into nature..

There aren't many towns in the world where you can stroll through the 800-year-old baroque and gothic city center, stop by the fabled Golden Roof, and then spend 20 minutes relaxing on the terrace of a café in the mountains. This is made possible by the state-of-the-art Nordketten cable car , which starts its adventure in the middle of the city and takes you to the "Top of Innsbruck," which is located at an elevation of more than 2,300 meters. You may take in the breathtaking 360-degree view and get a close-up look at the mountain flora and fauna. You can stop at the Alpine Zoo, the highest zoo in Europe, on the way back down to observe more than 2000 species in their natural environment—the Alps.

(c) OEW by Peter-Maier

Visitors visiting Innsbruck can go a short distance on the bus or tram to find themselves in the center of nature or on one of the neighboring mountains. You can take the " Waldstraßenbahn " (forest tram) for a unique experience. It travels an 8 km excursion route from Wilten Abbey, which is in the city's center, to the village of Igls, which is located higher just above Innsbruck.

(c) KHM-Museumsverband

If you love cultural settings, Ambras Castle , which has a museum that transports you to the time of the knights and Tirol's rich history, is worth stopping at en route. Around the castle is a sizable park that has been artistically planted. Along the way, you should also stop at the Celtic tree circle, the Tantegert woodland moorlands trail , Lake Lanser, and the Lanser Moor with its beautiful water lily pond.

(c) Innsbruck-Tourismus by Christoph Lackner

The Botanical Gardens , which were established in 1911 and are close to the city center, is a lovely spot to relax. Here, 5,000 different plant species from various climatic regions and ecosystems are grown. Depending on the season, aromatic floral aromas flood the air, and an eye-catching sea of various color tones greets the sight. It is an authentic feast for the senses.

Stay at the Hotel Innsbruck or AC Hotel by Marriott to enjoy your time exploring Innsbruck's natural surroundings. 

MARVEL AT THE TRICK FOUNTAINS IN SALZBURG 

The trick fountains in the park of salzburg’s hellbrunn palace promise utter refreshment. pleasant tranquility envelops hikers on the city’s six hills..

One should be ready for some unexpected encounters when visiting Hellbrunn Palace and its gardens, which feature magical grottos, stone statues, ponds, and fountains. For the purpose of entertaining his guests, Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus conceived and constructed the pleasure palace and the surrounding park setting about 400 years ago. You will be able to experience the friendly, carefree attitude of those days which is still very much alive today. Prepare yourself for some seriously wet and enjoyable moments as water squirts out of fountains and figures at regular intervals, spraying everything and everyone in sight. Visitors can learn everything there is to know about the trick fountains and how they operate with the on-site audio guide.

The expansive Salzburg Zoo , located at the base of the forested Hellbrunnerberg, one of the six city mountains, is a well-liked location a bit further south but still within the Hellbrunn Palace Park. Hikers may take in a breathtaking view of Salzburg's city, its surroundings, and the Salzach River from the summit. From the center, one may easily travel to Festungsberg , Mönchsberg , Kapuzinerberg , Rainberg, and Gaisberg .

(c) Tourismus Salzburg GmbH

Quick Tip: The Hotel Sacher Salzburg or Sheraton Grand Salzburg are the ideal hotels to stay at if you want to explore Salzburg's green areas.  

(c) Sheraton Grand Salzburg by Georg Grainer

TAKE A RELAXING HISTORIC STROLL IN VIENNA 

Vienna offers a great variety of parks, vineyards, and forests for relaxing and picnicking..

The closest park is always nearby no matter where tourists are in Vienna. The city's green spaces make up about half of the area. Even in the heart of the city, one park follows another along the tree-lined Ringstrasse: the Volksgarten , where the scent of almost 400 different rose kinds fills the air, the Burggarten in front of the Palmenhaus , and the Stadtpark , which features a sizable pond and a golden statue of Johann Strauss.

