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.

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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

Wondering what Innsbruck means? Well, it comes from two German words. Inn, means ‘a river’, and brücke, is ‘a bridge’. So, Innsbruck literally means “bridge over the (River) Inn”.

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 almost 450 years, the Stadtturm (Town Tower) is a 15th-century medieval tower where guards would keep watch over the city of Innsbruck in the Middle Ages in order to warn citizens dangers such as fire.

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

Located next door is Innsbruck’s most famous landmark, the Golden Roof (German: Goldenes Dachl). Located in the Old Town (German: Altstadt) the roof of this late Gothic oriel is decorated with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles which, when the sun touches it, is an incredible sight.

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
Check the official Innsbruck tourism website for more details

4. Visit the Court Church (Hofkirche)

The Hofkirche is a Gothic church erected by Ferdinand I in memory of his grandfather Emperor Maximilian I. The church houses the empty tomb of the Emperor which is surrounded by 28 bronze statues representing the Emperor’s ancestors and his heroes of antiquity. It is also known by locals as “Schwarzmander Church” (Black men church). Maximilian is actually buried in a church Wiener Neustadt some 500 km away and south of Vienna. The reason being that the Hofkirche wasn’t strong enough to hold the weight of the Emperor’s elaborate tomb.

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

St. Anne’s Column (German: Annasäule) is a monument erected in 1704 in gratitude of the last Bavarian troops who were driven from Tyrol on St. Anne’s Day (26 July in 1703), as part of the War of the Spanish Succession. To commemorate this event, the column was made by Trient sculptor, Cristoforo Benedetti, who used red marble and placed four statues of different saints on the base. Towering above them at the top is a statue of Mary representing the Woman of the Apocalypse.

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.

Alpenzoo

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.

Hungerburg

The next stop is Hungerburg, a quaint and old historic town which sits 2,820 feet or 860 metres high. The views from here wonderful and are cloud-free 350 days a year and during Christmas is home to the Panorama Christmas market. But wait, there’s more!

Seegrube

At Hungerburg, you’ll change for the panorama gondola which takes you even higher up the mountains to 6,250 feet or 1,905-metre-high to Seegrube. The view from here will make your heart stop it’s so beautiful. You’ll see the entire Central Inn Valley, the Stubai and Zillertal Alps, and even as far as the Italian border!

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

Just when you think you couldn’t go any higher, there is a second gondola that climbs to a dizzying 7,400 feet or 2,256 metres to Hafelekar. Welcome to the ‘Top of Innsbruck’! This is the highest I’ve ever been and it blew my mind – the wind almost blew me over too is was so windy!

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.
Opening times:
- 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

Admission: Entrance to the Alpine Zoo is free with the Innsbruck City Card or 43,00 € for the Top of Innsbruck Plus Pass which includes zoo admission, and cable car pass to the Top of Innsbruck. Alternatively, you can buy single tickets:
- 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
Check the official Nordkette website for more details

8. Visit the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage (Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum)

Located adjacent to the Court Church (Hofkirche) is the Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage home to the most important collection of cultural artifacts from Tyrol. Exhibits include Tyrolean folk art, with old handicrafts, household items, religious and secular folk art, carnival masks, traditional costumes and 18th-century nativity scenes.

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
Address: Universitätsstraße 2, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Check the official Museum of Tyrolean Regional Heritage website for more details

9. Visit the Tyrolean State Museum (Ferdinandeum)

The Tylorean State Museum, also known as the Ferdinandeum after Archduke Ferdinand, is the third oldest national Museum of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The museum follows Tyrols history from prehistoric times and the Roman era through to the Early Middle Ages and the modern era.

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

In the 19th century, before the introduction of film people would flock to see huge 360° paintings inside a cylindrical platform, these are called cycloramas. The most popular of which would travel from city to city to provide local entertainment — just like movies today. The viewer would stand in the center of the painting and oftentimes music would place alongside a and a narrator telling the story of the event depicted.

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)

After visiting the Tirol Panorama, I highly recommend the 2.2-kilometer Panorama Loop Trail that encircles Bergisel Mountain. You’ll walk along a lovely forested path that winds through the valley before crossing a couple of bridges, a small waterfall, the Drachenfelsen observation deck, before finishing up the Bergisel Ski Jump.

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

After finishing up your walk, head to the Bergisel Ski Jump and visit the rooftop observation deck for gorgeous views of the Innsbruck centre and the Nordkette mountains. It’s a breathtaking view. To get there, hop on the elevator and in two minutes you’ll be 250 meters above Innsbruck!

