Innsbruck travel guide

Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Innsbruck

Innsbruck, known for its incredible Golden Roof, Ambras Castle Innsbruck, and Bergisel Ski Jump, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This capital of the state of Tyrol, Austria has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 130.6 thousand people, Innsbruck is truly one of the main highlights of Austria.

The official language of Innsbruck is German.

Travelers looking to experience the best of Austria often choose to stay in Innsbruck. Easily accessible from Innsbruck, Innsbruck is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Austria. For a deeper understanding of the city's history, culture, and local events, the official website of Innsbruck is a treasure trove of knowledge.

History of Innsbruck

Innsbruck, a gem nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Its name, meaning 'Bridge over the Inn', originated from its strategic location on important transalpine routes.

In the Middle Ages, Innsbruck grew in prominence under the rule of the Counts of Andechs. In the 15th century, it became the capital of Tyrol and received city rights from Duke Friedrich IV. It flourished as a centre of European politics and culture during the reign of Emperor Maximilian I.

In the 20th century, Innsbruck faced challenges during both World Wars but emerged resiliently. It hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1964 and 1976, cementing its reputation as a world-renowned winter sports centre.

Today, Innsbruck blends its rich historical heritage, showcased in its well-preserved medieval Old Town, with a modern, vibrant vibe, offering visitors a unique blend of past and present. Whether you're a history enthusiast or an adventure seeker, Innsbruck offers something for everyone.

Top services in Innsbruck

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Innsbruck, Austria. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Innsbruck, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Austria. Check out the best things to do in Innsbruck by browsing over 112 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of places to stay and 10 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Innsbruck with this travel guide.

Experience the best of Innsbruck with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Innsbruck from our free 24/7 customer support.

Continue reading this Innsbruck travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Innsbruck!

Best time to visit Innsbruck

The best time to explore Innsbruck largely depends on the type of activities you prefer. For winter sports enthusiasts, the ideal visit time is between December and March, when the region's renowned ski resorts are in full swing. You'll find the city relatively less crowded, enhancing the overall experience. However, if you're more interested in sightseeing and enjoying the mild weather, consider visiting between June and September. This period offers warm, comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring the city's historic sites, parks, and outdoor cafes. Moreover, late June hosts the spectacular Midsummer Night's Festival, a unique cultural experience not to be missed. For a balance of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons of April-May and October-November can also be considered. During these months, you can enjoy the city's blooming landscapes or autumn hues with less tourist traffic. Whichever season you choose, ensure to book accommodations in advance to secure the best deals.

Weather in Innsbruck

Innsbruck, Austria, experiences a continental climate, characterized by distinct seasonal variations. Summers, extending from June to August, are generally warm with average temperatures hovering around 20°C to 25°C. The city is often bathed in sunshine, but occasional thunderstorms are not uncommon.

Winter, spanning from December to February, offers a contrasting climate with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The city receives ample snowfall, making it a popular destination for winter sports. Spring and Autumn are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures and less precipitation.

While the city is relatively dry, it receives the most rainfall during the summer months. It's noteworthy that due to Innsbruck's alpine location, weather conditions can change rapidly. Therefore, irrespective of the season, it's advisable for travelers to pack versatile clothing to adapt to sudden weather changes.

Local tip for visiting Innsbruck

One insider tip that’s worth noting when visiting Innsbruck is the city's unique tradition of 'Stammtisch.' This is a local custom where regulars gather at a specific table in a pub or café, often weekly, to chat about the happenings of the day. As a visitor, this tradition offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, connect with Innsbruck's locals, and get to know the city from an insider’s perspective. You won't generally find Stammtisch advertised, but a friendly inquiry to your server could lead to an invitation. Remember, this is not about drinking heavily, but about camaraderie and conversation. So be prepared to engage in friendly chit-chat and don’t forget to bring your best stories to share. While it may not be a typical tourist activity, joining a Stammtisch session could greatly enhance your visit to Innsbruck, providing you with an unforgettable and truly Austrian experience.

Learn more about Austria

With destinations such as Innsbruck, a trip to Austria needs no further explanation. Spanning over 83,879 square kilometers, Austria is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Austria has something to enchant every traveler.

In Innsbruck alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Golden Roof, Ambras Castle Innsbruck, and Bergisel Ski Jump. Thus, a trip to Austria becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Austria offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered. There's so much to explore and uncover in Austria.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Austria and its offers.

