Travel to Innsbruck - Germany | Keytours Vacations

Discover Innsbruck's Wonders

Located in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck boasts outdoor activities year round from winter sports and skiing in the winter to hiking or mountaineering in the spring, summer and/or fall. Apart from the active lifestyle, people also travel to Innsbruck for its imperial and modern architecture. Discover a rich Austrian culture in this perfect getaway town.

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Cowbells or Baroque tunes? Hiking boots or high heels? Making the right decision could be a bit of a struggle, as Innsbruck and its surrounding villages offer you the best of both worlds with modern city flair AND serene mountain scenery. One minute you relax in one of the many street cafés surrounded by magnificent medieval buildings in Innsbruck’s historical old town - and less than thirty minutes later you enjoy the most magnificent panoramic views from a mountain restaurant terrace located at 2,000 metres above sea level. This truly amazing experience is the result of the recent reconstruction of Inns-bruck’s Nordkettenbahnen cable railways, which allows you to board the stunning new funicular in the very heart of the city. Designed by star architect Zaha Hadid, who has passed away in 2016, the unique construction of its four station buildings and cable-stayed bridge across the river Inn not only set new standards in international architecture but are also striking landmarks reflecting the organic shapes of nature. A mere twenty-minute ride whisks you up to high-alpine terrain, where great starting points for glorious hikes and thrilling mountain-climbing adventures await you at See-grube and the Hafelekar summit station. Also ‘après-hike’ entertainment options are many and varied in the capital of the Alps. Why not start with a relaxing stroll along Maria Theresien Street with its modern ur-ban design, stop for an aperitif in one of the many charming bars before moving on to the culinary heights of Innsbruck's gourmet dining scene. While we can warmly recommend the tender and succulent Tyrolean mountain lamb, the tempting offer includes also a rich variety of internationally inspired dishes created by several award-winning chefs. While the renowned Innsbruck Festival of Early Music celebrates the masters of music from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. And as the popular Innsbruck Promenade Concerts fill the air of the Imperial Palace’s inner courtyard with beautiful waltz melodies full of nostalgia, and the Bridge Beat Festival on the square in front of the Landestheater brings swing and good vibes.

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Do & See

Alpine Zoo

Situated on a sun-drenched terrace above Innsbruck, Europe’s highest zoo (750 m) features a unique collection of over 2,000 animals of 150 species indigenous to the Alps. Including an aquarium, terrariums, a farm with endangered domestic breeds, walk-in enclosures, Europe's largest golden eagle aviary, bears, wolves, otters, a play park and much, much more, the zoo offers a memorable experience for young and old!

Ambras Castle

It was above all Archduke Ferdinand II (1529–1595) who proved to be a significant patron of the arts by converting Ambras Castle into a splendid Renaissance residence for his wife Philippine Welser. Located on a hill to the south of Innsbruck, Schloss Ambras is still home to extensive collections of art and curiosities which rank until today among Europe’s most beautiful ‘curiosity chambers’.

Bergisel Ski Jump

While the view down the splendid Maria-Theresien-Strasse towards the medieval old town is crowned by the majestic Nordkette mountain chain; the baroque Triumphal Arch is set off by the Bergisel ski jump, Innsbruck’s spectacular new icon designed by top architect Zaha Hadid.

Cathedral of St. James

First mentioned im 1180 the St James Cathedral hosts the famous „Maria Hilf“ painting – a masterpiece by Lucas Cranach the Elder, that is copied all around the world. Each day at noon the Innsbruck peace bells, with over 57 bells the largest in Austria, rings out. The cathedral’s large doors can be reached via a metallic ramp, which has a gradient of a bit more than 6 percent.

City Tower

Innsbruck’s gothic city tower was built in 1442-1450 as part of the former town hall, it rises 51 metres above the old town. Formerly used by watchmen on the lookout for enemies or fires, it now offers fabulous views of the entire historical city centre and beyond.

