innsbruck tourist attractions

18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Innsbruck

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Austrian Alpine city of Innsbruck lies in the state of Tyrol in the wide Inn Valley at the intersection of two important traffic routes between Germany and Italy, and between Vienna and Switzerland. One of Austria's most popular year-round vacation destinations, Innsbruck has retained its medieval Old Town (Altstadt) with its narrow, twisting streets and tall houses in Late Gothic style.

Many of the city's most popular places to visit are clustered close to the Old Town, whose charming narrow streets provide tourists plenty of things to see and do. It's the perfect spot to begin exploring this historic city, and offers up plenty of excellent dining opportunities, as well as unique (and often classy) places to stay.

Beautiful vistas of the surrounding ring of mountains are everywhere. To the north rise the jagged peaks of the Nordkette (North Chain), in the Karwendel range. To the south, above the wooded Bergisel ridge, are the 2,403-meter Saile and the Serles group. And to the southeast, above Lanser Köpfe, lies the rounded summit of the 2,247-meter Patscherkofel, popular with skiers.

No surprise then that Innsbruck's also a big draw for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. The sports facilities built for the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games still draw crowds of skiers and are the scene every year of national and international competitions.

To help you make the most of your time, be sure to refer often to our list of the top tourist attractions in Innsbruck, Austria.

See also: Where to Stay in Innsbruck

1. Wander Old Town Innsbruck

2. experience the "top of innsbruck" from the nordkette, 3. visit the court church & emperor's tomb, 4. see the famous golden roof, 5. take a tour of the hofburg, innsbruck's old imperial palace, 6. catch a concert at innsbruck cathedral, 7. get your art fix at the tyrolean state museums, 8. stroll along maria-theresien strasse, 9. explore the hofburg district, 10. grassmayr bell foundry & museum, 11. walking tour along the river inn, 12. alpenzoo innsbruck, 13. visit the opulent ambras castle, 14. the bergisel's olympic legacy, 15. swarovski kristallwelten, 16. seefeld: scenery and superb skiing, 17. wilten parish church and basilica, 18. take a day trip to feste kufstein, where to stay in innsbruck for sightseeing, innsbruck, austria - climate chart, more must-see destinations near innsbruck.

The semi-circular quarter of the Old Town (Altstadt) is enclosed by a ring of streets known as the Graben (Moat) and is now a lovely pedestrian area where you can stroll through 800 years of history. With its narrow housefronts, handsome doorways, oriel windows, buttressed medieval houses, and arcaded-façades, Innsbruck's Old Town is a delight to explore on foot.

And take your time. This well-preserved area is filled with many fine examples of old Tyrolese architecture and southern influences, along with sumptuous Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo buildings.

Highlights of a walking tour include the beautiful Baroque Helblinghaus , noted for its splendid stucco façade with cherubs and other decorative ornamentation. Nearby is the 16th-century Golden Eagle (Goldener Adler), an old inn once as popular with emperors as it was with writers like Goethe.

Also worth visiting is the 57-meter-high Stadtturm . This impressive medieval watchtower was built in the 14th century along with the adjoining Old Rathaus . Be sure to check them out for their great views of the Old Town.

Other interesting landmarks include the Ottoburg , a residential tower built in 1494, and the Deutschordenshaus (House of the Teutonic Order) built in 1532. Also worth seeing is the Burgriesenhaus (Castle Giant's House), built in 1490 for a court giant.

Whether you're looking for fun things to do in winter or summer, you'll find it at the Nordkette, the closest mountain to Innsbruck. The best way to get to the top of the mountain is by riding the city's Hungerburgbahn funicular. Designed by architect Zaha Hadid, this modern funicular railway begins in the very heart of the city and crosses the River Inn before heading up to the Innsbruck suburb of Hungerburg, a journey of just eight minutes.

From here, a short stroll takes you to the platform of the Nordkette Cable Car. This must-do attraction takes you farther up to Seegrube and on to 2,300-meter-high Hafelekar for 360-degree views – a thrilling and scenic experience, whatever the weather.

Restaurants and viewing platforms are situated at each stopping point, and several hiking trails take off across the mountains. The ride is included with the purchase of a handy Innsbruck Card, an affordable pass that allows entrance to all the city's most important attractions.

Another great way to enjoy these two attractions is by purchasing a "Top of Innsbruck" cable car round-trip ticket. This handy pass includes fares on both the funicular and cable car, and allows you to explore the mountain at your own pace.

Address: Rennweg 3, Innsbruck, Austria

Official site: www.nordkette.com/

Innsbruck's spectacular Court Church, the Hofkirche , was completed in 1563 in the local Late Gothic style. This three-aisled hall-church, with its narrow chancel and off-center tower, holds many notable interior features, in particular its 18th-century high altar and side altars, and a choir screen from the 17th century.

The most important part of the church, however, is the spectacular Tomb and Museum of Emperor Maximilian I . Built in the 16th century, it's widely considered to be the finest work of German Renaissance sculpture. Conceived as a glorification of the Holy Roman Empire, the central feature of the monument is its massive black marble sarcophagus with a bronze figure of the Emperor from 1584, surrounded by a wrought-iron screen and 24 marble reliefs depicting events in the Emperor's life.

Also of note are the 28 bronze statues of the Emperor's ancestors and contemporaries. These include statues of Count Albrecht IV of Habsburg and King Arthur of England, the latter regarded as the finest statue of a knight in Renaissance art. Handy multi-media guides are provided with admission.

Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck

The arcaded Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, lined with handsome old merchants' houses, enters the Old Town quarter from the south and makes straight for the famous Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl). This magnificent Late Gothic oriel window, roofed with gilded copper tiles, was built in 1496 to commemorate Maximilian I's marriage to Bianca Maria Sforza and served as a box from which the court watched civic festivities in the square below.

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

Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck's old Court Palace, the Hofburg – a former imperial palace originally built in the 15th and 16th centuries – was remodeled in Baroque and Rococo style in the 18th century upon instructions from Empress Maria Theresa. The palace has now been set up as a museum, and is best viewed on a guided tour (available in English), which includes its luxurious apartments with their fine painted ceilings.

Particularly memorable is the Giant Hall (Riesensaal). This spectacular grand hall consists of polished marble and is decorated in white and gold, with three large ceiling frescos from 1775. It is also home to a fine collection of portraits of the Imperial family.

Other highlights include Maria Theresa's Rooms, Empress Elisabeth's Apartment, the Ancestral Gallery, the Furniture Museum, and the Painting Gallery.

Address: Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Located in the Domplatz, Innsbruck Cathedral (Innsbruck Dom) – also known as the Cathedral of St. James – was granted cathedral status in 1964. Notable for its imposing twin-towered west front and the high dome over the choir, it was built in Baroque style in 1724 and fully restored after World War II.

Interior highlights include its ceiling paintings, particularly the Glorification of St. James, its rich stucco work by the Asam brothers, and a richly-carved 18th-century pulpit. The High Baroque marble altars from 1732 feature a famous image of the Virgin, Maria Hilf , from 1530.

In the north aisle is the imposing monument designed by Hubert Gerhard dedicated to Archduke Maximilian, Grand Master of the Teutonic Order. The cathedral hosts regular concerts that are open to the public.

Address: Domplatz, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is home to a number of museums of international repute, particularly those that fall under the Tyrolean State Museums umbrella. A must-see is the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum (Tyroler Volkskunstmuseum) adjoining the Hofkirche in the new Abbey (Neues Stift).

Here, you'll enjoy viewing an extensive local art collection representing a variety of Tyrolese themes, along with replicas of traditional brick-built houses with oriel windows from the Upper Inn Valley. Other exhibits include a rich store of costumes, traditional furniture, tools, glass, pottery, textiles, and metalwork.

Also worth seeing, the Tyrolean State Museum (Tyroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum) features collections relating to the history and art of Tyrol. Highlights include numerous works from the Gothic period. There's also an impressive gallery of Dutch and Flemish masters, and collections from pre- and early historic times.

Other notable museums worth seeing include the excellent Armoury (Museum im Zeughaus), with its collections of weapons and armor, and the fascinating Tyrol Panorama Museum . The latter is centered around a huge panoramic painting of the city and region.

Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Lined with handsome 17th- and 18th-century houses and numerous shops, bustling Maria-Theresien Strasse is backed by a magnificent vista of the mountains to the north. It's a delight to explore and should feature on your Innsbruck travel itinerary as a "must-do."

In the middle of this wide, old street, directly in front of the Town Hall (Rathaus), stands St. Anne's Column (Annasäule).Erected in 1706 to commemorate the withdrawal three years earlier of Bavarian troops on St. Anne's Day and surmounted by a statue of the Virgin Mary, St. Anne stands on the base near St. George, the patron saint of Tyrol, and other saints.

Also of note is the Altes Landhaus . This monumental Baroque palace was built in 1728 with a sumptuous and elaborately articulated façade. It now houses the Provincial Assembly and Provincial Government (Landesregierung).

Other highlights include a 14-meter-high war memorial; the Alpine Club Museum (Alpenverein Museum), with its extensive collection of Alpine art and historic climbing equipment; and the Servite Church , built in 1615 with a fresco of the Holy Trinity.

The Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte), located at the southern end of Maria-Theresien Strasse, was erected in 1765. It was built to mark the marriage of her son Leopold (later Emperor Leopold II) to the Spanish Infanta Maria Ludovica.

In addition to its Imperial Palace and church, the area around the Hofburg offers several attractions worth seeing. Of particular interest is the Silver Chapel , built in 1587 as the burial chapel of Archduke Ferdinand II and named after a silver image of the Virgin and embossed silver reliefs on the altar.

Other highlights are the Old University (Alte Universität), founded in 1562 as a Jesuit college, along with the University Library and the Jesuit Church (Jesuitenkirche). The church is famous for its mighty 60-meter-tall dome built in 1640.

The Capuchin Convent (Kapuzinerkloster) was built in 1593 and is notable for its chapel altar with a painting of the Virgin by Lucas Cranach the Elder from 1528. The Tyrolean Provincial Theater (Tiroler Landestheater Innsbruck), built in 1846, hosts operas, musicals, dance, and theatrical performances. Also worth visiting is the Hofgarten , with its Art and Concert Pavilion.

For a truly fascinating experience, be sure to include the Grassmayr Bell Foundry and Museum on your Innsbruck travel itinerary. One of the world's leading makers of church bells, the company was founded in Austria more than 400 years ago.

Now 14 generations later, it's the oldest family-run company in the country. Equally impressive is the fact the company's bells ring out in over 100 countries worldwide, and are in use by eight religions.

A highlight of a visit is seeing the old casting hall. Here, you'll see one of the original furnaces, itself over 200 years old and still used and able to smelt an impressive 10 tons of bronze. A tour will take you behind the scenes, and on a day when castings are being made, you may be lucky enough to see the more modern furnace in use to cast bells weighing up to 37 tons.

Live castings only happen once a month, so try to plan accordingly. The on-site museum showcases the evolution of church bells and their role in western culture.

Address: Leopoldstraße 53, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Official site: www.grassmayr.at

Several interesting sights lie close to the beautiful riverbanks and esplanades of the River Inn. A great place to begin your walk is the Mariahilf District , noted for its Baroque Mariahilf-Kirche from 1649 with its 17th-century frescos, and the beautiful Botanic Garden and observatory.

In the district of Hötting , you'll find the splendid Old Parish Church (Alte Pfarrkirche), with its tower rising above the new parish church, built in 1911. Afterwards, make your way to the Hötting Ridgeway (Höttinger Höhenstrasse) for its fine views of the city and mountains.

A good place to end your walk is in St. Nikolaus District a little farther downstream, notable for its Neo-Gothic church. Back in the center, near the Old Inn Bridge (Alte Innbrücke), you'll find the lively Innsbruck Market. In December, this is the scene of a large Christmas Market that spills into the streets of the Old Town.

Just one kilometer north of Innsbruck's Old Town center is the 15th-century Schloss Weiherburg , home to Alpenzoo Innsbruck. This beautifully situated zoo is well known for its collection of mountain animals from the world's Alpine regions, including mammals, birds, and reptiles.

More than 2,000 animals from 150 different Alpine species are kept here, along with an abundance of marine life in the world's largest fresh-water aquarium. Two restaurants are located on-site, along with a large adventure plyaground, making this a wonderful outing for kids of all ages. Meanwhile, the kids can play as parents relax and enjoy the views and park-like setting.

Just a little farther downstream from the zoo, on a hill above the River Inn, is the villa suburb of Mühlau , notable for its attractive Baroque church from 1748.

Address: Weiherburggasse 37, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Official site: www.alpenzoo.at/en/

Just a short drive southeast of Innsbruck, the palatial Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras) was the residence of Archduke Ferdinand from 1563-95. In the Lower Castle (Unterschloss) are two rooms containing a fine collection of arms and armor, while on the first floor of the Kornschüttgebäude is a valuable art collection, including many sculptures and applied arts.

In the Upper Castle (Hochschloss) is the bathroom of Ferdinand's wife Philippine Welser, a rarity as one of the few private bathrooms surviving from the 16th century and featuring a 1.5-meter-deep copper tub.

The splendid Spanish Hall between the Lower and Upper Castles is of the earliest examples of German Renaissance interiors. Constructed between 1507 and 1571, it has a beautiful coffered ceiling and many wonderful frescos of Tyrolese nobles. The grounds and courtyard are also worth exploring.

Address: Schloßstraße 20, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Official site: www.schlossambras-innsbruck.at/en

To the south of Innsbruck rises the 746-meter-tall hill known as Bergisel, famous the world over for its superb winter sports facilities. Highlights include the new Olympia ski-jump (Bergiselschanze) – constructed to replace the earlier Olympic structure – along with its stunning new tower, built in 2003, offering superb views over the city.

