The capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck is an economic and cultural center with an exceptional natural setting: the peaks that encircle Innsbruck exceed 2,500 meters in altitude, offering spectacular panoramic views around every corner. Renowned for its sporting activities, Innsbruck boasts 500 km of nearby ski slopes and was twice an Olympic city, in 1964 and 1976. The city also boasts magnificent Baroque and classical architecture, as well as a rich built heritage including numerous museums. So, what's there to do and see in Innsbruck? Discover the 17 must-sees in this city in the heart of the Alps, where a bucolic, mountainous world opens up to you.
1. Innsbruck's imperial church: the city's jewel
The Hofkirche, Innsbruck's imperial church, housesthe tomb of Emperor Maximilian I, surrounded by 28 bronze statues representing his ancestors. Cast between 1509 and 1550, these larger-than-life statues are dressed in period armor and robes. Among them are Charles the Bold, Maximilian I's father-in-law, and Clovis I, King of the Franks. To the right of the choir, a 500-year-old Renaissance organ, ranked among the five most famous in the world, also catches the eye. This stop is a must for any history buff, as the tomb of Emperor Maximilian, surrounded by his family tree and impressive statues, is well worth a visit!
Good to know: The best way to discover Innsbruck is to book your city card right here. You'll enjoyfree access to public transport (+ cable car) and admission to the main museums.
2. Visit the Imperial Palace of Innsbruck
Built between 1453 and 1463, the Imperial Palace of Innsbruck has undergone several alterations: first in Gothic style between 1495 and 1519 by Maximilian I, then in Renaissance style between 1536 and 1570, and finally transformed into a Baroque palace between 1754 and 1773 by Empress Maria Theresa. This imposing white building, flanked by two turrets, features the Habsburg royal eagle at its center. All the rooms are richly decorated, and the main hall houses portraits of the royal family, including Marie-Antoinette. This magnificent historic monument is a must-see for lovers of history and fine buildings.
Activities to book: Discover Innsbruck with a local guide by booking your tour right here. You'll receive tips and tricks for discovering the city and its best-kept secrets.
3. Ambras Castle, one of Tyrol's most beautiful historic buildings
One of Tyrol's most beautiful historic buildings, Ambras Castle stands on a hill south of Innsbruck. It owes its current appearance to Archduke Ferdinand II, who transformed it in the 16th century. The upper castle houses period-furnished living quarters andthe Habsburg Portrait Gallery. In the lower castle, you can visit the Hall of Arts and Wonders, as well as the Spanish Hall, consideredone of the most beautiful free-standing rooms of the Renaissance.
Book your ticket: Take advantage of our partner's rates by booking your admission ticket to Ambras Castle in Innsbruck right here.
The article to read: What to do and see in Tyrol, Austria? Top 18 destinations
4. What to do in Innsbruck Visit the Tyrolean Museum
Housed in a 16th-century building with an arcaded courtyard, it was first a monastery, then a school in the 18th century, and is now Innsbruck's Tyrolean Museum. It exhibits clothing and objects from everyday Tyrolean life. Of particular interest is the room devoted to superstitions and popular beliefs. There are also reconstructions of Tyrolean domestic households, with a remarkable attention to detail. A small infrared scanner is on hand to provide information in French.
5. St. James Cathedral
Saint-Jacques Cathedral featuressuperb frescoes on its interior ceiling, depicting scenes from the life of Saint James. Damaged by earthquakes in the 16th and 17th centuries, it was restored between 1717 and 1724 in Baroque style. The cathedral is also home to Lucas Cranach's Virgin of Good Help. Every day at 12.10pm, the bells ring out for peace. You can also admire the canopied mausoleum of Archduke Maximilian III and the magnificent ceiling frescoes by Cosmas Damian Asam of Munich. A must-see in Innsbruck!
6. Go to Wilten Basilica
This pretty, colorful cathedral, although a little out of the center of Innsbruck, is easily accessible by public transport. It's a little gem and one of the jewels of the city's religious heritage. As far back as the Roman Empire, the site was venerated for the holy image of the Virgin Mary. Built in 1755 under the direction of Franz von Paula Penz, an expert in Tyrolean churches, this rococo basilica houses a highly venerated 19th-century statue of the Virgin Mary. The harmonious proportions of the ensemble and its rich interior decoration make it one of the finest examples of Tyrolean rococo.
