Innsbruck, Austria’s fifth largest metropolis, may not be as well-known for tradition and classical music because the likes of Salzburg or Vienna, however its repute as a snowy winter wonderland – particularly with skiers and snowboarders – has been celebrated for hundreds of years, lengthy earlier than the town first hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964. However that doesn’t imply all one of the best issues to do in Innsbruck are winter sport targeted, and if you happen to enterprise to Austria in summer time, you’ll get pleasure from a wonderful weekend metropolis break with loads of castles, tradition, museums and mountains to maintain you busy.
Personally, I’m a lot happier up within the jagged snow-capped peaks with mountaineering boots on quite than skis, and through a protracted weekend in Innsbruck, you’ll have loads of probabilities to discover the paths throughout the town’s loftiest peaks in addition to all the things else this underrated European metropolis has to supply. With cable vehicles and funiculars virtually delivering you from the beautiful Altstadt (Outdated City) to the very best factors in round half-hour, you may simply mix a metropolis break together with your nature repair right here.
Innsbruck’s storied Outdated City is a deal with
Two days in Innsbruck is an effective period of time to get a really feel for the town and discover among the finest museums and points of interest, however if you wish to spend just a few stable days mountaineering, then I’d recommend extending this Innsbruck itinerary – particularly if you happen to additionally want to take day journeys into the magnificent countryside that makes the Tyrol area of Austria a real outside playground.
From studying in regards to the Habsburg dynasty and Tyrolean tradition to afternoons mountaineering amongst nature, right here’s how you can spend a summer time weekend in Innsbruck, deliberate out as both a two-day or three-day itinerary.
Is the Innsbruck card value it? (and different FAQs)
If you happen to plan to expertise many of the high issues to do in Innsbruck throughout your go to, then the Innsbruck card is a superb funding. In most cities, I don’t advocate these playing cards, because it’s usually arduous to get actual worth from them. Nonetheless, in Austria, I usually discover they’re worthwhile, particularly once you account for the way a lot particular person elevate passes are.
With free entry to palaces, the Swarovski Crystal World, just a few completely different cable automotive rides (together with the Nordkette) and the Bergisel ski leap, the financial savings quickly add up. I’ve highlighted within the article which issues on this Innsbruck itinerary are included, and you may see a financial savings calculator right here.
Issues to do in Innsbruck: your weekend information
My recommendations for this weekend in Innsbruck itinerary are based mostly on arriving Friday after which departing on Sunday or Monday (if a protracted weekend). All recommendations ought to work with the various opening hours; nonetheless, it’s all the time finest to examine closing occasions to examine that you just expertise all the things there’s to do in Innsbruck with none sudden closures, particularly as these are summer time opening hours and in winter, they might fluctuate.
Arrival and Verify-in: the place to remain in Innsbruck
After attending to Innsbruck, it’s time to dump the baggage and head out for dinner – however the place do you have to keep in your lengthy weekend in Innsbruck? Fortunately, you will have loads of selections – from city-centre motels to extra country-style Alpine lodges on the fringes. Listed below are just a few of my central recommendations of the place to base your self.
Price range(ish) – Montagu Hostel
Innsbruck and Austria aren’t essentially the most wallet-friendly nations, however there are just a few hostels within the metropolis, and this is among the hottest selections for a motive. Set simply throughout the bridge from the Outdated City, the clear and trendy wood decor is fairly stylish for a hostel, and there’s a vary of dorm choices, together with pod-style and bunk-free selections – examine evaluations and costs right here. There are additionally just a few campsites not removed from the town.
Stage 12 Lodge by Penz is true on the primary sq.
Mid-range – Ibis Lodge
I’m actually not a fan of chain motels, however I had a extremely late arrival on the station and so I booked my first evening right here. It’s a fairly trendy Ibis, has a 24-hour reception, and is actually in entrance of the bus and prepare stations, so it really works as a fair-priced and comparatively central keep. Verify costs.
Premium – Stage 12 Lodge by Penz
That is the place I stayed for my most up-to-date go to, and the cocktail bar (one in every of Austria’s hottest and award-winning) is what actually put this lodge on the map. There are a number of good issues in regards to the family-operated Stage 12 – the sauna is incredible, the aforementioned bar, the town centre location (it’s proper on the primary sq.), trendy and cozy rooms, and the very beneficiant breakfast buffet. Nonetheless, you’ll wish to select both a mountain or Outdated City view room to make it worthwhile, because the view from my commonplace room (into an workplace constructing, with little privateness) was a bit disappointing. Verify costs.
