Innsbruck is the centre of the Tyrol province and one of Austria's most famous cities. Named after the Inn River, the alpine town is a natural paradise for nature lovers. In winter, skiers and snowboarders, and in summer, hikers take over the countryside.

Due to its location and environment, Innsbruck is a popular destination where those who want to relax and rest can easily find suitable programs for themselves. We are now trying to help you with this, as we have gathered all the main sights and the best programs around Innsbruck.

Here, you can see where Innsbruck is located in Austria. 

Attractions in Innsbruck

The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)

The Golden Roof is a symbol of Innsbruck. It was built at the end of the 15th century, during the reign of the German-Roman emperor Miksa I., after marrying Maria Sforza Bianka. The royal couple loved to watch the various festivities from here, and the shadow over their heads was provided by a balcony roof laid out of gilded plates. The top consists of 2657 gold panels.

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There is also a small museum in the building, which is open every day except Monday. Although this is not an attraction where you can spend hours, it is worth visiting if you are in Innsbruck.

  • Every day except Monday, from 11:00 to 17:00
  • Admission is around 3 euros per person
  • Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras)

In the second half of the 16th century, Ambras Castle was the headquarters for the Austrian Archduke Ferdinand II. The Spanish Hall is the most famous part of the Renaissance castle, where classical music concerts are held regularly.

In the building, you can see a wide collection of weapons and armor, and the castle also preserves a significant collection of art treasures, especially paintings and sculptures. There is a huge English garden around the castle, where it is also worth taking a walk because the building offers an impressive view from the outside as well.

  • Every day from 10:00 to 07:00
  • Adult admission: 12 euros / Student under 25: 8 euros / Under 19: free
  • Website
  • Address: Schlossstrasse 20, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria

Bergisel Ski Jumping Center

You should go to the Bergisel ski jumping centre not only if you were born with skis on, but also if you are not so fond of skiing. The architectural masterpiece also functions magnificently as a lookout tower; the panorama that opens from above is fabulous.

The place also holds a sports historical significance, as it hosted the Winter Olympics twice before it gained its current form. When there is no competition or the competitors are not training here, they regularly have ski jumping demonstrations on the track. Interestingly, battles were fought here before the place became a sports facility. At the beginning of the 19th century, the Tyrolean peasants clashed with the French and Bavarian occupiers and chased them away.

Hofburg and Hofgarten

The most famous attraction in the Hofburg district is the imperial palace, which has the same name. The three-story, Rococo-style building was erected in the 15th century and then renovated during the reign of Maria Theresa, and it was then that it gained its pomp. Each room is furnished with contemporary furniture; you can see the conditions in which the nobility has lived here. Address: Kaiserjagerstrasse, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.

Not far from the palace, you will find a vast garden which locals call by the name Hofgarten. This park is a perfect alternative if you want to escape the crowds. It is a vast, peaceful, quiet place with colourful flora, hundreds of years old trees, small lakes, and a playground. If you are in the area, visiting the church (Hofkirche) next to the palace is worth visiting.

Wilten Basilica (Wiltener Basilika)

In one of the southern districts of Innsbruck, Wilten, you can find one of the city's most beautiful and well-known buildings, the Wilten Basilica. The original church was built in 1259, and it stood until 1751, when it was demolished, and the current parish and basilica were put in place.

The church, built-in 1756 and in the Rococo style, also preserves something of its ancient nature, as under the main altar, you can see a 14th-century statue of Holy Mary made of sandstone. Also, the richly decorated interiors, paintings, icons, and sculptures are worth admiring indoors. Address: Pastorstrasse 694, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.

Maria Theresa Street (Maria-Theresien Strasse)

This road is Innsbruck’s perhaps most famous street, where you can spend hours without even noticing that you have been on the same street all along. Here, each building has its history. There are several sights on the street: St. Anne's Column (Annasaule),, and the triumphal arch (Triumphpforte).

  • St. Anne's Column (Annasaule): The huge monument stood directly in front of the Town Hall (Rathaus) and was built in 1706 to commemorate the victory of the clash against Bavarian troops 3 years earlier. The decisive battle was fought on St. Anne's Day. There are several statues on and around the column, such as that of the Holy Mary or St. George, the patron saint of Tyrol.
  • The triumphal arch, Triumphpforte: Heading south on Maria Theresa Road, the Triumphpforte, built as the Roman triumphal arches, is almost at the end. The attraction was built in 1765 by the name-giver of the street to commemorate the marriage of his son, Leopold (later Emperor Leopold II) and the Spanish Mary Ludovika. On one side, it captures the moments of the engagement, while on the other, it shows Emperor Francis I.

Alpenzoo Innsbruck

You will find the highest zoo in Europe in Innsbruck. The zoo, about 700 meters above sea level, has more than 2000 animals. Many animals live here, whose natural habitat is much above sea level. About 150 species here are native to parts of the Alps.

For families and travellers with children, visiting the zoo can be an exhilarating experience; there is a vast playground where everyone from the youngest to the oldest children can find the right entertainment. The experience can be completed by the train leading to it. Although not far from the city centre on foot, the zoo can be reached with the Hungerburg more quickly.