Good to know: From November 15, Innsbruck hosts one of Europe's finest Christmas markets. Located at the foot of the Little Golden Roof, the market is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering a timeless spectacle that's worth the detour alone. A must for mountain lovers at Christmas!
7. The little golden roof: not to be missed during your stay in Innsbruck
This pretty building, adorned with multicolored frescoes and a golden roof, is an emblem of the city. The magnificent facade was the Habsburgs' first residence from 1400 onwards, and its famous "Little Golden Roof" was added by Maximilian I and completed in 1500. Composed of 2,657 gilded copper tiles, it gives the building a flamboyant appearance. Today, the building houses a museum that traces the history of the imperial family and Maximilian. Kunz von der Rosen, the court jester, guides young and old on a journey through history. This is Innsbruck's main attraction, making the district very touristy, but it still retains much of its charm.
8. Admire the Helbling House, a superb building covered in frescoes and gilding
Opposite the Petit Toit d'or stands the Maison Helbling, a 15th-century bourgeois house magnificently adorned with frescoes and gilding. Impossible to miss. The frescoes date from the first half of the 18th century, and the stuccowork, executed in late Baroque style, is the work of artists from the Wessobrunn school. In 1730, the façade was enriched with decorations (acanthus leaves, bunches of fruit, shells, cherubs, masks, etc.) by Anton Gigl.
9. Enjoy the view of Innsbruck from the Bergisel ski jump
First erected in 1925, the Bergisel ski jump hosted the Olympic Games in 1964 and 1976. Transformed in 2001 by architect Zaha Hadid, the site now houses a panoramic café-restaurant offering exceptional views of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains. If you don't want to sit down for a meal, you can take the opportunity to watch the athletes training all year round. The heights are even more impressive in real life than on TV.
Good to know: The parking lot is just a few minutes' walk away. You can take a pleasant stroll through a park featuring museums and monuments.
Related article: Where to ski in Austria? The 12 biggest resorts
10. The Imperial Hunters' Museum in Innsbruck
The Imperial Hunters Museum reflects the evolution of the Austrian Empire's army, tracing the uprising of 1809 and paying tribute to the famous Tyrolean elite corps disbanded in 1919. The rooms and the moving memorial to the 1914-1918 war offer a magnificent view of the valley and the Nordkette mountain range directly opposite. Don't miss the TIROL Panorama, an impressiveand realistic paintingby Zeno Diemer, which recreates the Battle of Bergisel (1809) on a 1,000 m² circular canvas.
11. See the Innsbruck Triumphal Arch
The Innsbruck Triumphal Arch was built in the 18th century at the request of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria to celebrate the marriage of her son, the future Emperor Leopold II. It was also intended to honor the memory of Emperor Francis I, the Empress's husband, who died during the festivities. Thus, one half of the vault symbolizes the wedding, while the other half commemorates the funeral event. Richly decorated, this Roman-inspired Baroque monument is well worth a visit. It is particularly magnificent when lit up at night, so don't hesitate to take a tour after dinner in one of Innsbruck's top restaurants, for example!
The tour most popular with travelers: We recommend that you book this guided tour of all Innsbruck's most beautiful places. Very popular with travelers, it will show you the Imperial Garden, St. James's Cathedral, colorful houses, beautiful streets and much more.
12. Enjoy a magnificent view from the Town Hall Tower
The Town Hall Tower, dating from 1442, offers a magnificent view of Innsbruck's rooftops, as well as the Bergisel, Patscherkofel, Inn and Nordkette. With its 133 steps and 31-metre height, this tower was once used to keep watch, monitor the surrounding area and warn residents of imminent danger. Located right next to the town hall, it's an excellent landmark for finding your way around the city without constantly having your nose on the map. A magnificent sundial adorns its façade.
The ticket to book: Enjoy a spectacular view of Innsbruck's skyline from the City Tower by booking your ticket here .
13. Stop off at Innsbruck's Imperial Garden
This garden is an ideal place to picnic or simply spend a pleasant moment with the family in the shade of the trees in summer. Established in the 16th century under Archduke Ferdinand II and transformed into a Baroque garden under Empress Maria Theresa, it is home to exotic parrots roaming free. Located right in the center of town, it's a pleasant stop on a day full of sightseeing. Once reserved for high society, this imperial garden is now open to all.