Vibrant homes by the River Inn earlier than dinner
Friday evening: River Inn strolls adopted by dinner and drinks
If you happen to’re fortunate sufficient to reach earlier than sundown, there isn’t a higher place to get pleasure from an orientation stroll than alongside the River Inn, which cuts by way of the town. Stroll by way of the Outdated City and head in direction of the Mariahilf district, the place pastel-hued homes in mustards, child blues and salmon pink line the river.
As soon as again on the Altstadt facet, you’ll discover a full of life nighttime atmosphere across the Markthalle, the place night leisure and bands (in summer time) present an ideal begin to your two days in Innsbruck. There are just a few restaurant selections close to the river, equivalent to Wonderful Butcher or Soultans, otherwise you’re simply moments from the Outdated City if you happen to’d favor one thing somewhat extra conventional.
Wanting down on Innsbruck Outdated City from the Metropolis Tower
What to do in Innsbruck on day one (Saturday)
Day one in every of this Innsbruck itinerary goes to deal with the primary highlights, each within the Outdated City but additionally the town’s most well-known mountain vary, the Nordkette. This stuff to do in Innsbruck might be simply bundled collectively right into a self-guided strolling tour because of the Altstadt’s compact measurement.
Morning: Outdated City (Altstadt) Strolling Tour together with the Golden Roof and Metropolis Tower
Enter the Altstadt through the Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte), one of many metropolis’s most well-known landmarks and gateways to the Outdated City. Constructed in an Italian model, the doorway was constructed on the order of Empress Maria Theresa (you’ll be studying lots extra about her over this Innsbruck weekend) as each a memorial for her husband and to honour her son.
From right here, observe the Maria-Theresien-Straße, one of many metropolis’s important thoroughfares, which additionally acts as a pedestrianised sq. in components, to the early 18th-century Annasäule column, hovering within the center. Persevering with straight forward, you’ll arrive on the Metropolis Tower (Stadtturm), which gives among the finest views of the town from above. The tower is open from 10 AM – 5 PM and included within the Innsbruck Card.
Again on floor zero, you’ll be within the coronary heart of the Altstadt, the place among the metropolis’s most iconic and delightful structure surrounds the small sq.. On one facet, you’ll see the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) shimmering with greater than 2500 gilded copper tiles above the frescoed balcony. Constructed round 500 years in the past on the instruction of Emperor Maximilian I, it’s essentially the most well-known factor to do in Innsbruck, though lots of the artistic endeavors have now been moved into the town’s museum for defense.
One other architectural spotlight in the identical spot is the ornate Hölbling Haus, with its lovely baroque facade. If you happen to’re fortunate, classical musicians will probably be performing right here, so seize a desk for a espresso. Alternatively, the grand Dom Cafe-Bar makes a incredible espresso a brief stroll away.
Take pleasure in views throughout Innsbruck from Restaurant Seegrube
Lunch: Restaurant Seegrube
Whereas the Outdated City is a superb place to get pleasure from lunch, I’d personally recommend heading up the mountains to eat as an alternative. From the Golden Roof, you may simply and shortly stroll to the Innsbruck Station Congress, the place the funicular-like inclined railway will take you to the primary Hungerburgbahn station. From right here, trip as much as the Nordkette Mountain Vary, arguably one of the best place to go to in Innsbruck. It solely takes round half-hour the entire approach. In case you have the Innsbruck Card, the funicular and gondola are included (which is among the card’s greatest financial savings).
Cease on the Seegrube station, the place a restaurant of the identical identify has wonderful views overlooking Innsbruck under. Right here, you may order some conventional Tyrolean mountain dishes to maintain you powered all through your weekend in Innsbruck. There could be a little bit of a watch for an out of doors desk, because the dishes are fairly moderately priced for the situation (round €20), however you may benefit from the views or stroll across the Path of Views, with its overhanging viewpoints and chill-out areas.
The Nordkette panorama feels a world away from Innsbruck’s Outdated City
Afternoon: Discover Nordkette, the ‘High of Innsbruck’
After lunch, it’s time to trip the ultimate stretch of the cable automotive (additionally included within the Innsbruck Card) to the ‘High of Innsbruck’. Even in summer time, you’ll discover a very completely different panorama from the decrease degree right here, and I discovered a good chunk of snow even in late June.
