20 Unmissable Attractions in Innsbruck, Austria

Hofkirche aka ‘Court Church’ was built in 1553 as a memorial to the Emperor’s grandfather, Maximilian I, this gothic church is an incredible example of gothic architecture that can be enjoyed in the Old Town of Innsbruck.

A favourite among snow-sports lovers, the Nordkette Skyline Park boasts some incredible views of Innsbruck and the jagged distant mountains. It is the only park in the World that can be considered as an in-the-city snow park.

Take a stroll down the Maria-Theresa Street (Maria-Theresien-Straße) to admire the stunning architecture on either side of the street. This is also one of Innsbruck’s most popular shopping stretches.

The breathtaking views from the Nordkette mountains above Innsbruck can be accessed via the state of the art Hungerburg funicular, which hisks you from the medieval old town to the top in minutes. The stations, built in 2007, were designed by the late “starchitect” Zaha Hadid, who took her inspiration from the Tyrolian glaciers and ice.

The shimmering tiles of the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) are considered one of the central landmarks of Innsbruck. The mural on the structure’s façade tells stories of the town’s imperial past. It is considered the city of Innsbruck’s most famous symbol, representing the marriage of the Emperor Maximillian I and Bianca Maria Sforza. The couple would use the balcony to observe the city’s festivities.

One of the main attractions of the Old Town, this decorative townhouse built in the 15th century has an embellished façade revealing both gothic and baroque influences, giving it a unique architectural style. Across from the Golden Roofat Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 10 it’s the perfect addition to an Innsbruck Old Town tour.

The iconic Bergisel Stadium has hosted two Winter Olympic games, and this epic ski jump was designed by Zaha Hadid in 2001. Take a climb up 455 steps and be rewarded by a tower-top restaurant to enjoy dinner with panoramic views of the spectacular surroundings.

This award-winning ‘Museum of Bells’ or Bell Factory is a quaint and charming museum with extensive collections and exhibitions about the craftsmanship of the Grassmayr family.

The Schloss Ambras or Ambras Castle is the home to a museum that houses a collection of artefacts from the 1500s relating to the history of Innsbruck. The castle sits on a hill, so you can get some lovely views of the surrounding countryside here.

Although on the small side, the town museum is a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Innsbruck, including a variety of paintings, photos and artefacts related to the city of Innsbruck’s development.

Innsbruck really comes into its own during the festive period. The Christmas Market takes place in front of the famous Golden Roof, and it has a perfect atmosphere – wonderfully cosy and quaint.

The sunny façade of this 12th-century abbey looks striking against a bright sky. The impressive, lavishly decked-out interior includes various statues, frescoes and intricate carvings.

Hike up to the peak of Höttinger Alm and you will be dutifully rewarded with spectacular views at the top. There are a few different routes hikers can take – all scenic and satisfyingly challenging.

Learn about the history of the region of Tyrol and enjoy a 360-degree, awe-inspiring portrait of Innsbruck at the Tiroler Landesmuseum.

This delightfully kitsch shop in the Old Town stocks some of the best food and drink in the region, including locally crafted schnapps, grappa and wine. Soak up local wine and authentic culture in this wonderful local spot.

A hike up the Alps around Innsbruck isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you have the stamina you’ll be rewarded with incredible views and picturesque memories that will stick with you for life. A cable car is on standby if you don’t fancy the arduous amble.

This gorgeous park in the Old Town has its roots in imperial times when it was the elaborate garden belonging to the emperor. Rumour has it that Empress Maria Theresa planted a few of the plants personally on one of her visits.

The interior of Wilten Basilica drips with splendour. Often considered to be the most beautiful rococo-style church in Austria, it attracts hundreds of visitors each year.