Innsbruck - Discovering Austria

Travelling to Innsbruck

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Innsbruck, a pretty good destination in Austria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Innsbruck and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Innsbruck, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Austria, here's everything to know about Innsbruck for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a charming city in western Austria and is the capital of the state of Tyrol. Surrounded by the stunning Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is an important cultural and economic hub in the region. It is well known for its ski resorts, historical landmarks, and unique culture. The city has a long history that dates back to the Roman Empire era, which is evident in its historical buildings and landmarks. Innsbruck hosted the Winter Olympics twice, making it a center for winter sports enthusiasts. It is also famous for its cafes, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The city has a population of around 130,000 people and attracts millions of tourists from all over the world each year.

What to visit in Innsbruck

1. Golden Roof - The Golden Roof is a famous landmark in Innsbruck, Austria. It is a three-storey balcony built in 1500 which is covered with gold-plated copper tiles. It was built by Emperor Maximilian I as a tribute to his second wife, Bianca Maria Sforza.
2. Innsbruck Cathedral - The Innsbruck Cathedral is a beautiful Baroque church located in the heart of the city. It was built in the 18th century and features stunning frescoes and statues.
3. Ambras Castle - Ambras Castle is a Renaissance castle located on a hill overlooking Innsbruck. The castle was built in the 16th century by Archduke Ferdinand II and features a beautiful collection of art, armor, and artifacts.
4. Bergisel Ski Jump - The Bergisel Ski Jump is a famous ski jumping facility that was redesigned by celebrated architect Zaha Hadid. It offers an incredible panoramic view over Innsbruck.
5. Nordkette Cable Car - The Nordkette Cable Car is an amazing way to experience the beauty of the Austrian Alps. It takes you up to 2,256 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and the city.
6. Hofkirche - Hofkirche, also known as Court Church, is a Gothic-styled church located near the Imperial Palace. It houses the magnificent tomb of Emperor Maximilian I.
7. Swarovski Crystal Worlds - Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a dazzling museum dedicated to the history and art of crystal. It features an array of crystal artworks, multimedia displays, and interactive exhibits.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Innsbruck.

When to go on holiday to Innsbruck

The best time to visit Innsbruck depends on what you are looking for. If you are interested in winter sports and skiing, the best time to go is during the winter months, from December to April. This is when the ski resorts are fully operational with plenty of fresh powder and a bustling atmosphere.
If you prefer warm weather and want to explore the outdoors to experience hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities, the best time to go is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is mild and pleasant.
The shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) can also be a great time to visit Innsbruck as the crowds are smaller and the weather can still be pleasant. However, note that some of the higher elevation attractions and activities may be closed during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Innsbruck

There are several ways to get to Innsbruck, Austria: 1. By plane: Innsbruck airport is well-connected with the rest of Europe with daily flights operated by major airlines. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center.
2. By train: Innsbruck is a major railway hub, with direct connections to Vienna, Munich, Zürich, and other major cities. The train station is located in the city center, just a short walk from the old town.
3. By bus: Several bus companies offer connections to Innsbruck from other cities in Austria and Europe.
4. By car: Innsbruck is accessible by car via the A12 motorway, which connects the city with Munich and other major cities in the region. However, be aware that parking in the city center can be expensive and challenging.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Innsbruck, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Innsbruck

Here are some typical foods of Innsbruck, Austria with a short description: 1. Tiroler Gröstl - This is a hearty dish made of fried potatoes, beef or pork, onions, and often accompanied by a fried egg on top. It’s typically served with apple sauce or pickles.
2. Kaiserschmarrn - A delicious dessert made of shredded pancakes, raisins, and almonds, topped with fruit compote, and sprinkled with powdered sugar.
3. Knödel - These are dumplings made of potato or bread, stuffed with bacon or cheese, and served with meat or vegetable dishes.
4. Zillertaler Krapfen - This is a traditional pastry filled with spinach, cheese or meat, and served with a side salad.
5. Tiroler Speck - This is a smoked bacon unique to the Tyrol region that is served with bread, cheese, and pickles.
6. Kaspressknödel - These are cheese dumplings made with bread, cheese, and onions. They are typically served in a clear broth soup.
7. Strudel - A thin pastry roll filled with apples or other fruits, and served with whipped cream or vanilla sauce.
8. Germknödel - This is a sweet, yeast dumpling filled with plum jam and topped with melted butter, poppy seeds, and sugar.
9. Kaiserkuchen - This is a rich chocolate cake flavored with apricot liqueur, and topped with chocolate glaze and marzipan.
10. Südtiroler Speckknödel - These are bread dumplings filled with speck (smoked ham), and served with sauerkraut or vegetables.
You can find general info about typical foods in Austria here.