Long before the Olympics, the hill had become famous as the site of the heroic battles of 1809 when Tyrolese peasants freed their capital from French and Bavarian occupying forces. On the north side of the hill, below the ski jump, stands a memorial to those who fought for their freedom, including the Andreas Hofer Monument built in 1893, a memorial chapel from 1909, and the Tomb of the Tyrolese Kaiserjäger (Imperial Riflemen). The hill is easily reached via the scenic Stubai Valley Railway.

An easy 20-kilometer drive east of Innsbruck is Swarovski Kristallwelten (Crystal Worlds). This excellent museum and art gallery was designed to showcase the world-famous company founded by Daniel Swarovski in 1895.

Its 17 chambers display impressive artworks in crystal, and highlights include the superb Crystal Dome, the Crystal Theatre, and the enchanting Crystal Forest installations. Along the way, you'll see impressive displays of the unique pieces made by contemporary artists from around the world.

The centerpiece of the outdoor features is the fascinating Giant, a large landscaped waterfall in the shape of a human head that spews water from its mouth. A number of art installations and sculptures decorate the surrounding gardens.

A Swarovski store is located on-site, along with a play area for children and a stunning carousel. You can visit independently, or get a Swarovski Crystal Worlds Admission Ticket Including Shuttle Transfer from Innsbruck .

Address: Kristallweltenstraße 1, Wattens, Austria

Official site: https://kristallwelten.swarovski.com

Well known as Austria's leading ski destination, the best of Innsbruck's many slopes are no more than a short bus ride from the city's hotels and resorts. All told, six different ski areas are linked by shuttle services, with a single ski pass covering in excess of 500 kilometers of trails.

The nearby ski village of Igls has spectacular views over Innsbruck and ski runs suitable for all levels. Expert skiers will want to head for the Hungerburg-Seegrube , the gateway to the challenging runs of the Hafelkar . The Axamer-Lizum, the slopes of the village of Axams , 10 kilometers outside Innsbruck, and the Tulfes and Mutters areas also offer good intermediate terrain.

One of the most popular year-round destinations is the small village of Seefeld. Now a popular resort, the village stretches out over the valley. The village's center is marked by the 15th-century parish church of St. Oswald with its fine frescos, sculptures, Gothic font, and wall reliefs.

Also worth visiting is the Wildsee at the southern end of town, an attractive small lake with a beach and swimming pools. Come summer, these same mountains are popular for hiking and mountain biking.

In Innsbruck's southern district of Wilten stands the twin-towered Wilten Parish Church, one of the finest Rococo churches in northern Tyrol. Built in 1755, the building's interior is decorated with superb ceiling frescos by Matthäus Günther and stucco-work by Franz Xaver Feuchtmayer. On the high altar is a 14th-century sandstone figure of Mary under the Four Pillars .

Opposite the church is the large complex of buildings of Stift Wilten, an old abbey founded in 1138 and remodeled in Baroque style in 1695. Highlights include the 17th-century church with its large Gothic figure of the giant Haymon to whom legend attributes a share in the foundation of the monastery, and the Throne of Solomon above the high altar.

Although an hour's drive from downtown Innsbruck, the beautiful old Tirolese border town of Kufstein is well worth including in your travel itinerary. This popular holiday spot, with its attractive lake scenery, offers superb hiking and climbing adventures in the Kaisergebirge .

One of the top things to do in Kufstein is simply taking a stroll through the town, past the remains of old walls and moated towers, its many pleasant squares with their fountains and monuments, and the many historical buildings. The highlight of a visit, though, is Feste Kufstein (Kufstein Fortress), the beautiful old castle that rears high above the town on a precipitous crag.

First recorded in 1205, the fortress is notable for its 90-meter-high Emperor's Tower (Kaiserturm). The massive Heroes' Organ (Heldenorgel), built in 1931 with 4,307 pipes and 46 stops, plays daily at noon in memory of those who died in two world wars and can be heard many kilometers away.

The Kaiserturm also houses a local history museum, the Heimatmuseum , and is used as a venue for concerts and festivals.

Address: Kristallweltenstraße 1, 6112 Wattens, Austria

Official site: www.festung.kufstein.at/en/herzlich-willkommen.html

Most of Innsbruck's main attractions are in its medieval Old Town, where narrow streets are lined by tall Late Gothic houses. Hotels in the old center – or between it and the train station – are the most convenient, but the streets and esplanades along the opposite bank of the River Inn, in the Mariahilf District, are an easy walk away. Skiers who want to stay in town will find it easy to get to the Seefeld ski slopes, only a short bus ride from the Old Town hotels. Here are some highly rated hotels in Innsbruck:

Luxury Hotels :

• A favorite among those who enjoy luxury accommodations, the 150-year-old Grand Hotel Europa is filled with old-world charm. Situated facing Innsbruck's train station and only three blocks from the Hofburg, this classic hotel offers chic, comfortable rooms, along with great amenities, including a restaurant offering a breakfast buffet, sauna, laundry service, and underground parking.
• Located in the heart of the shopping district at the edge of the Old Town, The Penz Hotel is a modern structure with a smart and stylish contemporary design. Its luxurious rooms and suites are tastefully decorated, featuring earthy colors and wood finishes. A highlight of a stay is enjoying the 5th floor restaurant with its spectacular city views.
• For the ultimate in luxury stays, be sure to check out the chic Adlers Hotel . This modern, centrally located hotel features bright rooms with superb city and mountain views, along with the option to upgrade into larger suites with living rooms. In addition to room service, the hotel has a fine dining restaurant, a rooftop patio, a full-service spa, and a great breakfast.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The brand-name BEST WESTERN PLUS Hotel Goldener Adler offers a great central location directly opposite the famous Golden Roof on Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse... and great mid-range pricing. Set in a beautifully restored historic building, this family-run hotel is popular for its friendly staff and comfortable, clean rooms. Concierge services are available.
• Also boasting a great central location in the heart of the Old Town – this time on the market square opposite the ski bus stop – the Hotel Maximilian Stadthaus Penz is known for its sumptuous breakfasts. Classy, clean, and comfortable, its rooms come with flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Amenities include luggage storage, a comfortable lounge area, and complimentary newspapers.
• The very modern Hilton Innsbruck on Maria-Theresien Strasse, located between the train station and market square, is another good choice. The quality rooms come with comfortable beds and mountain views, and guests can enjoy a superb breakfast in the on-site restaurant, as well as relax in its elegant lounge area. Also available for guests: a fitness center, babysitting service, and sauna. Some pet-friendly units are available.

Budget Hotels:

• A favorite for budget travelers, Basic Hotel Innsbruck is a cut above your average hotel in this category. Part of the appeal is its location beside the River Inn, just off Marketplatz in the Old Town. Other highlights include 24-hour self-check-in, recently renovated rooms and bathrooms, and a great breakfast.
• Located in a residential neighborhood along the river – close to the city zoo and only a 20-minute walk from the Old Town – Hotel Heimgartl is certainly worth considering staying at. In addition to its clean, bright rooms, the hotel offers luggage storage, parking, and a pleasant terrace on which to relax.

The Palaces of Vienna : The beautiful Austrian capital of Vienna offers many fun things to do and beautiful palaces to visit. Topping your list should be the Imperial Hofburg Palace , former home of Austrian royalty and now open for guided tours. The elegant interior of the Schönbrunn Palace is also worth seeing, especially the exquisitely decorated Imperial Apartments. Finally, the Belevdere Palace features two palaces: the Upper and Lower Palaces, and is especially notable for its beautiful gardens.

Top Places to Visit in Austria : The elegant city of Salzburg is rich with cultural history and known the world over for its music (it was the birthplace of Mozart) and art galleries. For a chance to explore Austria's medieval history, be sure to add Old Town Graz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top attractions of Graz , to your itinerary. Here, you'll enjoy no end of well-preserved old townhomes and historic buildings. Austria's third largest city, Linz is home to a wide variety of important art galleries and museums, and makes for an excellent day trip.

Austria Vacation Ideas : To experience some of the best mountain scenery in Austria, head for the mountainous region of Kitzbühel , an area known for its excellent outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. Although less mountainous, the scenery around the pretty city of Klagenfurt is well worth exploring, especially around the Wörthersee, a popular destination for hiking. The Hallstätter See is another lovely area to explore, especially among hikers, backpackers, and bikers.

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Innsbruck   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Photography by Gergo Kazsimer | Getty Images

17 Best Things To Do in Innsbruck

Updated February 11, 2021

Skiing is the prime objective for most winter visitors to Innsbruck. And with the city's beautiful mountains and plentiful snow, who can blame them? But even powder hounds will be distracted for a day or two by the other things to do in Innsbruck,

• All Things To Do

Maria-Theresien-Strasse (Maria Theresa Street) Maria-Theresien-Strasse (Maria Theresa Street) free

One of Innsbruck's most famous streets, Maria Theresien Street is a glorious remnant of the city's baroque past, dating back 700 years. Now a pedestrian promenade, the street, which is located outside Old Town, is lined with palaces once owned by the city's aristocracy, as well as cafes, shops and landmarks like St. Anne's Column and the Triumphal Arch .

Recent visitors raved about the amazing views of the mountains seen from the street and recommended seeing the Christmas market set up on the street during the holidays. However, a few reviewers warned that the prices at the shops, cafes and restaurants that line the street are too high. For unobstructed photos, plan a morning visit.

Altstadt von Innsbruck (Old Town) Altstadt von Innsbruck (Old Town) free

An easy way to enjoy a comprehensive overview of Innsbruck and many of its best-known sights is to stroll through Old Town – an area full of pastel-colored medieval buildings. There you will find popular attractions like the Golden Roof , the Imperial Palace , the Triumphal Arch and Maria-Theresien Street . When you're done taking in the sights, enjoy some shopping or stop for a break at one of the area's many charming cafes and restaurants (though a few past travelers said food and drinks are overpriced in this area).

Recent visitors say the area is very clean and perfect for a stroll, but advise that many restaurants close early. So, while you can visit this area any time, dining may be out of the question at night. Others were particularly enchanted with Old Town during the holiday season, when Christmas markets set up shop.

Schloss Ambras Schloss Ambras

Step inside Renaissance-era Innsbruck at Ambras Castle, which Archduke Ferdinand II, who reigned in the 1500s, built as a palace. Here he assembled a collection of items, including armor, portraits, weapons and musical instruments into a museum, making it the oldest museum in the world. Today, visitors can see the Spanish Hall, designed to host grand balls; the Chapel of St. Nicholas; an inner courtyard filled with frescoes; the Habsburg Portrait Gallery with more than 200 portraits; and numerous collections of Gothic sculptures and glass objects, among other artifacts.  

Past visitors said the castle is impressive with a large collection of interesting items. Reviewers warned that the portrait gallery is only open from April to October, so keep that in mind if that is your main interest for a visit here.

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Bergisel Ski Jump Bergisel Ski Jump

The late architect Zaha Hadid – who is also responsible for the Hungerburg funicular station – redesigned this ski jump in 2002. Originally built in 1925, it was used in Olympic ski jumping competitions in 1964 and 1976. The tower is about 155 feet tall, and the stadium can hold 28,000 people. But you don't have to be an Olympic athlete to enjoy this attraction. Past visitors suggested traveling to the top of the jump to marvel at the surrounding views. There are also two restaurants at the top where you can enjoy a bite to eat with a side of stunning scenery. What's more, a visit to the ski jump is included with the Innsbruck Card.

According to past visitors, you can take a cable car to the top of the ski jump where the views are outstanding. Reviewers also recommended the cafe at the top, which they say offers great food and coffee.

The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) free

Innsbruck's best-known landmark, the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), is located in the old portion of the city. Emperor Maximilian commissioned the construction of the glittering roof, which has more than 2,000 copper tiles, more than 500 years ago over a balcony that allowed him to survey his city below. Famously, the roof features the naked backside of a figure, and to this day, no one knows why.

Past visitors applauded the site's small museum, and many advised stopping by Old Town at night to see the Golden Roof illuminated.

Cathedral of St. James Cathedral of St. James free

Also known as Innsbruck Cathedral or Dom zu St. Jakob, this church was rebuilt in the 1700s and has long been part of the ancient Christian pilgrimage route, the Way of St. James. The cathedral is known for its 57 bells, which includes the second-largest bell in the Tyrol region. Inside, you'll see frescoes depicting the life of Jesus' apostle, St. James. It's also famous for the painting, "Maria Hilf," of the Madonna and Child, which is the most popular such image in the Alps.

Recent travelers advised that there is some restoration work taking place, but say the cathedral is beautiful and a "must-visit."

Alpenzoo Alpenzoo

Known as "the highest themed zoo in Europe," Alpenzoo is a great choice for families visiting Innsbruck. The zoo specializes in caring for creatures native to the Alps like brown bears, marmots and even otters, and is home to more than 2,000 animals. You might even hear the wolves howl at the ring of the Innsbruck church bells. The park is located within the Nordkette mountain range, which you can reach via the Hungerburg Funicular or bus. It's possible to drive, but parking spaces are few and far between.

Recent visitors advised that you should be prepared for steep walkways at the zoo, since it's on a mountain, and say it's smaller in size than many typical zoos.

Triumphal Arch Triumphal Arch free

It's tough to miss the grand Triumphal Arch when visiting Innsbruck. Empress Maria Theresa commissioned the arch, which only dates to the 18th century, in honor of her son's upcoming wedding. Built from stone that was once used in the town's medieval city gate, the arch features marble friezes that convey a variety of emotions to commemorate the event, including the joy of the marriage as well as the mourning of her husband, who died during the wedding festivities.

Past travelers said the arch is beautiful when lit at night, but warn it's a busy spot with traffic.

