innsbruck travel

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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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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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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Innsbruck and its surrounding is one of the best places to go paragliding and discover the region from the birds perspective.

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary

Published on June 5, 2023

by Neota Langley

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Innsbruck?

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

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1, 2 or 3 Days in Innsbruck Itinerary

Day 1 – innsbruck old town highlights.

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

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

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

Golden Roof

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

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

Imperial Palace/Hofberg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ambras Castle

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

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

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

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

Bergisel Ski Jump

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top of innsbruck/nordkette.

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

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

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

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

Seegrube hike/restaurant

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

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

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

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

Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Neuschwanstein Castle

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

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

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

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

Stubai Glacier

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Vienna Itinerary

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About Neota Langley

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

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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!

Do you have a question about visiting the Innsbruck? Ask me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

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• Where to Go

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

Top Highlights in Innsbruck

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

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

Must-Sees in Innsbruck

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

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

About Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)

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

Innsbrucker Altstadt Innsbruck Tourismus media_content.tooltip.skipped

The morning sun bathes the grey peaks of the Nordkette in a golden light. A sight that brings a sparkle to the eyes of visitors and locals alike. In Innsbruck, you do not go to the mountain, you are IN the mountains. Innsbruck is more than just a city and more than the mountains: it is an alpine-urban experience.

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

Innsbruck in 3 Days

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

Hotels in Innsbruck & Surroundings

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

Innsbruck Card - Your Key to City + Mountains

One card for all sights and attractions

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

Innsbruck is the fifth-largest city in Austria and the provincial capital of Tyrol , as well as one of the largest cities in the Alps . It is in a valley of the river Inn between mountain ranges of above 2000 m above sea level, halfway between Bavaria and northern Italy , and is a hub of a region popular for skiing and other mountain-related activities and a busy tourist destination. Its popularity as a winter sports resort was underscored by its hosting the Winter Olympic Games twice.

Innsbruck offers the traveler an intriguing mix of contemporary and imperialist history, culture and architecture with a variety of architectural styles waiting to be discovered in every street.

Understand [ edit ]

The first mention of Innsbruck was during the reign of Augustus, when the Romans established the army station Veldidena (the name survives in today's urban district Wilten) at the locality named Oeni Pontum or Oeni Pons , which is Latin for bridge ( pons ) over the Inn ( Oenus ), the important crossing point over the Inn river, to protect Via Claudia Augusta, the economically important commercial road from Verona -Brenner- Augsburg .

Innsbruck became the capital of Tyrol in 1429 and in the 15th century the city became a centre of European politics and culture as emperor Maximilian I moved the imperial court to Innsbruck in the 1490s. Many old buildings from the Middle Ages and modern times survived in the heart of old town.

The city is well known for its sporting opportunities, especially alpine sports, as it is in the Alps and surrounded by mountains. Innsbruck also hosted the 1964 and 1974 Winter Olympics. Several ski resorts are situated inside the city territory or within short distance. Innsbruck was one of the centers of snowboard boom in the 1990s and the derived distinct subculture endured until today. The population of skateboarders, snowboarders and people alike is therefore above average and nothing unusual to the people. This culture is also celebrated by a lot of events in and around Innsbruck especially in the winter season, attracting (predominantly young) people from all around the world.

There are two universities and several colleges in Innsbruck, with over 30,000 students altogether, making the city's nightlife very lively.

Innsbruck has also become one of Austria's most eco-friendly cities, due to a very good public transport system and a partial ban on cars in certain areas of the historic old town.

Climate [ edit ]

Innsbruck's distance from the coast and altitude lead to a continental climate. Winters are cold and snowy; summers are generally warmer and wetter, with highly variable weather. Hot and dry days, with temperatures hitting 30°C, are quite common; but can be followed by a cool and rainy spell, with temperatures only around 17°C in the day. Summer nights are cool and temperature often drop quickly after sunset - sometimes falling below 10°C in early morning.

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Innsbruck tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Regular scheduled flights are available from:

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

Seasonal flights (mostly active during skiing season) are available from many more destinations including the UK, the Netherlands, Greece, and Scandinavia, as well as from Berlin, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, Kyiv and Moscow. There are also charter flights to several German cities - especially in winter.

The bus line F will take you to the city center (every 15 minutes, on Sunday it departs every 30 minutes). A single ticket costs €3.10 .

Other airports from which Innsbruck can be reached by train include Munich ( MUC  IATA , 200 km), Memmingen [dead link] ( FMM  IATA , 175 km), Salzburg ( SZG  IATA , 185 km), St. Gallen-Altenrhein ( ACH  IATA , 190 km) and Friedrichshafen ( FDH  IATA , 215 km).

By train [ edit ]

Regular direct trains run from Venice , Bolzano/Bozen , Zürich , Munich , Graz , Vienna (via Linz and Salzburg ) and many other destinations.

Austrian Nightjet sleeper trains run twice a week to Brussels, taking 15 hours via Munich, Cologne, Aachen and Liège, as well as to Amsterdam via Munich, Nuremberg, Hanover and Hamburg.

Coming from Germany with the Deutschland-Ticket , take a local/regional train to Mittenwald and continue your ride in the same train to Innsbruck. From Mittenwald to Innsbruck is €10. Buying the ticket on the Austrian train website costs less than buying it on the Deutsche Bahn counterpart . ( updated Mar 2024 )

See Austria#Discounts for fare deals.

By bus [ edit ]

The 47.26237 11.39977 3 bus station is right next to the main train station, and accommodates local, interregional and international traffic. There are connections to Seefeld , Wipptal , Ötztal , and Zillertal . International connections offer a budget friendly alternative for train travel, a one way ticket from Munich to Innsbruck with a stop in Garmisch-Partenkirchen costs ca. €11.

By car [ edit ]

Innsbruck is reachable through both of Tyrol's motorways: 47.2608 11.4381 4 Inntalautobahn (A12) and 47.2399 11.3903 5 Brennerautobahn (A13) which intersect in the south of Innsbruck.

During holiday seasons, when Europeans either try to get in or out of Italy over the 47.0051 11.5078 6 Brenner Pass in summer or try to reach or return from ski resorts in winter, heavy traffic should be expected on both motorways particularly during weekends. Snowfall inevitably makes the traffic situation worse, so it is recommended to tune in to Radio Tyrol at 96.4 MHz FM for the latest traffic updates.

By bike [ edit ]

Innsbruck can be reached on the Inntalradweg from Passau to St. Moritz. Even in the city this bicycle trail is signposted with small green road signs.

Get around [ edit ]

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

On foot [ edit ]

The classic walk into old Innsbruck follows.

From the main station (Hauptbahnhof) to the city center is a relatively short and enjoyable 10 to 15 minute walk. Walk out of the Hauptbahnhof, cross the street at the train station cross walk, turn to your right, and go down to the next street to your left. Walk on this street until Maria-Theresien Strasse, then turn right toward the city center. Taking this street all the way leads to the pedestrian zone and the Golden Roof.

Big parts of the downtown area are declared (fee-based) short-term parking zones. For longer visits, it is highly recommended to park off-site and use public transportation.

By public transport [ edit ]

Public local traffic (6 tram-lines, and a dense network of buses) is operated by Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe and a couple of private operators. All public services are organized in Verkehrsverbund Tirol , which means that tickets are valid in every public transport line (including buses, trams and trains). All buses and trams are modern low-floor vehicles.

Sometimes bus lines are split up into different destinations and so it's important to pay attention to the destination displays (outside and inside) and the spoken announcements. Single-fare tickets are €3 in the city fare zone if paid by the driver or €2.40 if purchased at ticket machines. 5-trip tickets are available for €8.00 or €10.00, respectively. Regardless of the door you enter, go to the driver and pay, exact change not necessary. daily tickets, weekly tickets and other sorts of tickets are only offered at multi-language ticket machines to be found at many stations. They can also be purchased at the identically looking machines for short-term parking tickets. You must validate the ticket when you get on your first bus or tram. See the website for all available tickets .

The special bus line "TS" ( "The Sightseer" ) connects the major sights like Schloß Ambras, Bergisel and Alpenzoo to downtown. However special fares apply for this line. If you don't plan to visit every museum it might be reasonably cheaper to use the normal 24 hour ticket without this bus.

Two tram lines lead to two villages in the neighbourhood of Innsbruck.