Court Church

The court church is situated on the east side of the old town next to the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Habsburg emperor Maximilian I (1459–1519) planned an escort of life-size bronze figures, which were designed by prominent artists of his time. The twenty-eight so-called “Schwarze Mander“ (black men) were worked on by painter Albrecht Dürer as well as casters Stefan Godl, Peter Vischer and Peter Löffler, among others. The statues were not completed, however, until Maximilian’s grandson Ferdinand I took over and had this significant piece of Renaissance art displayed in Innsbruck’s Hofkirche.

Golden Roof

Simply stroll through the city centre and you learn a lot about the town’s history. Habsburg emperor Maximilian I (1459–1519), in particular, shaped the image of Innsbruck during its transition from medieval times to the Renaissance era. He made the city the centre of an empire that stretched from Spain to Burgundy and Hungary. It was under Maximilian’s reign that Innsbruck’s glittering landmark – the Golden Roof - was constructed.

Helbling House

This original 15th century Gothic mansion is an outstanding example of bourgeois grandeur in the Old Town, in later years richly decorated with stuccos. The house is named for Sebastian Helbling, who operated a small Café in there in 1833. The historic structure was completely refurbished in the years 1979 and 1980.

Innsbruck’s Christmas markets

Christkindlmarkt in Innsbruck's medieval Old Town

The traditional Christkindlmarkt in Innsbruck’s medieval Old Town enjoys one of the most striking and romantic locations in the entire Alpine region. From November until January, a colourful cornucopia of traditional Christmas ornaments, Tyrolean handicrafts, candles and typical Christmas pastries will be on sale from the lovingly adorned stalls at the foot of a huge, shimmering Christmas tree. The historical Old Town then becomes the perfect spot for getting together with friends, and enjoy the festive ambiance and performances beneath the Golden Roof over a steaming mug of mulled wine and ‘Kiachln’ (piping hot doughnuts, laced with Sauerkraut or jam). Every day, spectators gather around a theatre wagon to listen to magical fairy tales and enchanting tunes, while a wonderland of tales and legends with life-sized images of giants, princesses and mythical creatures comes alive in nearby side alleys.

Innsbruck Marktplatz

Just a few steps away a little Yuletide paradise awaits children as well as grown-ups at the Innsbruck Marktplatz by the Inn River. From November until December, Punch and Judy and storytellers, as well as a host of other attractions including an adorable nostalgic merry-go-round do their best to help little market-goers shorten the wait until Christmas Eve. At the centre of this picture-perfect setting rises a dazzling, 15-m tall Swarovski Christmas Tree, a truly unique example of crystal craftsmanship adorned with more than 170,000 sparkling crystals illuminated by energy-efficient LEDs. This year, Swarovski has commissioned design artist Michael Hammer with a truly special ’top of the tree’ ornament: Similar to the one that has crowned the Christmas tree at the New York Rockefeller Centre in 2004, the artist will be crafting the giant star exclu-sively from exquisite Swarovski crystals.

Maria Theresien Street

From November until January, also Innsbruck’s splendid Maria Theresien Street turns into a vibrant pre-Christmas zone lined with lively market stalls illuminated by glistening crystal trees and crowned by a giant rock crystal. Here locals and visitors from all across the globe get into a festive mood with mellow jazz tunes and culinary treats.

Panorama Christkindlmarkt Hungerburg

The Panorama Christkindlmarkt at Hungerburg represents yet another popular pre-festive meeting point. Due to its elevated location just above Innsbruck, it offers fabulous views and an exceptional romantic ambiance as from November until December the crisp winter air mingles with the delicious aromas of Advent. Getting there on the Hungerburg funicular is quite a fascinating experience in itself: starting at the very centre of town, it whisks you up to Innsbruck’s decidedly most scenic Christmas market in less than ten minutes.

