This is a new, modern museum that takes visitors on a journey through the tumultuous history of Tirol. You must grab a free trial or join Scott's Cheap Flights Premium to get cheap flight alerts directly to your email inbox. A number of art installations and sculptures decorate the surrounding gardens. These tours make great additions to your visit to Innsbruck. It's the perfect spot to begin exploring this historic city, and offers up plenty of excellent dining opportunities, as well as unique (and often classy) places to stay. This monumental Baroque palace was built in 1728 with a sumptuous and elaborately articulated faade. Cheers, Julie, Your email address will not be published. Step into the modern gallery for an impressive Austrian and Tyrolean art gallery. While youre here, you should definitely check out the Innsbrucker Hofgarten well get onto that in 3, 2, 1; The Hofgarten is a lovely imperial garden with an English-style pond and spectacular architecture in the heart of Innsbruck, bordering the Hofburg, near the cable car to Nordkette Mountain. The village's center is marked by the 15th-century parish church of St. Oswald with its fine frescos, sculptures, Gothic font, and wall reliefs. Here you can learn about the Austrian state of Tirol through archeological, historical, cultural, music, and scientific exhibits. There is plenty of underground parking, but Innsbruck, Austria is a very walkable city so it is not necessary to take a car. There is also an airport in Innsbruck. Highlights of a walking tour include the beautiful Baroque Helblinghaus, noted for its splendid stucco faade with cherubs and other decorative ornamentation. The Spanish Hall is decorated with a gorgeous coffered ceiling and numerous wonderful frescoes depicting lords from the Tyrolese region. All examples of this beautiful architecture are built evoking the ancient Tyrolese fashion. The tombs and museums for Emperor Maximilian I can be found here. ), and the intricate pulpit. Required fields are marked *. There are many things you could do in Innsbruck from skiing and snowboarding, hiking and ice climbing, or even just enjoying the scenery. Also we dont know German will that be a problem, Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck are great. The Alpine Zoo has bears, wolves, bearded vultures, lynx, chamois marmot, and a huge golden eagle that was rescued after being shot. Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues. Innsbruck hosted the 1964 and the 1976 Winter Olympics. Cheers, Julie. This well-preserved area is filled with many fine examples of old Tyrolese architecture and southern influences, along with sumptuous Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo buildings. The Capuchin Convent (Kapuzinerkloster) was built in 1593 and is notable for its chapel altar with a painting of the Virgin by Lucas Cranach the Elder from 1528. If you take a look on an Innsbruck map, Old Town is right in the center. If it is a clear day, I would start with the cable car. It was originally a historic inn that was popular with Goethe, a prominent writer, as well as Austrian royalty.

Archduke Ferdinand II lived in Ambras castle (or Schloss Ambras) from 1563 to 1569. For budget travelers, this is a great option. By continuing to browse this website you are agreeing to our use of cookies. It depends on how much the 1,000 square meter painting interests you! You can also add in Hallstatt. Here is a video of our experience making it to the Top of Innsbruck! Schloss Ambras was a medieval fortress that was turned into a Renaissance castle for the wife of Archduke Ferdinand II. This spectacular grand hall consists of polished marble and is decorated in white and gold, with three large ceiling frescos from 1775. See Related: Best Gardens in Europe to Visit. The on-site museum showcases the evolution of church bells and their role in western culture. A visit to Innsbruck, Austria wont be complete without checking out the Hofburg Imperial Palace. The 24 hour Innsbruck card costs 49. Just a short drive southeast of Innsbruck, the palatial Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras) was the residence of Archduke Ferdinand from 1563-95. The Innsbruck Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. James is a Roman Catholic cathedral built in the 18th Century although historical documentation has mentioned a church on this site as early as the 1100s! Here you can stroll down a row of beautiful 17th and 18th Century structures. The Town Tower (Stradtturm) is located in the Old Town of Innsbruck. This ski jump tower was first used for the World Championships in 1934 and it hosted many events since then. On the high altar is a 14th-century sandstone figure of Mary under the Four Pillars. If you cant make it, there is a store in Old Town that has large crystal figures to see too. JRY Hosting Services, 100 Mason Road, Texas, USA. Written by Bryan DearsleyUpdated Oct 21, 2021, We may earn a commission from affiliate links (). See Related: Romantic Destinations in the World. This handy pass includes fares on both the funicular and cable car, and