Tram line nr. 6 connects Innsbruck and the mountain village Igls , which is worth a visit. The line passes the uplands with vast forests and gives some spectacular prospects for travellers either on Innsbruck or on the lovely landscape between Aldrans and Igls. It provides stops immediately near Schloß Ambras and the bathing-lake Lansersee (ice skating in Winter is also possible there). The terminus Igls lies within the city fare zone, so no additional ticket is needed.

Tram line STB is 18 km long and connects Innsbruck with several villages in the Stubaital valley. This tram provides also access to Bergisel (Tirol Panorama) at the station Sonneburgerhof. This station is also situated within die city fare zone. In Mutters, Nockhofweg access to an easy skiing area, the Mutteralm, is provided (10 minutes walk). A beautiful hour's ride will take you at least the small town of Fulpmes. The new red liveried trams offer great scenic views on the journey. It is recommended to make a trip around Halloween, when the larch-trees on the Telfer Wiesen have got their best autumn colour.

By S-Bahn [ edit ]

A suburban train system called S-Bahn with five routes (S1 - S5) connects Innsbruck to villages and towns around the city, from Landeck to Kufstein or Kitzbühel and from Mittenwald to Brenner . Timetables and fares can be found on the VVT website . Inner city VVT tickets are valid between the Hauptbahnhof and 47.2555 11.3915 1 Westbahnhof (west station), 47.2613 11.3738 2 Hötting , 47.26908 11.3535 3 Allerheiligenhöfe , and 47.26959 11.32872 4 Kranebitten .

Cycling is common in Innsbruck and especially popular among students. Innsbruck has some bicycle paths, but they are not very well interlinked within the city. A map of all bicycle ways/lanes is available here . In 2012, Innsbruck was awarded Fahrradhauptstadt (cycling capital) by VCÖ (an Austrian traffic advocacy group).

Innsbruck offers short-term shared bike system Stadtrad . It is subject to compulsory registration via this page [dead link] or machines standing next to the bikes, and requires a credit card number. The registration costs €1 and yields a credit of €1 on the account. A ride less than 30 minutes costs €1, less than 1 hour €3, for every additional hour €3, up to a total of €15 for 24 hours (see their fare overview [dead link] ). The locations are displayed on a map on this site [dead link] . If you plan on using the bike frequently, you may consider getting an annual membership for €25, which reduces the cost of rentals substantially.

See [ edit ]

The Innsbruck-Card [dead link] offers free entrance to all of Innsbruck's sights, free use of public transportation (including the TS line). It also includes a one-time ascent&descent to Nordkette , Patscherkofel and Axamer Lizum , and a 10% discount to Swarovski Crystal Worlds in nearby Wattens . The Innsbruck-Card is valid for 24/48/72 hours and can be purchased at Innsbruck Information (Burggraben 3), the TI in Hauptbahnhof, and several museums and tourist offices. The latest Innsbruck card fare can be found here [dead link] . Since 1 May 2018, rates are €43/€50/€59 for 1/2/3 day cards for adults, and €21.50/€25/€29.50 for children 6-15 years old. And daily or weekly public transport cards are cheap - the "all inclusive" sales pitch is alluring to disoriented travellers, but make sure the discounts are worth the initial price. If you are not seeing these major entrance-fee sites, remember that you may buy more than one daily card at a time, as the 24 hours only starts once validated. Be sure to compare with the price of a weekly ticket too.

The bus line Sightseer (TS) connects the major sights in Innsbruck. However, there is always a cheaper public transport line going to the same destination, though it might take you more time.

Churches and cathedrals [ edit ]

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

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

Castles and palaces [ edit ]

Buildings [ edit ].

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

Memorials [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ]

A combined ticket for the Tyrolean State Museums [dead link] is available for €10, or €6 discount, and offers entry to The Ferdinand, Hofkirche, Volkskunst, Zeughaus and Das Tiroler Panorama Museums until the end of the calendar year. The ticket includes a free audio guide (which is worth getting as information is otherwise only in German) at some locations.

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

Parks [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

Winter sports [ edit ]

There are a lot of ski resorts in the mountains surrounding Innsbruck, many of which offer free ski buses from the city center so long as you have ski gear and/or a valid ski pass, making it a great place to base one's self. Discount or combo passes can reduce the costs of skiing or snowboarding. In 2022-2023, a "SKI plus CITY pass" combines winter sports discounts with city sightseeing passes.

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

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

Ice skating is a popular winter activity and there are several public outdoor rinks with evening hours and rental skates (ask for directions to the nearest eislaufplatz ). Olympiaworld has an outdoor rink and its TIGLS Arena is used for ice hockey.

It's a bit safer and tamer than bobsledding, but it's still plenty fast and exciting...it's called Bobrafting and you can do it on the Olympic bobsled run in Igls.

Games [ edit ]

The Alpine weather can be unpredictable, and with rain likely to fall in every season, having indoor alternatives to outdoor activities is a must when visiting Innsbruck. For those who enjoy puzzles and riddles, there are 11 room escape games to play in the city.

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

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

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

Nordkettenbahnen [ edit ]

The Nordkettenbahnen are 3 alpine vehicles bringing visitors from the historic centre of the city all the way up to the top of the Nordkette mountain, from where the summit at an altitude of 2334 m can be reached by foot. The first section is the Hungerburgbahn   HBB   , a funicular departing in 47.27101 11.3954 5 Congress station . The middle section is the Seegrubenbahn cable car, and the top section is the Hafelekar chairlift. When buying tickets online , the code BONALPINA will give you a 10% discount on tickets for the Nordkettenbahnen.

Spectator sports [ edit ]

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

Events [ edit ]

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

Buy [ edit ]

Malls: There are several shopping malls in Innsbruck:

Inner City [ edit ]

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

Outside Downtown [ edit ]

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

Furthermore, there are several warehouses, especially in the suburb of Neu-Rum.

Shopping areas: There are numerous shops in central pedestrian areas like Maria-Theresien-Straße, the Old Town, Franziskanerplatz, Sparkassenplatz and Anichstraße as well as Museumstraße. You will also find shops/stores in quarter centers of Wilten (tram lines 1, 6 and STB) and Pradl (tram line 3).

Souvenir stores in the Old Town offer souvenirs of varying origin, but the Tiroler Heimatwerk (Meranerstraße 2) offers real Tyrolean handcraft. However most of the shops are real tourist traps and are overpriced by far. You will probably find more authentic and cheaper souvenirs in one of the surrounding villages of Innsbruck.

Clothes and footwear [ edit ]

Buy creative footwear:

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

For children [ edit ]

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

Eat [ edit ]

Budget [ edit ].

All these are in the city centre:

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

Mid-range [ edit ]

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

Splurge [ edit ]

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

Drink [ edit ]

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

Sleep [ edit ]

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

Cope [ edit ]

Religious services [ edit ].

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

Go next [ edit ]

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

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Your Trip to Innsbruck, Austria: The Complete Guide

Innsbruck, nestled in an alpine valley between two mountains, is the capital of the state of Tyrol and the largest of alpine cities. For the tourist, it's almost equidistant between Munich and Verona and has excellent rail connections to Salzburg, Vienna , and slightly more tedious transport to Hallstatt .

Innsbruck is well known as a winter sports center. Several modern winter Olympics and Paralympics have been held there, as well as the First Winter Youth Olympics in 2012.

Tourism is Insbruck's main source of income. Its main train station, Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof, is one of the busiest in Austria.

But Innsbruck's charms don't stop when the snow melts. The historic center is a fine one, and Innsbruck is the showplace for Tyrolean traditions and handicrafts. Allow two to three days. The major sites can be done as a day trip from Salzburg or Vienna.

Getting There by Air

Innsbruck Airport, Flughafen Innsbruck , is a mere 4 kilometers from the city center. It provides flights to other Alpine destinations as well as to larger airports like those in Frankfurt , London , and Vienna. City bus F takes 18 minutes to reach the city and the central train station.

Flights to Innsbruck (compare prices)

In Winter there's skiing , of course. In summer there's the Altstadt, the old town, which offers access to many attractions tourists come to Innsbruck for, including the Goldenes Dachl, the Golden Roof, a landmark from the 1500s with a balcony roof decorated with glistening fire-gilded tiles. There is a museum inside.

For views of the incredible setting of the Alps only major city, climb the 148 steps of the Stadtturm , the city clock tower built in 1450. It gets you 167 feet over the city. At the very least the climb will make you hungry for a lunch, perhaps some Hauspfandl (filet of pork with garlic, caraway, and brandy with green beans and bacon and spaetzle) at Weisses Rössl, a popular hotel restaurant conveniently located in the city center of Innsbruck.

