Innsbruck, Austria
Locavy ratings
Party
3/5
Sightseeing
Top 20
5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
2.5/5
Transport Links
2.5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
Party
3/5
Sightseeing
Top 20
5/5
Relaxation
4/5
Value
2.5/5
Transport Links
2.5/5
Experiences
4.5/5
At a glance
Innsbruck is celebrated for its outstanding hiking trails, stunning ski slopes, and breathtaking views, making it an ideal year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Party
While Innsbruck may not be known as a party hotspot, it features a variety of bars, pubs, and nightclubs to explore. The nightlife is vibrant, thanks to the local student population, making the best party scene come alive during the school year rather than in the summer months.
Sightseeing
Innsbruck offers stunning sightseeing opportunities. For breathtaking views, take the cable car up Nordkette mountain or climb the City Tower for a panoramic look at the Old Town. Don’t miss the iconic Golden Roof, the city’s most famous landmark.
Relaxation
Innsbruck is a perfect destination for relaxation. The peaceful hiking trails provide a serene escape from city life, while a leisurely stroll through the charming Old Town offers a calm and scenic experience.
Value
Innsbruck can be pricey, especially during the winter ski season. To save money, book accommodations well in advance and consider purchasing the Innsbruck Card. Staying in nearby towns is another great way to cut costs while still enjoying the region.
Transport links
Fly
Train
Drive
Fly
Innsbruck has a small international airport, but most travelers prefer flying into Munich’s larger airport, 200 km to the north. The airport bus from Munich to Innsbruck is the most convenient way to reach the city.
Train
Innsbruck is well-connected by train, with regular routes to major nearby cities like Munich, Salzburg, and Zurich. Known for its scenic train journeys, rail travel is one of the best ways to reach the city.
Drive
Renting a car is highly recommended when visiting Innsbruck, as it’s the ideal gateway to the Alps, best explored by driving. However, if you’re in Innsbruck for a city break, a car isn’t necessary thanks to its compact size and efficient public transport system.
Experiences
Innsbruck offers incredible experiences year-round, from scenic hiking trails in the Nordkette mountains to world-class skiing in the winter. Whether you seek adventure or culture, the city has something for everyone.
Best Things To Do
1. Explore Innsbruck’s Old Town
Stroll through Innsbruck’s Old Town with its cobbled streets and colorful medieval houses. The bustling Maria Theresien Street is perfect for enjoying local bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk through the streets.
2. Hiking in the Nordkette
Innsbruck is a hiker’s paradise, nestled at the foot of the Nordkette mountain range. Choose from trails of varying difficulty and take in breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps.
Wear appropriate hiking gear and bring water; some trails can be quite challenging.
3. Ride the Nordkette Cable Car
Take the cable car to the top of the Nordkette for sweeping views of Innsbruck and the Alps. Alternatively, visit the Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany, located nearby.
Buy tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
4. Discover Innsbruck’s Museums
Innsbruck is home to a variety of fascinating museums, including the Archaeological Museum, Anatomical Museum, and the Ferdinandeum, which showcases Tyrolean art and history.
Check museum opening hours, as some may close early or be closed on Sundays.
5. Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Just 20 km from Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a stunning exhibition space celebrating the Swarovski brand. Enjoy dazzling crystal exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.
Purchase combo tickets that include transportation from Innsbruck for convenience.
6. Explore the Alpine Zoo
The Alpine Zoo, the highest-altitude zoo in Europe, offers a chance to see native Alpine animals such as bears, eagles, and wolves, with a stunning mountain backdrop.
Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is on a steep hillside, and bring a jacket, as it can be cooler at the higher elevation.
7. See the Golden Roof
The Golden Roof, built in 1500, is one of Innsbruck’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the museum inside to learn about Emperor Maximilian I and his connection to the city.
The Golden Roof is located in the heart of Old Town, so combine your visit with other nearby sights.
8. Hit the Slopes for Skiing
Innsbruck is a premier skiing destination, with world-class resorts like Kitzbühel and St. Anton nearby. Alternatively, enjoy excellent skiing right in Innsbruck with local runs available.
Book ski passes and equipment in advance, especially during peak winter months.
9. Climb the City Tower
For unbeatable views of Innsbruck’s Old Town and the surrounding mountains, climb the City Tower. This historic landmark provides a great vantage point for photographers.