What to see in Innsbruck

photo of Mountain station of Hafelekar and Seegrube cable railway at Innsbruck, Austria.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Innsbruck, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Innsbruck offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Innsbruck travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Innsbruck

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Innsbruck is more than just a wonderful city in Austria. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Austria's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Innsbruck is the unforgettable Golden Roof. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Innsbruck. This remarkable attraction is located at Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria, and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 10:00-17:00.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Innsbruck, check out our list of top attractions below. Discover the best places to visit in Innsbruck, including the fascinating Golden Roof, Ambras Castle Innsbruck, Bergisel Ski Jump, Innsbrucker Hofgarten, and Triumphal Arch.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Innsbruck.

Things to do in Innsbruck

photo of a man in paragliding suit at Alp mountain, Innsbruck, Austria.

You've explored Innsbruck's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Innsbruck. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Innsbruck, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Innsbruck

A visit to Innsbruck gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Walking Tours, Historical Tours, Self Guided Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Innsbruck, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Innsbruck. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Innsbruck offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Innsbruck

In Innsbruck, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 19 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Activities.

Activities offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Innsbruck. For example, the fantastic Paragliding and tandem flights in the Stubai Valley.

Innsbruck also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Innsbruck adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Innsbruck right below.

Find

All Experiences in Innsbruck

See more

Search for things to do in Innsbruck

Discover the best things to do in Innsbruck. Choose from 112 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Innsbruck. Click the green button to view your options and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Innsbruck.

What to eat in Innsbruck

Innsbruck, Austria's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Tyrolean cuisine and contemporary gastronomy. The city's Old Town offers a plethora of dining choices, where quaint bistros and high-end restaurants serve local favorites like Tiroler Gröstl (fried potatoes and meat) and Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake). The Maria-Theresien-Straße is a vibrant street filled with food stalls offering local delicacies and international dishes. Among the best places to eat in Innsbruck, the award-winning restaurant Lichtblick, located at the top of the Town Tower, provides an exceptional dining experience featuring panoramic views of the city. For a more rustic environment, Gasthaus Lewisch offers traditional Tyrolean dishes in a cozy, wood-paneled setting. Don't miss out on the local cheeses, sausages, and breads at the bustling Markthalle food market. As you roam the streets of Innsbruck, keep an eye out for Kiachl, a traditional Tyrolean fried dough pastry often sold by street vendors. Remember to pair your meals with local wines or the region's beloved schnapps.

Best shopping in Innsbruck

Innsbruck, often dubbed as the 'Jewel of the Alps', is not just known for its stunning landscapes and winter sports, but also its vibrant shopping scene. Maria-Theresien-Strasse, the lively pedestrian zone, is the best place to go shopping in Innsbruck. Here, you will find everything from international chains to local boutiques offering traditional Austrian wear, such as dirndls and lederhosen.

Don't miss the Rathausgalerien shopping mall, home to a wide range of stores, or the Sillpark Shopping Center with its distinctly local flavor. For a more traditional experience, explore the Old Town's narrow alleys filled with unique shops selling locally crafted jewellery, Tyrolean glassware, and hand-carved wooden souvenirs.

To delve deeper into local craftsmanship, visit the Innsbruck Christmas Market. Open from mid-November to early January, it's an excellent place to buy artisanal crafts, local delicacies, and traditional Christmas ornaments.

Shopping hours generally run from 9 am to 7 pm on weekdays and until 6 pm on Saturdays. Remember, most shops are closed on Sundays, except during the Christmas season.

Best Free Things to Do in Innsbruck

Immerse yourself in Austria's culture and history with the best free things to do in Innsbruck. Begin at the Old Town, a picturesque relic of medieval architecture with its iconic Golden Roof. Marvel at the 2,657 gilded copper tiles that shimmer under the sunlight, a testament to Innsbruck's once flourishing economy. Next, visit the Hofkirche, a stunning 16th-century church housing the cenotaph of Emperor Maximilian I. Admire the intricate marble sculpture, surrounded by 28 larger-than-life bronze statues. For nature lovers, the Nordkette mountain range offers a breathtaking panorama of the city. Accessible by a free funicular ride from the city center, it's a paradise for hikers and photographers. Finally, stroll along the Inn River, lined with colourful houses and offering splendid views of the Alps. This gives you a chance to soak in the city's laid-back atmosphere, bringing your day to a peaceful close. These experiences reveal the charm and beauty of Innsbruck, and the best part is they're all free.

Vacation packages in Innsbruck

photo of the elevator in a ski resort. Innsbruck, Austria.

Booking a vacation package to Innsbruck means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Innsbruck to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Innsbruck also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Innsbruck travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

Popular types of vacations in Innsbruck

The most popular way to experience Innsbruck is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Austria. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Innsbruck on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Austria, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Austria, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Innsbruck, there is a vacation package for you.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Innsbruck below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

Top vacation packages in Innsbruck

Top-rated travel packages to Rome allow you to experience a memorable journey. These packages offer customizable features, ensuring you're guaranteed to have an immersive exploration through the heart of Rome and beyond. Browse a couple of options to uncover the finest ways to explore the city of Rome with ease and excitement.