If climbing is your thing, you can also climb the 455 steps of the Bergisel Ski Jump Tower designed by architect Zaha Hadid in 2001. Once you're at the top, besides the 360-degree view of the Tirol mountain scenery, there's a restaurant inside--so you don't have to worry about finding one while panting from the exertion. You can also take the funicular, but what fun would that be? The Innsbruck card includes this attraction (see below).

The Imperial Palace was completed in 1465. It's an elaborate Gothic castle with heated banquet hall which would eventually become one of the most important homes of the Habsburgs and the most culturally significant buildings outside of those in Vienna.

Tyrolean State Museums offer a glimpse into the arts and crafts of the cultures that have settled in the Austrian Alps. Tiroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum on Museumstraße 15 holds artifacts from the Stone age to present times, over 30,000 years of art and history. Zeughaus is the former weapons depot of Emperor Maximilian I which will explain the Tyrol's archaeology, silver mining, salt extraction, tourism and participation in the World Wars. Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum is a museum of mountain folk art, from miniature nativity scenes to costumes.

Innsbruck's Alpine Zoo in Europe's highest zoo, featuring more than 150 species of Alpine animals. If you're lucky enough to plan a vacation that spans Thursday night, you're in for a treat, "From mid-July to the end of August, the Alpine Zoo offers a " tour in the evening" through the zoo under the special guidance of biologist Dirk Ullrich, who will provide a lot of information about the Alpine animal world. This guided tour takes place every week on Wednesday at 6 p.m. The meeting point is at the beaver enclosure, and the tour is a complementary part of the admission fee."

Finally, if you're into ornate imperial tombs, the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I (1459-1519) should make your bucket list. It's inside the Hofkirche or Court Church. The tomb is flanked by 28 larger-than-life bronze statues, "which are known locally as the "Schwarzen Mander" (black men) and represent the Emperor's relations and role models," according to the museum literature.

The Innsbruck Card

An interesting option for travelers is the Innsbruck card which offers free entrance to all museums and visitor attractions as well as many interesting transportation benefits, including 5 hours of free bicycle rental. The card is offered in one, two, and three-day durations; it is expensive and becomes a much better value when more than one day is selected since you couldn't possibly do all the card offers in a single passing of the sun.

If you're the type of traveler who'd like to be somewhat independent but would also like to have a day planned in advance, Viator offers a package that includes dinner, a "snack" of famous sachertorte at Café Sacher Innsbruck, and dinner at Goldener Adler Restaurant, a highly rated restaurant with a loyal local following, according to a Frommer's review . For more information, see Innsbruck Combo: Innsbruck Card, Traditional Café, and Austrian Dinner .

Where to Stay

Besides the Weisses Rössl mentioned above, the four-star Romantik Hotel Schwarzer Adler is near the train station and has had recent renovations that include complimentary internet and an airport shuttle service.

You may wish to rent a vacation home or apartment for your stay in Innsbruck. HomeAway lists over 45 vacation rentals in the area.

Viator offers a couple of interesting nights out if you're looking for something special to do in Innsbruck. For example, you can take a Candlelit Mountain Dinner and Gondola Ride or see a Tyrolian Folk Show .

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Innsbruck   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Photography by Gergo Kazsimer | Getty Images

Why Go To Innsbruck

For a taste of the Austrian Alps with the charm of a small mountain town, consider spending a few days in Innsbruck. You'll tour historic sites, ski its gorgeous peaks and take in stunning views from its cable cars and funiculars. The host of both the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, Innsbruck is a lovely mountain town dotted with history and in love with winter sports. With the arrival of the first snow, skiers and other cold-weather junkies flock to Innsbruck for its fresh powder and Old-World charm. And while winter brings out the best in this town along the Inn River, the picturesque summers are also worth your notice with ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking or just sightseeing.

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• # 9 in Best Winter Vacations in Europe

Best of Innsbruck

Best hotels in innsbruck.

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

Best Things to Do in Innsbruck

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

Popular Tours

Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck

(41 reviews)

from $ 326.97

Tyrolean Folk Show Ticket in Innsbruck

(233 reviews)

from $ 38.15

King Ludwig Castles Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Private Tour from Innsbruck

from $ 888.28

Innsbruck Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Innsbruck are the winter and summer. This is a winter-sport enthusiast's paradise, so you will find it full of skiers and snowboarders during the long winter months. In the summer, days can be warm, with temperatures reaching the mid-70s, though you could still need a jacket when temperatures drop at night. Fall is the cheapest time to visit, but you'll find many attractions close for the month of November, so you may miss out on some of the top things to see. Innsbruck also experiences an alpine wind that, while warm, can be quite strong, reaching speeds of more than 90 miles an hour, so hold on to your hat!

Weather in Innsbruck

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

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

How to Save Money in Innsbruck

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

Culture & Customs

Innsbruck is home to a lot of local traditions and self-described "oddities" that knowing about ahead of time can help you acclimate to with the locals. For example, Innsbruck residents tend to be blunt, so don't take offense, and try greeting them with a casual “Hallo.” Keep an eye out for the Tyrolean Shooters, too. This band of marksmen, so named for this region of Austria and clad in traditional Austrian dress, are a part of most festivals and celebrations.

You'll also hear the church bells ring throughout the day, recalling a time when people would stop and say a prayer when they heard the bells. When visiting churches in Innsbruck, cover your shoulders and knees. A long skirt or pants may work well for women, along with a scarf to quickly cover the shoulders during the warmer months. Men should remove any hats before entering, as well.

Austria's official currency is the euro; you may want to check the current exchange rate before your visit. Additionally, German is the official language, though many residents speak English, especially in the areas frequented by tourists. A 10% tip will suffice for good service when drinking or dining, or for a single drink or low-cost meal, simply round up to the nearest euro.  Also, keep in mind that many restaurants and pubs close on Sundays, which are observed as a day of rest. Those that are open may serve the traditional Austrian Sunday meal of pork and dumplings. If you'll be having a drink when in Innsbruck, just like you'd say "cheers" in America, you'll want to say "prost" while looking each person in the eye as you clink glasses.

What to Eat

Austria and the Alps have their own unique style of cuisine, which borrows from German fare. Innsbruck incorporates a good bit of Viennese-style foods, as well, like traditional pastries, strudels (go for apple) and cakes, which you'll find throughout the city, as well as Gruner Veltliner wines, beer and varieties of schnapps.

When in Innsbruck, you'll want to try Kaspressknödel, a cheese dumpling that is crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Other local dishes include Tyrolean bacon dumplings, spinach dumplings and "Schlutzkrapfen" (crescent-shaped ravioli with potato filling).

For a taste of this traditional cuisine, head to Agidihof for Tyrolean fare crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. The restaurant is known for its homemade pastries, ice cream and veal dishes. What's more, the menu changes with the seasons to incorporate fresh produce. Restaurant Ottoburg sits in one of the oldest buildings in Innsbruck and serves traditional Tyrolean fare with hints of Mediterranean flavors. On the menu, you'll find homemade Schlutzkrapfen, steaks, monkfish and pike perch. Who could turn down a homemade apple strudel for dessert?

You'll also want to make time to dine (and drink) at a traditional beer hall or biergarten. Stiftskeller located in the city's Old Town area is a popular option. You can pair your traditional Tyrolean food with Bavarian beer for the ultimate Austrian foodie experience. Typical dishes include barley soup, whole suckling pig with sauerkraut and pretzel dumplings, and, of course, wiener schnitzel.

Innsbruck is a pretty safe place to visit, and according to the U.S. Department of State, Austria has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe with violent crime rarely occurring. You might find pickpockets and bag snatchers in public areas and on public transportation, so be vigilant with your belongings. It's also a good idea to keep your bags with you when traveling by train. The U.S. Department of State advises that many cities in Austria have occasional public demonstrations, which are usually not violent, but can disrupt transportation.

Getting Around Innsbruck

The best way to get around Innsbruck is on foot. It's a walkable city with many of the top attractions in the old town or within walking distance from one another. There is also plenty of hiking, should you have the energy to head up into the mountains for fabulous views. The city's dedicated cycling lanes and the small amount of traffic also make Innsbruck bike-friendly.

If you need a little more help getting in between attractions, the city has a simple bus system, which is free with an Innsbruck Card. Cable cars and funiculars will take you into the mountains for hiking and other outdoor activities, not to mention great panoramas, while trains may be best left for when you need to get to other nearby towns or major European cities.