St. Nikolaus

The small market in Innsbruck's oldest district, St. Nikolaus, is located on the north side of the river Inn and can be reached in a few minutes' walk from the Löwenhaus station of the Hungerburgbahn. Away from the tourist streams, the market is traditionally a place of contemplation. Atmospheric music, homemade biscuits and a quiet, homely atmosphere against the backdrop of the colourful houses along the Inn are the hallmarks of this Christmas market. If you prefer sports, you can walk down the valley on foot instead of the Hungerburgbahn. Provided that you wear good shoes, you can walk past the Alpine Zoo to the Christmas market in St. Nikolaus in about 1 hour.

Wiltener Platzl

Christmas magic awaits you also at nearby Wiltener Platzl, a mere five minute stroll away from glittering Maria Theresien Street. Framed by historic town houses, the market stalls dotted around the friendly square surprise visitors with cultural variety, regional culinary treats and distinctive boho flair from November until December.

Christkindlmarkt Bergiselschanze

When the Emperor's Christmas opens its doors on Advent weekends, it lives up to its name: at this atmospheric Advent market on Innsbruck's famous Bergisel, tradition and origin are the main focus. The Bergisel hosts are particularly proud of the finest Tyrolean craftsmanship and high-quality regional products. A little away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, you can peer at the sparkling lights of the city in a contemplative atmosphere and breathe in the slowdown.

Dining

Das Schindler

Come here for stylish interior design and unique first floor views views onto bustling Maria Theresien Street, as well as the mouth-watering menu featuring exquisite Austri-an dishes with a refined touch - such as beef tartare topped with fried quail egg, crisp Wiener Schnitzel or linguine with black truffles.

Lichtblick

Located on the top floor of the stylish Rathausgalerien town hall and shopping mall, it qualifies as one of Innsbruck’s most spectacular gourmet havens simply for its view. Here also the food is on a truly elevated level: Inspired by vast skies and metropoli-tan flair, the menu surprises with a visionary blend of Austrian cuisine, Mediterranean flair and Asian flavours. The adjacent 360° wine bar and lounge is under the same management - and a great place to sample fine wines while enjoying fabu-lous panoramic views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountain scenery.

Sitzwohl

Centrally located within the former Gilmschule building, this stylish eatery with its almost intimate ambience is managed by Elisabeth Geisler and Irmgard Sitzwohl. Their inspired cuisine is marked by exquisite simplicity, an aromatic and refined blend of regional specialities and rich Mediterranean flavours, in short a perfect treat for all those in search of a quick lunch or planning a relaxed night out with friends.

Wilder Mann

Wilder Mann in Lans keeps scoring top points for its authentic Tyrolean and Austrian cuisine prepared from locally sourced ingredients, many of them produced at the family farm. At this sophisticated country inn you can expect classic local treats such as ‘Tafelspitzsülzchen’ (prime boiled beef in aspic), ‘Kalbszüngerl’ (veal tongue), ‘Ter-laner Weinsuppe’ (beef broth with cinnamon croutons and wine) or ‘Tiroler Bauern-gröstl’, a rich, pan-fried potato dish.

dengg

Stylish and minimalistic in appearance, the restaurant and its inviting bar section are a popular meeting point for local foodies in appreciation of an inspired culinary ap-proach. Here you find a delicious mix of traditional local treats and international cui-sine - ranging from ‘Tiroler Beuscherl’ (ragout of veal lights) to turbot in champagne sauce or grilled coquilles St. Jacques on a leafy sesame salad.

Die Mühle

Located to the south of town lies Mutters, home to rustic country restaurant Die Mühle, where top-rated chef Tamar Kacer is rattling the pots and pans after perfecting his trade with renowned culinary masters to the likes of Alfred Miller and Johann Lafer. The tempting selection of expertly prepared dishes includes various tantalizing delight for the palate, including charcoal grilled Wagyu rib-eye steak.

Sensei

At the stunning Sensei sushi bar you get to explore the culinary realms of faraway lands. Located in Maria Theresien Street, it fascinates at first sight with its outstand-ing interior design reminding of a shiny, black lacquer jewellery box. The stylish set-ting is matched by excellent food that goes beyond the usual offer of raw tuna and rice. Here you are treated to skilfully prepared Asian seafood and fish, exquisitely flavoured dim sums and top quality meat dishes.