Is Innsbruck an expensive destination for tourists?

Innsbruck can be considered as a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The prices of accommodation, food, and activities in Innsbruck are generally higher than that of many other cities in Europe. However, there are still options available for budget-conscious travelers. For example, you can find affordable guesthouses and apartments on the outskirts of the city or look for budget-friendly eateries and local markets to buy groceries. Additionally, many of Innsbruck's attractions, such as hiking and skiing, are free or relatively affordable compared to other indoor activities. Overall, it is possible to plan a budget-friendly trip to Innsbruck with careful research and budgeting.

Where to find accomodation in Innsbruck

The best areas to find accommodation in Innsbruck, Austria are the Old Town, Wilten, and Pradl. The Old Town is the historic center of Innsbruck and is home to many of the city's popular attractions such as the Golden Roof and Hofburg Palace. Wilten is a quiet residential area located just west of the Old Town and is also home to the famous Wilten Basilica. Pradl is located south of the Old Town and is a more modern area with plenty of shopping and dining options, as well as convenient access to public transportation.
You can check hotel prices at Innsbruck here:
Booking.com

Is Innsbruck a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Innsbruck is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low and the city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is always important to exercise common sense safety precautions such as staying alert in crowded places, securing your valuables and avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Austria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Innsbruck.

What type of travelers will enjoy Innsbruck the most?

Innsbruck, Austria is a beautiful city that offers something for every type of traveler. Here's a breakdown of who might enjoy it the most: 1. Couples: Innsbruck is a romantic destination with a beautiful old town and plenty of cozy restaurants to enjoy. There are also some lovely hiking trails and scenic spots for couples to explore together.
2. Young people looking for fun: Innsbruck has a vibrant nightlife scene with bars, clubs and music venues. Additionally, there are many outdoor activities for adrenaline junkies such as skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and paragliding.
3. Families: Innsbruck is a fantastic destination for families with children. There are lots of family-friendly attractions such as the Alpine Zoo, the Ambras Castle and the Swarovski Crystal World. The city also has plenty of parks and playgrounds, and many of the ski resorts in the area offer children's lessons and activities.
In summary, Innsbruck is a destination that caters to all types of travelers, and visitors of all ages and interests will find something to love.

How to get around Innsbruck

In Innsbruck, you can use various modes of transportation including buses, trams, taxis, and bicycles. The Innsbruck Card also includes free public transportation within the city. Additionally, many areas of the city are pedestrian-friendly, making walking a convenient option for getting around.

What to see around Innsbruck

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Innsbruck: 1. Salzburg: This beautiful city is located only 1.5-hour drive from Innsbruck and is well-known for its Baroque architecture, Mozart's birthplace, and the famous Mirabell Palace and Gardens.
2. Neuschwanstein Castle: This fairytale-like castle is located in Bavaria, Germany, just across the border from Austria. It is a 2-hour drive from Innsbruck and it's famous for being the inspiration for the Disney castle.
3. Garmisch-Partenkirchen: This charming mountain town is located in Germany, only 50 minutes away from Innsbruck. It's a great place for hiking, skiing or just enjoying the stunning scenery.
4. Hallstatt: This picturesque village is located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria and it is known for its history, culture and stunning views of the Hallstätter See. It's a 2.5-hour drive from Innsbruck.
5. Berchtesgaden National Park: This national park is located in Germany, about 2 hours from Innsbruck. It's a great place for hiking, nature walks, and enjoying the beautiful Alpine scenery. The park also features the famous Königssee lake.
6. Kufstein: This town is located in Austria, only 30 minutes away from Innsbruck. It's known for its beautiful castle, the Kufstein Fortress, and its charming old town.
For every travel information about Austria you can click here.

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