Innsbruck in Tirol is the perfect place to visit if you want to experience Austrian culture. Surrounded by mountains, Innsbruck is a base for all kinds of outdoor activities. Skiing trips to the Tyrolean Alps and hiking trips in summer, there is something for every season.
Innsbruck is a University city with a young and international population. As a result, there is plenty to do both day and night. Innsbruck has a historic city center as well as a thriving art scene.
For a small city, Innsbruck packs a punch. Here are a few things to do on your trip to Innsbruck:
Explore the Altstadt
Innsbruck was heavily bombed during the Second World War so unfortunately, not much of the old city center remains. A small piece has stood the test of time and it gives a lovely example of what life was like in Innsbruck during Medieval and Renaissance times.
Stroll among the old and colorful buildings in the Altstadt and feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Visit Schloss Ambras
Schloss Ambrass sits high above Innsbruck in the hills and provides a lovely view over the city. The castle has a tumultuous history as an imperial seat and later summer residence. It is currently an art museum and part of the Art history Museum in Vienna.
The easiest way to reach it is by bus, either local transport or the hop on-hop off bus, or by car. The park surrounding the castle is open to the public and free, so head there for a pic nic in the shade or try the excellent food at the castle restaurant.
Go to a museum
Innsbruck has a lot of good museums. Most of these Innsbruck museums can be visited with a combination ticket. This ticket allows a single entry to the 5 Landesmuseums (regional museums) during a full year. So even during a short stay you won’t have to cram all museums into one day as with most tourist passes.
The Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum has a very good collection of art as well as archaeological artifacts. The Tiroler Volksmuseum shows the history of life in Tirol, including copies of traditional houses and dress. Next to the Volksmuseum you will find the impressive Court Church, where you can see the silver chapel and bronze statues of nobles.
Alternatively, you can invest in an Innsbruck Card which includes free entry to all popular tourist attractions.
Take a day trip to Hall in Tirol
Most of Innsbruck is quite modern, so for an example of true Tiroler charm, hop on a train to Hall in Tirol. This small town, about 30 minutes from Innsbruck, boasts a lovely historic city center, a Cathedral, several churches, a castle and a mint.
It is a great place to go for a day trip or an afternoon out of the city.
Tirol is a must-visit in Austria, as well as these other beautiful places
Party a bit
Innsbruck is young, hip and very much alive. The large student population live it up in the numerous bars and clubs throughout the city and there is a vibrant cultural scene as well.
Head to Tribaun for terrific local craft beer, La Copa-Cabana for live music and karaoke and Hofgarten in the park on balmy summer evenings. And don’t miss out on the pizza, arthouse movies and the atmosphere at Treibhaus.
Innsbruck is a lovely destination for a weekend or short vacation in Austria. Have you ever been or has it made your travel bucket list?
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