While driving a car is an option in some areas, it can be difficult in winter when many mountain roads close. Taxis are available, and many visitors take a cab to get from the airport to town. Innsbruck Airport (INN), which serves the city with flights from around Europe, is situated less than 3 miles from the center of old town and is easily accessible by taxi or bus.

Entry & Exit Requirements

U.S. visitors to Austria must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure, as well as at least one blank page available for stamping. Americans can stay up to 90 days without a visa. There are no vaccinations required to visit Austria. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State's website .

Innsbruck is one of the best winter vacations in Europe .

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Innsbruck, Austria

This city in the Austrian Alps is an all-seasons destination with world-class skiing, beautiful hikes, and a charming old town.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Best Hotels in Innsbruck

• Best Things to Do in Innsbruck

Best Restaurants in Innsbruck

Best time to visit, how to get there.

• How to Get Around

Christian Nafzger/Getty Images

Nestled in an alpine valley on the banks of the Inn River and backed by photogenic peaks, Innsbruck, the fifth-largest city in Austria and the capital of the state of Tyrol, is a longtime destination for winter sports that provides access to many notable ski areas. When the cold weather rolls in and the flakes fall, people come from all over Europe and beyond to take advantage of the snow-covered terrain. Visitors can check out some of the venues from the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games such as the Bergisel Ski Jump. There’s also an impressive system of scenic cable cars that brings riders up the craggy mountains for eye-popping panoramas. 

And while high-altitude pursuits may be the main draw, this compact city in the Alps offers way more than just frosty fun. Even during the off-season, travelers visiting the “Bridge Over the Inn” can admire the churches and gabled houses that line the narrow streets of the Old Town, check out Schloss Ambras Innsbruck, and go hiking.  

Scroll on for local tips to plan the perfect getaway to Innsbruck that combines thrilling adventure, gorgeous architecture, and tasty Austrian food — no matter what time of year you decide to visit. 

Related : T+L’s Guide to Vienna, Austria 

Getty Iages

Hotel Leipziger Hof

The family-run Hotel Leipziger Hof exemplifies the mix of past and present that Innsbruck does so incredibly well. The downstairs spaces are draped in darker tones and heavier fabrics, while rooms feel refreshed with light wood and sleek furnishings. There's also a fifth-floor spa area with a sauna and infrared chairs to relax in after skiing. 

Best Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler

In the middle of the historic Gothic part of the city, you’ll find the Best Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler . “Built in 1390, it's one of the oldest buildings in Innsbruck,” says Tyrol-based ToursByLocals guide Alexander Bader . “It’s also quite walkable and makes a great home base for exploring.”

Hotel Innsbruck

Situated on the river, Hotel Innsbruck offers a convenient address near the Old Town landmarks as well as comfortable rooms and winter gear storage. Angelika Mair, a local Innsbrook guide with Alpine Adventures , favors the spa, which features an indoor pool, Finnish sauna, aromatherapy steam bath, and floating tub.  

The Penz Hotel

The Penz Hotel sits inside a sleek glass building, and the modern, design-forward ethos also comes through in the stylish common areas and sophisticated rooms that are equipped with all the requisite conveniences. “The rooftop bar is great for grabbing a drink,” says Mair. “The property also puts out one of the best breakfast spreads in the city.”

George Pachantouris/Getty Images

Best Things to Do in Innsbruck 

Try a new winter sport..

Skiing put Innsbruck on the map, and barreling down the Alps at full speed remains a fan-favorite activity. That alpine terrain makes it a great place to try other winter sports, too. “Snowboarding, bobsleighing, and tobogganing are popular with visitors in the colder months,” says Mair. “And, of course, everyone gets really excited to visit the Bergisel Ski Jump.”

Stroll through the Old Town.

One of the best things to do in Innsbruck is to stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town. “You will see architecture from the Habsburg Empire,” says Bader. Emblematic landmarks include the Imperial Palace, Court Church, and the famous Golden Roof. The Austrian Alps in the background create a frame-worthy photo op against all the historic buildings.

Visit Schloss Ambras Innsbruck. 

“Don’t miss the chance to visit Schloss Ambras Innsbruck, the first museum in the world and one of the most significant sights in all of Austria,” explains Mair. The 1563-built Renaissance castle teeters above the city at an altitude of 2,073 feet and houses a treasure trove of armor, weapons, and art. Be sure to carve out some time to stroll the magnificent gardens. 

Take a cable car up the mountains. 

Innsbruck boasts a remarkable cable car system that goes from the city center to the summit in just 30 minutes. Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the futuristic Hungerburgbahn funicular stops at a mountain plateau. From there, riders can hop on the Seegrubenbahn and Nordkettenbahn to the top for even more eye-popping vistas.

When the snow melts, the sunny peaks come alive with diverse flora and fauna. Spring through fall is a spectacular time to explore the alpine scenery on foot, peep native animals, stop at mountain huts for delicious food, and soak in the sweeping views. 

Related: 7 Best Ski Resorts in Europe  

Nataliia Shcherbyna/Getty Images

die Wilderin

More than just a superb farm-to-table restaurant, die Wilderin goes a step further with nose-to-tail cooking, which means using the entire animal. Proteins are paired with locally grown vegetables and herbs for a delicious, memorable meal that’s rooted in a sense of place and served in a warm setting. 

Stiftskeller

Accented with wood-beamed ceilings and ornate chandeliers, Stiftskeller is a classic restaurant with an old-school yet lively ambiance, a nice beer garden, and traditional Tyrolean specialties like spinach dumplings with Vorarlberg cheese sauce. “It’s also great for larger groups if you’re traveling with family or friends," adds Bader. 

Vegan food isn’t necessarily the first thing people expect to find in Innsbruck, so  Olive is a pleasant surprise. The welcoming atmosphere and sustainable alpine decor set the tone for thoughtful plant-based dishes.

Trattoria & Pizzeria "Da Rocco"

Geography buffs and gourmands probably won’t be all that surprised to learn that you can find excellent Italian cuisine in Innsbruck, given the boot-shaped nation sits just south of Austria. Trattoria & Pizzeria "Da Rocco" serves flavorful, comforting cheese plates, pasta, fish, meat, and pizza that celebrates fresh ingredients from Italy. 

Restaurant Oniriq

For an unforgettable fine dining experience in Innsbruck, book a table at Restaurant Oniriq . Diners rave about the seven-course tasting menu that consists of artfully plated dishes and wine (or non-alcoholic beverage) pairings. 

Cavan Images/Henn Photography/Getty Images

Innsbruck is very much a winter sports destination, so its busiest season is December to March. That said, visitors shouldn’t discount the quieter off-peak months for hiking and other alpine activities. The city also hosts charming holiday markets each festive season. 

Most international travelers bound for Innsbruck fly into Munich International Airport (MUC). The journey from the Bavarian capital takes about two hours and 15 minutes by car or a half-hour longer by train. If you’re already in Europe, it’s even easier to reach Innsbruck thanks to the efficient, well-connected rail system and regional flights into Innsbruck Airport (INN).

How to Get Around 

Innsbruck is super walkable with many of the top attractions located close to one another. Cycling lanes make it easy to bike if you’d rather ride around on two wheels. And the cable cars offer a scenic mode of transport for high-altitude adventures.