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)

Triumphpforte is a Roman-inspired triumphal arch that was built by the order of Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century. In the lead up to the wedding of her son Archduke Leopold, the Empress had the medieval city gate at the entrance to Innsbruck’s historic old town demolished so that the stone could be used to build this Triumphal Arch.

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

Who knew that Swarovski actually comes from Austria? Just outside of Innsbruck in Wattens, the Swarovski company was founded by Daniel Swarovski in 1895 and for their 100th anniversary, multimedia artist Andre Heller was commissioned to design a museum with fourteen Chambers of Wonder housed inside a giant.

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)

Perched on one of Innsbruck’s hills in the city centre is the Ambras Castle the former residence of Archduke Ferdinand II from 1563 to 1595. Archduke Ferdinand II is considered one of the most prominent collectors of the Habsburgs who collected what he considered, “wonders of nature”. He had the medieval castle converted into the Renaissance castle you see today in order to house these valuable, rare and unique objects from around the world in what is now called the Chamber of Art and Wonders.

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

The Imperial Palace (German: Kaiserliche Hofburg), is a former Habsburg palace in Innsbruck’s city centre and, one of the three most important cultural landmarks in Austria alongside the Schönbrunn Castle in Vienna. This huge white palace was built by Archduke Siegmund around 1460 serving as the seat of the Tyrolean sovereigns. The palace was later redesigned in Baroque style between 1754 and 1773 by Empress Maria Theresa.

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.
Last admission is at 16:30
Address: Wilhelm-Greil-Straße 23, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
Check the official AUDIOVERSUM – Science Center website for more details

19. Go skiing

Let’s be honest, most travellers come to Innsbruck for its excellent skiing conditions and resorts. From Innsbruck’s Golden Roof to its White Roof, it doesn’t take make effort or time to get from the airport to the slopes. There are 13 different ski resorts in Innsbruck and along the Stubai Valley with a total of 308 kilometres of pistes and 111 lifts and cable cars. The closest being Nordkette with 13 km of slopes, 2 cable cars, 2 restaurants, and easy city access. Then there’s the famous Stubai Glacier, the largest glacier ski resort in Austria. For more information about skiing in Innsbruck, visit the official Innsbruck tourism website.

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

Located on Innsbruck’s high street with 360-degree views over Innsbruck to the Alps, this glass-walled restaurant serves a wonderful selection of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

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

my Indigo is the perfect choice if you’re looking for something healthy on the go but want plenty of choice. Choose from creative sushi, fresh salads, spicy curries and soups with ramen, couscous or rice, organic brownies, fair trade coffee, organic juices or homemade lemonades. They offer everything from low carb, spicy or mild, vegetarian or vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free. I LOVE this place!

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.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

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.

How to get to Innsbruck

By plane

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

By train

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

By car

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

Upon exiting the airport, look out for the F bus which will take you to Innsbruck city centre. This is located to your left towards the end of the front walkway. You can buy your ticket onboard or from the ticket machine as pictured above. The ticket machine accepts card and coins. Ask the driver for help if you’re not sure which stop to get off. Remember to say Grias-di first!

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

Innsbruck is a very walkable city, however, when visiting places such as the Tirol Panorama, Bergisel Ski Jump and Ambras Castle, you may prefer to take public transportation which is free with the Innsbruck City Card along with the Sightseer Hop on-Hop off bus which will get you even closer to the attraction. There is an on-board audio guide available in eight languages providing interesting information about the sights and attractions you pass them. They even have a child-friendly version too. How fun! Check the timetable here.

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)

Start your day at the iconic Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) before climbing the medieval Stadtturm (City Tower) for incredible panoramic views. Visit the empty tomb of Emperor Maximilian I in the Gothic Hofkirche (City Church), then have lunch in the alleyways of the Altstadt.

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

Start your day but catching the free shuttle bus to Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens and have lunch at CAFÉ-terra. Head back into Innsbruck and visit Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle) and marvel at the Spanish hall. Have an aperitif at the 360° Cafe before heading out to dinner.

Day 3: Mountain Views

Start your morning with a visit to the Bergisel Ski Jump Stadium. Enjoy a coffee and apple strudel with an incredible view. Head back into town and take the Hungerburgbahn to the Alpenzoo Innsbruck to see the ibex and marmots. Continue up the Nordkette mountains and have lunch at the Alpenlounge Seegrube before heading to Hafelekar, the Top of Innsbruck for glorious mountain views and skiing in the winter.

Planning a trip and need travel insurance? Get a free quote from World Nomads here.

Watch my vlog of the Best Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

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Sources blog.tirol / Innsbruck.info / Austria.info

Over to you!

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