From the very best viewpoint at 2334 metres, you’ll get pleasure from panoramic views throughout the valley, whereas behind, you may admire the jagged-toothed views of the Nordkette, which is a part of the Karwendel, Austria’s largest nature park. Taking a hike round this space is maybe one of many high issues to do in Innsbruck, so there could be some strains for the gondola, however when you see these cinematic landscapes, I’m positive you’ll be in awe like I used to be. Sadly, in summer time, the cable automotive closes earlier than dawn, though for individuals who fancy it, you can also make another route again down on foot.
A typical Tiroler Grostl with a view at Flo Jo’s Restaurant
Night Dinner & Drinks: Flo Jo’s and Cafe Bar Moustache
If you happen to’re following this Innsbruck itinerary for the weekend, then it’s Saturday evening, which means there’s loads of nightlife to get pleasure from within the metropolis. For dinner, I’d advocate Flo Jo’s within the Outdated City because it’s on a pleasant quiet nook away from the extra touristy streets, and it has a sensible choice of burgers and trendy delicacies alongside conventional dishes and respectable beers. I really had one of the best Tiroler Gröstl (a typical dish of potatoes, beef, bacon and egg) of my journey right here on the terrace, having fun with the views, earlier than transferring into the funky inside to attempt just a few different beers.
There are many different nice bars I visited, however one I significantly favored for its laid-back vibe and respectable beer choice was Cafe Bar Moustache (money solely). It’s open to 2 AM, which is a bonus if you need someplace to get pleasure from a extra peaceable beer within the early hours.
Rear views of the Hofkirche – Pictures aren’t allowed contained in the Hofberg
What to do in Innsbruck on day two (Sunday)
If you happen to simply have two days in Innsbruck, then this second day presents a few choices, relying on whether or not you favor the mountains or museums. You may also wish to think about the issues to do in Innsbruck on day three under to plan one of the best day to fit your pursuits.
Morning: Hofburg, Hofkirche and the Tyrolean People Artwork Museum
There’s a good assortment of museums in Innsbruck, however attempting to cram all of them into one go to wouldn’t be enjoyable. These three have been my favourites, and given just a few hours, they may give you an perception into the town’s historical past and the tradition of the larger area too. All three of those museums are included within the Innsbruck Card.
I’d recommend beginning on the Imperial Palace (Hofburg – 9 AM – 5 PM) as early as attainable, because it is among the hottest issues to do in Innsbruck. Inside photographs aren’t allowed, however it’s a quite grand house with some very attention-grabbing exhibitions, each within the everlasting and short-term areas. One other of Emperor Maximilian I’s contributions to the town, the constructing dates again to 1500, the identical because the Golden Roof. Nonetheless, a lot of what you see now could be the affect of Maria Theresa, the Habsburg Empire ruler from 1740-1780. She adored Innsbruck and this palace, and far cash was spent on adorning and renovating the house; future rulers additionally left their marks, though none fairly like she did.
Artwork within the Tyrolean People Artwork Museum
Cloister of the Court docket Church
Throughout the road, you may then go to the Court docket Church (Hofkirche) and Tyrolean People Artwork Museum, that are accessed by way of the identical entrance and open from 9 AM – 5 PM. It received’t take too lengthy to go to the Hofkirche, which is most well-known for the life-size sculptures that act as ‘guards’ to Emperor Maximilian I’s tomb.
The museum, nonetheless, I discovered much more fascinating – aside from the fairly creepy life-size mannequin room – as they’ve reconstructed conventional and typical rooms from properties throughout the area inside, permitting for an actual glimpse into Tyroleon tradition. The opposite exhibitions on arts, crafts and costumes (the woodwork particularly is beautiful) will take a minimum of one hour to understand.
Views from Das Kofel up the Patscherkofel
Lunch: Ludwig Burgers or Das Kofel up the Patscherkofel
Relying on which of the next choices on this Innsbruck itinerary you select subsequent, listed here are two lunch choices. I extremely advocate Ludwig Burgers within the Outdated City, which serves some wonderful selections utilizing attention-grabbing native produce, or the Das Kofel restaurant atop the Patscherkofel for extra mountain panoramas from the large home windows. I solely stopped right here for espresso, however the large parts regarded as scrumptious because the views.