© OEW by Peter Maier

The little alpine garden in the Belvedere Palace's baroque garden is also conveniently situated. The Augarten is admired by locals and visitors alike for its extensive lawns and trees that cast shade. Only three subway stations separate Stephansplatz from the Prater , a sizable leisure area featuring avenues, big lawns, calm woodland pathways, bodies of water, and many sporting facilities.

(c) Peter Maier

Both Türkenschanzpark in the 18th district and the Kurpark Oberlaa in the south of the city are well-liked locations for taking long walks; both are a little further out and easily accessible by public transportation. There is no substitute for a stroll around the baroque royal grounds at Schönbrunn , where Empress Sisi enjoyed a leisurely stroll.

(c) Wien Tourismus by Peter Rigaud

The 21-km-long Danube Island is a favorite destination for runners, cyclists, and walkers as they meander through riparian woodlands and meadows. Another choice is to take a side trip from the island to Donaupark. Views of the entire city can be seen from the Danube Tower . The Alte Donau , a historic arm of the Danube with a lot of vegetation and lidos, is also close by.

(c) ÖW by Peter Maier

In the outlying areas, hikers can be seen getting their exercise in the center of nature. The Wienerwald Biosphere Reserve is bordered by vineyards, woodlands, and undulating hills in neighboring Lower Austria.

A quick tip: For the ideal place to begin your exploration of Vienna's open spaces, consider staying at the Hilton Vienna Park or the Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof .

(c) Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof

  Main Image Credits: (c) OEW by Peter Maier

This article was posted on UAEMoments

Mackinac Island named No. 1 summer travel destination by USA TODAY readers

On National Travel and Tourism Week , it is no surprise Mackinac Island is garnering yet another honor.

The island has been named the No. 1 best summer travel destination in USA TODAY's 2024 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards .

"Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac," the award says. "This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock."

The USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards highlight the very best in travel, food + drink and lifestyle. Every week,  USA TODAY 10Best  invites a panel of industry experts to nominate their favorite points of interest and attractions across a wide range of categories. 10Best editors then vet these nominations and select a final set of nominees to be presented to the voting public for a period of four weeks.

Related: Ford Fireworks named a top place to see fireworks by USA TODAY readers

Other Mackinac Island stories

• A webcam at the Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island has a new webcam and will use it to share views of sunrises and sunsets from its front lawn.
• The Harbour View Inn, a famous boutique hotel built in 1820 along Main Street near Sainte Anne's Catholic Church, has a new owner .
• An e-bike fire earlier this month displaces 30 residents at a dorm owned by Grand Hotel.

Follow the Detroit Free Press on Instagram ( @detroitfreepress ), TikTok ( @detroitfreepress ), YouTube ( @DetroitFreePress ), Twitter/X ( @freep ), and  LinkedIn , and like us on Facebook ( @detroitfreepress ).

Contact Amy Huschka :  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter ( @aetmanshuschka ).

Stay connected and stay informed. Become a subscriber .

Recommended

Jfk grounds flights on one of year’s busiest travel weekends due to thunderstorms.

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One of the busiest airports in the US has been issued a ground stop amid a hectic Memorial Day travel weekend .

On Monday afternoon, John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens, New York, was issued a ground stop by Air Traffic Control System Command Center, which is part of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Thunderstorms were listed as the cause for the ground stop.

The ground stop period is expected to last from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. on Monday evening.

JFK Airport is considered one of the most bustling airports in the United States.

It is consistently rated among the top 10 busiest airport hubs in the US.

Fox News Digital reached out to the FAA for an additional statement.

This story is still developing. Check back with us for updates.

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Want a free upgrade to first class? The only hack is your wallet. | Cruising Altitude

• Don't expect to get a free upgrade anymore.
• Airlines have gotten smarter about pricing their premium cabins.
• You can pay for an upgrade, use miles or buy extra legroom seating.

There’s no such thing as a free lunch, and no matter what the internet may try to tell you, there’s also basically no such thing as a free upgrade on a plane anymore. 

You can’t “hack” your way into the pointy end of the plane by wearing a collared shirt or flirting with your flight attendant . You’re not going to get a lie-flat bed by asking nicely at the gate, and no one is popping Dom Perignon as a pre-departure beverage for you just because you think you have a strategic check-in time.

