innsbruck travel tips

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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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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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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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Innsbruck

Innsbruck, Austria is the fifth-largest city in the country and an absolutely charming destination to travel to. Settled between the Austrian Alps, gorgeous snow-capped mountains surround the vibrant town. One look at a photograph and you’ll instantly want to travel to Innsbruck!

If you’re considering visiting Innsbruck or are simply eager to know about the attractions in the city, this travel guide is here to help you out.

Get to know the top sights, activities, hotels and restaurants in the area, as well as the most enjoyable tours to go on. Use these travel tips to plan your relaxing getaway as soon as possible!

This ultimate travel guide to Innsbruck will show you all the most beautiful places in Innsbruck, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Innsbruck and things to do in Innsbruck which will help you in planning a trip to Innsbruck.

Plan your trip?

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Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

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Table of Contents

How to get to Innsbruck

Innsbruck Airport is only a 20-minute bus ride away from the city centre, or 15 minutes by taxi. As the largest international airport in western Austria, there are convenient flights from all over Europe.

Many routes do operate on a seasonal basis, particularly during the ski season, so that’s something to be aware of when planning your trip.

A lot of travellers choose to take the train or bus to Innsbruck, as it offers a chance to see the beautiful Tirol countryside.

There are departures throughout the day from Vienna, the capital of Austria, and the EC train from Munich Central Station in Germany takes under two hours. You can even catch the train all the way from London in a day, with some changeovers in Paris and Zurich.

What to expect in Innsbruck

German is the official language in Innsbruck. Fortunately, Austrian citizens learn English as a second language all throughout school, so English is widely understood and spoken as well.

Since Austria is a member of the European Union, the euro is used in Innsbruck. Tipping is common, although a service charge of 10 per cent is usually added to the final bill, so check before leaving anything extra.

Hotel staff will expect a euro for every bag brought up to your room, and taxi drivers will also expect an additional 10 per cent of the metered fare.

How to get around Innsbruck

The bus system in Innsbruck has over 20 lines, so you’ll always find a way to get around. These buses are quick and affordable and cover all major areas of the city and its suburbs.

Tourists, however, generally prefer to stick to the trams. There are only three tram lines, making things much simpler for visitors.

The vibrant red tramcars are a wonderful way to get around, as you can see many sights up close by simply looking out the window.

To make catching public transport as smooth as possible, get yourself an Innsbruck card . These cards are valid for 24, 48 or 72 hours from first use and offer unlimited public transport rides, including the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus and the cable cars.

Since the card grants you entrance into many museums and attractions as well, it’ll be your Innsbruck travel essential.

The best time to visit Innsbruck

Any time from April to October is ideal for getting out and sightseeing in Innsbruck. If you’re hoping for moderate weather and minimal crowds, spring and autumn are your go-to seasons.

An Innsbruck summer rarely reaches 30 degrees, so the weather is still perfect then as well.

However, you’ll be dealing with many more tourists like yourself, as well as increased hotel and tour prices.

If you have less time to wait around in crowds or want to ensure your trip is budget-friendly , visiting during the shoulder months is best.

That being said, maybe you’re a lover of the wintertime snow. Innsbruck is a wonderful place to get into the holiday spirit and is always a magical experience.

Many attractions close during this time, however, so always check this in advance to avoid disappointment.

Things to do in Innsbruck

There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Innsbruck . Here are some of the top places to visit to have the best experience possible:

Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Easily the most unique thing to do in Innsbruck is to visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds . This museum is 20 kilometres east in the town of Wattens and is absolutely worth the short trip. The world-famous Swarovski crystals are produced in this area, and a stunning utopia of art and design awaits you here.

Upon arrival, you’ll spot André Heller’s grass giant, complete with jewel-like eyes and a water fountain for a mouth. There’s more to discover in the vast and manicured garden, from the Mirror Pool and Crystal Cloud.

17 artists from around the globe were invited to create exclusive art showrooms using crystals. The result is the Chambers of Wonder.

n unmissable escape from the outside world. El Sol by Fernando Romero vibrantly represents the Aztec and Mayan pyramids and their geometry, while Lee Bul’s Into Lattice Sun will spectacularly challenge your perception of depth and space.

There’s even a contribution by Alexander McQueen and Tord Boontje in the form of a sparkling crystal tree.

Yet, the top space to check out is the Crystal Dome. Following the principles of geodesy, the 595 mirrors will give you the illusion of being inside a giant crystal.

The Golden Roof

One of the most iconic attractions in Innsbruck is the Golden Roof, also known as Goldenes Dachl. You’ll always see many people within the Old Town stopping to admire this glimmering roof made up of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles.

The roof, which appears golden, was constructed in honour of Emperor Maximilian I and his wedding to Bianca Maria Sforza. Completed in 1500, it was built above the balcony the emperor used to watch over events and festivals in the square below.

Imperial Palace

The Imperial Palace, also known as the Hofburg, is one of the most significant cultural buildings in the country. Since the 15th century, the palace has seen many expansions and additions over time, including a Baroque makeover in the 18th century.

Once a former Habsburg residence, the luxurious complex has been turned into five themed museums: the Imperial Apartments of Empress Elisabeth, the rooms of Maria Theresa, the Ancestral Gallery, the Furniture Museum, and the Painting Gallery.

Considering the size of the Hofburg, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to see everything . Noteworthy parts to check out include the Giant’s Hall, the Gothic Hall, and the Lorraine Room. You should also visit the 1300-square-metre cobblestoned inner courtyard.

Court Church

The 16th-century Court Church in the Old Town was constructed in honour of Emperor Maximilian I by his grandson, Emperor Ferdinand I. It is notable for its minimalist black and white exterior, though the interiors are heavily influenced by Late Gothic architecture.

Although Emperor Maximilian I is actually buried in Wiener Neustadt, the church features a large black marble cenotaph for him with impressive German Renaissance elements.

Bergisel Ski Jump

Innsbruck is internationally known for its winter sports facilities. Built on the Bergisel Hill is the 50-metre-high Bergisel Ski Jump, which also happens to offer a spectacular panoramic view across the region.

A cable car will take you to the top of the jump in minutes, where you’ll also find a cafe and restaurant. The surrounding stadium can hold up to 26,000 spectators and has hosted prestigious tournaments and events over the years.

Tirol Farmstead Museum

Interested in the area’s pre-industrial period? Head out to the Tirol Farmstead Museum , where 37 historic farms will show you how people once lived and worked. The expansive open-air museum has media installations and interesting exhibits to explore freely.

Wander around and see the lumberjack huts, blacksmiths and mills from the small town of Kramsach.

Nordkette Mountain Range

Only 10 kilometres away from Innsbruck is the gorgeous Nordkette Mountain Range. In 20 minutes, you can reach the Hafelekar Peak at 2,250 metres.

All you need to do is catch the Nordkette funicular to Hungerburg Station, change for a lift to Seegrube, then get the cable car to Hafelekar. Hiking and rock climbing are popular activities when it’s not snowing. However, it’s worth going up the mountain just to enjoy the incredible views below.

