Innsbruck is unlike any other European cities, located deep in the Inn valley it is encircled by soring, jagged mountains. The city sits on the banks of the Inn River, which flows from the Switz Alps and into the Danube. Behind the quaint, colourfully painted houses that line the cobbled streets stand the Alps offering a captivating backdrop.
Innsbruck is a prime location for those searching for a city break with added adrenaline or enough activities to increase your heart rate. Whatever time of the year you visit Innsbruck there is something for you to enjoy in this compact and charming city. The city offers access to Europe’s most accessible ski slopes for winter and world-class walking and biking in the summer months.
Because Innsbruck is surrounded by some of the best ski slopes in Austria, it can get very busy during the skiing season. You can join in and see what the city has to offer in the winter. Example, the closest ski resort is within the city limits – just catch the Nordkettenbahn cable car and you’ll be soaring down the pristine pistes in less than 20 minutes.
Other winter special includes the Bergisel ski jump, which enjoyed a starring role in the 1976 Winter Olympics. At 50m high you will need to lift to get to the top, at this height the alpine air is crisp and clean and the view is wonderful.
If you are more of a culture and history person, inside the city has lots to offer. The Golden Roof building, once the home of Emperor Maximilian I. Over 2,600 gilded tiles were added to the roof of this narrow building in the early 15th Century to give the Emperor the grandest balcony. Decorated with intricate frescoes, this was once the royal family’s official residence. You can then visit the Emperor’s grave inside the Hofkirche.
Walking Innsbruck’s medieval side streets is also enjoyable, there home some very cosy hangouts and trendy boutiques. Here there is no shortage of authentic restaurants to choose from, Goldner Adler in the heart of the city is worth a visit. The 360 Grad is well recommended, it’s the most stylish bar in Innsbruck. For traditional Austrian dinning with a modern twist check out Dengg cafe, bar and restaurant.
Dominating the city with its Baroque domed is the Imperial Palace, you can get a glimpse of its state apartments and opulent ballrooms and banqueting room so grand it’s been nicknamed the Giant’s Hall. Spend some time learning about Austrian history in the Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art, which is full of exhibits highlighting the regions past.