Guided tour to book: Discover Innsbruck's old town center on this guided walking tour of the culture, life, architecture and art of this medieval city.
14. Coffee in Maria-Theresien-Strass
You'll no doubt pass along this street during your stay in Innsbruck. Here, you're right in the vibrant heart of Innsbruck. In the center of Maria-Theresien-Strasse stands the Annasäule (St. Anne's Column), erected between 1704 and 1706 to commemorate the retreat of the Bavarians during the War of the Spanish Succession. Note also the many Madonnas with Child painted on the houses lining the street. It's a pleasant street to have a coffee on a terrace, stroll or do a little shopping.
15. The Alpine Zoological Park: a family outing with children
Europe's highest zoo (750 m), the Alpine Zoological Park is dedicated to Alpine fauna. It is home to over 2,000 animals representing 150 species. A fascinating trail allows you toobserve the species first-hand and learn about the local fauna: brown bears, lynxes, marmots, wolves, ibexes, golden eagles and more. The animal caretakers will lead you through the animals' meals. Educational panels along the way inform you about the habits of each species, the threats they face and the measures taken to protect them.
Petit Futé tip: The zoo is only accessible via the Hungerburg funicular. We recommend that you book this ticket, which includes admission to Innsbruck Alpine Zooand the funicular ticket. You can also book your return ticket only for the cable car right here.
The activity to book: travelling with the kids? Download this exciting treasure hunt in Innsbruck. This orienteering game will have you solving riddles and discovering the city at the same time: a fun activity to do as a family with children in Innsbruck.
The article to read: Where to travel with children in Europe? Top 10 ideal destinations
16. Enjoy Austrian specialties in one of Innsbruck's oldest restaurants
The Otto Tower is a Gothic residential tower, erected on the city's old fortifications in 1494, which today houses an inn. At its entrance, a monument pays tribute to the Tyrolean fighters who died for freedom in 1809. Like many other buildings in Innsbruck's historic center, the Ottoburg dates back to Emperor Maximilian I. Inside, a restaurant serves typical Tyrolean dishes and national specialties according to the season. The rooms are magnificent, with ribbed and star-ribbed vaults.
Activities to book: Discover Innsbruck's history, architecture and culture whilesampling Tyrolean specialties on a culinary tour you can book here.
The article to read: What to do in Austria The 19 most beautiful places to visit
17. The bell foundry: an unusual visit to Innsbruck
In the Grassmayr family, the tradition of bell casting has been handed down from father to son. The museum shows the various stages of bell making, a process that can take from two weeks to three months. The heaviest bells can weigh up to 10 tonnes. Although tone control is now computerized, casting techniques in clay molds remain the same as in the Middle Ages. Bronze gives the best resonance and the longest sound. The oldest bell on display dates back to 1490.
Where to stay in Innsbruck?
Innsbruck offers several attractive areas to stay, each with its own charms and advantages.
- The historic center, or Altstadt, is ideal for those wishing to be close to the main tourist attractions, historic architecture, and numerous restaurants, cafés and stores. However, it can be noisy and more expensive than other areas.
- Wilten is a quiet residential neighborhood with easy access to the city center. It is close to the Wilten Basilica and Wilten Monastery, but offers fewer entertainment and dining options than the city center.
- Hötting, at the foot of the Nordkette, is ideal for nature lovers and hikers, offering breathtaking views over the city. However, it may take longer to get to the city center.
Here are our 3 favorite hotels in Innsbruck:
- Most convenient for travelers: ibis Innsbruck
A pleasant, practical hotel that you can book here. Its strengths? It's ideally located just a stone's throw from the main railway station and Innsbruck's historic center, with its many museums, bars and restaurants. What's more, it's close to the shuttle buses serving the 8 ski and hiking areas. In addition to drinks, the bar is open 24/7 and serves tasty snacks.
- The most luxurious: The PENZ Hotel
A benchmark for lovers of luxury and contemporary architecture. The rooms, bookable here are bathed in light and refined sobriety. An exceptional buffet breakfast awaits you, with a varied, high-quality selection available from 7 a.m. to midday. What to do: enjoy a coffee on the terrace and marvel at the spectacular view of the city and mountains.