What to eat in Innsbruck

What sets the cuisine in Innsbruck apart from the rest of Austria are the traditional Tyrolean dishes you’ll get to taste . Here are some local meals you’ll have the opportunity to try and where you can order them from:

• Kasspatzln: Soft egg noodles or dumplings, baked and covered in cheese and fried onion. Enjoy a warm dish at Stiftskeller Innsbruck on Stiftgasse.
• Speckknödel: Austrian bread-based dumplings filled with bacon and served in a broth. Order a plate at Altstadtbeisl on the corner of Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse and Hofgasse.
• Gröstl: A delicious and comforting fry-up of bacon, onion and potatoes, often served with an egg on top. You’ll be able to order this just about anywhere, but Stieglbrau on Wilhelm-Greil-Strasse offers up a generous serving.
• Kaspressknödel: Flat, cheesy potato dumplings, plated with a broth or sauerkraut. Order at Fischerhausl on Herrengasse.
• Kiachl: A heavy yeast pastry sweetened with powdered sugar and filled with jam. Grab one at any bakery, such as Der Bäcker Ruetz.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

One of the most opulent places to stay in Innsbruck is the Hotel Neue Post . Step back in time with the impeccable Art Nouveau design and enjoy a peaceful night’s rest in the soundproofed rooms.

The location is an even distance between the Inn River and the main railway station (Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof), and walking distance from an array of Old Town attractions.

A budget-friendlier choice that will definitely delight is the Altstadthotel Weisses Kreuz . The charming, rustic interiors with wooden floorboards are homely and inviting, so there won’t be any homesickness here.

The hotel is right in the city centre, and rooms on the top floor showcase beautiful mountain views.

Tours to do in Innsbruck

Ensure you see as many sights as you can with a private three-hour tour of Innsbruck . Your guide will take you on foot through the streets and provide insights about the city’s history.

Stop for a cup of coffee and a pastry at Café Sacher, and get to know all about the Habsburg Monarchy.

Immerse yourself in the culture of the region with a Tyrolean folk show . The highlight of this one-and-a-half-hour show is the Gundolf family performing a fast-paced dance known as the Schuhplattler, which you can clap along to.

These traditional dances have been passed down through generations and are unique to Tyrol. Purchase your tickets on Viator and upgrade for hotel pick-up and drop-off, as well as a three-course meal.

The Schwaz Silver Mine, 30 minutes east of Innsbruck, was once the most productive mine in history. Take a train 800 metres below the ground and go 500 years back in time.

The fascinating 90-minute tour of the mine uses light and sound displays to teach you about a day’s work as a medieval miner searching for silver and copper.

Day trips from Innsbruck

See the beautiful landscapes of Bavaria with an eight-hour day tour by private vehicle. Visit the opulent Linderhof Palace near Ettal Abbey and the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle .

The latter is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace perched above the village of Hohenschwangau and is one of the most visited attractions in Germany.

At both of these sites, you will learn about the life of King Ludwig from your private guide. This tour takes you on the scenic route, through the Bavarian Alps and past Lake Plansee.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not go mountain biking? Join in on a full-day City Explorer tour running on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and cycle through the stunning Tyrolean region.

The Nordkette Singletrail provides challenging terrain for any experienced cyclist and is one of the longest downhill trails in Europe.

Visiting Innsbruck during the summer? Head to Lake Achensee to relax for the day. The trip will take 40 to 45 minutes driving, or you can take the train to Jenbach and a bus to Maurach.

Also known as the Fjord of the Alps, the lake is the largest in Tirol and is surrounded by the picturesque Rofan Mountains.

Hire an electric boat or a pedalo to get around the lake, or go swimming and snorkelling by the shore.

Recommended budget tours in Innsbruck

• Tyrolean Folk Show in Innsbruck
• Innsbruck Combo: Innsbruck Card, Traditional Café and Austrian Dinner
• Paragliding Tirol – AIR TAXI Tirol
• Cable Car Round-Trip to the Top of Innsbruck
• Ambras Castle in Innsbruck Entrance Ticket
• Mountain bike tour Innsbruck surroundings
• Innsbruck city tour – 3 hours – with private an local tourguide
• King Ludwig Castles Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Private Tour from Innsbruck
• Tyrolean Sweets & Coffee Tour
• Innsbruck city tour & Swarovski day tour – with private guide

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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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
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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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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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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,…

Latest stories from Innsbruck

Oct 16, 2019 • 7 min read

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Oct 15, 2018 • 6 min read

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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.

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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

Tyrolean Folk Show Ticket in Innsbruck

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Private Full-Day Tour of Neuschwanstein Castle from Innsbruck

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from $ 329.20

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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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One Day in Innsbruck Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting to Innsbruck

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in Innsbruck, Austria

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

Garden Apartments at Nala Hotel

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

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

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

Breakfast at Nala Hotel

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

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

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More Places to Stay in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

One Day in Innsbruck: Exploring Old Town in the Morning

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

Wander Around Innenstadt

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

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

Attractions in Innsbruck’s Old Town (Altstadt)

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

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

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

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

Visit Innsbrucker Hofgarten (Innsbruck’s City Garden)

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

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

Lunch in Innsbruck, Austria

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

Swing Kitchen

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

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

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

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

One Day in Innsbruck: Nordkette, Innsbruck’s Mountain

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

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

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

Hungerburgbahn Funicular

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

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

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

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

Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Seegrube

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

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

Nordkettenbahn Cable Car to Hafelekar

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

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

Walk to the Top of Innsbruck

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

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

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

Coffee and Cake in Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vegan Donuts at Dunkin’ Donuts

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

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

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

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

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

Taking the Shuttle Bus from Innsbruck to Swarovski

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

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

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

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

Outdoor Exhibits at Swarovski Kristallwelten

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

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

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

Indoor Exhibition at Swarovski Kristallwelten

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

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

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

More Places to Visit in Innsbruck

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

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

Restaurants for Dinner in Innsbruck

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

Restaurant Olive

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

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

Green Flamingo

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

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

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

Evening in Innsbruck: Beer on the Patio

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

Marktbar am Inn

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

Stiftskeller

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

360 Degrees Cafe

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Around Innsbruck

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

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

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

Want to see more photos of Innsbruck?

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

More Things to Do in Austria

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

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

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

The Ultimate Guide To Summer In Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer in Innsbruck, Tirol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summer weather in Innsbruck

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

These are the average temperatures of you:

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

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

Things to do in Innsbruck in summer

Stand in the shadows of the bergisel ski jump.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take some photos of the colourful houses by the river

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

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

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

Go for a cycle around Innsbruck

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

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

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

Feel like 1 million dollars at Swarovski Crystal Worlds

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

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

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

Taste some samples at a local market

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

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

Take on some of the best downhill cycling in Europe

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

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

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

Pay a visit to S chloss Ambras (Ambras Castle)

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

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

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

Where to stay in Innsbruck

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

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

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

Mid-range: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz , Innenstadt

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

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

Budget: Hotel Huberhof , Rum

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

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

Innsbruck packing list

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the Author

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

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

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

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

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

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

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A travel guide to Innsbruck, Austria: everything you need to know!

Innsbruck is a beautiful city located in the Austrian Alps. It is a popular tourist destination for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. In this travel guide, we will give you all the information you need to know before you visit Innsbruck. We will tell you when the best time to visit is, what you should expect when you arrive, and what are some of the must-see experiences in the city. So whether you are planning a winter holiday or a summer getaway, read on to find out everything you need to know about Innsbruck, Austria !