Afternoon choice one: Patscherkofel for extra mountains
Nordkette isn’t the one simply accessible mountain vary from Innsbruck, and the Patscherkofel throughout the opposite facet of the valley is one other nice usually. Much less lofty, the paths listed here are extra typical Alpine, and I get pleasure from a pleasant stroll right here, stopping on the Alpine Botanical Backyard as Das Kofel for breaks. The cable automotive station is well related to the Outdated City by bus, and there are just a few cute villages, equivalent to Iglis, you would possibly wish to cease at on the best way. The transport and gondola are included within the Innsbruck Card.
Swarovski Kristallwelten is a fantasty land
Afternoon choice two: Swarovski Kristallwelten (and Corridor in Tirol)
Even now, I’m nonetheless a bit speechless about Swarovski Kristallwelten (9 AM – 6 PM), because it’s like stepping right into a fantasy world. After strolling by way of an enormous backyard head adorned by Swarovski crystals (the corporate was based right here), you’ll be whisked right into a whimsical number of rooms the place snow falls, star-studded outfits worn by stars on pink carpets, and all and any type of imitation diamond art work you would consider. There’s additionally a stunning backyard – with extra crystal decorations – looking onto the Alps.
It’s a tough place to attempt to describe, however seeing as Kristallwelten is included within the Innsbruck Card (together with the bus switch), it’s value a go to if you happen to’re curious. On the best way again, cease off in Corridor in Tirol, a fairly city with some lovely buildings.
Conventional plates and decor at Stiftskeller
Night Dinner: Stiftskeller
If you happen to’re prepared for an additional conventional dinner, then I can’t advocate Stiftskeller sufficient, which in flip, was urged to me by an area. It has an enormous beer backyard terrace within the previous city, however consuming inside is a good suggestion as a result of historically adorned wooden-clad eating room with frescoes. If sampling a wide range of conventional dishes is among the important belongings you wish to embrace in your Innsbruck itinerary, this place is a goldmine. Schnitzel, roasted porks, cheese spaetzle (pasta-like dish), and goulash all characteristic, alongside a good selection of Austrian beers – this place has even been brewing its personal since 1516.
Zaha Hadid’s Bergisel Ski Bounce is a year-round sporting marvel
Extra issues to do in Innsbruck on day three
If you’ll be able to get pleasure from Innsbruck for a protracted weekend, then there are just a few extra well-known sights across the metropolis’s limits to discover. Alternatively, you would think about taking a day journey barely additional afield.
Morning: Bergisel Olympic Ski Bounce
Some of the well-known causes to go to and issues to do in Innsbruck in winter is snowboarding, and even if you happen to come right here in summer time, you may nonetheless spot some daredevil jumps on the Bergisel Olympic Ski Bounce website. The jumpers normally practise between 10 AM and 12 PM, however the location is equally as spectacular because the tower designed by the late architect Zaha Hadid whose trendy constructing now occupies one of many venues from the 1964 Winter Olympics. Even if you happen to solely have two days in Innsbruck, you would possibly nonetheless wish to make an hour to come back right here, particularly because it’s included within the Innsbruck Card.
Views from Restaurant SKY on the Bergiselweg, Innsbruck
Lunch: Restaurant SKY on the Bergiselweg
The restaurant, which appears to be like over the ski leap at Bergisel, has among the finest views within the metropolis, so if you happen to’re already right here, why not seize a chew to eat? I solely had espresso and apple strudel – completely scrumptious – however they’ve a full lunch menu. Simply make sure to get in as near lunchtime as attainable to get one of many tables subsequent to the home windows for one of the best views.
Ambras Fort, Innsbruck, backed by mountains
Afternoon: Ambras Fort
Fancy squeezing one other fort into your Innsbruck itinerary? Then hop on the tram to Ambras Fort (open 10 AM – 5 PM), included within the Innsbruck Card. I really discovered Ambras extra attention-grabbing than the Hofburg, so it makes for a stable different choice to the town centre palace too.
Claiming the customarily disputed title of the ‘Oldest Museum within the World’, there’s a fascinating assortment right here, together with a really intriguing and considerably vulgar ‘Plate of Fools’. You’ll additionally discover all the same old suspects: armour, portraits and sculptures, alongside some extra distinctive items, such because the Ottoman assortment. One other heyday fort of the Habsburg Dynasty, there’s an attention-grabbing story about hidden love which unfurls in these Sixteenth-century partitions, alongside some spectacular grand rooms, with the Spanish Corridor a specific standout.