allows you to explore the mountain at your own pace. Copyright 2022 JRY Hosting Services. For a small ticket price, you can climb 133 stairs to see panoramic views of Innsbruck, Austria. Who needs ski slopes when you have a ski jump? All told, six different ski areas are linked by shuttle services, with a single ski pass covering in excess of 500 kilometers of trails. Also, listen for the bells; some are nearly 900 years old and still ring true! Innsbruck sits in a valley and it surrounded by enormous, snow-capped mountains. Built in 1755, the building's interior is decorated with superb ceiling frescos by Matthus Gnther and stucco-work by Franz Xaver Feuchtmayer. Also worth seeing, the Tyrolean State Museum (Tyroler Landesmuseum Ferdinandeum) features collections relating to the history and art of Tyrol. The Cathedral of St. James is a favorite of tourists for its Baroque architecture. So keep a lookout for a gas station right before you get to Austria and you should be able to purchase a vignette here. Another of the top things to do in Innsbruck is to admire the mountain scenery. Swarovski Crystal World has whats called the Giant which houses 17 chambers of wonder. To the south of Innsbruck rises the 746-meter-tall hill known as Bergisel, famous the world over for its superb winter sports facilities. The elegant interior of the Schnbrunn Palace is also worth seeing, especially the exquisitely decorated Imperial Apartments. Tyrolean Provincial Theater in the Hofburg District | Christian Allinger / photo modified. Besides the castles art collections, Spanish Hall, and other magnificent rooms, it also features various other features worth exploring. You can purchase a vignette at the gas stations and rest stops near the border between Germany and Austria. The huge Heroes Orgel (Heldenorgel), built-in 1841 on 4,300 pipes and 16 stop-clocks, plays on Saturdays from noon onward. A good place to end your walk is in St. Nikolaus District a little farther downstream, notable for its Neo-Gothic church. The Alpine Zoo is a very popular zoo across Europe with a unique alpine theme. The best option is to get the Innsbruck City Pass which covers all your public transportation needs, including the cable car up the mountain and a shuttle to Swarovski Crystal Worlds, and several museums throughout Innsbruck. A stroll around the garden of the castle is one of the most pleasant things to do in Innsbruck. There are many great hiking trails to choose from in Innsbruck, and they offer something for every keen walker. It now houses the Provincial Assembly and Provincial Government (Landesregierung). The Tyrolean Provincial Theater (Tiroler Landestheater Innsbruck), built in 1846, hosts operas, musicals, dance, and theatrical performances. Once you get here you dont need a car as the public transportation is so good. Are there places to stop for the vignette along that section, say from Ulm to the border? Once at the top, enjoy the amazing view. Julie Last updated: April 12, 2022 Austria 8 Comments. If you are traveling by rail, the Innsbruck station connects European cities such as Venice, Munich, Salzburg, and Zurich. You have three options for ascending the Nordkette Mountains: Planning a trip to Austria? For a small ticket fee, you can visit this imperial palace that is home to luxurious apartments, frescos, and a lot of gold. In general, the skies tend to be clear in the morning and get cloudier in the afternoon (but this is just a generalization). You can get your tickets in advance to avoid the line. To make the most of your trip, its best to stay here for three to five days. See Related: Best Hotels in Innsbruck Austria. Now a popular resort, the village stretches out over the valley. Use, In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use. Go downhill mountain biking, hiking, handgliding, skiing, and more. Tickets can also be purchased through GetYourGuide, and the last we checked, tickets purchased on the GetYourGuide website can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund. From Maria-Theresien-Strasse, you can easily visit and look at the Triumphpforte, (or the Triumphal Arch in English). For just a few euros, you can get some amazing views over the city. You only need a few hours to see the highlights of Innsbruck, but if you have more time, there is plenty to do to keep you busy. The former palace is now a magnificent museum, remodeled at the request of Empress Maria Theresa (a central character of Innsbrucks history) in the 18th Century. Also worth visiting is the Hofgarten, with its Art and Concert Pavilion. Some good locations which are only an hour or so away by the main train station are Hallstatt (a mountain village overlooked by an imposing castle), Salzburg (a beautiful old town with Baroque domes), and Klagenfurt, Austrias third-largest city with its fairy tale castle on a hill overlooking the River Worthersee, which is definitely worth a see! This ski jump is also used for training and competitive purposes, so if you are here at the right time, you will also be able to watch ski jumping. And to the southeast, above Lanser Kpfe, lies the rounded summit of the 2,247-meter Patscherkofel, popular with skiers. My favorite cheap flight alert was 25,000 Delta SkyMiles to London non-stop. There are a series of cable cars that can whisk you to the top of the Nordkette Mountains for 360 views over the area. Address: Schlostrae 20, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria, Official site: www.schlossambras-innsbruck.at/en. The massive Heroes' Organ (Heldenorgel), built in 1931 with 4,307 pipes and 46 stops, plays daily at noon in memory of those who died in two world wars and can be heard many kilometers away. Although less mountainous, the scenery around the pretty city of Klagenfurt is well worth exploring, especially around the Wrthersee, a popular destination for hiking. It is one of the most beautiful things to do in Innsbruck, Austria, especially in the winter as you take in the scenery and appreciate the mountains blanketed in snow as chilly breezes tweak your ears and nose. From the top of the City Tower, you can see the Golden Roof, Bergisel, Patscherkofel Mountain, the River Inn, and the Nordkette. The highlight of a visit, though, is Feste Kufstein (Kufstein Fortress), the beautiful old castle that rears high above the town on a precipitous crag. The first thing to put on your list of things to do in Innsbruck is to take a walking tour of Innsbrucks ancient Old Town as soon as you step into this beautiful, vibrant Austrian city. Use Skyscanner to book the cheapest flight possible. You'll be in great shape to get the best price possible. Check out this video tour of Innsbruck on our YouTube channel!

Also of note is the Altes Landhaus. The Hofgarten is a lovely area to catch up with friends, relax, and take a delightful stroll. Additionally, there is a great collection of arms and armor in the lower castle. There are multiple ponds, a play area that children will enjoy, and several spots to grab a bite. The fascinating city of Innsbruck, Austria delivers a remarkable vacation experience, with magnificent natural scenery surrounding the city and beautiful man-made marvels. But the Alpenzoo makes the list of things to do in Innsbruck because of its unique structure and wonderful treatment of its animals. We came from Salzburg and it took about an hour ride. A great place to begin your walk is the Mariahilf District, noted for its Baroque Mariahilf-Kirche from 1649 with its 17th-century frescos, and the beautiful Botanic Garden and observatory. All Rights Reserved. Beyond the gleaming exterior grandeur of the Ambras Castle, the treasures that can be found within the walls make it an even more fascinating place to visit. Located in the Domplatz, Innsbruck Cathedral (Innsbruck Dom) also known as the Cathedral of St. James was granted cathedral status in 1964. Notable for its imposing twin-towered west front and the high dome over the choir, it was built in Baroque style in 1724 and fully restored after World War II. Maybe end with dinner again in the Old Town. Other interesting landmarks include the Ottoburg, a residential tower built in 1494, and the Deutschordenshaus (House of the Teutonic Order) built in 1532. The Axamer-Lizum, the slopes of the village of Axams, 10 kilometers outside Innsbruck, and the Tulfes and Mutters areas also offer good intermediate terrain. If youre a beginner, there are plenty of easy trails to try, while more experienced riders can take on the more challenging routes. Read all of our articles in our. We spent about a half-hour here, enjoying this unique painting and related exhibits. If I remember correctly, we parked in a public parking lot just outside of the Old Town. Several blocks of the street are completely pedestrianized, and it is the ideal area to take a stroll or perhaps enjoy a drink while taking in the stunning architecture that lines the sidewalks. While there are many things to do in Innsbruck, there are even more things to do just outside the city. Hotels in the old center or between it and the train station are the most convenient, but the streets and esplanades along the opposite bank of the River Inn, in the Mariahilf District, are an easy walk away. It is also home to a fine collection of portraits of the Imperial family. ), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited. Hi, I am planning to visit Innsburg from Salzburg for one day.What is the best itenary for one day. For a truly fascinating experience, be sure to include the Grassmayr Bell Foundry and Museum on your Innsbruck travel itinerary. Particularly memorable is the Giant Hall (Riesensaal). Copyright 2022 PlanetWare Inc. All rights reserved. The semi-circular quarter of the Old Town (Altstadt) is enclosed by a ring of streets known as the Graben (Moat) and is now a lovely pedestrian area where you can stroll through 800 years of history. Its a beautiful area. In December, this is the scene of a large Christmas Market that spills into the streets of the Old Town. Today, the monument is a significant landmark that contributes to the historic appeal of the citys ancient architecture. It is a bustling business district that also has significant