- The most kid-friendly: Hotel Goldene Krone Innsbruck
Located on Innsbruck's main shopping street, the Hotel Goldene Krone is a simple but comfortable 3-star hotel that you can book here. A buffet breakfast is included in the room rate. Pets are welcome and the hotel is child-friendly. It's ideally located for exploring the city.
What to do in Innsbruck when it rains?
When it rains in Innsbruck, there are plenty of indoor activities to make the most of your stay. Here are a few suggestions:
Visit museums:
- Imperial Hunters Museum (Kaiserjägermuseum): This museum traces Tyrol's military history and pays tribute to the famous Tyrolean elite corps.
- Tyrolean Museum (Tiroler Landesmuseum): presents the history and culture of Tyrol through a variety of exhibits.
- Ferdinandeum Museum: A natural history and art museum with a wide range of collections.
Explore churches and historic monuments
- Imperial Church (Hofkirche): Home to the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I and bronze statues of his ancestors.
- Cathedral of St. James (Dom zu St. Jakob): Admire the frescoes and Baroque architecture.
- Wilten Basilica: A magnificently decorated rococo church.
Discover the art galleries:
- Contemporary art gallery (Kunsthalle Tirol): Contemporary art exhibitions.
- Galerie du Tyrol (Tiroler Kunstpavillon): featuring works by local and international artists.
Discover also the most popular things to do in Innsbruck:
Where do I park to visit Innsbruck?
Parking in Innsbruck can be a challenge, especially in tourist areas and the city center. Here are a few options to help you find the right parking for your visit:
- Public parking lots, such as the Rathausgalerien parking lot under the Rathausgalerien shopping center, the Congress parking lot near the congress center and many tourist attractions, and the Altstadtgarage parking lot, are well located for exploring the city center.
- Surface parking lots such as Maria-Theresien-Straße, close to the main pedestrian street, and the Markthalle parking lot, close to the covered market and the city center, are also convenient for shopping and sightseeing.
- For free options, you can visit parking lot P1 (Parkplatz P1) or parking lot P2 (Parkplatz P2), located just outside the city center. These parking lots are well served by public transport, so you can easily reach the city center by bus or streetcar.
Innsbruck or Salzburg: which to visit?
The choice between Innsbruck and Salzburg depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do during your stay. Here are a few points to consider to help you decide:
Innsbruck
Assets :
- Mountains and nature: Innsbruck is surrounded by magnificent mountains, offering numerous opportunities for hiking, skiing, mountain biking and other outdoor activities.
- Historic architecture: The city boasts many historic buildings, including the Little Golden Roof, the Imperial Church (Hofkirche) and Ambras Castle.
- Culture and museums: Innsbruck is home to several interesting museums, including the Tiroler Landesmuseum and the Ferdinandeum Museum.
- Winter sports: As an Olympic city, Innsbruck is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts.
Disadvantages:
- Less medieval charm: Although Innsbruck has a rich history, it doesn't have the same medieval charm as Salzburg.
- Climate: The climate can be colder and wetter due to the proximity of the mountains.
Salzburg
Assets :
- Medieval charm: Salzburg is famous for its well-preserved historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobblestone streets, Baroque churches and castles.
- Music and culture: The city is the birthplace of Mozart and hosts numerous music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Festival.
- Hohensalzburg Castle: One of Europe's largest medieval castles, with breathtaking views over the city.
- Mirabell Gardens: A magnificent Baroque garden, famous for its flower beds and fountains.
Disadvantages :
- Mass tourism: Salzburg is very popular with tourists, which can make the city very crowded, especially in high season.
- Fewer outdoor activities: Although Salzburg offers hiking and skiing opportunities, it is not as well located for outdoor activities as Innsbruck.
Conclusion
- Choose Innsbruck if you're a lover of nature, winter sports and outdoor activities. The city also offers a rich history and numerous museums.
- Choose Salzburg if you're attracted by medieval charm, classical music and well-preserved historic sites. The city is ideal for those who appreciate culture and history. Before you visit, take a look at our article What to do and see in Salzburg Top 13 must-sees and 10 good reasons to visit Salzburg all year round!