  • Adult: 12 euros/child: 6 euros
  • Address: Weiherburggasse 37a, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
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The zoo is not dog-friendly!

Attractions near Innsbruck

Hall in Tirol

"Hall in Tirol" is a small town near Innsbruck. It is 5 kilometres away, and it has only 13000 inhabitants. The city's name appeared in writings as early as 1232, and its present name has been used since 1256. Perhaps the most interesting fact about the city is that here you can find the world’s first automatic minting machine, which was used as early as the 16th century in Hall.

The town by the Inn River was one of the most important cities in the Habsburg Empire. Plenty of churches and church buildings have been built throughout history, many of which can still be found today. The military station built during the Habsburg period was bombed during World War II, but fortunately, the rest of the city remained untouched.

Burg Hasegg, Hall in Tirol

The city’s most famous building is the Burg Hasegg, which also houses the Hall Mint Museum.

  • Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 to 17:00 (closed on Mondays)
  • Last guided tour: at 16:00
  • Adult ticket: 12 euros
  • Website
  • Distance from Innsbruck: 5 km

Bridge of Europe (Europabrücke)

At first glance, it’s just a standard bridge, and it is not the structure itself that is so impressive, rather than the environment in which it is located. The Bridge of Europe is a 777-meter-long valley bridge 190 meters above the Wipp Valley.

On the one hand, it has been the highest bridge in Europe for a long time, and on the other hand - and this has not changed - you can have an incredible view from here. The bridge is part of the road when travelling by car between Italy and Germany. Of course, the view can be admired on the passenger side, but there is a solution if you travel with at least one person. Someone drives on the way there, and the other is going on the way back, so everyone can get a little lost in the view.

  • Address: Brennerautobahn, 6143 Sconberg im Stubaital, Austria
  • Website
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Tip: if you want something extreme, you can take part in bungee jumping from the bridge. The bridge offers the 5th highest bungee jumping point in the world.

Hafelekar peak - Nordkette Mountain

Nordkette is a mountain close to the city and is part of the Karwendel Nature Park in the Alps. There are many ways to get to the hill, but going by cable car or a lift will undoubtedly be the most exciting. The view speaks for itself. A cable car and a lift can help you ascend:

  • Cable car from Innsbruck -> Hungerburg (860 m)
  • Lift from Hungerburg -> Seegrube (1905 m) -> Hafelekar (2256 m)

On the way up, the lift stops several times, where you can get off. You should take advantage of this opportunity because you can meet different attractions and restaurants at each stop if you get hungry on the way up. On this route, you can also reach the Alpine Zoo.

Getting out on the way to reaching the top, countless hiking trails are waiting for you. You can do shorter ones with children; if you want to hike all day, it will not be a problem either.

The top can be reached in just 20 minutes without stopping, but it is effortless to spend hours looking at the view in this fantastic environment. The terminus is the Hafelekar peak at an altitude of 2300 meters.

  • Cable car opening hours: 08:00 - 19:00
  • Lift opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00
  • Admission:  10 - 43 euros
  • Address: Rennweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
  • Website
  • The summer season runs from late April to late October
  • The winter season starts in mid-November

In early November and mid-April, the lifts and cable cars will shut down for 2-2 weeks because of maintenance work.

Obernberger see (Obernberg Lake)

The romantic alpine lake, surrounded by forest, is located at an altitude of 1590 meters. The lake is not only fabulous, but it is also the largest lake in Tyrol. The lake's deepest point is 13 meters, covering 16 hectares. An underground source of the same name nourishes the lake.

One of the most interesting sights at the lake is the chapel, built-in 1935, to which the path is through a romantic wooden bridge. There are many hiking trails around the lake. One of the most spectacular and most accessible - so we recommend it with kids: try to walk around the lake or at least walk along the shore.

By the end of spring, the lake has its highest water level, resulting in huge, contagious water. It is worth knowing that the lake was torn into two parts thousands of years ago, which can also be seen at low water levels.
  • Address: 6157 Obernberg am Brenner, Austria
  • Distance from Innsbruck: 50 mins / 45 km
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Swimming in the lake is prohibited; that is how they protect the algae and trout living in the lake.

Baggersee Lake

Baggersee is the second-largest lake in the area. Around the lake, you can find the proper distraction for yourself all year round. In summer, you can swim in it, not only because it is allowed but also because the water is crystal clear and can even warm up to 24 degrees.

You will also find several sports grounds around it, such as volleyball, badminton, table tennis or streetball. Especially in the fall season, when there is more wind movement, and fewer people are swimming in the lake - surfers take over the lake. When no people are in the water, the wildlife improves; swans and cormorants can also appear.

  • Address: 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
  • Distance from Innsbruck: 10 mins / 5 km

Falcon Park (Greifvogelpark Telfes im Stubai)

Falcon Park, not far from Innsbruck, is a favourite of children and adults. In the park, you can meet with different types of birds, where usually 50 specimens live. To name a few species, you can also see hawks, owls, and eagles.