We’ll also provide our top recommendations for hotels in the city. So, without further ado, let’s get started!

Travel Guide Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a charming alpine city in the heart of the Austrian Tyrol. Nestled in a valley between two mountain ranges, it’s a popular year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and city slickers alike.

Best time to visit Innsbruck

• What to expect

Top Things To Do in Innsbruck

Where to stay in innsbruck.

• How to get around
• What to pack?

The best time to visit Innsbruck is during the spring or autumn months. The weather is mild and the city is less crowded than in the summer. However, if you’re looking to experience Innsbruck in its winter wonderland glory, then the best time to visit is December to February. In the winter, Innsbruck is an excellent place to hit the slopes, with several world-class ski resorts located nearby. The city is also home to a number of museums and galleries, as well as a lively nightlife scene. In the summer, Innsbruck is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors, with hiking, biking, and climbing all popular activities. There are also a number of festivals and events that take place in the city during the summer months. No matter what time of year you visit, Innsbruck is sure to have something to offer.

What to expect | travel guide to Innsbruck

Now that you know when to visit, let’s talk about what you can expect when you arrive in Innsbruck. The official language of Austria is German, so it would be helpful to learn some basic phrases before your trip. However, English is also widely spoken, so you should be able to get by without speaking German. As for currency , the Euro is used in Austria . When it comes to plugs and voltage , Austria uses the standard European voltage of 230 volts and the standard European plug type C and F. As for safety, Innsbruck is a generally safe city. However, as with any city, it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. When it comes to the food in Innsbruck, you can expect a mix of traditional Austrian dishes and international cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes in Innsbruck include schnitzel (a fried cutlet), kaiserschmarrn (a type of pancake), and Tiroler Gröstl (potatoes and bacon).If you’re a citizen of the United States, Canada, or Australia, you’ll need a valid passport to enter Austria . However, you will not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

» Also going to Vienna? Here’s our ultimate guide

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about the must-see experiences in Innsbruck. First on our list is a visit to the GoldenTes Dachl (Goldenh Roof). This iconice landmark is located in the Old Town of Innsbruck and was built in the year 1500. The roof is decorated with over 2,657 gold-plated copper tiles, making it one of the most striking features in the city. Another must-see is the Hofburg Imperial Palace. This grand palace was the former home of the Habsburg dynasty and is now a museum. Visitors can explore the lavish rooms and learn about the history of the Habsburgs.If you’re looking for breathtaking views, then you’ll want to take a ride on the Nordkettenbahnen (Nordic Chain Railway). This railway takes you from the city center to the top of the Nordkette mountain range, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Alps. And last but not least, no trip to Innsbruck would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This museum is dedicated to the history and art of Swarovski crystals and is home to the world’s largest crystal.

Innsbruck is a beautiful city in the Austrian Alps that is known for its stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re visiting in the winter or summer, there are plenty of great hotels, sights, and activities to enjoy.

• aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck
• Hotel Innsbruck
• The Marriott
• The PENZ Hotel
• Adlers Hotel
• Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz – In der Fußgängerzone
• Weisses Rössl

How to get around | travel guide to Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a beautiful city in Austria , and if you’re planning on visiting, there are a few things you should know in order to make the most of your trip. Here are some of the best tips and tricks for travelling in Innsbruck. Take advantage of the city’s public transportation system. Innsbruck has an excellent public transportation system that can get you around the city quickly and easily. If you’re staying in the city center, you can even walk to most of the major attractions.

♥ It’s also a great idea to make a road trip to Burgusio , Italy from here. Read more about my road trip!

What to pack? | travel guide to Innsbruck

Pack light. Innsbruck is a very walkable city, so you won’t need to bring much with you. Just make sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothes. Make a list of the attractions you want to see. Innsbruck has a lot to offer, from its stunning mountain scenery to its many museums and historical buildings. Make sure to plan ahead so you can see everything you want to see and pack accordingly.

INNSBRUCK TRAVEL GUIDE

So I hope I have helped you with this Innsbruck travel guide to make the right decisions for you and your holiday cravings. Don’t forget to try the local food. Innsbruck has some excellent restaurants, so be sure to try the local cuisine. You won’t be disappointed! So, there you have it! Our travel guide to Innsbruck, Austria . We hope you found this guide helpful and that it has inspired you to plan your own trip to this beautiful city.

I cannot wait to explore this city some more next time. For travel videos and reels about this city, make sure to follow me on  Instagram .

Curious about Austria ? Then we’ve got you covered in our  Ultimate Austria travel guide !

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It’s hard to find a city as quiet as Austria’s Innsbruck. This place stands out with rows of colorful vintage houses located right at the foot of the snow-covered mountain. With 800 years of history, this land is known as the “capital of the Alps” really is a destination that is hard to ignore on the beautiful Austrian travel itinerary. So, what to do and how to visit Innsbruck for the first-time? Let’s check out our Innsbruck travel blog (Innsbruck blog) with the fullest Innsbruck travel guide from how to get there, where to stay, best time and best places to visit, top things to do to clear the answer!

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Innsbruck travel blog: When to visit?

Peak tourist season: The summer from May to September is always the tourist season in Innsbruck. This period always has great conditions for visiting such as no snow, nice weather and daytime lasts until 9pm. Fun activities, cultural and arts performances are also very exciting.

The “shoulder season”: Spring and autumn, the weather is not so perfect as the peak season. But the travel cost is slightly lower and tourists are less. Spring has a number of Austrian public holidays. In the autumn, you have the opportunity to participate in wine festivals and Harvest Festival of local people.

Winter in Innsbruck is not a good time to travel and explore. It is cold and also dark quickly, it is only 4pm and it starts to get dark. However, if you planning a trip, you can choose the end of November and December, the Christmas market in Innsbruck opens quite early, and experience its winter (skiing, winter activities…).

Innsbruck travel guide: How to get to Innsbruck?

You can fly to Innsbruck via Kranebitten Airport . This is the airport serving for the entire Tyrol region in western Austria. The airport is located in the west and 4km from the city center. The routes connecting to Innsbruck Airport include London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Edinburgh…

From the airport you can catch a bus, taxi or other airport transfer services to get to city center. Bus line F right outside of the airport will take you to Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof central station in just 20 minutes. Bus runs every 10 minutes / trip and costs € 2.90 / trip.

The most convenient way to get to Innsbruck is by train. You can book tickets on the website of ÖBB or Trainline . The travel time from Vienna to Innsbruck is about 4-5 hours, or from Salzburg is about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Due to Austria is located in the heart of western Europe, Innsbruck is a very convenient place for you to arrange your itinerary. For example, if you want to take the train from some Italian cities such as Florence, Milan to German cities, or Switzerland, the travel time will be very long. So, you can spend 1-2 nights in Innsbruck during these journeys.

Innsbruck travel blog: Transportation in Innsbruck

Public transport.

Bus: There are more than 20 bus lines serving all day and night in the city of Innsbruck. Which including 11 night bus lines running from 11PM to 5AM the next morning. If you want to take a quick tour around Innsbruck, you can get on the Sightseer bus – Hop on-Hop off. This bus passes many attractions such as Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle), Bergisel and Alpenzoo (Alpine Zoo) from the city center.

Trams: There are 4 lines operating in the city. Line 1 and line 3 run in the city while line 6 departs from the ending point of line 1 in Bergisel. This line 6 takes you to Igls village and passing many beautiful view spots along the way.

Tickets and travel passes

Traveling in the Tyrol region is quite convenient by train and Innsbruck is the region’s capital. There are 3 main railway companies including IVB for Innsbruck, VVT for Tyrol and the national railway of ÖBB. The VVT ​​ticket you can use for the IVB system while traveling in Innsbruck and there is an additional surcharge. Public transport in Innsbruck includes tram and bus with the following tickets:

Single ticket: Used to travel between points in the center (Kernzone), ticket price is €2.40 and surcharge of €0.60 if you buy on tram / bus. This ticket can be purchased at IVB Customer Center, ticket vending machines or buy directly from the driver. You can buy 8 trip ticket with 25% cheaper price.

24-Hour ticket: Valid within 24 hours as soon as you validate on the bus / tram for €5.60. With this ticket you get unlimited travel within 24 hours in the Kernzone, buy at the same places as single ticket or buy via IVB’s app ( Android , iOS ). Another ticket call 24-Hour 2-Plus for 2 adults and 3 children up to 15 years old, priced at €8.10.

Innsbruck Card is a great card choice with 24, 48 and 72 hour options. With this card you get unlimited travel and free access to a number of attractions and museums, including the cable car to the top of Nordkette as well as the hop-on hop-off bus. Prices for 24h, 48h and 72h types are €43, €50 and €59 respectively. You can buy online here .

Austria Innsbruck City Card Plus .

Innsbruck blog: What and where to eat?

Some of the restaurants serving outstanding traditional food in Tyrol – Innsbruck such as the Weisses Rössl ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) hotel and restaurant (Address: Kiebachgasse 8, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria) or Stiftskeller (Address: Stiftgasse 1-7, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria/Hours: 10AM–12AM) is located in an ancient monastery. Another restaurant you should try is Ottoburg (Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria/Hours: 11:30AM–2:30PM, 6PM–12AM) , one of the oldest restaurants here serving traditional Austrian cuisine.

Regarding of cuisine, you must definitely try Tiroler Gröstl. Simply a dish of mixed potatoes with fried meat and topped with a half-fried egg with. Just look, it’s so delicious, and the energy is full.

Another very popular traditional dish in Innsbruck is the Strudel apple pie, which is quite suitable for breakfast. This cake consists of thin layers of sponge cake rolled up and filled with apple inside, quite similar to the Trdelnik Donut in Prague but the crust is much thinner. You can easily find this cake in the lovely cafes in the Old Town.

Eating at Innsbruck Christmas Market

A very interesting place for you to experience street food, as well as Innsbruck cuisine is the Markthalle Innsbruck market. If you come here in Christmas, local people will set up a series of stalls and shops for Christmas market. You can try a lot of street food, or simply sipping a glass of Rum is also very interesting.

Address: Herzog-Siegmund-Ufer 1-3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Hours: 7AM–6:30PM/Saturday: 7AM–1PM/Sunday: Closed

See also: How to spend 1 day in Vienna, Austria.

Innsbruck travel blog: Where to stay?

In my trip to Innsbruck, I had stayed for 2 nights in an Airbnb apartment which was quite good. This apartment is located in the quiet of Müllerstraße, right next to the center of Innsbruck. Inside is fully equipped, large room with double bed, including both sofa and television like in a hotel. Price at EUR44/night, you can book through this Airbnb link .

If you want to stay in the heart of the city with a beautiful view, you definitely cannot miss the STAGE 12 Hotel by Penz ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) . Inside, there is a large campus, and the rooms overlooks the snow-covered mountains of Tirol region.

If you love vintage style but luxury, you can choose the Best Western Plus Hotel Goldener Adler ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) . Design style bearing bold historical image of Tyrol from the 1390s. Many outstanding figures such as Mozart, Goethe and Royal members have stayed here.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Innsbruck , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $150/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Adlers Hotel , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $142/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Hotel Mondschein , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $142/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

There are many good hotel deals in this city, you can check on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Innsbruck blog: What to do and best places to visit?

Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte)

Triumphpforte was built in 1765, is the gateway to Innsbruck’s Old Town. Right after Leopold’s wedding, Queen Maria Theresa’s second son to the Spanish princess, Leopold’s father passed away. This work depicts the wedding and the death of the emperor.

Address: Leopoldstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Hours: Open 24 hours

Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof)

This golden roof building and museum is located in a small street in the Old Town. This is a bustling and crowded neighborhood, but Golden Roof stands out with 2,657 sparkling gold-plated copper tiles. You can enter the museum, but to step out onto the balcony you will have to buy a ticket. Right next to the Golden Roof is Helbling Haus featuring a unique architecture reminiscent of Gaudi’s works in Barcelona.

Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Hours: 10AM–5PM

Other attractions in Old Town

Nothing is more interesting than wandering around the small streets of Old Town. Watching the stalls and shops selling souvenirs, street food. Also you can visit other famous spots like the Hofburg Imperial Palace, City Tower and the Gothic achitecuture of Court Church (Hofkirche mit Silberner Kapelle).

The Hofburg Imperial Palace is a historical witness to the ages of the Austrian Royal Family and the changes of this land. Inside the palace there are both a museum and conference area. Admission is €9.5 / adult, but it is free if you have a Innsbruck Card . Also Sunday is a family day, free for kids and young people, accompany 2 adults.

Colorful houses by the River Inn

The image of the colorful houses at the foot of the snow-capped Nordkette mountain is really a symbol of Innsbruck. What’s more wonderful than walking along the River Inn, watching the majestic houses and mountains of Austria. Enjoy the rhythm of the people living with the breath of Innsbruck.

Bergisel Ski Jump

Right across from the Old Town you can explore the Bergisel Olympic Ski Jump. This sports complex has hosted many Winter Olympics, with stadiums for football, figure skating, and ski-related sports … With its location on a hill not too high, but enough for a panoramic view of Innsbruck.

Address: Bergiselweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Hours: 9AM–4PM/Monday, Tuesday: Closed

Tirol Panorama Museum

If you hike up the Innsbruck Ski Jump complex, you will find the Tirol Panorama museum. The museum is a witness of history and is depicted on a giant painting up to 1.000 square meters wide. The ticket price is €9.00 to visit the museum, and €12.00 for the 5 museum complex including Ferdinandeum, Museum of Regional Heritage, Armory, Court Church, Tirol Panorama.

Address: Bergisel 1-2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria Hours: 9AM–5PM/Tuesday: Closed

Amusement parks and night bars in Innsbruck

If you are interested in the bustle of amusement parks, restaurants and bars, you cannot miss Historical City Center. Travel to Innsbruck and experience the wide selection of Craft Beer in Trobaun, or cafes like Max Standard and Crema. The people of Innsbruck are very excited, they often sit in small groups together and chatting all evening.

Mountain climbing, experience nature while traveling to Innsbruck

Take the train to hungerburg.

Innsbruck is a paradise for outdoor activities in the snow. It has the Nordkette mountain range covered with white snow. You can easily take the train halfway up the mountain at Hungerburg Station. This station is almost an ecological park with entertainment services, and you can enjoy panoramic views of Innsbruck with a telescope.

The train departs from Innsbruck at Hungerburgbahn Löwenhaus station, goes deep underground and then up the mountain to Hungerburgbahn station. Along the way you can visit the Alpenzoo Innsbruck zoo, with the unique architecture of the station. Ticket price to Hungerburg EUR6/trip and EUR11/round-trip.

Take the cable car to the top of Nordkette

If you love snowy peaks and have plenty of time, you must go to the top of Nordkette. From Hungerburgbahn station you buy a cable car ticket to the top of the mountain, passing Seegrube station and finally Hafelekar station. Cable car is open every day and every 15 minutes with a trip. The fare from the foot of Mount Löwenhaus up to Hafelekar is EUR22.8/one-way and EUR38 for round trip. Full information on ticket prices for each route can be found here .

Hafelekar Station is located at an altitude of 2.256m, with beautiful snow-capped mountains. Winter here is surrounded by a white snow color, if you go on a sunny day, it’s really stunning! At the top is an observatory called Hafelekarspitze. You will have to climb a bit to the east to reach it, the path is not too bad but the narrow slopes, so you need to be careful.

Innsbruck travel itinerary: Suggested on how to spend 3 days in Innsbruck?

Day 1 – take the train to innsbruck.

10PM: Take the train to Innsbruck, check in the Airbnb apartment in Innsbruck. Since I went in winter near Christmas it is quite cold, the streets are quieter except for the Christmas markets.

Day 2 – Visiting downtown

• 9AM-10AM: Wander around Markthalle Innsbruck market and have breakfast here too.
• 10AM-11AM: Morning stroll around the river Inn.
• 11AM-2PM: Visit Old Town, see Triumphal Arch, Golden Roof, Hofburg Imperial Palace,
• City Tower. Lunch at Old Town.
• 2PM-5PM: Visit the Bergisel Olympic Ski Jump and Tirol Panorama Museum.
• 5PM-8PM: Dinner at Historical City Center.

Day 3 – Day for mountain climbing

• 8AM-9AM: Breakfast
• 9AM-11AM: Take the train to Hungerburg, panoramic view of Innsbruck. There are a number of cafes and restaurants here for resting and relax.
• 11AM-2PM: Cable car ride to Seegrube.
• 2PM-4PM: Continue to take the cable car to Hafelekar, the highest stop. Surrounding are majestic mountain scenery covered in white snow.
• 4PM: I took the cable car to get down the mountain, then went back to the apartment to get the luggage to continue moving to another city.

For spots in the central area, walking is enough. On the day climbing to the mountain you should buy a Innsbruck Card , priced at EUR58.19, but get free cable car ride to the top of the mountain, take hop-on hop-off bus tours and other attractions and museums in Innsbruck.

Innsbruck blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Innsbruck you can refer to

• Austria Innsbruck City Card Plus
• Cable Car Round-Trip Ticket to the Top of Innsbruck
• Hungerburg Funicular Round Trip Ticket from Innsbruck
• Innsbruck City Tower Ticket

Are you looking for more top things to do in Innsbruck: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here .

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Plan your sightseeing and activities with our recommendations. explore attractions, book tours, and immerse yourself in the local culture., places to stay, find the perfect place to stay. whether you prefer boutique hotels, luxury resorts, or budget hostels, we have recommendations for you., food & drink, explore the local culinary scene, from breakfast to michelin-starred restaurants. sip cocktails, savor desserts, and discover the best local markets..

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

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

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

Understand [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

Climate [ edit ]

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

Tourist information [ edit ]

• Innsbruck tourism website

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Regular scheduled flights are available from:

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

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

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

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

By train [ edit ]

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

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

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

See Austria#Discounts for fare deals.

By bus [ edit ]

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

By car [ edit ]

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

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

By bike [ edit ]

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

Get around [ edit ]

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

On foot [ edit ]

The classic walk into old Innsbruck follows.

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

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

By public transport [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

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

By S-Bahn [ edit ]

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

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

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

See [ edit ]

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

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

Churches and cathedrals [ edit ]

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

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

Castles and palaces [ edit ]

Buildings [ edit ].

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

Memorials [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ]

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

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

Parks [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

Winter sports [ edit ]

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

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

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

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

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

Games [ edit ]

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

• 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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Innsbruck City Info

Sign up to our newsletter, things to do, innsbruck, austria » city info » travel tips.

Innsbruck is a beautiful city famous for its natural scenery and as a cultural capital of the federal state of Tyrol in Austria. There are two famous tourist attractions in the city, which cannot be missed out on even during short vacations, namely, Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) and Imperial Palace. This city is home to world-class art collections, museums, castles, churches, galleries, and boutiques. Besides the cultural city, it is the best place to enjoy winter sports like skiers, free riders, snowboarders, ice sports, winter hiking, snowshoeing, and summer sports.

Innsbruck has a low crime rate, and therefore it is considered as the safest city in Austria. However, it doesn't mean that there are no petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching. It is advised to take precautions for your belongings and obey the rules while skiing on the slopes of Alpine.

Smoking is banned in public places and educational institutions. But there are no strict rules about smoking at workplaces, bars and restaurants. Smoke-free legislation is passed to reduce smoking in public areas. So it is advised to ask the waiter before lighting up the cigarette in restaurants or bars.

Usually, service charges and taxes are included in the bills of the restaurants, cafes, or bars. It is a routine to round up the amount of the bills just like other European cities. Extra tipping can be given to appreciate the excellent service given by the restaurants. Moreover, it becomes obvious to give tips in the form of coins or cash if credit cards are used to pay bills. Tipping is not mandatory for taxi drivers, as it is already added to the total amount of the fares.

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I’m a travel expert. These are 5 things I would never do when planning a trip

Traveling is one of life’s great joys — from seeing new places to meeting people from another culture, seeing the wider world is something to be treasured. But even the most experienced travelers can find some moments stressful.

On May 8, travel journalist Mark Ellwood joined TODAY to talk about some of his best tips after a lifetime of living out of his own suitcase.

He offered five things he would never do if you want your trip to go off without a hitch.

1. Travel without insurance

Ellwood says that travel insurance is often very low cost and can save you in a pinch.

“It’s the same price as a cup of coffee per day, give or take, and buys you peace of mind when something goes awry," he said.

Ellwood notes many credit cards offer built-in insurance for any trips purchased on that card but he is also a fan of travelinsurance.com or insuremytrip.com. Both are marketplaces where you can shop around for the best plan.  

2. Overlook considering all airports

While it might not be the most convenient, Ellwood suggests checking the wider metropolitan area for flights at nearby airports.

“Look for airports nearby — you might score a deal better by searching for, perhaps, Stewart, New York, rather than Newark, (New Jersey)," he said. "Always check nearby airports to both your point of origin and destination.”

3. Exclude lesser-known carriers

“Don’t forget lesser-known carriers," Ellwood says, adding that Breeze Airways his is go-to carrier. He notes that Breeze's home bases are in the southeast and include the following:

“Don’t forget lesser-known carriers,” Ellwood says, adding that Breeze Airways his is go-to carrier. He notes that Breeze’s home bases are in the Southeast and include the following:

• Charleston, South Carolina
• Tampa, Florida
• Norfolk, Virginia
• New Orleans, Louisiana
• Fort Myers, Florida

4. Neglect geotagging luggage

There's no worse feeling while traveling than waiting for your luggage to appear on the baggage carousel, only for it to never materialize.

But geotagging your luggage can at least help you track it down.

“Geotag your luggage — whether AirTag or similar," Ellwood says. "You’ll always know where your luggage is ... or isn’t."

If your bag doesn't make it to your final destination, you can always tell the airline where it is to help them track it down. 

5. Think there’s a magic time to book a flight

Despite years of rumors, there's really no day or time that's best to book your travel.

“There is no magic day date time to score a deal," Ellwood says. "Instead, the best time is whenever you receive an alert that your route’s gone on sale."

The way to do this is to track your flights ahead of booking them. Ellwood suggests using Google Flights — just type in where and when you're looking to fly, then toggle the alert tab so you'll be notified of any changes.

"This allows you to watch how much it’ll cost and swoop in the moment an airline cuts the price when you want to fly," he says. 

Sam Kubota is a senior digital editor and journalist for TODAY Digital based in Los Angeles. She joined NBC News in 2019.

The Rick Steves guide to life

Travel mogul. Philanthropist. Legal weed champion. The real Rick Steves is so much more complex than who you see on TV.

EDMONDS, Wash. — At first glance, it is hard to tell that Rick Steves is protesting.

In the center of his hometown, America’s favorite travel host is perched on the edge of a fountain roundabout engaging in some friendly civil disobedience. As cars circle the intersection, Steves smiles and waves, looking more like an Elf on a Shelf than an angry picketer. This is his way of reminding people he wishes they’d stop driving here.

Steves’s family moved to Edmonds when he was 12, and the 68-year-old is still happy to call it home. Rather than relocate to his beloved Europe, he dreams of bringing some European sensibilities to the edge of the Puget Sound, less than 20 miles north of Seattle.

When he’s not traveling around Europe, writing about Europe or running his multimillion-dollar European tour company, the prolific TV host and author likes to squeeze in some local activism. The roundabout routine is his push to block off Edmonds’s very American Main Street for pedestrians. If you squint at it, you can see what Steves sees: This would be the perfect place for a lively town square.

“I like a lot of things about Europe, but I love the urban energy of Europe. I love the piazza,” Steves said in a wistful tone you might recognize from PBS. “We don’t have a piazza.”

Unfortunately for Steves, the voting majority of the city does not love the idea of parking their SUVs farther away to shop. So despite his Boy Scout enthusiasm, the most famous man in Edmonds must keep up the perch-and-wave. This is not his only crusade.

Spend any amount of time with Steves, and you’ll encounter a total ham who loves a zany bit. But if you ask him about serious issues such as car-free zones, he’ll bring up other causes that are dear to him: affordable housing, supporting the arts, creating senior centers for the elderly to age with dignity.

He’s anti-Trump and pro-cannabis. He does not care if that is bad for business.

The average Rick Steves fan has probably missed this side of him. On TV, they see an always-sunny history lover who makes going abroad feel approachable for the average American. That’s an incomplete picture, like thinking you know Paris because you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower on YouTube.

Meet him in Edmonds, and he’ll fill in the rest.

It may look like a lot of gallivanting, but being Rick Steves takes a lot of work.

He spends three months of the year overseas, researching, writing, recording, refining tours, updating guidebooks. If he’s not planning or producing content, he’s often doing promotional events across the United States. This year, Steves is celebrating the 40th edition of his first book, “Europe Through the Back Door.” Over the course of his career, he has built a privately held company that generates $120 million in revenue a year, published 110 books, filmed 12 seasons of “Rick Steves’ Europe” and produced more than 750 podcast episodes.

“It’s just like coordinating a three-ring circus,” Steves said.

That is: really fun, sort of exhilarating and extremely complicated. To pull this off, Steves does not observe the French 35-hour workweek. He’s a workhorse with a reputation for keeping a frenetic pace year-round.

“It’s more of an American work culture,” Amy Duncan, Steves’s communications director, told me. “He’s an unapologetic capitalist, but he is also a socialist.”

He makes enough money to fly first class, but he sits in only economy, claiming that he doesn’t mind being cramped.

“It never occurred to me that I’m suffering,” he said. “As long as I’ve got an aisle and a seat that reclines, I’m happy.”

Actually, Steves believes airlines should have only one class. It’s part of his egalitarian worldview. He’s also anti-points and anti-miles, refusing to sign up for airline loyalty programs because he believes that they bully us into complicating our lives.

Steves also enforces a self-imposed “ carbon tax ” on his tour company, which takes more than 30,000 people to Europe annually. For every customer, Steves invests $30 to atone for emissions created by their flights between the United States and Europe. Last year, that added up to $1 million donated to a portfolio of organizations, Steves said.

“I don’t need to be a slave to the quarterly profit statement. I want to be around and profitable in 10 years from now in a world that you can travel in that’s stable,” Steves said. “This is a smart investment, and it’s an ethical expense that I should pay for.”

Rick Steves will tell you he’s motivated by making money; the more he can earn, the more good he can do with it.

“Vicarious consumption, that’s one of my things,” Steves said.

After amassing a windfall from the 2001 George W. Bush tax cuts for high earners, Steves donated $1 million to support the local symphony and performing arts center. In 2005, he used retirement savings to buy a 24-unit apartment complex for the local YWCA’s use as transitional housing for women and children. He figured he’d eventually sell the complex and live on the earnings. About a decade later, he changed his mind and donated the complex valued at $4 million.

He also gave more than $4 million to help build the Edmonds Waterfront Center, a vibrant gathering place for seniors where his daughter had her wedding in 2021. And he gave another $2 million for a similar center in the nearby city of Lynnwood, which broke ground in mid-April .

“Rick puts his money where his mouth is,” said Nancy Leson, a former Seattle Times food critic who used to let Steves’s daughter babysit her son. She has appreciated his regular presence in the community, which has entailed hosting events for local politics at his house and shopping at the farmers market .

“He changed travel,” local resident Karen Howe said on her way into the Waterfront Center with a friend. She has used Steves’s guidebooks for years. “He’s introduced us to places that most of us would never think of going.”

Steves hasn’t won his piazza battle, but he has brought European touches to Edmonds. At the Rick Steves’ Europe headquarters, there’s an E.U. flag hanging from the mocha brick facade. And gargoyles that drain rainwater, just like at the Notre Dame cathedral.

“Gargoyles scare away evil spirits,” Steves points out, unable to suppress his inner tour guide.

Here Steves employs more than 100 people: editors, audio producers, tour specialists and cartographers such as Dave Hoerlein, his first employee. That’s excluding the fleet of guides and drivers he contracts across the pond to shepherd tour customers.

Inside, he bounds through a maze of cubicles, his neck craned forward, always at an eager pace. His 6-foot frame appears leaner than in previous seasons of his life, but his signature look is familiar. No, not khakis and a button-down. That’s vintage Rick. These days, he wears dark jeans and a button-down, plus a thin scarf and leather sneakers.

During a day of meetings, Steves’s fjord-blue eyes lit up at the minutia of the business. He went over new maps with Hoerlein. He and longtime co-author Cameron Hewitt addressed problems such as finding a “less glitzy” stop on the Amalfi Coast that’s not Sorrento. They discussed whether a place is worth visiting after it’s gotten too popular, and Steves indulged in some gallows humor.