Get more Innsbruck vacation ideas by continuing to read this Innsbruck travel guide and discover the greatest selection of travel packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Austria that match your needs and budget.

Find

All Vacations in Innsbruck

See more

Find vacation packages in Innsbruck

Explore and compare vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful city of Innsbruck. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, hotels, and activities in Innsbruck tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Austria. Your customized holiday package to Innsbruck is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Innsbruck

International travelers can fly to Innsbruck by booking flights with Transavia, easyJet, Eurowings, Jet2, and Smartwings, offering flights to Innsbruck. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Innsbruck.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Innsbruck, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Innsbruck. Go to this page to compare all flights to Innsbruck.

Find cheap flights to Innsbruck

photo of Innsbruck Ski Jump with Serles Mountain in the background in Austria.

Booking budget-friendly flights to Innsbruck is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Innsbruck. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Innsbruck, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Innsbruck even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Innsbruck both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Innsbruck

Travelers visiting Innsbruck can easily access the city via Innsbruck, offering direct connection to 706 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Innsbruck below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Innsbruck and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

photo of Mountains ski resort Innsbruck Austria - nature and sport background.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Innsbruck is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Innsbruck usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Innsbruck offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Innsbruck and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Innsbruck planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Innsbruck, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Austria can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Innsbruck. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Innsbruck.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Innsbruck in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Innsbruck

A trip to Innsbruck means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the city. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Innsbruck provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the city, Hotel Cafe Central is one of the top picks of travelers in Innsbruck. Hotel Cafe Central is a 4-star stay with an average rating of 8446 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Gilmstraße 5 and boasts many great utilities, including bar, restaurant, and free wi-fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Innsbruck. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Innsbruck, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Gastehaus Alpenblick. For approximately 114 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Single Room at this popular vacation rental apartment, which also offers free wi-fi, garden, and more.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Innsbruck. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Innsbruck

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Innsbruck for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Innsbruck provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Innsbruck are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Innsbruck.

If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel Cafe Central, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Innsbruck, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Zach, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Innsbruck. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Innsbruck by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Innsbruck

See more

Search for accommodation in Innsbruck

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Innsbruck is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Innsbruck effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Innsbruck

photo of Innsbruck, Austria during twilight with European Alps in the background..

To navigate Innsbruck effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 10 car rental companies in Innsbruck, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Innsbruck start at 43 EUR per day or 299 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Seat Arona. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Innsbruck, starting at 35 EUR per day or 248 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Innsbruck, Austria below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Innsbruck

Renting a car in Innsbruck is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace.

A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Innsbruck, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Innsbruck for your upcoming adventures in Austria below.

Search for car rentals in Innsbruck

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Innsbruck. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Innsbruck, Austria, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Innsbruck

Innsbruck, Austria offers a variety of transportation options to cater to all types of travelers. The city's public transit system, IVB (Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe), is efficient and well-connected, offering buses, trams, and a funicular railway that provides stunning views of the city as it ascends to the Nordkette mountain range.

Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and for those who prefer self-driven travel, there are numerous rental car companies offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs. Innsbruck also prides itself on its bicycle-friendly infrastructure, with an array of bike rental services for those who wish to explore the city on two wheels. A unique transportation experience in Innsbruck is the Sightseer Bus, a hop-on hop-off service that takes you to all major attractions. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely river cruise on the Inn River, providing a different perspective of the city's sights.

Popular destinations to visit after Innsbruck

photo of Mountains ski resort Innsbruck Austria - nature and sport background.

The city of Innsbruck is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Austria. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Austria has it all.

Each destination in Austria offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Austria that are as magical as the city of Innsbruck. The most popular travel destinations in Austria are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Austria

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Austria. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Innsbruck

photo of young woman with snowboard, winter holidays in Innsbruck, Austria, panoramic mountain landscape of Alps.

Experience the authentic charm of Austria by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Innsbruck. Explore other destinations around Austria with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Innsbruck to other amazing locations in Austria, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Austria for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Innsbruck.

Popular domestic flights from Innsbruck

Travelers in Austria can catch flights to domestic airports in Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, Klagenfurt, and Graz. Domestic flights in Austria are operated by 4 airlines, including Transavia, easyJet, Eurowings, and Jet2. There are around 7 scheduled flight routes operating to Innsbruck on a weekly basis.

From Innsbruck, travelers can book scheduled flights to 5 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Innsbruck depart to many top-rated destinations in Austria and are offered by Transavia, easyJet, and Eurowings.

Search domestic flights from Innsbruck

Traveling to another city or region in Austria? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Innsbruck to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Austria on the selected dates.

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.