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

December 15, 2023

Paula Martinelli

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

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

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

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

You will also enjoy these articles:

• Ultimate Guide to Visit Hallstatt
• Salzburg in Winter: From Mozart to Christmas Markets
• The 10 Best Christmas Markets in Austria

10. Spend time in the Mountains is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck

2 Days in Innsbruck Overview

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

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

Best Things to do in 2 Days in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

2. Visit the Golden Roof Museum

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

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

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

3. Discover the Swarovski Crystal World

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

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

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

4. Discover the Ambras Castle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Go Mountain Cart or Ski at the Muttereralm

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

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

7. Watch the Tyrolean evening show with the Gundolf Family

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

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

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

8. Climb to the top of the Stadturm

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

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

9. Bergisel Ski Jump Area

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Things to do in 2 Days in Innsbruck

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

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

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

2 Days in Innsbruck | Best Places to Stay

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

BEST OVERALL: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz  

Rated: 9.2 Wonderful

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

Hotel Maximilian  

Rated: 9 Wonderful

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

Nala Individuellhotel 

Rated: 9.1 Wonderful

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

Best Ways to Get to Innsbruck, Austria

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

Where to eat in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

2 Days in Innsbruck Conclusion

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

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

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

You may also enjoy reading:

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

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One Day in Innsbruck Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

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

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

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

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

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

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

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

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

Getting to Innsbruck

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Innsbruck, Austria

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

Garden Apartments at Nala Hotel

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

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

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

Breakfast at Nala Hotel

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

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

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

More Places to Stay in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One Day in Innsbruck: Exploring Old Town in the Morning

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

Wander Around Innenstadt

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

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

Attractions in Innsbruck’s Old Town (Altstadt)

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

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

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

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

Visit Innsbrucker Hofgarten (Innsbruck’s City Garden)

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

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

Lunch in Innsbruck, Austria

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

Swing Kitchen

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

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

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

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

One Day in Innsbruck: Nordkette, Innsbruck’s Mountain

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

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

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

Hungerburgbahn Funicular

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

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

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

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

Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Seegrube

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

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

Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Hafelekar

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

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

Walk to the Top of Innsbruck

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

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

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

Coffee and Cake in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vegan Donuts at Dunkin’ Donuts

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

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

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

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

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

Taking the Shuttle Bus from Innsbruck to Swarovski

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Exhibits at Swarovski Kristallwelten

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

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

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

Indoor Exhibition at Swarovski Kristallwelten

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

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

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

More Places to Visit in Innsbruck

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

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

Restaurants for Dinner in Innsbruck

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

Restaurant Olive

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

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

Green Flamingo

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

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

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

Evening in Innsbruck: Beer on the Patio

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

Marktbar am Inn

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

Stiftskeller

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

360 Degrees Cafe

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Innsbruck

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

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

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

Want to see more photos of Innsbruck?

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

More Things to Do in Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Arrival in Innsbruck / How to Get to Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Time to Visit Innsbruck 

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

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

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

Innsbruck Transportation: How to get around Innsbruck

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

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

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

Should I get an Innsbruck Card?

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

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

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

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

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

Innsbruck Itinerary: Day 1 in Innsbruck

Breakfast at strudel-cafe kroell.

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

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

Walk the Streets of Alstadt von Innsburg (Old Town)

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

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

Visit the Golden Roof

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

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

Catch the View from City Tower (Stadtturm)

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

Lunch at Gasthof Weisses Rossl

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

Learn about the History of Bells at Grassmayr Bell Foundry 

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

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

Tour the Hofburg

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

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

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

Dinner at Café Sacher

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

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

Innsbruck Itinerary: Day 2 in Innsbruck

Explore nordkette mountain.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lunch at Restaurant Seegrube

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

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

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

Marvel at the Bergisel Ski Jump

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

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

Dinner at Stiftskeller

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

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

Innsbruck Itinerary: Day 3 in Innsbruck

Tour swarovski kristallwelten  .

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

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

Lunch at Daniels Kristallwelten

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

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

Soak up History at Ambras Palace

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

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

Dinner at Restaurant Bierwirt

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

What to do in Innsbruck Austria in 4 days and beyond

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

Go on an Outdoor Adventure

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

Channel Cinderella at Neuschwanstein Castle

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

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

Eat Your Way Through Innsbruck

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

Take a Day Trip to Feldkirch

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

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

Where to Stay in Innsbruck

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

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

Montagu Hostel (Backpacker)

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

Read Tripadvisor reviews | Book a Stay

Meininger Hotel Innsbruck Zentrum (Budget-Friendly)

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

Hotel Mondschein (Mid-Range)

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

Read Tripadvisor reviews |   Book a Stay

Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz (Splurge)

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

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

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

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

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Exclusive trip to Prague and Austria

Explore the main highlights of Central Europe: fascinating Prague & historical Cesky Krumlov, the highlights of Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck in Austria and then further on to Germany - get in the Disney spirit at Schloss Neuschwanstein.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Destinations | EUROPE

Perfect 3 days in innsbruck itinerary.

22 Feb 2022 | Austria , Destinations , Europe , Outdoors

Are you planning a trip to Innsbruck, Austria? If so, you’re in for a treat! The city is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. In this travel guide, I am sharing my 3 days in Innsbruck itinerary so that you can plan yours!

3 days in Innsbruck Itinerary: Planning for your trip

When we leave for a trip, I normally set my alarm an hour earlier so that I can quickly pack our suitcases just before we leave. I really am a disaster when it comes to packing – but not this time. For our Innsbruck holiday, my clothes, sleeping bag and backpack were lying ready on the floor two weeks in advance!  

I couldn’t wait to set off – we were been invited by the tourism department of Tyrol to hike the Inn Valley High Trail , a long-distance hike of six days in the heart of the Alps. 

Why was I beyond excited for this mountain holiday in particular? The idea of enjoying the stunning scenery with my head in the clouds (literally!) gave me goosebumps before we were even in the car on our way to Innsbruck.

The last time I walked a real long-distance hike with a backpack was during my trip to Peru. And I’m not going to lie… I’m now in the worst condition ever when it comes to hiking. But I told myself in advance that I was going to push my own limits, and come out of my comfort zone. But I was also prepared for peace – mental peace, that is. 

Now, this guide takes you along on our Innsbruck holiday. But first, let’s go through some basic information, 

**disclaimer: This is a sponsored post but this doesn’t change the fact that I share my own honest experiences.**

Essential Innsbruck Travel Details: How to get to Innsbruck? 

Getting to Innsbruck by car: 

By car, you’ll be on the road from Antwerp for about 9 hours. Keep in mind that you have to purchase a road vignette for Austria. You can order a digital vignette online in advance, via the Asfinag site . You can also buy the vignette just across the border as we did at a gas station. You can choose a vignette for 10 days (€ 9.40), 2 months (€ 27.40), or a year (€ 91.10).

Austria is a beautiful country to drive through, make sure to enjoy the scenery, discover these 7 gorgeous places to visit in Austria along the way!

By train, you can travel from Brussels to Tyrol via Cologne with the Nightjet . This environmentally-friendly night train leaves every Monday and Thursday from Brussels to Innsbruck and returns on Wednesdays and Sundays. The journey takes just over 14 hours. 

Fancy flying instead? Innsbruck has its own airport. You can fly there out of Brussels, Transavia, and Tui, among others.

Vienna International Airport is located in the Austrian capital, and it’s the largest airport in the country. From here, you can take the train to Innsbruck – it will take around 6 hours. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight with Austrian Airlines towards Innsbruck.

Public transportation in Innsbruck

Thanks to an extensive network of regional trains and buses, you can reach almost all of the major valleys of Tyrol by public transport out of Innsbruck. 

For more information about public transport in Tyrol, please contact the Verkehrsbund Tirol (VVT), the ÖBB and the Innsbrucker traffic companies (IVB).

Get an Innsbruck Card

Planning to explore the many cultural offerings in Innsbruck, or tend to use public transport? Grab yourself an Innsbruck card ! 

You can purchase the card for 24, 48, or 72 hours. The card gives you free access to all museums and many other attractions including cable cars, the Crystal Worlds, and public transport. You can even use the Innsbruck card as a free parking ticket in the coach car park. The card will save you a lot of money, and make your holiday even more enjoyable.

Where to stay in Innsbruck during your trip

Stage 12 Hotel by Penz is the ideal base during your Innsbruck holidays. The hotel has 120 beautiful rooms and is centrally located in the old part of the city. Enjoy all of Innsbruck highlights within walking distance. Breakfast consists of a diverse international buffet. 

The hotel also has a cozy bar with a lovely outside terrace, where you can enjoy the best cocktails! The rooms are spacious and equipped with wonderful box spring beds.

More info and prices can be found here .

History of Innsbruck

Now let’s learn a little bit of the history of Innsbruck. The 800-year-old city takes its name from the very first bridge in Innsbruck that crosses the river Inns. Partly because of its location and accessibility over water, the city was the main trade route to Italy and Switzerland in the 12th century.

At the end of the 15th century, Innsbruck was elected the imperial capital by Maximilian I. The city now has about 130,000 inhabitants – of which 30,000 are students! 

It’s primarily a popular winter sports destination – but the city is also a top destination during other seasons, too. 

Read on, and I’ll let you discover more of Innsbruck’s hidden gems and explain to you why Innsbruck is the perfect holiday destination.

What to see and do in Innsbruck in 3 days?

Innsbruck is a charming city with plenty to do and see. In three days, you can visit Innsbruck museums, hike the surrounding mountains, go on a guided tour of the mountains, or even enjoy a spa day at Therme Amadé. 