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Hungerburg Funicular Hungerburg Funicular

Innsbruck is full of cable cars, funiculars and ski lifts to take travelers into its lovely mountains, and the Hungerburg is one of the most interesting. Designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid, it's an architectural marvel that visits four stations, beginning at the Old Town , stopping at Alpenzoo and concluding at a popular mountaineering spot called the Seegrube — all in just eight minutes. The stations are considered the most modern architecture in the region.

Past visitors say the views are breathtaking and recommend purchasing the Innsbruck Card, which includes the ride free.

Wilten Abbey Basilica Wilten Abbey Basilica free

Using the remains of an ancient church that sits below the modern structure, it's believed that this rococo church has a history that dates to the fifth century. Home of the Wilten Boys' Choir, the church is known for the figure depicting "Our Lady Under the Four Columns." Inside, you'll find rocaille stucco, ceiling frescoes and gold accents.

According to recent visitors, the basilica is a bit of a walk from Old Town but they say its interiors are gorgeous. Others recommend walking through the small cemetery located outside the church.

Hofkirche (Court Church) Hofkirche (Court Church)

You'll find this Gothic church, which dates back to 1553, in Old Town . Commissioned to house the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I, the church does not actually contain the remains of the Holy Roman Emperor – his remains are entombed outside Vienna in Wiener Neustadt. But even though it boasts an empty tomb surrounded by a gilded cage, the church is still a popular sightseeing spot thanks to the 28 life-size bronze figures standing watch over the tomb. Other highlights include the Silver Chapel where Philippine Welser, Ferdinand II's wife, is buried, as well as the church's two organs, one nearly 500 years old.

Past visitors were wowed by this church, describing it as one of the most impressive they've ever seen. Reviewers also recommend paying a visit to the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum next door to the church (combo tickets to both attractions are available).

Hofburg (Imperial Palace) Hofburg (Imperial Palace)

Sandwiched between the Golden Roof and the Cathedral of St. James , this imposing baroque palace was once the royal residence for many monarchs of the Habsburg Empire. Dating to the 16th century, its current exterior can be credited to Empress Maria Theresa, the powerful sovereign of the Holy Roman Empire and the mother of Marie Antoinette. Today, visitors can tour a portion of the palace, including the chapel, several halls, the imperial apartments and the crest tower.

Recent visitors say the palace is stunning but warn that no pictures are allowed. Several reviewers also recommended opting for the guided tour, which is offered every Sunday at 2 p.m. Tours cost 3.50 euros (less than $4) for adults and 2.50 euros (less than $3) for children. What's more, admission to the palace is free every Sunday for kids and up to two adults.

Stadtturm (Town Tower) Stadtturm (Town Tower)

For an excellent view of the city and the surrounding mountains, climb more than 130 steps to the viewing platform of City Tower. A medieval remnant built in 1450, the tower – located in the Old Town – once served as the lookout point for all sorts of medieval dangers, such as fires and invasions.

Recent visitors said the steep climb is well worth the fabulous view at the top. Others were pleasantly surprised to find separate staircases for ascending visitors and descending visitors, which they say helped avoid crowding in the narrow space. A few reviewers warned that safety netting around the entire platform can make it difficult to capture quality panoramic photos.

Paragliding and tandem flights in the Stubai Valley

(205 reviews)

from $ 136.50

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

(9 reviews)

from $ 370.18

Full-Day small group tour of Dolomites, Alpine Lakes, Braies

from $ 217.30

Swarovski Crystal Worlds Swarovski Crystal Worlds

About 12 miles east of Innsbruck, you'll find the dazzling Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Swarovski Kristallwelten). The Walt Disney World of gems, this nearly 19-acre park features a variety of art installations that incorporate the famous crystals. Among the highlights are the "Crystal Cloud," which features 800,000 floating crystals that are reflected in the "Mirror Pool." Families will also find a play area for kids with a play tower, a garden maze, a carousel and a playground.

Recent visitors described the attraction as "mesmerizing" and "impressive." Others were particularly in awe of the exhibits housed within the "Giant," which showcases art installations by a variety of artists, including Yayoi Kusama and Andy Warhol, among others.

Hofgarten Hofgarten free

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Tyrolean Folk Art Museum Tyrolean Folk Art Museum

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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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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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The 15 Best Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

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If you can’t decide between surrounding yourself with untouched alpine scenery or centuries-old fairytale-like towns, take a trip to Innsbruck. Nestled among the majestic Austrian Alps, this magnificent city offers an unparalleled mix of nature, culture, and history.

With countless compelling streets just begging to be explored, art galleries that house ancient treasures, and imposing castles that were once home to the city’s elite, you’ll never be at a loss for what to do in Innsbruck.

The alpine city isn’t all about Baroque architecture and historic gems. There are plenty of up-and-coming areas to explore, laden with innovative vegan restaurants, independent coffee shops, and small boutiques run by local artists. Not to mention the 13 incredible ski resorts that surround Innsbruck. 

Whether you want to step back in time and discover the fascinating roots of the city or escape from your routine and discover all the hidden secrets and quirky spots it has to offer, Innsbruck is a fantastic place to visit.

With such a great choice of things to see and do, it can be tricky to know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do in Innsbruck. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Innsbruck bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring this magical alpine city!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Innsbruck 

1. see the largest crystal in the world .

One of the most unique things to do in Innsbruck is to see the largest crystal in the world. Hidden inside the Swarovski Kristallwelten , just a short drive or bus ride away from the center of the city, this gem is absolutely huge and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

The Swarovski crystal has a diameter of almost 16 inches and weighs a staggering 137 pounds! Once you’re done marveling at the crystal, there are plenty of other fascinating things to see within the dazzling museum, too. 

At the entrance, you’ll find a giant plant-covered head with water gushing out of the mouth into a pool below. It makes for a great picture! There are also several “Wonders Rooms” within the museum that combine sparkling Swarovski crystals with works of art.

Otherworldly rooms filled with optical illusion-creating mirrors, glittering chandeliers, giant gems you can step inside, and intricate displays that must have taken countless hours to put together are just some of the things you’ll see during your visit.

Get your Swarovski Crystal Worlds Entrance Ticket

2. Explore the streets of Innsbruck’s Old Town

For some of the best sights in Innsbruck, head to the city’s Old Town. Also known as Altstadt, Innsbruck’s Old Town is a small and friendly place nestled in the Austrian Alps. It’s perfect for just wandering around and seeing where you end up! 

As you stroll, you’ll pass by colorful Baroque and Gothic buildings which stand in front of huge commanding mountains. The contrast between the architecture and the natural scenery is striking. 

If you prefer to follow an itinerary instead of just wandering around, there are plenty of things you can add to your sightseeing list. Innsbruck’s Old Town is where you’ll find the famous Golden Roof, City Tower, Imperial Palace, Court Church, and Triumphal Arch. 

When you need a break, there are plenty of cute stores to pop into where you can pick up gifts for friends and family back home. Or, if you need a bit of extra energy, there’s a huge choice of cafes, bars, and restaurants that dish up authentic Austrian cuisine to choose from.

3. Marvel at the views from the Nordkette Cable Car

Innsbruck is full of incredible views, and you’ll get some of the best on the cable car, which takes you to part of Austria ’s biggest natural park. Called the Innsbrucker Nordkette , the cable car whisks you away to the Nordkette Park and treats you to stunning 360-degree views along the way.

The cable car journey takes around 20 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in your surroundings and appreciate the view. As you climb higher, you’ll have a fantastic bird’s-eye view of Innsbruck and the jaw-dropping mountains which surround it.

One of the best things about the Innsbrucker Nordkette is that there are several stops where you can hop on or hop off. As well as admiring the view, there are plenty of things you can do at each stop, too, such as watching the skiers zoom down the white snowy slopes or scaling the rocky face of the Karwendel!

Get an Innsbruck Roundtrip Cable Car Ticket

4. Be amazed by the ‘Tirol Panorama’

Visiting the Tirol Panorama Museum is one of the coolest things to do in Innsbruck. Much more than a simple painting, the Tirol Panorama is a 360-degree work of art that illustrates one of the Battles of Bergisel in which Tirol rebels defended their land against Napoleonic invaders.

You’ll find the painting inside the Tirol Panorama Museum, which is located where the actual battle took place. Exploring the museum and admiring the painting are great ways to learn about the history of Innsbruck and the immense struggles locals went through to preserve their freedom. 

The Tirol Panorama measures a staggering 10,764 square feet, and the details are incredible for such a large work of art. Because the painting curves around the wall, it creates an almost 3D-like effect which helps you immerse yourself in the scene and imagine what it was like for the people who were really there.

5. Dig into a big bowl of spätzle

When you need a break from all the Innsbruck sightseeing, find a restaurant that serves up authentic Austrian cuisine and order some spätzle ! This classic Austrian dish is popular throughout the Alps and is a wonderful way to warm up after being out in the crisp mountain air.

Also sometimes called käsespätzle , this traditional dish is Austria’s version of macaroni and cheese. It’s made of rich egg noodles smothered in melted gooey cheese and topped with caramelized or crispy onions. It sounds really simple, but the flavors and textures work surprisingly well together. Because it’s so popular, you’ll find spätzle available in almost every restaurant throughout Innsbruck.

Fischerhausl is an excellent place to try the dish. It’s incredibly rich, smooth, creamy, and pretty affordable. There are loads of other authentic Austrian dishes on the menu, too. It’s best to visit Fischerhausl during spring or summer when you can sit outside in the little garden out back and enjoy an alfresco meal.

6. Catch a glimpse of the Golden Roof

The Golden Roof is one of the most popular Innsbruck attractions. Also known as Goldenes Dachl, the glittering attraction is located on the alcove balcony of a building in the city’s Old Town.

Despite what its name may suggest, the Golden Roof isn’t actually made of gold. It was built in the 1500s for Emperor Maximilian I and is made out of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. Centuries ago, he would stand on his balcony below the glamorous roof and watch all the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Golden Roof isn’t something you’ll spend a lot of time admiring. In fact, you could easily walk straight past it if you didn’t know it was there. But it’s worth stopping by and checking out as you explore Old Town. 

If you get close to the balcony, you’ll see that there’s a lot more going on than just the shining roof. The structure is richly decorated with all kinds of curious images and figures.

7. Celebrate good over evil at Fasnacht

Fasnacht only happens once every four years, so if it coincides with your trip to Innsbruck, it’s definitely worth checking out. This rare festival illustrates the great struggle between good and evil and incorporates loads of cool events you won’t see anywhere else. 

The celebrations are held between January 6 (Epiphany) and Ash Wednesday, similar to Carnivals throughout the rest of the world. The intense program includes many different parades with locals dressed in all kinds of crazy costumes, incredibly loud music concerts, and street parties that never seem to end. 

Each of the carefully-chosen costumes you’ll see during the festival symbolizes something important. For example, witches embody all things evil, “Tuxers” represent friendly locals who enjoy a drink, and “Zottlers” symbolize an unwanted winter.

The exact dates and program change each year. So it’s a good idea to check the city’s website and look out for posters when you’re there to see what’s happening during your visit.

8. Watch a concert at the Innsbruck Cathedral

If you’re stuck for things to do in Innsbruck in the evenings, check out one of the concerts held at the Innsbruck Cathedral . Also known as the Innsbruck Dom or the Cathedral of St. James, the cathedral is located in Domplatz and regularly hosts concerts throughout the year that the public can attend.

The breathtaking structure was built in the Baroque style in 1724, although it didn’t earn its cathedral status until 1964. It’s best known for its magnificent twin-towered west front, as well as the dome which towers above the choir. But it also contains some fabulous painted ceilings, impressive stucco work, marble altars, and a richly-carved pulpit.

What makes concerts here so incredible is the organ. Situated in the west gallery, it boasts 3,729 pipes and 57 registers. The sound of the organ creates a one-of-a-kind spiritual atmosphere that fills the cathedral during every show.

Because there’s no set schedule for the cathedral’s concerts, it’s best to check the website or ask in person to find out if anything’s happening during your visit. 

9. Delve into local culture at the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum

There are a number of fascinating museums in the city, and the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum is one of our favorites! One of the best things to do in Innsbruck when it’s too cold or wet to be outdoors, this museum gives you an insight into the way people lived centuries ago.

The museum comprises multiple perfectly replicated farmhouse rooms where you can gaze at one of the most important collections of cultural gems from across the ages in Innsbruck. You can admire everything from handcrafted tools, common household items, and ornate chairs to fascinating masks, religious items, and even nativity scenes.

We love looking at all the traditional costumes on display. They’re set out in chronological order so you can see how fashion changed over time. There are also some exhibits which show the fantastic festival costumes and how they’ve changed over the years, too.

10. Fill up on delicious speckknödel

When you need some extra energy to cross all the Innsbruck activities off your list, find a local restaurant and order some speckknödel . These traditional Austrian bacon dumplings are just what you need to fill you up so you can enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Speckknödel are light and fluffy bread-based dumplings studded with generous chunks of bacon. They’re large, round, and most commonly served floating in a rich broth or alongside a portion of sauerkraut. 

You’ll find this common dish available in practically every Austrian restaurant throughout Innsbruck. But our favorite is Stiftskeller . This place is like a combined restaurant and beer garden and serves all kinds of amazing local dishes.

Speckknödel isn’t always on the menu here – you sometimes have to ask for it. But when they do offer it, the dumplings are served as a starter and are floating in a delicate yet rich beef consommé.

11. Feel like royalty at the Imperial Palace

Visiting the Imperial Palace is one of the top things to do in Innsbruck. This royal building is sometimes called the Hofburg Palace, and it’s one of the most important buildings in Austria, along with the Hofburg and Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. 

The imposing palace was completed in 1500 and, back then, included a Gothic courtyard with a covered staircase, a “Kürnstube” to house Emperor Maximilian I’s hunting trophies, and the Festival Hall, which features depictions of Hercules.

