Innsbruck, capital of the Austrian region of Tyrol, has a population of around 310,000. Located in the far west of Austria, Innsbruck is around 500 kilometers from the capital Vienna.
Close to Germany and Switzerland, Innsbruck is known for its sumptuous landscapes, winter activities and relaxed lifestyle.
In this article, we invite you to discover our selection of the top 10 must-do activities in Innsbruck, to help you enjoy an unforgettable trip.
How do I get to Innsbruck?
Innsbruck airport is Austria’s third-largest airport, after Vienna and Salzburg. From Prague, Vienna or Paris, it’s simply impossible to get there by plane without a connecting flight. This usually takes place in Amsterdam.
So we recommend you opt for the car or train. The journey is long and complicated, but once you’ve arrived at your destination, you won’t regret your choice.
What to do in Innsbruck
Now it’s time to decide what you’re going to be able to do when you get there. Rest assured, Innsbruck is a lively, dynamic and cultural city. In the rest of this content, we invite you to discover our selection of the 10 things to do in Innsbruck!
Maria-Theresien Strasse
Maria-Theresien Strasse is one of Innsbruck’s best-known streets. Here you can see the influence of the great Austria of yesteryear, with its grand Baroque houses.
You’ll also find cafés, small boutiques and interesting monuments such as the St. Anne’s Column and the Triumphal Arch. In winter, the Christmas market adds to the magical atmosphere.
Discover the old town
Innsbruck’s city tower (Stadtturm) is probably one of the city’s most recognizable monuments (if not the monument). Built in 1450, you can climb up and admire the city from the large observation deck. One of the highlights of your stay in the Tyrol region.
The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)
The Goldenes Dachl is one of Innsbruck’s few other best-known monuments. This roof is covered with over 2,000 copper tiles. The famous roof depicts the naked back of a figure.
Yet no one knows who, or even why it was made. A small museum can be visited inside the building. We also recommend a visit at night, to see the golden roof light up and shine.
The Nordkette funicular
From the city center, you can take a cable car to the very top of Nordkette. This mountain is one of the highest in the region. As you can imagine, it offers incredible views over the valley. If you’d like to relax and enjoy a hot drink, there’s a little chalet at the top that doubles as a café. Don’t forget to try the apple strudel.
Skiing
Innsbruck’s geographical location makes it the home of many ski resorts. Hundreds of people, locals and tourists alike, take it in turns to hit the slopes as fast as possible. There are some 500 kilometers of pistes. Skiers, snowboarders and walkers all share the slopes and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Imperial Palace
The Hofburg imperial palace was founded in the 15th century. At the time, it was the residence of the Habsburg family. Redesigned by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century, it blends Baroque and Rococo styles.
Gold, marble, frescoes and paintings blend to perfection, giving you the sensation of stepping back in time with every step you take.
Swarovski glassware
The Swarovski glassworks is located some twenty kilometers from Innsbruck. Here, you’ll discover everything you need to know about the impressive world of this brand, which has established itself over the years as one of the world’s leading jewelry brands.
You’ll be surrounded by sparkling crystals. A surprising, striking and downright impressive environment. In short, this place had to be on our list of must-sees in Innsbruck.
Hofkirche
The Gothic Hofkirche church was founded in the 16th century. Inside, you’ll find numerous bronze statues and a formidable silver chapel, with an altar of the same metal, decorated with elephant tusks and 300 kg of ebony.
A rather unusual style, in stark contrast to what you might be used to seeing in religious establishments. The Hofkirche, a must-see building in Innsbruck, is located at Universitätsstraße 2.
Ambras Castle
Just outside Innsbruck, you’ll find Ambras Castle. It’s one of the region’s best-known attractions. Here, you’ll enjoy gardens and grounds that are always beautifully maintained. You’ll also find beautiful sculptures, art collections, frescoes and more. Nearby is the charming St. Nicholas chapel.
Bergiselschanze
Innsbruck has twice hosted the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. A symbol of this glorious sporting past is the incredible Bergiselschanze. This is a ski jump.
At the very top, there’s a café and an observation platform from which you can witness the exploits of the men and women who braved the cold, wind and weather to jump as far as they could.
Where to eat in Innsbruck?
Don’t worry, we’ve thought of everything. So, if you’re heading to Austria to visit the capital of the Tyrol, we’ve put together a selection of 10 typical Innsbruck restaurants. The perfect opportunity to eat local dishes in a warm and pleasant atmosphere.
Where to stay in Innsbruck?
Rather than spending time looking for a good hotel, why not redirect you to our article on the 10 best hotels in Innsbruck? We offer you a complete selection of these establishments worth discovering, booking, and spending a comfortable stay.
Visiting Innsbruck through its highlights
Innsbruck is a small town. Nevertheless, it’s full of fun things to do, especially outdoors. Take advantage of your visit to get away from it all, discover new horizons and enjoy the mountains, snow and fresh air offered by this environment to which you’re probably not accustomed. And don’t worry: in the evening, you can relax in one of Innsbruck’s many bars!