“It’s just not going to happen,” Brett Snyder, author of the blog Cranky Flier and owner of the travel agency Cranky Concierge, told me. 

Part of the problem is airplanes are just fuller now than they used to be, and airlines have gotten smarter about pricing their seats.

“First class fares used to be so high that people wouldn’t buy them, and instead you just had massive numbers of elite upgrades and all different sorts of people sitting up there that weren’t paying for it, they were just getting it as a perk,” Snyder said. “At some point the airlines realized, if we start pricing this as a fare upsell, we can get people to actually pay for these seats. Now you have a lot fewer seats that are available for an upgrade because people are buying.” 

As someone who has paid cash more than once to upgrade, I can vouch for this. Suppose the price is reasonable and I’m feeling generous to myself at the check-in counter. In that case, I’ll happily spend the extra money to guarantee myself a more comfortable seat, especially on a long flight.

It cuts the other way, too. I once flew overnight from New York to Paris and was willing to spend a few hundred dollars to upgrade myself to a lie-flat seat at the gate if the option was available. The airline quoted me almost $1,000 to upgrade, and the seats wound up occupied by non-paying passengers who worked for the airline instead. From the perspective of the airline’s bottom line and my own comfort, that was a bad pricing decision.

“If people had too much ability to upgrade travelers at the gate (for free) or whatever it was, that was likely something that was leaving money on the table for them,” Snyder said.

So, how can you get upgraded? There are no hacks, but here’s my advice.

“The best way to get a premium seat is to pay for it. This is not rocket science, this is kind of basic,” Snynder told me. “That’s what it comes down to. The majority of seats and the majority of people who sit in the front cabins are paying for it. That’s the most surefire way to make sure you’re going to get it.” 

You just can’t count on getting an upgrade when so many people are willing and able to pay for the luxury. Airlines are also pricing their premium cabins more liberally now. Business travel still has not fully bounced back to its pre-pandemic levels, but there’s been strong and steady demand in the premium leisure segment, and airlines have taken note. They’ve priced things to entice people to buy up during their personal travel, even when their company isn’t footing the bill.

You can, of course, pay right at the beginning of your booking by buying a premium ticket when you first get your flights, but you should also keep an eye on cash upgrade offers right up until departure time. You never know what the airline revenue management gods will make available. 

Pay (but differently)

“But Zach,” I hear you saying, “I’m an ultra-elite frequent flyer, and I get free upgrades all the time.”

To which I say: No, you don’t.

You may not be paying out of pocket for those upgrade perks at the gate, but that doesn’t mean you’re not paying for them at all. To get frequent flyer status, you need to spend a bunch of money with the airline or an even bigger bunch of money on one of its co-branded credit cards, which likely also has a hefty annual fee.

Cruising Altitude: Don't bother with an airline loyalty program if you're this traveler.

One way or the other, you’re paying for that upgrade, even if it’s not directly.

Frequent flyers also usually have lots of loyalty points, which, again, they have to pay to earn, but those points or miles can be useful for securing upgrades.

“You can also use miles to upgrade, even if you don’t have status,” Snyder said. In addition to cash upgrades, airlines often let you redeem miles for buy-ups to premium cabins.

Pay (but less)

Maybe you’ve decided it’s just too much effort or too financially taxing to upgrade yourself to business class, and that’s OK. You have other options.

“You can always pay for extra legroom seating, but depending on the airline, that can be a very modest upsell,” Snyder said.

It’s usually not as expensive to upgrade from a regular economy seat to an extra-legroom economy seat, and if all you care about is a little more knee space, this can be a good option. 

“Don’t expect that you’re going to be able to game the system and find this magical loophole. It’s just not going to happen. So figure out what you’re OK with and make sure you have that arrangement before you get to the airport,” Snyder said. “If you’re booking something you absolutely cannot tolerate – you’re 7 feet tall and book coach on Spirit, don’t do that.” 

If you’re determined not to pay for anything above the lowest economy fare, you can always pray for an empty adjacent seat. 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .