Innsbruck Guide

About Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is a multi-cultural hub that has been around since the Stone Age. Many different nations are represented in this Alpine town including the Turks, North Africans, Indians, Chinese and even Nepalese. These thriving minorities have brought their countries into Innsbruck by way of market places, restaurants, shops and conventional language and have helped made the city flourish.

It should also be noted that Innsbruck did suffer immensely during the World Wars when Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany. KZ Innsbruck-Reichenau concentration camp was located here and the city suffered mental and physical blows throughout wartimes.

Today Innsbruck's location is also ideal for winter sports lovers. It is nestled to each side by the Alps. And, with an average temperature of 9 degrees Celsius (40 Fahrenheit), it is the perfect winter playground for those that love skiing, snowshoeing and other cold weather activities. It also has a lovely and well-kept pedestrian village in its history section where visitors can spend the day weaving in and out of quaint shops and cafes.

Things to do in Innsbruck

Our mini-guide to what's on in Innsbruck lists the top events and attractions in the town. If you take your short break in Innsbruck, Austria when these events are taking place, add them to your list of things to do in Innsbruck.

1. Bergisel Ski Jump - This contemporary jump stands 47 meters tall and offers amazing views of the city and the Alps to daring skiers. It is open daily from 9:30am - 5:00pm. Admission varies.

2. Holfburg - This stunning Baroque castle, once the home of Tirolean royalty, is something out of a fairy tale. It dates back to the 15^th century and is a prime example of the Baroque time period as well as the whimsical Rococo era when Empress Maria Theresa dwelled here in the 18^th century. The palace is open daily from 9:00am - 5:00pm and costs around 5.45EUR to enter.

3. Swarovski Kristallwelten - Just like its namesake gems, the Swarovski store is a glistening, glamorous shopping trip. Before visitors even reach the boutique they will pass the sparkling Crystal Dome and the 3D Planet of Crystals. This attraction is open daily from 9:00am - 6:00pm.

4. Jack Wolfskin Four Hills Tournament - Each January the world's best ski jumpers arrive at the renowned Bergisel Ski Jump to compete in this gripping tournament that will leave spectators hanging onto the edge of their seats. The events run on Thursday from 12:00pm and Friday from 12:30pm on. Admission is 8-20EUR and concessions range from 3 - 8EUR.

5. Olympic Skiworld Innsbruck - Although the town hasn't hosted the Olympics in quite some time, their Olympic Village still thrives throughout the year. The resort attracts skiers from all over the globe who love a challenge and those that are just starting out too. The resort is open from November through April.

6. Schloss Ambras - Nestled into the mountainsides above the town's center sits this 16^th century palace, which was once home to the Archduke of Austria. It is now a museum with a trove of treasures, one of a kind architectural elements and gallery after gallery of fine art work from the likes of Velazques and Van Dyck. This attraction is open from 10:00am - 5:00pm. Admission varies through the seasons.

7. Bobsleigh Run Innsbruck - Known for its love of adrenalin pumping winter sports, the Innsbruck Olympic ice run still gets usage from January through March when bobsleighers the world over come to try out this slippery slope of a course. Events, hours and admissions vary.

8. Igler Bergweilnacht - Every December 23, the small town of Igls' Towen Center fills with Christmas cheer. Children dress as Mary, Joseph, angels and shepherds to reenact the miracle birth of baby Jesus. This unique event is free and begins at 5:30pm.

9. Golden Roof - At the very center of this old medieval village is the beloved Golden Roof, a must see for any visitor. This 15^th century royal palace was built by Emperor Maximilian I so he could simply use it to watch tournaments in the village below. It is a perfect blend of Gothic and Baroque elements of its time and a true symbol of Innsbruck. Golden Roof is open daily and prices vary. Hours range from October through April from 10:00am - 5:00pm and May through September from 10:00am - 6:00pm.

10. Tirolean Folk Art Museum - Arts, crafts and costumes abound in this unique museum that pays homage to the Alps folk-laced roots. A visit here is a great way to learn about Austrian history and culture. The cost is approximately 5EUR for an adult ticket, 3.50EUR for students and 1.50EUR for children 14 and under. Opening hours run from daily from 9:00am - 5:00pm.

Innsbruck Airport

The Innsbruck Kranebitten Airport is the largest in Western Austria. It services regions near the Alps and has seasonal flights around Europe. Shuttles to and fro take fliers to the center of Innsbruck.