The tower climb is steep, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow stairs.
10. Visit St. James' Cathedral
St. James’ Cathedral, built in 1724, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with stunning tapestries and ornate interiors. It’s one of Innsbruck’s most important landmarks.
Check for mass times if you’d like to visit during a quieter period or attend a service.
1. Explore Innsbruck’s Old Town
Stroll through Innsbruck’s Old Town with its cobbled streets and colorful medieval houses. The bustling Maria Theresien Street is perfect for enjoying local bars, cafes, and restaurants.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful walk through the streets.
2. Hiking in the Nordkette
Innsbruck is a hiker’s paradise, nestled at the foot of the Nordkette mountain range. Choose from trails of varying difficulty and take in breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps.
Wear appropriate hiking gear and bring water; some trails can be quite challenging.
3. Ride the Nordkette Cable Car
Take the cable car to the top of the Nordkette for sweeping views of Innsbruck and the Alps. Alternatively, visit the Zugspitze, the highest peak in Germany, located nearby.
Buy tickets in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
4. Discover Innsbruck’s Museums
Innsbruck is home to a variety of fascinating museums, including the Archaeological Museum, Anatomical Museum, and the Ferdinandeum, which showcases Tyrolean art and history.
Check museum opening hours, as some may close early or be closed on Sundays.
5. Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Just 20 km from Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a stunning exhibition space celebrating the Swarovski brand. Enjoy dazzling crystal exhibits and interactive displays for all ages.
Purchase combo tickets that include transportation from Innsbruck for convenience.
6. Explore the Alpine Zoo
The Alpine Zoo, the highest-altitude zoo in Europe, offers a chance to see native Alpine animals such as bears, eagles, and wolves, with a stunning mountain backdrop.
Wear comfortable shoes as the zoo is on a steep hillside, and bring a jacket, as it can be cooler at the higher elevation.
7. See the Golden Roof
The Golden Roof, built in 1500, is one of Innsbruck’s most iconic landmarks. Visit the museum inside to learn about Emperor Maximilian I and his connection to the city.
The Golden Roof is located in the heart of Old Town, so combine your visit with other nearby sights.
8. Hit the Slopes for Skiing
Innsbruck is a premier skiing destination, with world-class resorts like Kitzbühel and St. Anton nearby. Alternatively, enjoy excellent skiing right in Innsbruck with local runs available.
Book ski passes and equipment in advance, especially during peak winter months.
9. Climb the City Tower
For unbeatable views of Innsbruck’s Old Town and the surrounding mountains, climb the City Tower. This historic landmark provides a great vantage point for photographers.
The tower climb is steep, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow stairs.
10. Visit St. James' Cathedral
St. James’ Cathedral, built in 1724, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, with stunning tapestries and ornate interiors. It’s one of Innsbruck’s most important landmarks.
Check for mass times if you’d like to visit during a quieter period or attend a service.
10 Things You Need to know
1.
Innsbruck Card
Consider purchasing the Innsbruck Card for free entry to top attractions and unlimited access to public transport.
6.
Sunday Closures
Many businesses close on Sundays, so plan sightseeing and shopping around this.
2.
Where to Stay
Staying in Innsbruck’s Old Town offers charm but can be pricey; nearby villages like Igls and Fulpmes provide more affordable options.
7.
Safety
Innsbruck is very safe, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
3.
When to Visit
Innsbruck is ideal year-round, offering skiing and Christmas markets in winter, and hiking trails in summer.
8.
Language
German is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
4.
Walkable City
Innsbruck’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, with most attractions within walking distance.
9.
Tipping in Austria
Tipping isn’t required, but leaving 10-15% for good service is appreciated.
5.
Weather
Innsbruck’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack for varying conditions regardless of the season.
10.
Currency
The Euro is the official currency, but card payments are widely accepted across Innsbruck.
6.
Sunday Closures
Many businesses close on Sundays, so plan sightseeing and shopping around this.
7.
Safety
Innsbruck is very safe, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
8.
Language
German is the official language, though English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
9.
Tipping in Austria
Tipping isn’t required, but leaving 10-15% for good service is appreciated.
10.
Currency
The Euro is the official currency, but card payments are widely accepted across Innsbruck.