Around 250 years later, Maria Theresa visited the palace and thought it to be old-fashioned. She had it rebuilt in the Viennese late Baroque style to suit her more modern tastes. The palace was renovated again in the 19th century by Archduke Karl Ludwig.

The multiple renovations and style changes make the palace a fascinating place to explore. Today the Imperial Palace contains four different museums, each of which houses a unique collection of artifacts and treasures from centuries ago.

12. Take a walk along Maria-Theresien Strasse

There are plenty of stunning streets in the city to walk along, but one of the must-do things in Innsbruck is to go for a stroll along Maria-Theresien Strasse. This historic street was originally built more than 700 years ago when only a few farmhouses lined it. 

Today, it is a bustling place to be, laden with loads of lively cafes, traditional restaurants, and stores selling everything you can imagine!

Not only is this street a great place to chat over a cup of coffee or buy some souvenirs, but it’s also where you can see several Innsbruck landmarks. The Town Hall (Rathaus), St. Anne’s Column (Annasäule), and the Alpine Club Museum (Alpenverein Museum) can all be found here. 

Like many parts of the city, the bright pastel-colored houses set against the dreamy mountain backdrop will leave you speechless and have you snapping pictures non-stop.

13. Go Dancing at the Alpine Folk Music Festival

One of the most fun things to do in Innsbruck in September is to check out the Alpine Folk Music Festival. Known locally as Alpenländischer Volksmusikwettbewerb, this music festival is held every two years and attracts more than 700 young musicians from Austria, Bavaria, South Tyrol, and Eastern Switzerland.

The talented musical artists get together to show off their impressive skills at the largest traditional folk music competition in all of Austria. During the festival, the streets of Innsbruck are constantly flowing with the whimsical sounds of local folk music and people dressed in stunning traditional costumes.

All kinds of things happen during the event. You can expect huge gatherings of musicians, large folk dances, lively music concerts, special folk music breakfasts in certain hotels, traditional costumes and instruments on sale, and a general upbeat party atmosphere. 

A spectacular award ceremony takes place on the festival’s final evening, followed by a radio closing service the next morning inside Innsbruck Cathedral.

14. See alpine animals at Alpenzoo

One of the best Innsbruck activities to do as a family is to visit Alpenzoo . More like a conservation foundation than a zoo, Alpenzoo is a non-profit organization that does everything possible to protect alpine animals. 

Around 2,000 different animals call the zoo their home. The residents are divided across 20 different kinds of alpine mammals, 60 birds, 11 reptiles, and six amphibians. The zoo is also proud to have almost every species of alpine fish, which are kept safe in the biggest freshwater aquarium in the world!

From giant brown bears, curious otters, and cute black-nosed sheep to impressive bearded vultures, graceful lynx, and intimidating wolves, the zoo does great work at protecting rare, endangered, and at-risk animals from extinction.

If you visit during the warmer months, you may have the chance to see some babies. Many of the animals are born between April and June, so if you stop by in spring or summer, keep an eye out for the little ones taking their first steps and playing with their siblings! 

Get your Alpine Zoo and Hungerburg ticket

15. Hit the slopes in Igls

If you’re planning to visit in winter, one of the top Innsbruck bucket list activities is to go skiing in Seefeld. The city is well-known as Austria’s leading ski destination, with links to a number of incredible ski resorts via regular shuttle buses.

Out of all the ski resorts in Innsbruck, Igls has got to be our favorite. This village rewards skiers with remarkable views over the city and has a fantastic range of ski runs suitable for people of all levels and ages.

There are 18 runs in total, with nine red, five blue, and four black pistes. There are cable cars and ski lifts to whisk you to the top and snowboarding is also possible.

Because Igls features just 11 miles of slopes, you may get bored after a while if you’re an intermediate or expert skier. Thankfully, there’s a bus that connects Igls to the extensive ski zone, which incorporates many more of the area’s ski resorts and slopes. 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Innsbruck, Austria. What’s your favorite thing to do in Innsbruck? 

Planning a trip to Austria? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

Frequently Asked Questions

Innsbruck is full of incredible views, and you’ll get some of the best on the cable car, which takes you to part of Austria’s biggest natural park. Called the Innsbrucker Nordkette, the cable car whisks you away to the Nordkette Park and treats you to stunning 360-degree views along the way.

When you need a break from all the Innsbruck sightseeing, find a restaurant that serves up authentic Austrian cuisine and order some spätzle! This classic Austrian dish is popular throughout the Alps and is a wonderful way to warm up after being out in the crisp mountain air. Because it’s so popular, you’ll find spätzle available in almost every restaurant throughout Innsbruck.

Fasnacht only happens once every four years, so if it coincides with your trip to Innsbruck, it’s definitely worth checking out. This rare festival illustrates the great struggle between good and evil and incorporates loads of cool events you won’t see anywhere else. The celebrations are held between January 6 (Epiphany) and Ash Wednesday, similar to Carnivals throughout the rest of the world. The intense program includes many different parades with locals dressed in all kinds of crazy costumes, incredibly loud music concerts, and street parties that never seem to end.

One of the best Innsbruck activities to do as a family is to visit Alpenzoo. More like a conservation foundation than a zoo, Alpenzoo is a non-profit organization that does everything possible to protect alpine animals. Around 2,000 different animals call the zoo their home. The residents are divided across 20 different kinds of alpine mammals, 60 birds, 11 reptiles, and six amphibians. The zoo is also proud to have almost every species of alpine fish, which are kept safe in the biggest freshwater aquarium in the world!

If you’re planning to visit in winter, one of the top Innsbruck bucket list activities is to go skiing in Seefeld. Out of all the ski resorts in Innsbruck, Igls has got to be our favorite. This village rewards skiers with remarkable views over the city and has a fantastic range of ski runs suitable for people of all levels and ages. There are 18 runs in total, with nine red, five blue, and four black pistes. There are cable cars and ski lifts to whisk you to the top and snowboarding is also possible.

Visiting the Imperial Palace is one of the top things to do in Innsbruck. This royal building is sometimes called the Hofburg Palace, and it’s one of the most important buildings in Austria, along with the Hofburg and Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.

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About the Author:

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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Visit Innsbruck: Top 17 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in innsbruck : the 17 best places to visit and highlights.

You want to visit Innsbruck , in Austria , and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

This small town in the Tyrol region is famous for its colorful houses and architectural wonders such as the Golden Roof or the Imperial Palace. Bonus point: it’s less touristy than Vienna or Salzburg and can easily be visited on foot!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 17 best things to do in Innsbruck , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Innsbruck in 1, 2, or 3 days as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Innsbruck? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The Golden Roof

2. the hofburg imperial palace, 3. the court church / hofkirche, 4. the city tower / stadtturm, 5. st. james cathedral, 6. maria-theresien-strasse - where to stroll in innsbruck, 7. museums to visit in innsbruck, 8. wilten basilica, 9. bergisel ski jump, 10. ambras castle, 11. nordkette, 12. the alpine zoo of innsbruck, 13. what to do in innsbruck at night, 14. hasegg castle, 15. swarovski crystal worlds, 16. seefeld in tirol, 17. sports activities in innsbruck, how many days to visit innsbruck, visit innsbruck in 1 day, visit innsbruck in 2 days, where to stay in innsbruck, where to eat in innsbruck, how to get to innsbruck, innsbruck tourist map, you're traveling in austria these articles will help you, visiting innsbruck: 17 must-see attractions.

We begin our tour of Innsbruck with the main tourist attraction and symbol of the city, the Golden Roof or Goldenes Dachl in German.

Located in the historic center of Innsbruck, it’s the most photographed place of interest in the city .

This famous Golden Roof is made up of 2,657 gilded copper shingles and serves as the roof of a ceremonial balcony.

Its construction was ordered in 1500 by Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor. He made public appearances from this balcony and also used it to participate in the numerous festivities organized at the foot of the Golden Roof.

Nowadays, the Golden Roof is a museum that retraces the history of the city, the imperial family, and Emperor Maximilian. The museum is well-done, interactive, and very much interesting . You can take an audio guide in English .

Open every day year-round from 10 am to 5 pm but closed on Mondays in the low season (October to April).

Voyage Tips - Advice The shingles on the little Golden Roof are said to be all still original. Yet, in 2012, some of them were stolen but they all reappeared as time went on in different parts of the city, and were put back… or so goes the official story!

To visit Innsbruck, you should buy the Innsbruck Card . It offers many free services including a visit to the Golden Roof museum and a hop-on, hop-off bus tour .

You can also use public transportation and the shuttle for free to get to the Swarovski Crystal World.

Book your card/pass for your trip to Innsbruck now by clicking on the green button below:

Also located in the historic center and not far from the Golden Roof, you'll find Innsbruck's 2nd must-see attraction, the Imperial Palace .

Throughout the 15th century, the palace underwent numerous expansions, with each Tyrolean ruler wanting to put his mark on it. But the current size of the palace is owed to Emperor Maximilian I st , who completed it in 1500 .

Its interior has also been frequently redesigned to better suit the taste of the day. The current Baroque and Rococo style is attributed to Empress Maria Theresa, who sent the best artists from Vienna to Innsbruck for a major renovation.

Indeed the imperial palace had to be perfect to accommodate the 2,000 guests at her son Leopold II's wedding !

During 14 days it was party every day at the Hofburg Palace, until the sudden death of Emperor Francis Stephen I, (Maria Theresa's husband) put an end to the festivities. His body now lies in the Capuchin Crypt in Vienna (more details on this topic in my article dedicated to the city).

Empress Sisi and Emperor Franz Joseph also lived there in the 19 th century.

Today, it is Austria's third most important historical and cultural monument . During your visit, you can discover:

• The state rooms
• The Hall of Giants , still used as a ballroom
• The imperial apartments : a unique opportunity to delve into the intimacy of the imperial family by visiting their former bedrooms, bathrooms, and offices.
• The coat of arms tower.

With the Innsbruck Card, you can visit the Imperial Palace.

To explore the main sights of Innsbruck and learn about the history of the city , you should go for a guided tour .

Book by clicking on the button below:

You should visit the Court Church or the Imperial Church during your tour in Innsbruck. They're both located in the historic center, next to the Imperial Palace.

The church houses the tomb of Maximilian I st (him again) and is famous for the 28 imposing bronze statues that surround it. It is even nicknamed "the Black Men Church" by the people of Innsbruck.

The 28 statues represent the emperor's ancestors , his 2 wives, and some historical figures , including the famous King Arthur ! They're particularly impressive: between 2 and 2.5 meters high.

Actually, the statues don't guard much since the tomb is very much empty . The church and the tomb being still unfinished at the time of the emperor's death, his body lies in the Capuchin Crypt in Vienna.

During your visit to the Hofkirche , make sure you don't miss the Silver Chapel as well .

In addition to the silver altar that gives the place its name, it's also the resting place of two other Innsbruck celebrities: Archduke Ferdinand II and his wife . She was quite a talk of the town at the time, as some even suspected her of being a witch!

For music enthusiasts, the Court Church also houses Austria's best-preserved Renaissance-era organ .

Another historical attraction you should not miss in Innsbruck , located next to the Golden Roof is the Innsbruck City Tower .

Built in 1450 , the tower was used for more than 450 years to alert the population in case of danger . Guards patrolled it every day to watch the surroundings. The tower's lower floors, on the other hand, served as a prison.

At the time, with its 51 meters in height , the tower was the pride of Innsbruck.

Today the Stadtturm, Innsbruck's tower , is a very popular tourist attraction.

You'll find a panoramic platform after a short but pleasant climb of 130 steps where you'll be able to rest first... and enjoy a stunning view of the Tyrolean regional capital , the Bergisel, and the Nordkette.

It may not be the CN Tower in Toronto or the Vancouver Lookout but it still is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck !

Plus the ticket only costs €4.50 and you can conveniently get it online by clicking the button below:

Another must-see site in Innsbruck is St. James Cathedral or Dom Zu Sankt Jakob .

Quite symbolic for believers since it marks the beginning of the Way of St. James (Pilgrimage of Compostela).

From the outside, there is not much to see; it's the interior that's really worth the visit. The cathedral, crafted in Baroque style , houses magnificent ceiling frescoes that portray scenes from the life of St. James. Remember to look up and admire them.

Innsbruck Cathedral is especially famous for housing the famous painting by Lucas Cranach, "Our Lady of Prompt Succor" or "Maria Hilf". The painting is quite popular all over the world and there are many copies of it throughout the Alps.

Also worth seeing are the canopy mausoleum of Maximilian III and the magnificent organ.

Entry to Innsbruck Cathedral is free but you will have to pay €1 if you want to take pictures. It is open from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm from October to May and until 7:30 pm from May to September.

Strolling along Maria-Theresien-Strasse is a must in Innsbruck.

It's the shopping and tourist street par excellence, with a fair amount of shops, cafes, and restaurants .

Enjoy shopping , buy yourself a hot chocolate or a nice meal on a terrace and admire the sumptuous Baroque facades at Maria-Theresien-Strasse.

Plus, the area is entirely pedestrian , making it even more pleasant and one of the best places to go for a walk in Innsbruck !

Also worth checking out in the neighborhood: St. Anne's Column , that offers a beautiful panorama of the peaks of the Nordkette to the North and the Bergisel ski jump to the South.

You’re going to Innsbruck?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Innsbruck on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Innsbruck.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Innsbruck, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Innsbruck!

You can also go on a little cultural tourism in Innsbruck by paying a visit to some of its museums :

• The Tyrolean State Museum "Ferdinandeum" devoted to fine arts with a collection ranging from late prehistoric times to the present day. It hosts several baroque and gothic works.
• The Tyrolean Folk Art Museum , which focuses on life in the Tyrol and its culture by displaying everyday objects, furniture and costumes that are characteristic of the region.
• The Tirol Panorama chronicles the social, political and religious history of Tyrol. The museum owes its name to a huge fresco of 1,000m² in the form of a panoramic painting relating the Tyrolean resistance against the armies of Bavaria and France. It is one of the longest frescoes in the world.
• The Grassmayr Bells Museum presents the entire manufacturing process of the famous bells from the house of Grassmayr, bells that can be found throughout all of Austria and the world.
• The Archaeological Museum of Innsbruck with a good number of Greek and Roman sculptures.
• The Visual Museum dedicated to optical illusions.