If you have more time, I recommend going for an extended hike, visiting the salt mines, or taking a day trip to Hallstatt.

The following is our 3-day itinerary for Innsbruck, and this should provide you with plenty of ideas!  

Read next | INNTALER HÖHENWEG HIKING GUIDE

Day 1 of the 3 days in innsbruck itinerary: hiking in the alps.

My recommendations for day one are to hike in the Alps, either around Innsbruck or outside of the city. Both are equally beautiful, so it’s up to you which area you want to visit. 

We went hiking around Innsbruck as well as went on an extensive long-distance hike. When on a short trip of 3 days hiking in or near Innsbruck, will give you a feel for the city itself before exploring the surrounding mountains.

I highly recommend hiking around Innsbruck because you get to see the city in one go. 

Hikes in and around Innsbruck will be about 2+ hours. These hikes will be on well-maintained mountain paths, with several views. I’ve done several guided mountain walks and they were incredible! 

As I mentioned, we also hiked the Inn Valley High Trail . For this, you have to add six days to complete the entire trek. 

For a detailed breakdown of our hike, click here to read the Inntaler höhenweg – a long-distance hike in Tyrol.

Day 2 of the 3 day Innsbruck itinerary: Explore the town centre gems

If you’re looking for a 3-day itinerary in the heart of Innsbruck, here are some of the best things to do in the city centre of this beautiful destination. 

Walkthrough the historic old town and visit the Imperial Palace.

Walk along the winding alleys, enjoy the views of some of the oldest buildings in town and go shopping. This is where you will spend the majority of day 2 of Innsbruck’s itinerary. And the afternoon is perfect for a stroll along the Inn River, and for relaxing and enjoying a view of the surrounding Alps.

There are countless other beautiful buildings in the city centre. There is the 51-metre-high Stadtturm – City Tower, with a beautiful view over the city and the valley of the Inn. 

The Katzunghaus, the Trautson Haus and the Hotel Goldener Adler, which has existed since 1390, are other examples of well-preserved mediaeval architectural highlights. The Helblinghaus is also beautiful to see, as it features an elegant Baroque façade from 1725.

Also worth mentioning is the Baroque-style Innsbruck Cathedral. Inside you’ll see beautiful artwork that is definitely worth a visit.   

The Court Church, which was built from 1553 to 1563 is also located at the centre. It houses the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I. 

Spot the house with the Golden Roof 

The House with the Golden Roof in the city centre is Innsbruck’s best-known and most photographed tourist attraction. It became world-famous in 1500 when Emperor Maximilian I gave orders to pave the roof with 2,657 gilded copper shingles.

The house is located in the historic centre and can be viewed from the square in front of the building.   

Do visit the House with the Golden Roof, as it is a must add to your 3-day trip to Innsbruck.

Visit the Hofburg

A sight not to be missed during your trip to Innsbruck is the Hofburg, not far from the House with the Golden Roof.  This is the former palace of the Habsburg emperors, used whenever they were in the city. 

The Hofburg was built in 1460 and in a later period provided with a facade in rococo style. Today, you can find old imperial apartments and a number of art galleries here. 

Adjacent is the beautifully decorated Hofkirche, and immediately to the north is the Hofgarten, the old gardens of the palace that now serve as a public park.

Head up to Ambras Castle

Schloß Ambras is located on a mountain ridge on the southern outskirts of Innsbruck. The Renaissance-style castle was built in 1563 for Ferdinand II of Habsburg. 

Nowadays, it houses an art gallery, a cabinet of curiosities and the beautifully decorated 43-metre Spanish Hall. Surrounded by splendid gardens, Schloß Ambras is one of the city’s most visited attractions.  

Inside is also the Chamber of Art and Wonders of Archduke Ferdinand II, which is the only Renaissance Kunstkammer in its original place. There is an armoury room and a speciality museum about old musical instruments. 

The Upper Castle, which is the oldest part of Ambras Castle, contains the Habsburg Portrait Gallery. It is home to about 300 portraits from the 15th to 19th centuries. 

It is definitely worth it to pay a visit if you are already in this part of town. Do enjoy strolling through their gardens and take your time to look around inside Schloss Ambras. 

If you want to avoid the crowds, do this in the afternoon instead of the morning.

You can reach these areas on foot: just start at the Golden Roof and walk down Kaiserjägerstraße until you see signs for Schloß Ambras.

Visit one (or many) museums in Innsbruck 

Impressed by Innsbruck and want to know even more about the city? The museums are the perfect place to visit during your stay. For Tyrolean art and history, there are several branches in the Tyrolean Landesmuseum, the most important museum in the state. 

Prefer to visit more practical exhibitions? How about the Tyrolean Museumsbahn – where you can learn absolutely everything about the Tyrolean trains. I personally find the Tiroler Kaiserjägermuseum the most interesting, which focuses on the soldiers of the former Austrian Empire. 

For children, there’s the Alpenzoo – the highest-located zoo in Europe, where you can view a variety of animals that live in the Alps.  

Enjoy a stroll or walk through the winter city  

The best way to explore the winter sports capital is by foot, and there are plenty of city walks to enjoy. The city has handily mapped out seven unique walks that take you past all the highlights. 

Go on a journey through the oldest parts of the city, discover the new side of Innsbruck, or walk in the footsteps of the famous Habsburg imperial dynasty. Discover all walks here.

You can also find picturesque squares, great restaurants, and cafes along the way. Don’t miss out on a stroll along the river and take in the city views and change of scenery it offers you.

Day 3 of the 3 day itinerary to Innsbruck: Venture outside the city

Set aside one day of your Innsbruck itinerary to choose a few attractions a little outside the city and complete your getaway to Austria!

Admire the Bergiselschanze – Bergisel Ski Jump

A big fan of skiing? Your trip to Innsbruck is not complete until you’ve visited the Bergiselschanze. 

The world-famous ski jump was built in 1927, and then completely renovated in 2001. The 1933 Nordic World Ski Championships took place here, as well as the 1985 World Cup. 

The third race of the Four Hills Tournament is traditionally jumped at the Bergiselschanze. In addition, the Bergisel jump was also the Olympic ski jump twice.

In 1964 and 1976, the ski jump in Innsbruck was used as an Olympic event, which brought fame to this city. The start house is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm. There’s also a beautiful view from the top of the Bergisel as well as a café.

If you hike up the Innsbruck Ski Jump complex, you can also visit the Tirol Panorama Museum. The ticket price starts at 9 euros. 

Enjoy the view from the Patscherkofel

The Patscherkofel is a mountain that towers high above the city of Innsbruck. It’s best known for the Olympic Games of 1964 and 1976 when it hosted several alpine ski competitions. The mountain, with its beautiful view over the city, is especially popular among skiers and hikers who want to take in the incredible views.

The Patscherkofel is easily spotted by the large transmission mast on the top, and it towers high above the city of Innsbruck. 

Since Innsbruck is often called the winter sports capital of Austria, it should come as no surprise to hear that there are many ski opportunities in and around the city. 

There’s the Nordkette Ski Area, for example, which has a total of 13.9 kilometers of slopes and tons of lifts and gondolas. Another great ski resort is the Patscherkofel Ski Area, below the mountain of the same name (Patscherkofel, also known as the local’s mountain). 

Swing by the sparkling Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Just 15 kilometers from Innsbruck and 12 kilometers from the vibrant city Schwaz, you will find the magical world of Swarovski in the village of Wattens. 

Learn more about the history of the brand, and prepare to be enchanted by rooms filled with various artists from all over the world. You can also explore the largest Swarovski store in the world, where you can shop without limits and find all collector’s items in one place. 

After your visit, you can go to Daniels for a bite of lunch or a delicious coffee. The store also has a dazzling bar, with just about every cocktail possible. The Daniels Kristallwelten serves international, regional, and seasonal cuisine, and even has its own pastry department.  

A special feature is that the bright pavilion is flooded with light, designed by the Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta. It genuinely makes you feel as though you’re eating in the middle of the park!

Shopping in Innsbruck: Maria Theresien Street and more

Feel like indulging in a bit of retail therapy during your Innsbruck holiday? Head over to the Maria Theresien Strasse. Almost all major retail chains are housed here, as well as several cozy coffee bars to catch a breather from all that shopping.

The Maria Theresien Strasse is also home to some of the best international brands. You can check out H&M if you are in need of a quick wardrobe update or treat yourself with a new pair of Jimmy Choo shoes at their flagship store.

Looking for more boutique shops? The old town is filled with both authentic souvenir shops and beautiful clothing stores.