“It’s going to be like holding the corpse of a loved one who just died,” he said.

His critics argue that the “Rick Steves Effect” can turn a charming village, restaurant or museum into a tourist magnet. Matthew Kepnes, the travel writer behind the blog Nomadic Matt , points to the Swiss town Zermatt, which he says Steves put on the map, and has since dealt with overtourism . You’re bound to bump into groups with Rick Steves guidebooks in Italy’s increasingly crowded Cinque Terre.

Whether Steves is actually to blame for changing a place is up for debate. There are plenty of destinations he’s covered that haven’t been inundated with swarms of Americans (see also: Gdańsk).

Steves says he assesses whether a place wants tourism, if it can handle it gracefully. If it doesn’t or can’t, he may mention it but not promote it.

He has faith — maybe too much — that his clients share his values.

“Does [my work] change the personality of a town? It can. Am I a dramatic impact on Europe? No,” he said.

“There’s a handful of places I really promote aggressively that I’ve had a serious impact on, but otherwise ... my travelers are the kind of people that take only pictures and leave only footprints. ... They’re good travelers.”

You don’t have to spend much time in Edmonds to see why Steves never considered leaving.

The city — population roughly 42,000 — sits on a majestic inlet. You can get to a major international airport in about an hour. The community is so courteous, it has an “umbrella share” program in case people forget their own on a rainy day. As Steves walks around town, he greets people by name. He lives within walking distance to both his favorite diner and a pétanque court, the French answer to Italian bocce. He plays bongos at his church on Sundays.

In 1967, Richard “Dick” Steves moved the family here because he was worried about Rick Junior.

“I was hanging out with dangerous kids and going down the wrong trail,” Steves said. Seriously.

His dad, an Army veteran, got by in the upscale suburb as a piano technician and importer. When Steves was 14, his parents dragged him on a work trip to Europe to visit piano factories; it was a radical experience that sparked his lifelong passion for travel.

Back in Edmonds, Steves started teaching piano, eventually turning his savings into trips abroad of his own — not only to Europe, but also to Turkey, Nepal, Afghanistan. He went to college nearby, earning degrees in European history and business from the University of Washington, where he played in the Husky Marching Band.

After graduating, Steves figured he could keep up his routine: give piano lessons during the school year, then travel during the summer. He started teaching travel classes in the same recital hall where his piano students performed. This was back when there was no internet and there were few guidebooks to consult for trip planning.

The classes were a hit. At 25, Steves turned his lecture materials into a 180-page book, and self-published “Europe Through the Back Door,” in 1980.

Four years later, he hosted his first European minibus tour group, serving as both bus driver and guide.

His businesses have evolved; his bus tours now take up to 28 travelers, a number Steves says is a sweet spot between making the tour more affordable yet enjoyable for customers and profitable for the company. But his mission has remained the same: to be the best resource for European travel and help Americans travel better.

“I just focus on that and I love it,” he said. “It takes my life out of balance — which is not good — but it lets me do a lot of stuff that I believe in and that’s good.”

Steves has been open about the challenges of being a travel mogul. As he built his empire, he was also raising a family. Being “married” to both took a toll. In 2010, Steves and his wife, Anne, divorced after 25 years of marriage.

Up the hill from his junior high, Rick Steves’s modest beige home offers a window into his many lives. There are family photos on the walls, from older relatives to his baby grandson, Atlas. He hosts political fundraisers on the sprawling deck. A painting of Kerala, India, nods to one of his favorite countries. (People forget that Steves did four editions of “Asia Through the Back Door.”)

Next to his grand piano, there’s a stuffed creature that Steves calls his “Silver Fox” baring its teeth and wearing novelty sunglasses with cannabis leaves on the lenses — a nod to two of his interests: taxidermy and marijuana activism.

“It’s the civil liberties. … It’s the racism. … Everything about it is wrong,” he said of keeping weed illegal.

As for the toothy fox, Steves doesn’t do typical souvenirs anymore, but he makes an exception for stuffed animals.

“The wooden shoes and the pewter Viking ships are so obvious,” he said. “I like to do something a little more organic and a little more striking, and it takes me back there — I like it.”

He’s a very good piano player. He can also play the sousaphone and the trumpet — which he did regularly during the pandemic, performing taps for his neighbors at sunset.

The coronavirus was a nightmare for the travel business, but a miracle for Steves’s love life.

After running in the same social circles for years, he and Shelley Bryan Wee, a prominent local bishop, started dating at the end of 2019. They had a lot in common. Both are progressive Lutherans. Both are divorced with adult children. But neither worked a typical 9-to-5, and one of them spent three months of the year in Europe.

Then shutdowns happened. Steves, who couldn’t remember whether he’d ever had dinner in the same place 10 nights in a row, spent 100 nights at the same table with Wee. It solidified their relationship.

“Shelley is a constant,” Steves said. He still struggles with the balancing act between work and love.

When the stars align and they’re both in Edmonds, Wee cooks, and Steves plays sous-chef. They walk Jackson, Wee’s labradoodle, creating their own version of the passeggiata, Italy’s traditional evening stroll. They play table tennis before dinner.

When the world reopened, they started traveling together. They’ve made time for a few big vacations: a trip to Morocco, where they were caught in a windstorm that blew the windows out of their car; a luxury barge cruise through Burgundy, France, “that was embarrassingly expensive,” Steves confessed, followed by a week hiking in the Swiss Alps; and another hiking trip between remote lodges on Mont Blanc.

Before their first trip, Steves edited the contents of Wee’s suitcase, because packing light is part of his philosophy.

“What do you say?” she asked. “You’re talking to Rick Steves.”

Editing by Gabe Hiatt. Additional editing by Amanda Finnegan. Design editing by Christine Ashack. Photo editing by Lauren Bulbin. Videos by Monica Rodman. Senior video producer: Nicki DeMarco. Design by Katty Huertas. Copy editing by Jamie Zega.

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Wealth of Geeks

12 Travel Tips That Experts Wish More Tourists Knew About

Posted: April 11, 2024 | Last updated: April 11, 2024

While there are many ways to research travel, the internet doesn’t replace experience. Traveling can be a hobby or mandatory for work, but regardless of why you are traveling, it’s imperative to know the best ways to do it.

Likewise, traveling can be as fun as it is stressful. If you’re a tourist in a new city or town, the travel experts out there will say you stick out like a sore thumb. 

Some tips travel experts picked up over the years could save you money and time.

1. Avoid Third-Party Booking Sites

This is a trap that I’ve fallen into myself. I used Alternative Airlines because they offered some great payment options.

However, they’re located in the U.K., so if you need to make any changes, don’t expect a quick response. Book directly with the airline you plan to use for the best customer service and guaranteed straight answers. 

2. Use Your 24-Hour Booking Grace Period

You can cancel your ticket for a full refund within 24 business hours of booking. If you booked on a Friday or Saturday, you’ve got until Monday to cancel. This grace period is airline-dependent, so you should check the booking policy of your carrier.

Sometimes, airlines automatically give you flight credits when obligated to provide a refund. It’s always worth reading the fine print and contacting customer service. 