Admission to Innsbruck's museums is included with the Innsbruck Card . If you were wondering what to do in Innsbruck when it's raining , you now have a good set of options!

Wilten Basilica is one of Austria's most beautiful Rococo-style churches .

Having undergone restoration, the interior is truly stunning with its fresco-covered ceiling . Baroque art enthusiasts will be delighted!

A gate usually closes off the entrance, but you'll still be able to get a good view and take some photos during your stay in Innsbruck.

Continuing with this Innsbruck travel guide , we have the Bergisel Ski Jump, the (very) modern emblem of the city of Innsbruck.

Aerodynamic and elegant, the springboard is Europe's most modern ski jumping facility . It hosts the Four Hills Tournament , a world-renowned sporting event.

For tourists, the Bergisel Ski Jump mainly offers a stunning 360° panorama of Innsbruck and its surroundings .

A panoramic elevator takes you to the top, about 250 meters high, in about 2 minutes.

Tickets for the Bergisel Ski Jump can be booked directly here:

At the top of the ski jump, you'll also find a restaurant if you're feeling peckish. And if you've chosen to visit Innsbruck in the summer, you might have the chance to witness international ski jump athletes training .

Access to the ski jump is included with the Innsbruck Card.

Voyage Tips - Advice In 2002, the ski jump’s architecture was reworked by famous architect Zaha Hadid . The first woman to ever receive the Pritzker Prize (the Nobel of architects) for her work.

She is also known for her involvement in the expansion of the Queen Sofia Museum in Madrid and the opera house in Guangzhou , southern China .

Next to the ski jump, if you want to take in even more breathtaking views then you should head to the Patscherkofel observation point .

The panorama is magnificent and allows you to gaze upon the entire Inn Valley and the city . If you want to enjoy some lovely walks during your Innsbruck vacation, you'll find several hiking trails that start from Patscherkofel.

Book your round-trip ticket for the cable car to Patscherkofel below:

Looking for another activity in Innsbruck ?

You should visit the impressive Ambras Castle that you'll find on the city's heights.

Originally a medieval fortress, it underwent a transformation orchestrated by Ferdinand II of Tyrol, who turned it into a Renaissance-style castle to please his wife.

Inside, you'll find a unique collection of weapons and objects, art and curiosity cabinets , as well as a gallery of over 200 portraits of the Habsburg family .

The Ambras Castle also has a beautiful park where you can go for a pleasant walk.

Open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed throughout the month of November.

Skip the line and secure your entrance tickets for Ambras Castle effortlessly by clicking the button below:

Entrance to the castle is included with the Innsbruck Card.

From Innsbruck's town center, you can take the Hungerburg funicular and explore the Nordkette mountain range .

The departure is from Congress Station , directly located in the historic center of Innsbruck.

The funicular goes up to the Alpenzoo station (I will talk about the zoo right after) and then continues to Hungerburg, at an altitude of 860 meters .

From there, you take the cable car and continue the ascent to Seegrube at an altitude of 1,905 meters .

Finally, a last cable car takes you to the Hafelekar, at an altitude of 2,256 meters . The ascent allows you to admire breathtaking natural landscapes.

From up there, I promise you that the view is splendid ! You'll be amazed by a breathtaking view of the entire Inn valley, the Austrian Alps and even the Italian border.

As you can imagine, you often have to wait in line to get to the cable car.

To avoid it, simply book your tickets online in advance by clicking on one of the links below:

• Ticket for the Hungerburg funicular (please note that this does not include Seegrube or Hafelekar).
• Round-trip cable car ticket to the top of Innsbruck (Hafelekar).

What to do in Innsbruck with kids?

As I mentioned before, during your ascent by cable car, you can also choose to stop along the way to visit the Alpine Zoo of Innsbruck.

As the highest park in Europe, it serves as a home to 2,000 animals in their natural environment .

Of course, don't expect to see elephants or giraffes, the hundred or so species presented are typical of the Alps. There you'll get to see wolves, bears, ibexes , vultures and cute little otters.

A great idea for a family outing if you have decided to visit Innsbruck with your kids !

Admission to the Alpine Zoo is included with the Innsbruck Card. Otherwise, you can also book combined zoo + cable car tickets to save some money:

• Alpenzoo + Hungerburg Cable Car Combo Ticket
• Alpenzoo + Hungerburg, Seegrube and Hafelekar cable car combined Ticket

If you feel like spending a nice evening in a festive and family atmosphere while staying in typical Austrian surroundings , you should book this Tyrolean evening .

The program of the show includes Tyrolean folk dances , the traditional thigh-slapping , yodel singers and songs from the Austrian repertoire.

When booking you'll also be able to add the dinner option .

Prepare yourself for a delightful and entertaining show that will captivate you for around 1.5 hours .

Book your Tyrolean evening in Innsbruck by clicking the button below:

What to do around Innsbruck?

Now that you know all about the best things to do in Innsbruck , it's time to continue your itinerary in Austria by exploring the surroundings.

I have prepared for you my selection of the best things to do around Innsbruck .

Hasegg Castle is located near Innsbruck, in the medieval village of Hall. Once the economic center of Tyrol, Hall is a very charming and picturesque town with its pretty little streets and almost medieval feel.

It is here that you can visit Hasegg Castle, former minting house where the Thaler (silver coins of great value considered the ancestor of the dollar) were struck.

There you will learn about its history and manufacturing techniques and you can even strike your own coin.

You can also enjoy the view of Hall and its surroundings at the top of the Mint Tower.

Also around Innsbruck, you should better not miss one of the main activities to do in Austria, the visit of Swarovski Crystal Worlds or Swarovski Kristallwelten .

Located in Wattens, just 15 km from Innsbruck, this underground museum showcases crystal through really well-designed atmosphere and lighting effects . The 14 "Wonder Chambers" are really beautiful. A most dazzling experience!

And of course, at the end of the visit you'll find an official shop with lots of beautiful Swarovski jewelry . Definitely the worst time to forget your wallet 😋.

If you were clever enough to get the pass to visit Innsbruck, you'll be able to take the shuttle bus for free from the city center to Swarovski Crystal Worlds.

As this is an extremely popular tourist attraction , you should better purchase your skip-the-line ticket in advance online. You can get it by clicking on the button below :

About 20 kilometers west of Innsbruck, you will find the most popular ski resort in the Alps, Seefeld in Tirol .

This charming town, home to a population of 3,000, sits proudly at an impressive elevation of 1,180 meters above sea level . It has earned a reputation as a highly popular destination for tourists throughout the year, attracting visitors in both summer and winter.

It proudly stands as one of the top 12 most renowned Alpine tourist destinations in Europe, recognized worldwide for its allure.

During winter, you can fully embrace the excitement of snow sports there.

Seefeld is indeed famous for its perfect snow conditions for cross-country skiing on nearly 260 kilometers of trails.

There are also family ski areas and sled tracks in case you decided to visit Austria with your kids.

In summer, you can swim in the pools of the Olympic Sports and Congress Center or, for a more natural experience, in Lake Wildsee . You'll also find many marked trails for hiking.

In addition to classic tourist visits, you can enjoy your stay in Innsbruck by indulging in some super cool activities :

• White-water rafting in the Tyrolean Alps. The extreme version for those who are done with "standard" rafting is right here !
• Tandem paragliding is the best way to admire the splendid Austrian views from above!
• Bungee jumping of 192 meters from the Europabrücke Bridge, one of the best spots in Europe!
• The Ziesel, an all-terrain electric vehicle equipped with caterpillars track which you can drive on a track to experience a strong adrenaline rush! It's brand new and made in the Austrian Tyrol.

To visit Innsbruck, 1 day is enough .

Tourist attractions are almost all concentrated in the historical center which can be easily explored on foot .

But if you also want to explore the surroundings of Innsbruck such as the Nordkette and the Crystal Worlds for example, then you should stay for 2 days .

To discover Innsbruck with great ease, you should buy the Innsbruck Card . It's one of the most interesting City Cards I've seen in terms of price and included visits.

All the points of interest in Innsbruck that I mentioned in this article are included, such as the Golden Roof museum, Imperial Palace, City Tower, and more. But that's not all!

• Free public transport
• A sightseeing bus tour
• The cable car to the Nordkette (€33 by itself!)
• Ski lifts around Innsbruck
• A guided walking tour of the city
• And even the shuttle and entrance to the Swarovski Crystal Worlds !

The card is only €53 for 24h, €63 for 48h, and €73 for 72h.

You can get it directly by clicking on the green button below :

To make the most of your one-day visit to Innsbruck, you should follow this itinerary:

• Morning in the historic center to see the Golden Roof and visit the Imperial Palace, the City Tower, the Hofkirche, and St. James Cathedral .
• Lunch break at one of the restaurants on Marie-Theresien-Straße
• Cable car ride up to Nordkette from Innsbruck's old town, with a visit to the Alpine Zoo

And for the evening, why not attend a traditional Tyrolean evening with singing and dancing?

The show lasts about 1.5 hours during which you'll get to enjoy traditional Tyrolean music and dancing . You also have the option to make a dinner reservation .

Information and reservations right here:

To visit Innsbruck and its surroundings in 2 days , follow the previous itinerary and add:

• Stop by Wilten Basilica to admire the interior
• Climb up to the panoramic terrace of Bergisel Ski Jump
• Visit Ambras Castle
• Lunch break
• Step into Hasegg Castle to discover the secrets of the Thaler
• Sparkling discovery of the Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Innsbruck based on your budget.

Remember to book as early as possible to get the best rate!

• Hostel Marmota : A hostel located 500 meters from Ambras Castle. Dormitory bed from €40 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the hearty and varied breakfast, the modern and clean rooms. The best choice for budget accommodation in Innsbruck !
• Gasthof Walzl : Located 2 km from Innsbruck, at the foot of the Olympic ski jump. Warm and spacious double room from €110 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the quiet and comfortable rooms, the friendly staff, the quality of the evening meals. My favorite for its value for money !
• Motel One Innsbruck : Located next to Innsbruck train station and a 10-minute walk from the old town. Modern and bright double room with large bay windows from €120, breakfast for €15. Strong points: the mountain views, the location, the cleanliness.
• Hotel Central : Located just 300 meters from the historic center. Cozy and warm double room from €160, breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the amazing breakfast, sauna and steam room.
• Hotel Innsbruck : Located 200 meters from the Golden Roof. Elegantly decorated double room from €270, breakfast included. Strong points: the indoor pool, unlimited access to the spa, the friendly staff. The best hotel in Innsbruck for a luxury stay !

• Gasthof Weisses Rossl : Located in the center of Innsbruck. The restaurant offers Austrian, Tyrolean, and even vegetarian dishes. A wide variety of choices and everything is quite tasty. The service quality is excellent. Good value for money. Book in advance!
• Ludwig Das Burger Restaurant : Also located in the center, the perfect place to enjoy a quality burger! Excellent meat and homemade fries, ketchup, and even lemonade. Several ingredients are organic. Simply delicious. I highly recommended to book in advance.
• Olive : Located outside of Innsbruck's historic center. The restaurant offers vegetarian and vegan dishes. The cuisine is delicious, very flavorful, with fresh and organic ingredients. The desserts are excellent as well and everything remains within reasonable prices. No need to be a vegetarian to enjoy your meal there.

If you want to discover typical Austrian dishes , nothing beats a culinary tour!

The one I've selected for you lasts 4.5 hours and allows you to visit Innsbruck's covered market . It also includes several tastings of local products .

From Vienna:

• By plane : Innsbruck has a small airport. Some flights connect Vienna to Innsbruck in 1 hour, but expect to pay around €200 one way.
• By car : 4h50 drive
• By bus : 10h drive
• By train : 4h15 drive

You should check the train schedules and fares before leaving and book your tickets here :

From Salzburg:

• By car : 1h45
• By bus : 5h30
• By train : 2h20

From Munich (you could choose to land in Munich if you want to start your Austrian tour by visiting Innsbruck):

• By bus: 2h30
• By train: 2h50

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I've created a tourist map of Innsbruck listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 17 things to do. You can display the map legend by clicking on the button with a small arrow in the top left corner.

Discover all my articles about Austria : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Austria are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to Do in Austria : all best places to visit and activities
• Itinerary: One week in Austria - The perfect itinerary for your 7-8 days trip to Austria
• Graz: TOP 10 best places to visit
• Hallstatt: TOP 6 things to do during your stay
• Innsbruck: The 15 best things to do and see
• Linz: TOP 12 places to visit and must-see attractions
• Salzburg: The 17 best things to do
• Vienna: TOP 25 tourist attractions  

You're using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 15 Best Things to Do in Innsbruck (Austria)

15 Best Things to Do in Innsbruck (Austria)

Tucked away in the dramatic landscapes of the alps, Innsbruck is a true alpine gem and renowned worldwide for its ski resorts and tradition of hosting winter sports competitions. Its long history as the centre of the Tyrol region and modern history as a winter sports haven draw people from all over the globe.

With a wide variety of attractions from historical churches, to breathtaking viewpoints and scenic cable-car rides, Innsbruck has a great deal to offer and is a prime destination to visit in Austria .

Let’s explore the best things to do in Innsbruck :

1. Altstadt von Innsbruck (Old town)

The Altstadt is the old town centre of Innsbruck and stands as one of the main attractions.

With some of the buildings standing for over 500 years there is a great deal of history surrounding this area and a large amount of effort has been put in to maintain the medieval details etc.