historical value in the city. St. Annes Column, also known as the Annasule, is another must-see attraction. The latter is centered around a huge panoramic painting of the city and region. Interested in traveling to this breathtaking city yet? The High Baroque marble altars from 1732 feature a famous image of the Virgin, Maria Hilf, from 1530. Visiting Innsbruck is a great spot for active people and history buffs. Its biggest draw is its location. Depending on where you are in the Innsbruck city center, you can see the Bergisel ski jump from afar. The sports complexes at Olympiaworld were used during the Olympics and are still in use today. The centerpiece of the outdoor features is the fascinating Giant, a large landscaped waterfall in the shape of a human head that spews water from its mouth. There are also many museums and historic churches to explore. The Kaiserturm also houses a local history museum, the Heimatmuseum, and is used as a venue for concerts and festivals. And take your time. It's a low cost way to ensure your travel plans go smooth no matter what's thrown at it. This path is best for advanced hikers, as it requires some equipment and knowledge of proper technique. Nearby is the 16th-century Golden Eagle (Goldener Adler), an old inn once as popular with emperors as it was with writers like Goethe. The arcaded Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, lined with handsome old merchants' houses, enters the Old Town quarter from the south and makes straight for the famous Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl). The ride is included with the purchase of a handy Innsbruck Card, an affordable pass that allows entrance to all the city's most important attractions. Top Places to Visit in Austria: The elegant city of Salzburg is rich with cultural history and known the world over for its music (it was the birthplace of Mozart) and art galleries. These include statues of Count Albrecht IV of Habsburg and King Arthur of England, the latter regarded as the finest statue of a knight in Renaissance art. The Hallsttter See is another lovely area to explore, especially among hikers, backpackers, and bikers. With its close proximity to Italy and Germany, Innsbruck makes a great stop on a road trip or railway trip through Europe. The sports facilities built for the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympic Games still draw crowds of skiers and are the scene every year of national and international competitions. First recorded in 1205, the fortress is notable for its 90-meter-high Emperor's Tower (Kaiserturm). It features awe-inspiring painted ceilings and a fine collection of portraits of the Imperial family. To take a stroll down the bustling and colorful shopping district promenade that is Maria-Theresa Street is another one of the most enjoyable things to do in Innsbruck. The Triumphal Arch (Triumphpforte), located at the southern end of Maria-Theresien Strasse, was erected in 1765. This art experience is an immense and immersive 360-degree painting. An easy 20-kilometer drive east of Innsbruck is Swarovski Kristallwelten (Crystal Worlds). Two restaurants are located on-site, along with a large adventure plyaground, making this a wonderful outing for kids of all ages. If you have any questions about the best things to do in Innsbruck, let us know in the comment section below. Many of the city's most popular places to visit are clustered close to the Old Town, whose charming narrow streets provide tourists plenty of things to see and do. Planning a trip to Austria? Also worth visiting is the Wildsee at the southern end of town, an attractive small lake with a beach and swimming pools. On the north side of the hill, below the ski jump, stands a memorial to those who fought for their freedom, including the Andreas Hofer Monument built in 1893, a memorial chapel from 1909, and the Tomb of the Tyrolese Kaiserjger (Imperial Riflemen). The city has a rich history of monarchy, religion, and sports. You can also view some of the thrilling competitions that are available on Saturday mornings. Here is the viewfrom Hermann Buhl Square. Back in the center, near the Old Inn Bridge (Alte Innbrcke), you'll find the lively Innsbruck Market. The nearby ski village of Igls has spectacular views over Innsbruck and ski runs suitable for all levels. Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. The city is known across the world for its ski resorts and has a long, illustrious history as a winter sports destination. You also have the option to hike the Panorama Trail, an easy hiking trail that can be completed in 30 minutes. The collection is on display on the first floor of the castle. The museum is split into several parts, each of which focuses on a different exhibit. It is a bustling business district that also has significant historical value in the city, named after Empress Maria Theresa. But you will be able to get by just fine with English. Another option is the Klettersteig Wendelstein mountain trail. Want More Destination Ideas Direct to Your Inbox? Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. The Tyrolean State Museum in Innsbruck, Austria was founded in the early 1800s and is one of the oldest museums depicting relics from the Austrian empires. The church is famous for its mighty 60-meter-tall dome built in 1640. Need your help to plan out austria well. The Tyrolean State Museum offers both modern and historical arts for all to experience. To take a stroll down the bustling and colorful promenade that is Maria-Theresa Street is another one of the most enjoyable activities while in Innsbruck. This is one of the top things to do in Innsbruck for history and culture fans. There are several restaurants and an additional viewing platform on each segment of the trip to the Top of Innsbruck, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to sample Austrian cuisine. Now, you can see the medieval armor and artwork dating back hundred of years. Innsbruck is also a major jumping-off point for exploring the surrounding Alps by foot or on Nordic skis many people hike from Innsbruck up into Tyrols higher peaks, going on to explore valleys and lakes located high up in the alpine regions. Most of the main sites in Innsbruck are within walking distance from the Old Town or connected by the tram. Austria's third largest city, Linz is home to a wide variety of important art galleries and museums, and makes for an excellent day trip. Also worth visiting is the 57-meter-high Stadtturm. Cheers, Julie. There is also an impressive art gallery throughout. A highlight of a visit is seeing the old casting hall. More than 2,000 animals from 150 different Alpine species are kept here, along with an abundance of marine life in the world's largest fresh-water aquarium. Flights can get pricey, though. Its 17 chambers display impressive artworks in crystal, and highlights include the superb Crystal Dome, the Crystal Theatre, and the enchanting Crystal Forest installations. This is a city with endless viewsride cable cars to the mountain peaks, visita ski jump, or climb the Town Tower for unbeatable views. Address: Weiherburggasse 37, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. The most popular to visit is the nearby Nordkette Mountain, which is called the top of Innsbruck. Its an ideal location for winter and summer sports. As you explore and admire the garden, you will find yourself surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant blooms. Innsbruck is located on the long, skinny tail of Austria that is wedged between Italy and Germany. While in Salzburg, it might be nice to day trip into Berchtesgaden, Germany. Other highlights include Maria Theresa's Rooms, Empress Elisabeth's Apartment, the Ancestral Gallery, the Furniture Museum, and the Painting Gallery. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austria, 27 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Vienna, 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Salzburg, 13 Top-Rated Things to Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, 14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kitzbhel, 13 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Bolzano, Where to Stay in Munich: Best Areas & Hotels, Traveling to Munich with Kids: 11 Top Things to Do, Exploring Munich's Frauenkirche (The Cathedral of Our Lady), 19 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Munich, 13 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bregenz, 18 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Augsburg, 14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Trento, Where to Stay in Salzburg: Best Areas & Hotels, 14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Liechtenstein, 22 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 20 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Swarovski Crystal Worlds Admission Ticket Including Shuttle Transfer from, www.festung.kufstein.at/en/herzlich-willkommen.html, Austrian capital of Vienna offers many fun things to do, A favorite among those who enjoy luxury accommodations, the 150-year-old. Several interesting sights lie close to the beautiful riverbanks and esplanades of the River Inn. Afterwards, make your way to the Htting Ridgeway (Httinger Hhenstrasse) for its fine views of the city and mountains. Innsbruck has some great trails for biking, and there are routes and trails for all sorts of bikers. Viewing the royal residence such as Empress Elisabeths Apartment and the lavish Furniture Museum are also essential stops when visiting the Hofburg. Address: Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. The River Inn connects Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Of particular interest is the Silver Chapel, built in 1587 as the burial chapel of Archduke Ferdinand II and named after a silver image of the Virgin and embossed silver reliefs on the altar. Also worth seeing is the Burgriesenhaus (Castle Giant's House), built in 1490 for a court giant. There are several active adventures like skiing and snowboarding as well as some of the most popular tourist attractions like Hafelekar Mountain and the Goldenes Dachl (the Golden Roof). Your email address will not be published.