In the park, you can learn more about birds, their surroundings, and their habits. Moreover, if you want to see how a falcon can reach a speed of 330 km / h, you can also watch the flight demonstration. The park was founded almost 40 years ago by Mathias Premm, and he still runs it.

  • Every day from 11:00 to 17:00
  • Flying demonstration: every day at 15:00
  • Adult admission: 8 euros/child admission: 5 euros/child under six years: free
  • Website
  • Telephone number: +43 664 34 15 878
  • Address: Luimes, 6165 Telfes im Stubai, Austria
  • Distance from Innsbruck: 25 mins / 22 km
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Note: the presentation is only available in German.

Innsbruck Bike Parks

There are two bike parks around Innsbruck. Both bike parks are also ideal for children, as they include several routes. Lovers of downhill, masters of tricks, or those looking for a more comfortable family or romantic bike ride will all find something that fits their needs. You can rent bicycles and equipment in both places.

  • Bikepark Innsbruck - distance: 25 minutes by car
  • Bikepark Serfaus Fiss Ladis - distance: 75 minutes by car

Gorges in Tyrol

Fourteen gorges in the province of Tyrol are registered with the Austrian Tourist Office and can be visited. Many of them are located close to Innsbruck. The Tyrolean Gorges are a natural paradise where you can spend even half a day with children.

It is good to know that most gorges can be walked back and forth in 2-3 hours, and their difficulty is considered easy. However, there are, of course, a few that are more difficult.
  • Kundlerklamm gorge: 40 minutes
  • Wolfsklamm gorge: 45 minutes
  • Leutascher Geisterklamm gorge: 50 minutes
  • Gleirschklamm Gorge: 50 minutes
  • Tiefenbachklamm Gorge: 50 minutes
  • Rosengartenschlucht Gorge: 50 minutes
  • Kaiserklamm Gorge: 55 minutes
  • Zammer Lochputz Gorge: 60 minutes

Weidachsee Fishing Lake

If you enjoy fishing and taking your rod everywhere, you cannot miss Lake Weidachsee while visiting Innsbruck. The lake is already mentioned in Emperor Maximilian's book, a famous fisherman's book in 1500. The fishing lake covers an area of ​​4.5 hectares; mainly, there are trout and rainbow trout.

  • Swimming in the lake is forbidden.
  • From April to October, every day: 07:00 to 17:00
  • Address: Weidachsee 6105, Austria
  • Distance from Innsbruck: 50 minutes / 40 km

Grawa Waterfall (Grabafall)

Grawa is the widest waterfall in the Eastern Alps. Due to its spectacular view, this waterfall is the main attraction in the Stubai Valley (Stubaital). The waterfall can reach 85 meters in width (in July), with the most water coming from the surrounding area.

You can find a nice restaurant at the bottom of the fall; however, you can even go closer if you want. There are family-friendly, wooden viewpoints 5 mins from the restaurant. Here, find sunbeds and wooden chairs to relax and enjoy the area's fresh air.

Tipp: this is a must if you are with children, as the hiking path is easy (non-technical), and the kids will enjoy discovering the woods using the hidden wooden ways.

More attractions near Innsbruck

  • Rapoldi Park
  • Tyrolean MuseumsBahnen (Railway Museum)
  • Tyrol Panorama Museum
  • Innsbruck Military Museum
  • Stadtturm

Good to Know

History of Innsbruck

  • According to some historical fossils, the city was already inhabited in the Stone Age. The same is shown by the remaining sources of information from before the Roman Empire.
  • It came into the hands of the Andechok family in 1180 and was acquired by the Counts of Tyrol in the middle of the 13th century. Its importance in historical times was because the easiest way to get through the Alps crossed the city, so it had to face heavy traffic.
  • It had already become a political centre in the 15th century. It was one of the most important residences of the Austrian royal families, thanks to which, in addition to the fantastic nature, you can also see extraordinary architectural wonders in Innsbruck.

Weather

  • The average maximum temperature in the summer is enjoyable, around 24 degrees, but in the evenings, it is usually only around 11-12 degrees. You may want to take care of layering throughout the year.
  • The spring-summer-like weather lasts from May to September; however, most rainfalls happen during this period, mainly in July.
  • The winters are not so cold; in a freezing January, the average minimum temperature does not go below -5 degrees, so the cold is bearable with warm clothes.

Geographical Features

Innsbruck has great geographical features. The Alps are within a stone’s throw, as is the Inn River (the city got its name from the river). It is also worth coming here because you can start a small European tour here. Germany is only 32, Italy is 40, and Switzerland is only 110 kilometres away. But still, why would you think of leaving for another country right away when the local attractions are just waiting for you to explore them?

Final Thoughts

The centre of Innsbruck is rather intense in historical sights; we are talking about the Maria Theresa Road and its surroundings. More exciting programs come to the fore in the suburbs and across the border from Innsbruck, such as the Alpine Zoo, the Bergisel Ski Jumping Center, or the Nordkette Cable Car.

Anywhere you go, you will find yourself in beautiful surroundings, which is also valid for the city's centre. There are plenty of green areas where you can have a good walk or sit on a bench and listen to the sounds of nature.

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