Wilderin

Authentic regionality is a key at die Wilderin restaurant in Innsbruck’s historic Old Town. For manager Claudia Kogler and chef Alexander Reis and his team it is essential to know exactly where ingredients are produced and by whom. This concept is clearly reflected in the menu, where you find modern interpretations of classic Austri-an treats including tender boiled rump of ‘Tyrolean Grey’ beef and succulent roasted duck or a delicious dessert prepared with raw milk joghurt and gingerbread.

Cafes

Café Central

The Café Central - featuring high stucco-covered ceilings, glittering crystal chande-liers and a varied selection of newspapers and magazines - came into existence in 1875 and closely resembles the Viennese literary coffeehouse of the same name. With its unmistakable belle époque charm, the Central features in coffeehouse con-noisseur Adonis Malamos’ illustrated book ‘Europe’s most beautiful Cafés’, and has been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list as a fine example of au-thentic Austrian coffeehouse culture.

Café Katzung

A coffeehouse already since the 18th century, the nearby Café Katzung delights today with a successful mix of daytime café with street-side tables. In the evening the Katzung converts into a hip meeting place for the in-crowd. Here breakfast is served until mid-night, while delicious cakes, ice-creams and tasty snacks are available at all times.

Café Munding

The Café Munding presents itself from its traditional side: Ever since 1803, the oldest cake shop in town has been preparing exquisite gateauxs, cakes and pastries. The Munding family was first in the region to serve ice-cream, and to display a decorated Christmas tree in their shop window. A delicious assortment of souvenir confectionary makes for sweet memories of the Tyrol.

Bars & Nightlife

5th Floor

The sophisticated 5th Floor American bar is a part of the stylish ‘The Penz’ hotel and it offers spectacular vistas from a generous rooftop terrace.

Stiftskeller

To explore beer culture from other countries we recommend the bustling Stiftskeller, managed by the Munich-based Augustinerbräu and featuring a spacious beer garden.

The Galway Bay

For authentic Irish pub atmosphere try The Galway Bay a popular meeting place to watch live sports programmes.

Shopping

DEZ

It was the first, and still is the largest of its kind: Innsbruck’s time-honoured dez shopping centre was the first mall in all of Austria when it opened its doors in 1970. Go there and ‘shop till you drop’, or simply browse the array of stores on offer and watch the world go by over a frothy cup of coffee. On a sprawling retail floor space of 24,800 m² there’s absolutely everything you could wish for - including fashion apparel for all the family, trendy gear for teenagers as well as accessories such as shoes, jewellery, bags …In addition to the dez main complex, the surrounding grounds have turned into a vast, one-stop shopping haven featuring a multitude of different stores, among them Swedish furniture giant Ikea.

Kaufhaus Tyrol

Right on the opposite side of the street beckons the elegant Kaufhaus Tyrol, another inner-city shopper’s dream come true. The building owes its striking exterior design as well as its exclusive, clear-cut interior appearance to a team of architects working with David Chipperfield. Covering a surface of more than 30,000m², this singular retail experience is enhanced by luminous daylight channelled in through the mall’s glass roof and large windows. Rising up from the bustling atrium in the centre of the building are airy, oval walkways that invite you to browse, explore and shop to your heart’s content. Although, it may not be that easy to take your pick, as shops stock fabulously fashionable men’s, women’s and children’s wear with prestigious brand names and exclusive cosmetics, alongside an exciting array of fashion accessories and beautiful things for your home.

Shopping center west

The west of the city also makes shopping hearts beat faster: the "west" shopping centre with its open and glass-friendly architecture is not only a great place to stroll and stroll, but also for learning and further education - because the building houses a school as well as a colourful variety of shops. Openness is therefore not only expressed architecturally, but also realised as a place of encounter. Those who want to treat themselves to culinary delights in between can draw from a varied range of international cuisine. Thanks to the excellent public transport connections, there is no need for a car, as the IVB tram lines 2 and 5 stop directly in front of the shopping centre.