You can enjoy a bite to eat, or a coffee in one of the beautiful cafes and restaurants, or admire the wonderful architecture of the buildings and the people of Innsbruck.

2. Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen

The Innsbrucker Nordkette is a cable car ride that takes you up to Nordkette which is part of Austria’s largest natural park.

The pleasant journey takes around 20 minutes and provides you with amazing views of Innsbruck and the jaw dropping mountain scenery surrounding it.

There are several stops on the way and you can simply get off or continue to the top – At each stop there is something different to do, from watching the Skiers speed down the slopes, to climbing on the rocky face of the Karwendel.

Whatever you choose to do, this fun and interesting cable car journey is sure to impress.

You can book your ticket online

3. Ambras Castle

This fine Renaissance castle is one of the most popular attractions in the area around Innsbruck and was home to the important historical figure Archduke Ferdinand II. The castle and grounds stands in the southern part of Innsbruck of the borders of the town and can be reached by both tram and bus.

Inside the castle is the famous Spanish Hall, which is an intricately decorated hall that now hosts classical music concerts.

Aside from that the castle also has a brilliant display of arms, armoury and artwork and a tranquil courtyard to admire.

Book your tickets online right here

4. Imperial Palace (Hofburg)

The Hofburg is a fine piece of architecture and stands as a highly significant building in Austria.

Constructed in the 1400’s, this striking palace has a brilliant white façade with green domed towers and a beautiful interior.

Now split into five themed museums, the Hofburg is a great way to learn about the history of Austria and see what the furnishings of a royal palace look like.

The museums include a furniture display, an ancestral gallery and a painting gallery and illustrate many aspects of the Hapsburgs culture.

Ticket prices come in at €9.90 for adults and children’s admission is free – These reasonable prices make the Hofburg a great value attraction in the heart of Innsbruck.

5. Hungerburg Funicular

Due to Innsbruck’s location in the mountains, there are several Cable car routes and Funiculars used as modes of transportation.

The Hungerburg Funicular is one of the most impressive and serves as transport between Innsbruck city centre and the Hungerburg district.

Instead of a cable car, the Funicular boasts a modern monorail style carriage and the main Congress station has a similar modern and striking design.

The route of the Funicular passes over a bridge, through a tunnel and up a steep incline to reach the Hungerburg 860 meters above sea level.

At the top you are greeted with panoramic views of the central Inn Valley and across to the Italian border.

6. Bergisel Ski Jump

What could be more exciting than watching athletes speed down the 90m slope on their skis and gracefully glide off the edge and plummet to the soft snow beneath them.

The Bergisel Ski Jump has been used at both the Olympic Games and the World Championships and is an impressive site.

The views from the top are fabulous and it is fascinating to watch the Ski Jumpers practice their art.

At the top there is a coffee shop and also a viewing platform just be aware of the fairly steep climb to get up there!

7. Swarovski Kristallwelten

The Swarovski Crystal World is a magical place and fills people with a sense of wonder and delight.

For those who love the brand, or who love sparkling crystals, or for people who love vibrant and exciting displays, this is the place to visit.

This attraction is packed full with several outdoor areas including a large sculptured face and waterfall, and a hedge maze, and some interesting indoor displays about Swarovski.

The indoor displays or “Chambers of Wonder” are dazzling and contain thousands of crystals, all created by a selection of visionary designers.

This is another top sight in Innsbruck for both adults and children alike!

Tip : This ticket includes entrance & transfer

8. Alpine Zoo

Plenty of cities have a Zoo, but what sets Innsbruck’s Alpine Zoo apart from the rest is its concentration on mainly indigenous animals of the area and animals that live in mountainous areas.

You can walk through the Zoo and see such marvels as a mighty Brown Bear, playful Otters swimming in the water, howling Wolves, and a majestic Golden Eagle.

The Zoo also helps biodiversity of the area and provides some of the more endangered animals a home.

If you are unsure about visiting a Zoo, do not be put off; the animals here are all extremely well looked after and have plenty of space to roam around in.

9. Cathedral of St. James

Cathedrals often stand as central points in a city or as a recognisable landmark; St. James’ Cathedral is no exception.

Its front facade stands out with two green domed bell towers and a striking Baroque design, while the interior has all the typical trappings and decorations one would expect from an important religious building.

The ceilings and domes have beautiful artwork and details, while the main altar is lavished with gold and marble and creates a wonderful centrepiece.

Finally on-top of all this the Cathedral also contains the tomb of Archduke Maximillian III (Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights) and eight working ornate bells.

10. Tirol Panorama

Not to be confused with the view (which is breath-taking nonetheless) the Tirol Panorama is a 360 degree painting that depicts the famous battle of Bergisel where the Tirol rebels fought off Napoleonic invaders.

The painting and museum are situated where the actual battle took place and are a great way to learn about the history of this area and the struggles the Tyrolean rebels persevered through.

The actual quality and artistic acumen of this immense 10,764 square foot painting are fabulous and the scenes that it depicts really are interesting.

The Kaiserjäger museum that is next door is also bursting with artefacts, facts and military history from Innsbruck in the 18th and 19th centuries and should be visited together with the panorama.

11. Hofgarten (Garden)

If you want to get away from the busy tourist areas and buildings, the Hofgarten is the perfect place for you.

Located near the Hofburg Palace, it is quite central and easy to reach.

Over the years the garden has seen many different designs and now contains several ponds, a play-park, a restaurant and loads of beautiful mature trees and plant life.

At certain times concerts are also held here and sometimes even chess tournaments.

Whatever you choose to do, the well manicured lawns, luscious greenery and lovely garden landscapes will be perfect to enjoy.

12. The Golden Roof

Yes you guessed it, the Golden Roof, or Goldenes Dachl, is a building with, wait for it…. A Gold Roof! Located in the Altstadt part of Innsbruck, this is considered the cities most famous landmark and was constructed in the 1500’s for Emperor Maximillian I. The striking roof canopy is made up of 2,738 gilded copper tiles while the lower balconies bear coast of arms relating to the Emperors historical territories.

Although not a place you could spend hours at, the Goldenes Dachl is a great attraction to see whilst in the old town area.

13. The Hofkirche

Another of Innsbruck’s impressive religious buildings, the Hofkirche has a gothic design and was built in the 1500’s by Emperor Ferdinand I. While the architecture of this church is interesting in its own right, the real treat is the interior; it is full of beautiful red marble columns and a Cenotaph to the Emperor Maximillian.

The Cenotaph is the main centrepiece of the church and is surrounded by 28 statues depicting various ancestors and heroes including King Arthur and Leopold III.

14. Tyrolean Folk Art Museum

If you choose to see at least one museum in Innsbruck, then the Folk Art Museum is a must and is considered one of the finest of its kind in Europe.

Centrally located next to the Hofkirche you can see the museum together with several other sights to make the best use of your time.

The museum hosts a fine collection of cultural artefacts from the Tyrolean area and also several restored wood-panelled rooms that reflect the style and design of the time.

15. Maria-Theresien Strasse

Stretching from the Triumphal Arch to the Old Town, this street is one of the busiest in Innsbruck and has a wide variety of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants and also holds great historical significance in the city.

Part of the street is fully pedestrianized and it is the perfect place to take a stroll, or maybe enjoy a drink while admiring the beautiful architecture lining it.

The Triumphal Arc, St Anne’s Column and the Chapel of St. George are all located on or in close proximity to this street also so there is plenty to do and see.

15 Best Things to Do in Innsbruck (Austria):

• Altstadt von Innsbruck (Old town)
• Innsbrucker Nordkettenbahnen
• Ambras Castle
• Imperial Palace (Hofburg)
• Hungerburg Funicular
• Bergisel Ski Jump
• Swarovski Kristallwelten
• Cathedral of St. James
• Tirol Panorama
• Hofgarten (Garden)
• The Golden Roof
• The Hofkirche
• Tyrolean Folk Art Museum
• Maria-Theresien Strasse

14 fun things to do in Innsbruck in winter (+ 2 must-do’s nearby)

December 6, 2022 | Posted in: Austria

Innsbruck in Austria is a pretty special city. Surrounded by mountains, it's loved by hikers, mountain bikers, skiers, and snowboarders alike. But even if you're not feeling active, there are plenty of things to do in Innsbruck even in winter.  

1. Wander through the Old Town

2. take a photo of the colorful houses of st nicholas, 3. visit the market hall, 4. admire the golden roof, the tyrolean folk art museum, the hofkirche, 6. get a glimpse of the imperial hofburg palace, 7. go up the terrace of the house of music, 8. take the cable car up the nordkette, 9. visit ambras castle, 10. have dinner at restaurant adlers, 11. visit the interactive audioversum museum, 12. go up the bergisel ski jump and have lunch with a view, 13. enjoy the view on top of a shopping mall, 14. choose 1 out of 20 strudels, 1. visit the swarovski kristallwelten (crystal park), 2. visit the igloo village in kühtai, the innsbruck welcome card, what to pack, where to stay in innsbruck, things to do in innsbruck austria.

When planning your itinerary for your trip to Austria, keep these top 14 Innsbruck attractions in mind. These are great things to do if you plan a winter trip to Innsbruck but aren't so much into skiing and other winter sports.

Want to learn more about Austria? Check out these 77 fun facts .

Definitely make sure to check out Munding. This traditional pastry shop is worth a visit all-year-round but especially during the Christmas season when it converts its windows into the windows of an advent calendar.  

The Goldenes Dachl was completed in 1500 to mark the marriage of Emperor Maximilian I to Bianca Maria Sforza. 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles cover the roof, which sits on top of an ornate balcony. The walls and balcony are covered in decorative frescoes, sculpted reliefs, and impressive pillars.

Without question, this is best to see on a sunny day. The sunlight reflecting off the golden roof sets off the color and the result is stunning.

5. Visit the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum and the Hofkirche

The Tyrolean Folk Art Museum is a highly respected heritage museum that showcases the ways and means of Tyrolean daily life. It’s housed in a former Franciscan monastery right next to the Hofkirche.

The permanent exhibition stores cultural treasures such as traditional costumes, handicrafts, pottery, textiles, tools, and artisanal folk art.

Unfortunately, we didn’t have much time for this museum. We only got to check out the year-round Nativity Scenes exhibition which has a huge selection of crib art from the 18th century onwards.

The Court Church was commissioned in 1553 by Emperor Ferdinand I, Maximilian’s grandson. Weirdly, Emperor Maximilian’s tomb is actually empty – his remains were buried in Wiener Neustadt, where the foundations weren’t strong enough to carry the weight of this ornate cenotaph.

A must-see here is the Silver Chapel or “Silberkapelle”. It’s a small side chapel where you can find a magnificent silver altar to the Madonna alongside the tomb of two more important people – Archduke Ferdinand II and his wife Philippine Welser.

Today you can see the Rennplatz square out the front, the grandiose Gothic Cellar, the room used for displaying hunting trophies called the Kürnstube, the Silver Chamber treasury, the Festival Hall and much more.

The Imperial Palace was closed when I was in Innsbruck so I didn’t get the chance to see it, so I’ll need to go back and visit it another time.

Just outside the old town, you'll find the Hofgarten which was built under the direction of Ferdinand Archduke Ferdinand II in the sixteenth century. At the time it was one of the most elaborate gardens north of the alps. The gardens are open to the public and make a beautiful backdrop for a winter stroll, stop at the onsite restaurant for a warming drink.

Alright, it's not as amazing as the view from the Nordkette which we'll see next, but it's free and super easy to fit into your schedule.

All you need to do is walk in and take the elevator to the 5th floor. There's one terrace right in front of you when you get out and then there's another if you go right and turn the corner. This is a bit of a secret Innsbruck attraction so shhht, don't tell anyone ;-)  

From the top, we could now see skiers sliding down where we'd seen mountain bikers in summer and the grass that surrounds the wooden bench overlooking the city was now hidden under at least 30 cm of snow.

One stop down, the terrace of the Seegrube Restaurant was still as busy as it had been that beautiful summer day. We got so lucky with the weather on this trip that we could actually eat outside in the winter. Can you imagine that? Eating outside in February and getting a tan while doing so?

Bliss, and something you really have to do during your Innsbruck visit.  

In the hills above Innsbruck is Ambras Castle or “Schloss Ambras”. Sadly I didn’t have time to go on this trip but I would love to make it up there some other time as it's one of THE places to visit in Innsbruck.

The Renaissance Ambras castle was the family residence of Archduke Ferdinand II between 1567 and 1595, but today you can look around the world-famous Habsburg Portrait Gallery which houses over 200 paintings. These include work by Rubens, van Dyck, Velásquez and so many more. It’s also home to the oldest collection of armor, books, and art in Europe.

In the upper part of Schloss Ambras, you can find the Saint George Altar of Emperor Maximilian I. There’s also the opulent Spanish Hall with its Renaissance murals and ornamented wood ceiling.

This time, we were seated inside where we could see the lights of the city twinkle behind the window.

What hadn't changed, was the quality of the food and the service. The staff at aDLERS is friendly without being too present (you know what I mean) and the food is excellent.

As far as the prices go, they're very reasonable too. I don't think you'd pay “only” €22 for a fish main course at a restaurant overlooking the city with impeccable service in many other places.  

Feel how sound vibrates, try to guess where certain sounds come from and follow the birds based on their chirping. Sounds weird? I promise you it's so much fun.

Aside from the permanent exhibition, the Audioversum also had two temporary exhibitions on. One was a photography exhibition which was worth a look, the other was a more historical exhibition which we both felt was more aimed at schools and kids and not so very interesting.  

The Bergisel ski jump now has a stadium capacity of 26,000 and is internationally important, hosting the annual Four Hills Tournament. It's truly one of the things to see in Innsbruck.