There are also shopping malls with all types of retail outlets! 

To those who love nature and fresh air, don’t worry as there are several quaint boutiques outside of Innsbruck as well. There is a great boutique in the village of Westendorf, which offers an extensive collection of sports gear and other decorative items, and artsy souvenirs.

If you are fond of shopping local food specialties, then don’t leave the city without sampling these delicacies. There are several cafes where you can enjoy Austrian wines, cakes, and finger food while watching the city bustle by.

Stay in romantic Schwaz (if you have time)

We spent our last evening in the authentic, romantic village of Schwaz located next to the river Inns, filled with plenty of lovely bars, restaurants, and trendy shops. 

We spent the night in Pension Clara, a lovely accommodation where we were truly pampered by the friendly owner. There are several single and double rooms, all very spacious, equipped with a shower and with a beautiful view over the village. You can park next to the building and you can easily reach the city on foot.

We concluded our last evening with a delicious dinner at Gasthof Tippeler, an authentic restaurant founded in 1657. It’s located in a beautiful, perfectly preserved building, where we received a warm welcome. They serve traditional cuisine – and it is to die for!

I highly recommend Innsbruck for your next trip! The city is conveniently located at the heart of Tirol, which offers easy access to most major cities in Europe. 

A stunning city, in the Austrian Alps it truly offers something for everyone. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking and skiing opportunities, while shoppers can enjoy a variety of stores, both international and local. 

Those looking to relax can find plenty of charming cafes and restaurants to choose from. You’ll find lovely bars, restaurants, and trendy shops – as well as comfortable accommodations perfect for ending your trip on a relaxing note. 

Pin: 3 day Innsbruck itinerary and travel guide

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Best Beaches in Kotor Montenegro 

The hidden treasures of the Adriatic are poised for exploration, offering unforgettable seaside moments. From the easily accessible Kotor Beach, lying at the base of ancient fortifications, to the secluded allure of Bajova Kula, each spot offers its own piece of paradise. 

• Kotor Beach
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Whether planning a solo escape, a romantic excursion, or a family holiday, Kotor’s beaches cater to all occasions, ensuring lasting memories. 

1. Kotor Beach

A stone’s throw from the Old Town, Kotor Beach is a convenient and lively stretch perfect for those who love to be in the heart of the action. It is convenient for visitors who want to combine historical tours with seaside relaxation. 

While not the largest of beaches, its proximity to the city centre makes it particularly accessible. 

The beach is quite pebbly, and because of its size it tends to be very crowded by noon. I recommend getting there early (between 8 to 10 am), grab a sun lounger (paid) and enjoy a full day there.

If you are sightseeing in the Old Town, and then heading there in the late afternoon or evening I recommend just taking a walk and enjoying the scenery as finding a place to sit down will be a little difficult. 

There are not a lot of food options on the beach (but a 5 minute walk from the beach will welcome you to many options).

Highlights:

• Accessibility : Just minutes from the city centre.
• Amenities : A mix of free and paid amenities are available, including sunbeds and umbrellas.
• Vibe : Busy and vibrant, surrounded by bars and restaurants.

2. Bajova Kula Beach

Named after the legendary hero Bajo Pivljanin, Bajova Kula Beach prides itself on its clear waters and small, secluded bay. It’s ideal for those seeking tranquillity away from the centre.

To get to the beach, you have to drive for 20 minutes as public transport is infrequent. Plus getting there early will be a bonus as you can enjoy the peaceful view of the bay, and soak in the sun. 

If you are not driving, consider taking a cab, this will also be convenient as sometimes parking can be an issue when visiting during the peak hours of the day. 

You can swim at the Bajova Kula Beach, and there is also a beach bar on-site. You can pay for sun beds. 

Be careful when you stroll on the beach as it is quite pebbly and glass pieces are often seen on the shore. 

All in all I recommend visiting the beach for its epic views of the Kotor Bay, and its vibe. 

• Distance : Roughly 20 minutes’ drive from Kotor.
• Amenities : Enjoy the luxury of a private beach feel with rentable cabanas (morning hours).
• Ambiance : Calm and peaceful, perfect for pure relaxation (morning hours).

3. Plavi Horizonti Beach

Or as the locals call it, ‘Blue Horizons’ is a beach experience not to be missed. 

The fine sandy beach gradually slopes into shallow waters, making it ideal for families with their playful toddlers. It’s one of the most sublime places to witness the horizons, as the name suggests, and lose yourself in the magnificent sunsets.

You can swim, or rent sun loungers. To keep everyone busy and entertained you will find a variety of activities from beach volleyball, tennis, and basketball to building sand castles and hanging out in their restaurant. 

The beach is best visited in June and September. And it holds the coveted Blue Flag recognition for excellence in environmental management and water quality.

• Distance : Roughly 20 minutes’ drive from Kotor Old town (near Tivat Airport)
• Amenities : Beautiful and smooth, perfect for children and families. Good restaurant and parking available on site.
• Ambiance : Coastal charmer with cliffs and trees and endless sea views. 

4. Verige Beach

Verige Beach is a hidden gem located about 25 minutes drive from Kotor. Tucked away in the narrowest part of the Bay of Kotor, this enchanting wild beach is easily accessible via the Kotor Bay Ferry.

The beach has fine pebbles, and its crystal-clear waters are breathtaking. Enhancing its beauty, the quaint Church of Our Lady of Angels stands nearby, offering breathtaking views over the bay, Perast, and Our Lady of the Rocks. 

The sight of the church, with the scenic backdrop, is utterly captivating!

I like Verige Beach more for sightseeing, including capturing the sights of the boats docking or going up and down the waters. 

The waters are also frequented by mega yachts and elegant sailing boats, adding to the beach’s allure.

If you wish to hang out and soak in the sun, you can rent sun loungers nearby or sit down to eat at the restaurant onsite.

• Distance : About 25 minutes’ drive away from Kotor town.
• Aim : Ideal for those looking to escape the busyness for a day.
• Convenience : Limited amenities, but sun loungers are available for rent. 

5. Morinj Beach

Situated a mere 30-minute drive from Kotor, it may require a bit more travel, but its appeal is undeniable. 

Unlike the typically smaller beaches of Kotor, Morinj Beach stands out with its expansive sandy shores, a rare find in the bay area. 

It offers a gentle entry into the water, without the abrupt deepening found at many other local beaches, making it an ideal choice for families.

However, keep in mind that the waters of the Morinj Beach are a little bit cooler which is perfect for hot summer days as the waters can provide a refreshing respite on sweltering days.

Access to Morinj Beach is straightforward and free. You can rent a car and drive there. For convenience, there is a large parking lot located across the street, available for a nominal fee of €2.

• Distance : About 30 minutes’ drive north from Kotor.
• Amenities : Mostly free beach with some paid options for extra comfort.
• Features : Great for children and families.

6. Zanjice Beach

Tucked on the Lustica Peninsula, Zanjice Beach lures visitors with pebbly shores and clear blue waters. It’s a bit further out but worth the trek for its serene atmosphere.

The beach is only accessible during the peak season, and you can also book tours to get there from Kotor, or Budva. 

The beach is great for views, and the Blue Cave. 

Free entry to the beach, and in terms of amenities you can rent sunbeds, umbrellas, and access toilets and showers.

• Distance : Approximately 30 minutes’ drive from Kotor. Or you can come by boat (20 minutes)
• Amenities : Paid sunbeds, with some free areas to lay your towel.
• Surroundings : A quieter choice surrounded by nature.

7. Risan Beach

Want to escape the crowds? Then make your way to Risan Bay. Here, you can enjoy the offbeat shores of Bolnička Plaža, characterised by the authentic stones and rocks of Kotor Bay. 

The beach lacks the amenities that you would expect from a well-developed beach area, but it’s untamed, rugged beauty is its charm. 

Beyond its picturesque scenery, Risan Beach is steeped in history, standing as one of the bay’s most ancient settlements. 

Just a short stroll from the shore, visitors can discover Roman mosaics, adding a layer of cultural enrichment to the beach’s natural allure. 

The view of the 7th-century Banja Monastery, framed by towering cypress trees, is undeniably charming.

• Proximity : Approximately a 20-minute drive from Kotor.
• Cultural significance : Offers a touch of history with nearby ancient ruins.
• Amenities : Basic amenities are available, with a focus on the natural environment.

8. Kotor Natural Beach

Kotor Natural Beach is an undiscovered treasure for those in search of a completely free seaside retreat.

