Unmissable Attractions in Innsbruck, Austria

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Built in 1553 as a memorial to the Emperor’s grandfather, Maximilian I, this gothic church can be found 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.

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.

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.

The Bergisel Stadium has hosted two Winter Olympic games, and this epic ski jump was designed by Zaha Hadid in 2001. A climb up 455 steps takes you to a restaurant with panoramic views of the spectacular surroundings.

The Bell Factory is a quaint and charming museum with extensive collections and exhibitions about the craftsmanship of the Grassmayr family.

The museum inside the Ambras Castle 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.

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.

A hike up the Alps around Innsbruck isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you have the stamina you’ll be rewarded with the view. 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.