When visiting the Bergisel ski jump, you can basically walk all around the terrain. A cable car takes you up to a viewing platform midway and then all the way up to Restaurant SKY. There you can have a meal, a snack, or just a drink.

We enjoyed lunch there with a view of the ski jump and I must say I can highly recommend the Caesar salad with chicken. If you're even the tiniest bit of a cake fan, you have to try the Bergiseltorte. It's a cake in the shape of the ski jump!  

From Lichtblick, you can even climb one floor higher to an actual viewing platform. Make sure to look through the binoculars as they tell you what you're seeing when you're looking at it. Pretty cool!  

At Strudel Cafe Kroll, you can choose between 20 different kinds of strudels – both salty and sweet. I enjoyed a classic apple strudel while my friend Katrin ordered one with meat and pasta. We were both very happy with our choice.

Of and if you're not into strudels: Strudel Cafe Kroll has other types of pastries too. You can both eat in here or have your treat to take away.  

Things to do near Innsbruck

Well, it didn't disappoint.

The Swarovski “crystal worlds” consists of an indoor and an outdoor part. The indoor part takes you through “rooms of wonder” where artworks of crystal are exhibited in all kinds of shapes and forms, from a big crystal dome that mirrors you multifold to large sculptures, and a forest of crystal.

It's a place that makes you go “ooh” and “aaah”, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Outdoors, you can take a walk through the garden with its massive crystal cloud, playground, sculptures and carousel. You can even go for a ride on the carousel which we totally did. It made us feel all giddy and like a kid again.

And of course, there's a very large Swarovski store where you can get your bling even if you don't have a ticket to the museum. Want to visit the Kristallwelten? Buy your ticket online.  

Each year, the village is built in a different way, according to a different theme. All the rooms are unique but fit within that theme. There are rooms for up to four people which also serve as dorms if you're not coming as a group and there are also romantic rooms for two.

When you stay at the Iglu-Dorf, you don't just spend the night in an igloo. You go for a snowshoe hike, have dinner at the igloo restaurant, dance in the bar area and have some sauna time to warm up before you slip into the warm sleeping beds.

Breakfast is provided at a cafe nearby.

While you obviously need a reservation for the rooms, the bar and restaurant are open to anyone but I do recommend making a reservation for the restaurant as it can fill up quickly, especially when all the rooms are booked.

Also good to know is that the team at the Iglu-Dorf cares deeply about working with the local community as well as in an environmentally-friendly way. The furniture and doors you see are handmade by the team and lots of the food served comes from farmers in the area.

Just ask a staff member and they'll excitedly tell you all about it. You'll notice: this place is run with love.  

• free use of the ski bus
• free ice skating in three arenas
• free cross-country skiing in the Innsbruck region
• 10 to 50% discounts on various other activities
• free travel on selected VVT buses within the Innsbruck holiday region

You can find more information on the official website ;  

If you're planning to visit Innsbruck in winter, I wrote a whole post about what to pack for a winter trip to Austria, which you can find right here .

How to get to Innsbruck

At the moment, the direct train between Innsbruck and Brussels doesn't run anymore but you can still take a night train to Cologne and then switch to Innsbruck there. You can book a regular seat in a seating carriage, a seat/bed in a shared sleeper cabin, or a private sleeper cabin.

We did the latter and I have to say the journey was way more comfortable than I'd imagined. When we boarded, someone came to ask what time we wanted our beds to be made and how late we wanted breakfast.

When you book a private sleeper cabin, a breakfast including six items you can choose from a menu is included, as is a welcome bag with water, sparkling wine, crackers, a towel, a pen, and earplugs. You do need the earplugs if you're a light sleeper as you can hear people moving through the hallway if they do.

Dinner wasn't included but could be purchased on board. It wasn't expensive (around €9 for a chicken with rice platter) but the portions were too small for me. My travel companion was happy with hers though.

The only downside was that they didn't (yet) accept payment cards and that wasn't announced anywhere beforehand or on the menu. My friend didn't have cash on her so if I hadn't had some either, we wouldn't have been able to buy food.

Other than that, I don't really have any remarks to make. There was a shared bathroom with a toilet, the staff was friendly, and we both left and arrived on time.

Wondering how long the journey took? We left Brussels at 6 p.m. and arrived in Innsbruck at 9.15 a.m. the next day.  

It's also possible to fly to Innsbruck and the airport is just a 15-minute drive from the city center. For flight options, check Skyscanner  

If you're on a budget, check out long-distance bus company Flixbus. They have several routes to Innsbruck.  

While there are plenty of high quality accommodation options to choose from in Austria , here's a selection of the best places to stay in Innsbruck.

Budget: Hotel Goldene Krone Innsbruck A simple option for great value is Hotel Goldene Krone. While it might be cheap and cheerful, it’s in a great location, most things are under 5 minutes away, including Innsbruck Central Station. The Triumphal Arch is just around the corner. Wifi is free and the reception is 24-hour.

View on Booking.com / Read reviews on TripAdvisor  

Boutique: Stage 12 We stayed in the Stage 12 hotel right in the center, just seconds from the Goldenes Dachl. It’s pretty stylish, with a gym, spa, and outdoor terrace. My room with terrace had an amazing view of the mountains I thoroughly enjoyed the extensive breakfast buffet. The hotel also has a cool cocktail bar that's quite happening in the evenings.

Chain: BEST WESTERN Plus Hotel Goldener Adler Innsbruck This Best Western hotel has a pretty dramatic facade and impressive interior, with stone arched ceilings, velvet headboards, and soft lighting. It’s in a great location, right next to the river. All the rooms have free wifi and Sky TV.

Luxury: The PENZ Hotel The Penz Hotel is an impressive building with a modern glass front and a spectacular conservatory terrace area with the mountains as a backdrop. There’s a bar on the 5th floor and a breakfast restaurant on the roof. It’s right in the center, and there’s underground parking to make it all super easy.

Apartment: Top of Innsbruck This two-bedroom apartment is an ideal base for exploring Innsbruck. It’s beautifully furnished with large windows and great views. The kitchen is fully equipped and there is a big bathroom with a huge bath. It’s in a fantastic location, comes with free wifi and parking is possible in the garage provided.

View on Booking.com  

And that's it! I hope this post answered your question of what to do in Innsbruck and will help you plan your own trip to Austria in Winter.  

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The Ultimate Guide To Summer In Innsbruck

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Innsbruck isn’t all about the skiing & winter sports. From mountain biking to hiking, here’s how to spend an amazing summer in Innsbruck, Austria!

I’m starting to think that Austria only produces pretty towns and cities. Every one I’ve been to has been absolutely stunning.

After already visiting Graz , Salzburg and Zell am See , it’s impossible to pick a favourite, but Innsbruck in Tirol is another incredibly beautiful place, especially in summer.

Nestled at the bottom of a valley and surrounded by the mountains, many people consider Innsbruck just a winter destination with world-class ski resorts. However, when it comes to summer in Innsbruck there is so much to see and do here.

Austria in summer is all about the outdoor activities, so in Innsbruck expect to do things like mountain biking and hiking. The views at the top of Nordkette Mountains really are something else.

So, for those of you looking at what to do in Innsbruck in summer, this is my travel guide for you!

To help plan your trip here, make sure you check out my guide to the best boutique hotels in Innsbruck . Some of these places are so dreamy and perfect for that extra special holiday.

Summer in Innsbruck, Tirol

I was initially in Innsbruck filming a web series with Eddie the Eagle (if you remember him!) We really wanted to showcase some of the best things to do in the city.

The whole challenge was to beat the clock. Eddie and I had to get from Berginsel Ski Jump to the very top of the Nordkettenbahnen in just 30 minutes. Impossible, right? Watch our video and find out for yourself!

As you can see from our video, we had such a glorious summer in Innsbruck. Even though we were only in Innsbruck for a few days, I wanted to see all the city had to offer.

The beautiful thing about Innsbruck is the close proximity of the mountains. You can literally get from the city up to the top of the mountains in less than half an hour. 20 minutes if you’re really counting.

Okay, so we *may* have taken a little longer ourselves, but that might’ve been down to the fact that I wanted to go on a scenic horse and carriage ride through the city. If it wasn’t for that, we would’ve been at the top of those mountains in a flash.

Still, we shot in some of the best locations in the city, and in-between filming I managed to tick off some of the best things to do in Innsbruck.

So, if our video has inspired you to see a little more of the city, then this is what to do in Innsbruck!

Summer weather in Innsbruck

The summer weather in Inssbruck is just gorgeous. When I was here, it was hot and sunny every single day. And I’m talking about proper shorts and t-shirt weather here.

These are the average temperatures of you:

• May – 13 °C (high of 19 °C )
• June – 17 °C (high of 22 °C )
• July – 19 °C (high of 24 °C )
• August – 19 °C (high of 24 °C )
• September – 16 °C (high of 21 °C )

As you can see, visiting Innsbruck around June, July and August is the perfect time. September is a lot quieter so I’d definitely considering coming here then too.

Things to do in Innsbruck in summer

Stand in the shadows of the bergisel ski jump.

The Bergisel Ski Jump is one of the most famous landmarks in Innsbruck. How anyone can throw themselves off this thing I have no idea. Eddie assured me it was one of the most exhilarating things you can do. Obviously I’ll have to take his word for that as I can’t see myself trying this anytime soon.

Anyway, competitions were first held at the Bergisel Ski Jump in the 1920s. Since then, it has been redeveloped and expanded to a capacity of 28,000 people.

If you want to see how crazy people like Eddie are, standing at the top really gives you an insight into what it must be like to be a ski jumper.

The Tower stands 47 meters tall and provides some spectacular views from the top. This isn’t one of the faint hearted though!

Tickets to the top cost £9 and you get there via a funicular (don’t worry, you don’t have to climb those stairs).

Catch the cable car to the very top of the Nordkette Mountains

Directly opposite Bergisel Ski Jump are the Nordkette Mountains. No trip to Innsbruck would be complete without catching the cable car to the top.

Standing at over 3,000 metres, the Innsbruck cable car takes around 20 minutes to get to the top and provides you with amazing views of Innsbruck.

There are several stops along the way if you’d like to get out and explore the different stations. Also, there’s a lovely little restaurant at the very top serving traditional Austrian food.

The views from up here might just be my favourite in all of Austria – they really are something else. There’s a reason why this is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck, especially in the summer.

Tickets cost £35 per person for a round-trip and I really recommend this activity!

Have a coffee at the Golden Roof in the heart of Old Town (Altstadt)

One of the stranger Innsbruck attractions is the Golden Roof (or Goldenes Dachl in German.)

As the name suggests, this is a roof made out of gold, and it is found right in the heart of the Old Town.

Constructed in the 1500s for Emperor Maximillian I, the striking roof is made up of 2,738 gilded copper tiles. All the lower balconies bear coats of arms relating to the Emperor’s historical territories.

One of the best things to do at the Golden Roof is to grab a coffee or a beer from one of the restaurants in the main square and watch the world go by – all with the Golden Roof in the background.

For me, summer in Innsbruck is all about taking it easy and enjoying the sunshine. Well, this is such a stunning spot in the city to do it from.

Climb the 133 steps to the top of the Town Tower (Stadtturm)

Whenever I’m somewhere new, I always find the tallest building in the city for those cityscape views. Well, in Innsbruck this is at the Town Tower (Stradtturm).

Built in 1450, people having been climbing to the tower for views of Innsbruck for over 500 years. The only thing that’s changed here is the view of the city being built around the Old Town.

Even though the 133 steps to the top will leave you panting, the views are incredible. I love how the red roofs are framed by the river and the mountains – picture postcard perfect this scene.

Take some photos of the colourful houses by the river

When it comes to what to do in Innsbruck, I always recommend going on a little self-guided photo walk of the city.

Like with a lot of places around Austria, Innsbruck is really bright and colourful. However, when the seasons change and the sun comes out then everything becomes so much more beautiful.

Down by the river there are some colourful houses painted in oranges, greens and blues. For me, this was one of my favourite photo spots in the city. If you head down to the river I found this spot by the bridge. This is where you can find a local market during the summer too (more on that in a bit).

Go for a cycle around Innsbruck

One of the best ways of getting around Innsbruck in summer is to hire some bikes.

Innsbruck (and Austria in general) are really into their road cycling. In 2018 they held the UCI Road World Championships and there are lots of cycling routes up into the mountains.

While I was in Innsbruck a few people we’re talking about the race already and the city was absolutely buzzing. Often there are cycling events going on so make sure you check what’s going on in the city before you arrive.

Feel like 1 million dollars at Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Even though Swarovski World is just outside of the city (it’ll take you about 45 minutes to get there), it is definitely one of the best things to do in Innsbruck.

Yes, they sell lots of diamonds and crystals there. No, you don’t need to buy all the diamonds and crystals there. As you can see, it is an amazing place for photos though. Tickets cost £15 per person and this place is fun for the whole family. Also, the art & architecture there is spot on. Personally, I would say this is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck in summer – again, I just love the architecture here.

If you’d like to learn more about Swarovski World then check out Wanderlust Chloe’s guide .

Taste some samples at a local market

Innsbruck summer means markets! Now I love eating my way through a city so obviously I had to explore a few of the local markets.

Again, down by the river you’ll find a local farmers market. I genuinely spent about an hour wandering from stall to stall sampling some local cheese and cold meats. I didn’t realise how good Austrian cheese was – so good I just had to pick up a wedge that barely made it home with me. If you can, buy some local cheese – you won’t regret it I promise you.

Take on some of the best downhill cycling in Europe

If you’re an adrenaline junkie then Innsbruck has some incredible downhill cycling. When all the snow has melted from the mountains then this is a great summer activity.

The Bike Park Innsbruck in Mutters and Götzens welcomes mountain bikers with four trails and a biking centre with practice area. You can hire a bike and protective gear for the day and tackle the trails yourself. Or, alternatively, you can find a local guide and go on a bit of the tour of the mountains.