The place to subsequent?
Day journeys from Innsbruck
There are some incredible day journeys close by to Innsbruck, each within the Tyrol mountains and likewise different cities, villages and glowing lakes. Plus, you would all the time think about travelling to a different metropolis, equivalent to Salzburg – nonetheless, these are all somewhat nearer.
Escape to Lake Achensee
Some of the spectacular lakes within the area of Tyrol, turquoise-fringed Lake Achensee is dreamy, making it a really perfect day journey on a summer time’s day. By automotive, it’ll take round one hour, whereas public transport entails a prepare to Jenbach adopted by two buses – if deliberate nicely, the journey will take round 80 minutes.
Fortress side-trip to Kufstein
Kufstein is a smaller city to the west of Innsbruck and is hottest for the imposing Kufstein Fortress, which towers above surveying the river. Sadly, I solely noticed it from the prepare, however if you happen to want to get pleasure from a day journey right here, it’ll solely take 40 minutes by rail.
White water rafting on the River Inn
If you happen to’d like somewhat extra adrenaline when planning what to do in Innsbruck, why not go on an alpine white water rafting journey alongside the River Inn, the identical physique of water which cuts by way of the town.
Summer time mountaineering trails in Innsbruck, atop the Patscherkofel
Easy methods to get to and round Innsbruck, Austria
It’s simple to discover all one of the best issues to do in Innsbruck by public transport – particularly if in case you have the Innsbruck card, because it contains most transport. Town has trams and buses, and the native trains are additionally nice for reaching close by locations. That stated, for a lot of the town centre, exploring by foot is simple – it’s flat and comparatively compact. If you happen to plan to go to the mountains as a part of your Innsbruck itinerary, the funiculars and cable vehicles are nicely appreciated and assist to make sure the Alps are accessible for all.
Travelling to Innsbruck by prepare and public transport
If you happen to’re coming from elsewhere in Austria, reaching Innsbruck is fairly fast and straightforward. From Salzburg, it takes round two hours, whereas Vienna is round six hours.
My hall breakfast on the OBB Nightjet
Travelling to Innsbruck flight-free from the UK by prepare
If you wish to go to Innsbruck from the UK with out flying, the most suitable choice is to reach by prepare, though the bus additionally works, and I discovered the scenic daytime journey by way of Switzerland quite spectacular as I used to be coming from spending two days in France.
To take advantage of your lengthy weekend in Innsbruck by prepare from the UK, you’ll wish to take the Eurostar from London to Amsterdam in time to make the OBB Nightjet service to Innsbruck, which departs at 19:30, arriving in Innsbruck simply after 9 am. I’ve ridden the Nightjet each within the seating carriages (which, being six seats going through one another, wasn’t so comfy) and within the couchette choice, which was a lot nicer because of the wake-up name breakfast, showers, and mattress. If you happen to guide upfront, you’ll get one of the best offers.
On the return journey to London, I really went again through Nuremberg and Frankfurt, two cities I’d needed to name in for some time, earlier than taking the evening bus to get the early-morning Eurostar from Brussels. Whichever approach you go, there are many choices for different pit-stop locations en route.
Travelling to Innsbruck by aircraft
In winter, there are extra seasonal flights. Nonetheless, in summer time, the airport is related to London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, and different main European cities.
Climbing The Asitz Mountain is among the finest issues to do in Austria after visiting Innsbruck
The place to journey after Innsbruck
If you happen to’re planning a weekend in Innsbruck as a part of an extended journey in Austria, then you definately’re in luck; it’s simple to get between the nation’s important cities and points of interest by prepare.
From right here, you would proceed to discover all the highest issues to do in Salzburg (two hours by prepare), discover Saalfeden Leogang (somewhat over two hours) and hike my favorite peak, The Asitz Mountain, or proceed to Vienna, the nation’s grand capital (round 5 to 6 hours).
There are such a lot of superb issues to do in Austria, together with some lesser visited spots just like the sustainable metropolis of Graz, which is a little bit of a detour, one in every of my favorite cities in Europe – right here’s my metropolis information to Graz to get you began!
Pin it: Issues to do in Innsbruck, Austri
Pin it: A weekend information to Innsbruck, Austria