Innsbruck
How about a ski weekend? Skiing was born in Innsbruck, Austria. IT is built in the shadow of the Alps, providing ample opportunity to take part in the Austrian national pastime. If you enjoy brisk mountain air – whether you’re skiing, hiking, or just walking from sight to sight – Innsbruck is a great place to spend a few days. The baroque architecture, amazing views, and friendly locals are just a couple of reasons to visit. With Innsbruck, you get a sweet taste of Austrian culture and history – plus the benefit of great skiing and hiking. Austria’s tourist calendar has two main seasons: the summer season which runs from May to October and the winter ski season which runs from December to April.
Innsbruck is a relatively popular place for tourists, so sometimes it may be a challenge to see through all of that to understand what Innsbruck is really all about. However, it’s definitely worth the effort. The locals are friendly and warm, and talking to university students will give you a great idea of what Innsbruck, Austria has in store for you.
Mostly people speak German in Innsbruck, but you’ll hear an array of different languages from surrounding areas. Since tourists are a big part of Innsbruck, you can generally find English-speakers, too. But, bring your phrasebook just to be safe.
- Pictures |
- Things to do |
- Nightlife |
- Dining |
- Shopping |
- Travel tips
Innsbruck Pictures
Things to do in Innsbruck
The city’s baroque architecture is breathtaking, with a few cathedrals and palaces scattered throughout the area. Make sure to visit the Altstadt (Old Town) and gaze at the Goldenes Dachl (Little Golden Roof)-a gold shingled balcony built to commemorate a Habsburg marriage.
Museums here house everything from medieval to modern art. The Old Town in particular has a wealth of sights and landmarks to soak up Austrian and Alpine history. The Maximillianeum Museum celebrates Austria’s favorite emperor and the Handicrafts Museum has all sorts of Tyrolean culture on display. Other museums include the Regional Museum of Tyrolean Art and the Crystal Museum, which is a funky, new age art experience that’s worth the short ride out of town to see.
You can ski year round in the Tyrolean Alps, and there are buses and clubs that will get you there and back – often at a discount. The Club Innsbruck will take you on guided hiking tours, and help facilitate a great skiing experience. While you’re there, take a quick ride on a bobsled to really get your pulse going!
Nightlife in Innsbruck
The nightlife is good in Innsbruck if you have the strength after a day-long alpine excursion. The university district is the best area with inexpensive cafes, rocking clubs, and fun bars. If you’re looking for a young hip place to go to, head on over to Blue Chip where you can hit the dance floor all night. Innsbruck is a popular destination for students so the nightlife is bound to make your trip worth while.
Dining in Innsbruck
Eating can be expensive if you stay on the main drag of Maria-Theresien Strasse, but the university district, across the river on Innstrasse will provide you with some options that are easy on the palate and on the wallet. Stop at a market for inexpensive treats.
Shopping in Innsbruck
It’s a typical European shopping scene, with some quaint shops selling local handicrafts. Lodenbaur is similar to a department store but all the clothes and accessories are made in Austria, which is definitely something to check out. There are also shopping centers on the outskirts of Innsbruck where you could drive or take public transportation to.
Innsbruck Travel Tips
- Definitely make time to ride the cable car to the mountain peaks above Innsbruck.
- In the winter, the population of Innsbruck almost doubles due to tourism, so make sure you book your flight and hotel early.
- To experience Innsbruck to the fullest, bring a German dictionary with you to help you communicate with the locals.