Heading to the top of the cable car really is one of the top places to visit in Innsbruck, and cycling downhill afterwards is an even better adventure!

Pay a visit to S chloss Ambras (Ambras Castle)

Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Innsbruck. Perched on a rock 100 metres above the valley floor, Amrbas Castle dates all the way back to the 10th century. Yes, it really dates back that far.

On a tour around Ambras Castle you’ll see the the sheer wealth and opulence of the place. There are objects made of ivory and coral dotted all over, there’s suits of rare tournament armor, and there’s over 200 paintings in the Habsburg portrait gallery.

Ambras Castle is a great place to add to your Innsbruck itinerary.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

Luxury: relais&châteaux spa-hotel jagdhof , neustift im stubaital.

If you don’t mind going a bit further afield, this resort in Neustift im Stubaital has it all. Panoramic views of the scenic Tyrolean mountains, not to mention the Stubai Glacier.

Things are fancy inside too. There’s a real traditional vibe here, plus more than 20 amenities: a 3,000 m² spa and an award-winning restaurant.

Mid-range: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz , Innenstadt

Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz has been standing since 1464, though it had a full refresh in 2020. That’s a whole lot of history, including a visit from Mozart in 1769.

Located in the city’s bustling downtown, this is one of my favourite Innsbruck hotels for a beer. By that I mean – if you visit, don’t forget to check out the impressive sixth floor bar.

Budget: Hotel Huberhof , Rum

I love a city break, but sometimes it’s nice to get away from the hustle and bustle, right?

Hotel Huberhof is ideal for that. It’s around a 15 minute drive from Innsbruck, so you really get that nice, country air. It’s got a pool, two tennis courts, and views of the Patscherkofel mountain. What’s not to like?

Innsbruck packing list

As you can imagine, I travel a lot. It comes with the territory of being a travel blogger! That being said, there are some things that I now can’t travel without. If you’re planning your Innsbruck summer itinerary, I’d really recommend taking these items with you:

• Sunglasses: Mens | Womens – These are an absolute must as soon as you step off the plane, holiday mode very firmly on!
• Cool felt hat – I always love travelling with a hat these days, especially during summer when the sun’s out.
• Rain jacket: Mens | Womens – Sorry guys, but it’s always a good idea to travel with a pac-a-mac or rain jacket that packs down small. Fingers crossed you won’t need to use it.
• Bum bag – Very easy and simple for wandering around a city and it means you can leave a big bag at the hotel room.
• Sleep mask – 100% take this with me on every trip.
• Ear plugs – Even if you’re staying in a 5* hotel, you might need ear plugs.

• Water bottle – I am a water bottle convert and I barely leave the house without one now. This is a great water bottle with a built in straw – it’s surprisingly handy!
• Waterproof phone carrier – Another game changer. I always use this when I’m on the beach to protect my phone from sand or when I’m kayaking to protect it from water.
• Portable charger – Does anyone travel without these now? This one is my favourite – just make sure you charge it before you get on the plane!
• Jabra earbuds – After trying so many different types of earbuds, these are now my go-to ones. Great for wandering around a city.
• Multi-adapter plug – This is the one item you’re most likely to forget.

This post was in association with Visit Austria and Visit Innsbruck promoting some of the best things to do in Austria during the summer – it’s not all about the winter sports here! As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a holiday to Innsbruck? If you have any questions at all then let me know in the comments below!

Like this blog post? Then make sure you Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide To Summer In Innsbruck”

Planning to be in Innsbruck next month (July). Thank you for your so nice and interesting article.

You’re very welcome Sagi! I hope you have an amazing time there!

Going to visit Innsbruck next week as I don’t know much about it, so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there – thank you so much for this information!

No worries Jagjit! I hope you have an amazing time in Innsbruck as it’s such a beautiful city to explore!

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Tyrol’s capital is a sight to behold. The jagged rock spires of the Nordkette range are so close that within minutes it’s possible to travel from the city's heart to more than 2000m above sea level and alpine pastures where cowbells chime. Summer and winter activities abound, and it’s understandable why some visitors only take a peek at Innsbruck proper before heading for the hills. But to do so is a shame, for Innsbruck is in many ways Austria in microcosm: its late-medieval Altstadt is picture-book stuff, presided over by a grand Habsburg palace and baroque cathedral, while its Olympic ski jump with big mountain views makes a spectacular leap between the urban and the outdoors.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Schloss Ambras

Picturesquely perched on a hill and set among beautiful gardens, this Renaissance pile was acquired in 1564 by Archduke Ferdinand II, then ruler of Tyrol,…

Grabbing attention with its pearly white facade and cupolas, the Hofburg was built as a castle for Archduke Sigmund the Rich in the 15th century, expanded…

Innsbruck’s pride and joy is the Gothic Hofkirche, one of Europe’s finest royal court churches. It was commissioned in 1553 by Ferdinand I, who enlisted…

Goldenes Dachl

Innsbruck's golden wonder and most distinctive landmark is this Gothic oriel, built for Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I (1459–1519), lavishly festooned…

Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum

This treasure trove of Tyrolean history and art moves from Bronze Age artefacts to the original reliefs used to design the Goldenes Dachl. Alongside…

Rising above Innsbruck like a celestial staircase, this glass-and-steel ski jump was designed by much-lauded Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid. It's 455 steps or…

Volkskunst Museum

The Volkskunst Museum presents a fascinating romp through Tyrolean folk art from hand-carved sleighs and Christmas cribs to carnival masks and cowbells…

Dom St Jakob

Innsbruck's 18th-century cathedral is a feast of over-the-top baroque. The Asam brothers from Munich completed much of the sumptuous art and stuccowork,…

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• 15 Places To Visit In Innsbruck For A Superb Austrian Holiday In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Innsbruck is a mix of modern and historical. Magnificent structures like Hofkirche and Ambras Castle give you a glimpse of the past while modern marvels like Bergisel Ski Jump lure you to explore the city’s splendid outdoors.

There are many places to visit in Innsbruck and our list attempts to point you to some of the best. Check out what to see in Innsbruck the next time you holiday here. From the iconic Old Town to Bergisel Ski Jump and natural sites like Natterer See, Innsbruck has attractions for every kind of traveler.

15 Places To Visit In Innsbruck

Whether you’re a history buff, a geek, or an adventure junkie, Innsbruck will make sure you come back rejuvenated.

• The Hofkirche
• Swarovski Crystal Worlds
• Old Town Innsbruck
• Ambras Castle
• Tyrol Panorama Museum
• Glockengiesserei Grassmayr
• Natterer See
• Audioversum
• Bergisel Ski Jump
• The Hofberg
• Nordkettenbahnen
• Tyrolean State Museums
• Maria-Theresien State

1. The Hofkirche or Court Church

Start your Innsbruck sightseeing with a visit to The Hofkirche or Court Church, a 16th century church built by Emperor Ferdinand as a tribute to his grandfather, Emperor Maximilian I. Bronze statues surround the black marble tomb, which incidentally, is empty. 24 reliefs depict events from Maximilian’s life including his marriage to Mary of Burgundy and his defeat of the Venetians. Ideal for: History, leisure

Suggested Read: Austrian Food: 20 Irresistible Dishes You’d Want To Relish

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2. Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Austria is home to the globally famous brand, Swarovski, which has its headquarters in Wattens. It’s one of the most popular Innsbruck points of interest and you can’t leave without visiting it. Swarovski Crystal Worlds will dazzle you with its display of crystal art and installations created by artists around the world. The outdoor giant head waterfall and Crystal Cloud steal the show, for their wow factor. Ideal for: Leisure

3. Old Town Innsbruck

Few places are as charming as old towns that are full of history and character. Old Town Innsbruck is one such and if you love taking a walk down the pages of the past, this is one of the best places to visit in Innsbruck. Gothic and Baroque architecture are everywhere you look while attractions like the Imperial Palace and the Folks Art Museum give you a look at Innsbruck’s history. Don’t miss the iconic landmark the Golden Roof. It’s decorated with over 2,600 fire-gilded copper tiles and was built to mark the marriage of Emperor Maximilian I to Bianca Maria Sforza. Ideal for: History

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4. Ambras Castle

Up on the hills above the city is a Renaissance castle that was once the home of Archduke Ferdinand II. The popular Innsbruck tourist attraction has a Lower Castle that exhibits the erstwhile ruler’s collection of armor and weaponry. Meanwhile, the Upper Castle has a vast gallery of portraits of Tyrolean rulers painted by famous artists like Titian and Diego Velázquez. Ideal for: History

Suggested Read: 34 Best Places To Visit In Austria That Look Straight Out Of A Picture Book

5. Hofgarten

When you want to take a break from the historical stuff, make your way to Hofgarten, a beautiful park that’s one of the top 10 places to visit in Innsbruck. Spanning 10 acres of trees, ponds and a children’s play area, the park is a terrific place to slow down and disconnect from the buzz of the city. There’s a café in the premises if you want to grab a bite to eat. Ideal for: Leisure

6. Tyrol Panorama Museum

Next on our list of places to visit in Innsbruck is the Tyrol Panorama Museum. It’s home to an artistic wonder, a gigantic 360-degree painting covering over 1,000 meters that depicts the victory of Tyrol over Bavarian and Saxon troops in 1809. You don’t have to be a fan of art or history to appreciate this Innsbruck Austria point of interest; seeing it up close will leave you with a sense of wonder and you’ll be glad you made it part of your itinerary. Ideal for: History

7. Glockengiesserei Grassmayr

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No Innsbruck sightseeing tour, especially one packed with historical sites, is complete without a visit to Glockengiesserei Grassmayr. It’s a bell foundry and a museum that showcases the craftsmanship of the Grassmayr company that’s been operating for over 400 years. It’s one of the most interesting places to visit in Innsbruck especially if you love seeing how things work and tracing their history. The combination of bell foundry, museum and sound studio makes for an incredibly interactive experience. Ideal for: History, leisure

Suggested Read: Austria Nightlife: 8 Cities That Put On A Show For Party Animals

8. Natterer See

The scenic lake Natterer See is a lovely place to visit in Innsbruck and has activities like swimming and water sports to keep you entertained. The fun extends to land as well where you can play table tennis, beach volleyball and badminton. There’s also a shooting range for air rifles and crossbows if you want to test your aim. You can enrich your Innsbruck sightseeing tour by visiting the picturesque village of Natters. It has a lovely family-friendly vibe and offers opportunities for hiking (in summer) and skiing (in winter). Ideal for: Leisure

9. Audioversum – ScienceCenter

This is something kids and grown-ups will enjoy because it’s science with an interactive twist. It’s one of the most fun Innsbruck places to visit because there’s just so much to see. Find out the different kinds of fragrances and learn how the human brain works. Navigate through a 3D ear and discover how the hearing impaired experience the world. The eye-opening experiences will give you a whole new appreciation for hearing! Ideal for: Leisure

10. Bergisel Ski Jump

You don’t need to know how to ski to visit Bergisel Ski Jump, our final pick of places to see in Innsbruck. Designed by Zaha Hadid, the tower stands 47 meters and provides some of the most spectacular views of Tirol’s mountain scenery. It also houses a café and a restaurant that provide vistas of the peaks of Hohe Munde and Nordkette to name a few. Ideal for: Leisure

11. The Hofberg

Originally built in the 15th and 16th centuries, Hofberg is Innsbruck’s old castle. The Rococo and baroque style architecture will win you over with its winsome appearance. It used to be an imperial residence until it was restructured in the 18th century by Empress Maria Theressa. The best way to explore the castle is to take a guided tour. Its luxurious apartment with giant painted ceilings, the giant hall, and the grand hall with frames of the noble family and frescos will make you green-eyed jealous of the high-end luxurious life kings used t have in that time. It is one of the best places to go in Innsbruck .

Ideal for: History

12. Nordkettenbahnen

Be prepared to get your socks knocked off as the views seen from Nordkettenbahnen are truly bewitching. Hop into the cable car and ride all the way up to this point where you get mesmerizing 360-degree views of Innsbruck. You will even find viewing platforms and restaurants on the top where you can enjoy having a dining experience with a view. If you are feeling adventurous much, you can even explore the hiking trails that take off across the mountains. It is indeed one of the best places to go in Innsbruck Austria .

Ideal for: Nature views

13. Tyrolean State Museums

If you are a history buff and love visiting museums, then you should definitely pay a visit to Tyrolean State Museums. There is a number of museums under its umbrella. Know about the folk art and culture at Tyrolean Folk Art Museum and see the extensive art collection at Hofkirche. Tyrolean State museum is where you will get to know the history of Tyrol housing numerous works from the Gothic period.

14. Maria-Theresien State

Located right in the middle of Innsbruck, this spot is one of the most Instagram-able sites in the Austrian city. You will find the area lined up with old houses from 16 and 17th centuries backed with a beautiful vista of mountains. There is a St. Anne’s Column located right in the middle of the street in front of Town Hall. the church and Triumphal Gateway are also some of the noteworthy attractions. You will also find one or two museums that you may visit.

Ideal for: Sightseeing

15. Seefeld

If you are visiting Innsbruck during the winter season, then you must definitely plan a day-trip to Seefeld, a small town known for the best ski-slopes in Innsbruck. It is Austria’s leading destination for skiing which offers terrific views of nature in all season. There a number of resorts in the area. You can just take a short bus ride, check into one of the places, and enjoy the experience of skiing. While you are at it, visit Wildsee and St. Oswald in the town.

Ideal for: Skiing, Nature

Further Read: World’s First Beer Pool In Austria – Because There’s Nothing Like Too Much Beer

Austria is one of the finest places to visit in Europe and Innsbruck is its crown jewel and given the amazing number of places you can see there, we are sure you would agree with us. So if you’re planning a trip to Austria, make sure you include these attractions in your Austria itinerary.

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