The picture-pretty Alpine city is a dream getaway for outdoor adventurers.
Mention Innsbruck and world-class skiing leaps to mind, but the only way isn’t up in this popular year-round sports hub. You also get bags of architectural charm, classy shopping and a varied local scene.
Gettin Around
Flying into Innsbruck (INN) from London City Airport (LCY) lands you just 6km and a 20-minute journey from the compact city centre.
Getting around Innsbruck is easy thanks to the super-efficient public transport system. Buses, trams, bikes and cable cars help you navigate the city and surrounding regions – no car required! Grab a free Innsbruck Welcome Card to enjoy free or discounted transport, services and more.
Language
German
Time Difference
1 hr ahead of GMT
Currency
Euro
Neighbourhoods to see
Aldstadt (Old Town)
Make the most of a ski-free day or summer visit with a stroll round Innsbruck’s charming Old Town. Ancient architecture rises above cosy street cafes, interesting shops and centuries-old landmarks, including lavish Baroque imperial palace the Hofburg.
Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof)
This eye-catching roof in the Old Town is one of the city’s most famous sights, completed in 1500 to mark Emperor Maximilian I’s marriage. The dazzling 2,657 copper tiles crown an ancient loggia whose balconies and balustrades teem with sculptures, murals and frescoes depicting the Emperor’s life.
Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle)
With origins in the 11th century, this imposing hilltop castle was transformed from fortress to Renaissance palace by Archduke Ferdinand II in the 16th century. Visit for impressive collections of armour and curiosities, galleries crammed with works by Velazquez, Titian and Van Dyck, and exquisite landscaped gardens.
Bergisel Ski Jump
Jump on the tram up to this Zaha Hadid-designed ski jump, rising 250m above Innsbruck, and enjoy breathtaking 360° views across the city and surrounding mountains. You can see more of Hadid’s architecture at the Nordpark railway stations across the Nordkette mountain range slopes.
Hofkirche (Court Church)
A must-see royal church, commissioned by Ferdinand I in 1553 and famed for its rich Gothic architecture. Emperor Maximilian I’s extravagant black marble sarcophagus takes centre stage, guarded by 28 bronze statues – though his body stayed buried in the castle chapel at Wiener Neustadt over 300 miles away.
Food and Drink
It’s easy to find great eating experiences in Innsbruck. Take your pick from international restaurants to traditional Tyrolean food spots – or park yourself outside a coffee house to watch the world go by over warming drinks and cake.
Events
JAN | Four Hills Tournament
Take a break from carving powder down the slopes to watch the pros hit the heights off the iconic Bergisel ski jump. Innsbruck is one of four locations for this famous World Cup event which has been held across Austria and Germany every winter since 1953.
MAY | International Golden Roof Challenge
Summer visitors get the chance to watch world-class athletes compete for pole-vault and long-jump titles in the heart of Innsbruck Old Town. Part of a global series of athletics events, the challenge also includes competition opportunities for children and young people.
DEC | Christmas Markets
Christmas time in Innsbruck is truly magical, with giant Christmas trees, fairy-lit streets and traditional markets across the city. Keep warm with street snacks and Glühwein while you browse for handicrafts, souvenirs and gifts. For festive vibes with a stunning view, hop on the funicular up to Hungerburg Christmas market.