Sillpark

When it opened its doors back in 1990, ‘Sillpark’ was the first modern shopping mall in the centre of town. Conveniently located near Innsbruck’s main railway station, the wonderfully spacious, three-level complex saw large-scale extension works in 2007. Today it scores with an impressive array of international fashion outlets such as Primark, as well as jewellery shops, cosmetics retailers and, of course, ample seating space to relax and refresh. Another highlight are the delicious regional specialities on offer at the popular farmer’s market which takes place regularly in the main entrance hall.

Swarovski Flagshipstore

As you continue strolling along the vaulted arcades of Herzog Friedrich Street, you’ll be dazzled by the sparkle and shine emanating from the stunning Swarovski Flagshipstore. Step inside into a wonderful world of elegant crystal jewellery, figurines, designer home accessories and rare objets d’art in unmistakable Swarovski style.

Bogner Flagship Store

In line with its motto of ‘modern Alpine luxury’, the smart Bogner Flagship Store in Maria Theresien Street offers exquisite outdoor and sports fashion with the unmistakable signature of this trusted lifestyle brand.

Dantendorfer

Another fine spot to shop for exclusive ladies’ clothes is Dantendorfer located in a splendid old townhouse tucked away in Innsbruck’s Old Town. Here you find a fascinating mix of big fashion labels and styles, from all-time classics to avant-garde design and matching accessories.

Einwaller

Joseph and Anna belonging to Einwaller form part of Innsbruck’s classy, fashion-forward Einwaller boutiques. Located in the historic Old Town, these popular trend hotspots specialize in stylish and exclusive clothing. They impress with medieval ambiance (at Anna’s), in combination with renowned international brand names and unusual pieces by edgy avant-garde designers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Innsbruck?

The best time to visit Innsbruck depends on your interests. For winter sports enthusiasts, December to March offers excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. If you prefer hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the alpine scenery, visit between June and September when the weather is mild and the mountains are lush and green.

How many days should I spend in Innsbruck?

A stay of 2 to 3 days is ideal to explore Innsbruck. This allows you to visit key attractions like the Golden Roof, the Imperial Palace, and the Nordkette cable car. If you plan to enjoy outdoor activities or take day trips to nearby areas, consider extending your stay to 4 or 5 days.

What are the must-see attractions in Innsbruck?

Innsbruck offers a variety of attractions. Don't miss the Golden Roof, a landmark in the Old Town. The Imperial Palace and the Court Church are also significant historical sites. For panoramic views, take the Nordkette cable car up to the Seegrube. The Bergisel Ski Jump and the Ambras Castle are also worth visiting.

What is the best way to get around Innsbruck?

Innsbruck has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. The Innsbruck Card offers unlimited travel on public transport and free entry to many attractions. Walking is also a great way to explore the compact city center. For trips outside the city, consider renting a car or using regional trains.

Are there any local dishes I should try in Innsbruck?

Innsbruck offers a taste of traditional Tyrolean cuisine. Try Tiroler Gröstl, a hearty dish of fried potatoes, beef, and onions topped with a fried egg. Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake served with fruit compote, is a popular dessert. Don't miss sampling Speck, a type of smoked ham, and local cheeses.

What outdoor activities are available in Innsbruck?

Innsbruck is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Nordkette and Patscherkofel. In summer, hiking and mountain biking trails abound in the surrounding Alps. The Inn River offers opportunities for kayaking and rafting, while paragliding provides breathtaking aerial views.

Are there any festivals or events in Innsbruck that I should know about?

Innsbruck hosts several festivals throughout the year. The Christmas markets in December are a highlight, offering festive stalls and holiday treats. The New Orleans Festival in July celebrates jazz music. In autumn, the Innsbruck Nature Film Festival showcases environmental films. The Bergsilvester New Year's Eve celebrations are also popular.

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