Nestled on the side opposite Kotor Beach, it presents a more untouched and rugged seaside experience compared to its counterpart. Here, you won’t find the sun loungers and manicured shores common to other Kotor vicinity beaches.

Given the pebbly and rocky terrain of this wild beach, I recommend bringing aqua shoes. 

Swimming is allowed and is okay here. 

Near the beach, you will find the ruins of the Fjord Hotel, and there are two small cafes. 

• Distance : a short walk from the Old Town to the beach. Parking is available nearby 
• Activities : Sunbathing, swimming 
• Facilities : Cafes near/on the beach

9. Jaz Beach

One of the longest beaches in the Bay of Kotor, Jaz Beach is famous not only for its beauty but also as a venue for top-notch music festivals. Its vivacious atmosphere, coupled with excellent facilities, makes it a hit for those who enjoy the livelier side of seaside leisure.

You can rent sun loungers, and umbrellas and when driving there you will be delighted to know that there is a large parking space (and it is FREE!).

• Distance :  Located approximately 20 minutes from the city centre (Budva municipality).
• Activities : Water sports, and live music events are just some of the activities on offer.
• Facilities : Sunbeds, cafes, and umbrellas are available.

10. Oblatno Beach

​​Oblatno Beach, located just a 20-minute drive from Kotor, is the epitome of a chic beach getaway. 

For an epic day out at a cool beach club, Oblatno is amazing – it is similar to Plavi Horizonti Beach, where the waters are sandy and fine. 

The beach is great for families where you can enjoy beachside games.

The beach is free to access, but there is an area under the Almara Beach Club – where you will have to pay to access. This is where you will also find sun loungers for rent. 

Other than the beach amenities you can also enjoy cocktails and light snacks all whilst soaking the views of the Adriatic Sea.

A note about the Almara Beach Club – this is a full service restaurant serving fresh and delicious seafood (including paella). 

• Distance : A 20-minute drive from Kotor
• Amenities : Sun loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, and restaurant/bar services.
• Vibe : A trendy and upscale beach club atmosphere with live music events during peak season.

11. Pirate Beach

Pirate Beach offers a blend of fun and relaxation where children can play to their heart’s content, making it a favourite among visiting families. This beach is located in Perast and is about a 20 minute drive.

Pirate Beach boasts a contemporary ambiance, and is perfect for a day out of Kotor. The beach features imported gravel, and for relaxation, you can rent a pair of sun loungers, complete with an umbrella, at €20, providing the perfect setup to enjoy cocktails with a view. 

What’s more the stunning backdrop of Perast with the Our Lady of the Rocks, and Sveti Đorđe, is hard to beat, and a must see in Montenegro. 

• Distance : A 20-minute drive from Kotor. 
• Amenities : Sun loungers, umbrellas, Kid-friendly with shallow areas and play zones.
• Vibe : Amazing views, and the sun and sea!

Kotor’s Beach Experience

In Kotor, you will find amazing beaches. There are private and public beach areas and it caters to every luxury level (you can explore and sunbathe for free, or spend a little extra for a luxury experience). 

The pebbly shores and crystal-clear waters are a common feature, inviting both locals and visitors to bask in the natural beauty of Montenegro’s coastline.

Public Beaches

Public beaches in Kotor are where the vibrant pulse of the city meets tranquil turquoise waters. These stretches are open to everyone, often characterised by stones or pebbles, and provide a serene setting for swimming and sunbathing. 

Best of all, there’s no entrance fee to enjoy the simple pleasure of a day at the beach here.

Private Beach Sections

Dotting the shoreline are chic private beach sections – often affiliated with hotels or beach clubs – where you can rent a sunbed, enjoy waiter service, and sometimes even experience live music or DJ sets. 

These areas typically require a small entry fee or sunbed rental but offer amenities like showers, changing rooms, and often a nearby bar or restaurant for that extra touch of luxury.

Highlights of Kotor’s Beaches

• Public Sections : Enjoy the liberating feeling of unfettered access and the charm of local beach life. Pack a picnic or grab snacks from nearby vendors, and bask in the sun’s warm glow against the dramatic backdrop of Kotor’s mountains.
• Private Sections : Revel in the cosseted comfort of a private spot, where facilities and creature comforts are at your fingertips. These are perfect for those who fancy a bit more pampering during their beach day.

In summary, Kotor’s beaches offer a diverse range of coastal experiences, from laid-back public spots to the more curated atmosphere of private sections. 

With easy access from the historic town and enthralling views all around, your time on the shores of Kotor will be nothing but unforgettable. 

Whether you choose the simplicity of a public beach or the enhanced experience of a private beach section in Kotor, each offers its own slice of Montenegro’s coastal paradise. 

Enjoy the delightful mix of tradition and relaxation on the shores of the Bay of Kotor and beyond.

Best Time to Visit Kotor’s Beaches

Summer season (peak season).

The optimal time to enjoy Kotor’s waters is during the summer months. From June to August, you’ll find warm, balmy weather perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and a variety of water sports. 

The skies are usually clear during these months, offering uninterrupted enjoyment of the sun and sea.

• June – The start of the summer marks the beginning of the beach season with a pleasant climate and fewer crowds.
• July – July is ideal for those who love the heat, as it gets warmer and the beach life is in full swing.
• August – The waters are warmest in August, but expect more visitors as it’s the peak of tourist season.

Shoulder Season – Spring and Autumn

For those looking to avoid the summer crowds, the shoulder seasons of late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are good alternatives. The weather is milder during these months, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy the coastal activities without the summer throngs. 

However, keep in mind that beaches in winter may not be as fun as temperatures dip and many services won’t be open or available. 

How to Enjoy Kotor’s Beaches

Finding your perfect spot.

Kotor’s coast is lined with both vibrant and secluded beaches. Whether you prefer a lively atmosphere with beach bars and music or a quiet cove for relaxation, there is a spot for every preference.

• For Lively Beach Vibes: Visit the main beaches with amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby restaurants.
• For Secluded Relaxation: Seek out smaller coves that are a bit off the beaten path. They offer tranquillity and are perfect for a serene day by the sea.

Transport & Accessibility

The coastal region of Kotor is accessible from your hotel by various modes of transport.

• Car: Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring different beaches along the coast at your own pace.
• Public Transport: There are buses that run along the coast, connecting Kotor to various beaches.
• Bike or Foot: For the more adventurous and active, biking or walking to nearby beaches provides an opportunity to take in the stunning scenery.

Safety and Amenities

Be mindful of safety when swimming and ensure that you are visiting beaches that have lifeguards on duty during the summer months. 

Most popular beaches will have amenities like changing facilities, showers, and restrooms. It’s always good practice to check beforehand, especially if venturing to more secluded spots.

Local Regulations and Environment

Remember to adhere to any local regulations and respect the natural environment. Keep the beaches clean by disposing of your waste responsibly.

Kotor’s beaches offer a mix of serenity and summer fun, set against some of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in Europe. 

By choosing the right time to visit and considering your preferred beach style, your Kotor beach getaway can be an unforgettable adventure filled with crystal-clear waters and picture-perfect views.

Tips for a Perfect Beach Day in Kotor

Here are some of the tips for having a perfect day out in Kotor,

• Arrive Early : Especially during the summer, beaches can get crowded quickly.
• Mind Your Belongings : While beach theft isn’t common, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your personal items.
• Sun Protection : The Mediterranean sun can be strong; sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water will be your best friends.
• Stay Hydrated : The Adriatic sun can be intense; make sure to drink plenty of water.
• Respect the Environment : Keep the beaches as beautiful as you found them by disposing of your trash properly.
• Explore Beyond the Main Beaches : Some of the most magical spots are those less travelled. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the closest beach to Kotor?

Kotor Beach is one of the beaches closest to the Old Town, and is perfect for sightseeing and also sunbathing. 

Does Kotor have good beaches?

Kotor has amazing beaches. You can hit the beaches close to the city, or venture beyond to Herceg Novi Riviera and others.

Can you swim in Kotor Beach?

Yes, you can swim in Kotor Beach. 

Whether you long for the secluded, natural havens, crave the energy of a crowd, or simply wish to bask in the Mediterranean charm, Kotor’s beaches offer something for every preference. 

Each grain of sand and pebble tells a tale of ancient civilizations, maritime adventures, and timeless beauty that awaits your discovery. Don’t just travel—experience Kotor in all its coastal glory. Happy sunbathing!

Pin: Best Beaches in Kotor Montenegro

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