3. Look for Open Jaw Tickets

You may not have heard of this strange travel term. This ticket gets its name because if you were to draw your stops on a map, it would look like an open jaw. It’s a multi-city ticket where you can stop at one or more destinations on your way to your final stop.

For example, you’ll catch a flight from New York to Rome, but with an open-jaw ticket, you can also have a layover in Barcelona. You also don’t have to fly back from Rome; you can choose a different city. 

4. Book Hotels With a Concierge

You can use the concierge if you’re staying in mid-range and luxury accommodations. A concierge will know the city and often be able to provide excellent advice on where to go and what to see.

You can contact them before booking so they know what you are looking for.

5. Get Complimentary Accommodations at Connecting Airports

This is airline-dependent, but some carriers have a policy that if there is no available connection for less than eight hours, the transit time in the airport and the layover are up to 24 hours.

Airlines offering this include Air China, China Southern Airways, Emirates Airlines, Etihad Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Jordanian, Sri Lankan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and XiamenAir. 

6. Avoid Traffic Fines and Insurance Issues When Renting a Car

The great thing about Europe is that you can easily drive from one country to another because, in many cases, there’s no ocean to cross. When renting a car, ensure all the countries you plan to visit are covered in the rental agreement.

Before renting, you should also consider any fees associated with driving from country to country. While some highways do not have tolls, others, such as in Switzerland, require a sticker on your windshield. You might get a surprise fine if you don’t have one, but don’t worry; they are easy to purchase. 

7. Avoid Hotel Cancelation Fees

Most hotels have a cancelation policy, especially if you need to cancel at short notice.

In most cases, rescheduling is complimentary, so if you reschedule your booking to a later date and then cancel 24 hours later, you’ll avoid the cancellation fee. 

8. Car Rental Through Costco

Costco doesn’t just have great prices on food. Many seasoned travelers use Costco Travel to rent cars at their chosen destinations.

You can save hundreds of dollars using Costco instead of big-name rental car agencies. 

9. Member Perks at All Inclusive Resorts

Instead of paying for memberships at all-inclusive resorts, you can book through a family member or friend’s membership. You can also search for a Facebook group dedicated to the resort you are interested in and search for “booking through a member.”

The legality of this can be tricky, so make sure you’re reading all the fine print to avoid violating terms that could make you miss your vacation and get your benefactor booted from their membership. 

10. Make Sure Your Details Match Your Passport

This one is important! When making any reservation, your details match those on your passport. It can save a lot of headaches when your documents are being checked by immigration and security.

Also, ensure that you have at least six months before your passport expires, as it’s a requirement in some countries. 

11. Ask for the Pillow Menu

Yes, some hotels have a pillow menu you can call and select from.

This is helpful to make sure you get a good night’s sleep. So many people don’t realize it exists, but it does.

12. Check for Free or Extended Stopover Programs

Some airlines let you have extended stopovers (layovers) for free. This allows travelers to explore the city they are in before they continue on their trip.

However, this is airline-specific, so research ahead of time.

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Choose your own adventure: Where to go and how to save on summer vacations

Revenge travel is so last year.

“It's not necessarily about just getting out of the house anymore,” said Sydney Stanback, Global Insights and Trends lead at Pinterest, which has seen more than 1 billion travel searches and more than 10 billion travel saves over the past year. 

Sure, many of the usual suspects are once again among the most popular destinations across multiple search engines this year, but she said this summer, “It's more so about traveling with intention.” 

According to NerdWallet’s Summer 2024 Travel Report , 45% of Americans plan to take a trip requiring a hotel stay or flight this summer with expenses averaging just under $3,600. A fifth of those travelers expect to go into debt to pay for vacations.

Here’s what to consider when booking a summer trip, including where to go, when to travel and how to save:

Learn more: Best travel insurance

What is the best place to travel in summer? 

The answer is subjective, especially this summer.

“Everyone's kind of choosing their own adventure based off of what their needs are for travel,” Stanback said. 

Pinterest’s Summer 2024 Travel Report found summer travelers are most interested in adventure, exploring mysterious or uncharted destinations, and rest. Searches for “quiet life” jumped 530%, but that doesn’t mean the same thing to everyone.

“My mother actually just took a yoga retreat to Panama,” Stanback said. “That's what she needed to do in order to get the rest that she needed and the well-being that she needed. But for me, when I think of rest and restoration, I simply think about going to a beach spa and just sitting and being by myself.”

Solo travel remains popular. Solo travel searches reached an all-time high in Google in January, but again, not for everyone.

“For Gen Z specifically, that need is to gather and reconnect with their community because they were in isolation for so long and during very meaningful moments in their lives,” Stanback said. She noted group travel and road trips are of keen interest to Gen Z.

“It's not necessarily about traveling and going out and going to restaurants and going to bars and clubs,” she added. “We actually see that a lot with younger generations. They’re kind of stepping away from that and really considering their well-being when they're taking time off.”

Where do most tourists go in summer?

Expedia’s Summer Outlook and Google Flights identified the same cities among their most searched summer 2024 destinations based on flights, though rankings varied by platform.

Top 5 domestic destinations 

◾ Orlando, Florida

◾ Los Angeles

◾ Las Vegas

Top 5 international destinations

◾ Cancun, Mexico

◾ Paris, host of the Summer Olympics

Allianz Partners found slightly different results in their analysis of “more than six million flight itineraries for trips between five and eight days in length for travel booked between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day.”

Instead of LA and Vegas, Allianz named Boston and Honolulu among this summer’s top five domestic destinations. Internationally, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Oranjestad, Aruba; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, made Allianz’s top five, instead of Rome, Paris and Tokyo.

“I am expecting crowds to rival last summer's in popular overseas cities,” Expedia’s travel expert Melanie Fish said, noting how places like Barcelona and Venice are trying to curb overtourism. “They're trying fees and if that's not enough, they're going to have to go even further.”

How can I save on a trip?

Summer trips are already costly for many travelers. “Americans with household income under $100,000 accounted for nearly half (46%) of intended leisure travel spend in summer 2023,” according to Deloitte’s Facing travel’s future report from April.

Expedia’s Fish shared five tips for booking summer 2024 vacations:

◾ Bundle your trip. Booking airfare and a hotel at the same time can earn you deep discounts.

◾ Travel midweek or later in the summer if it's an option. You'll save money and save yourself from fighting crowds. 

• ◾ Fly early in the day … The early bird who takes the first flight of the day will typically get a better price and a lower chance of delays and cancellations. ◾ Book once, earn twice. You can stack rewards from your travel credit card (and) your airline.◾ Just go. Don't pressure yourself to create the trip of a lifetime … Do it in a bite-sized chunk if possible. 

'Expensive in every way': What travelers should expect this summer

How far ahead should I book travel?

“The sweet spot is now,” Fish said. “We're within that 21- to 60-day pre-travel window to save around 15% on airfare, so now is the time to plan. That means ready, set, but maybe wait until August to actually go.”

She said travelers can save an average of $250 on international flights if they wait until the peak summer travel season passes. 

“It's 15% cheaper on average to fly domestically in August versus June, 30% cheaper to fly to Europe in late summer, and 55% cheaper to fly to Mexico and the Caribbean in August,” she said. “Of course, August is peak hurricane season , so that has something to do with that price dip.”