Innsbruck holidays

How to reach Innsbruck

Flight time: Flights to Innsbruck take about 2 hours from London. Other major UK airports, such as Manchester and Birmingham, also offer direct flights.

Transfer time: From Innsbruck Airport, it’s a short 20-minute bus ride (route F) or drive to the city centre.

Price:

• The bus from Innsbruck Airport to the city centre costs about €2.70 one-way.

• A taxi will cost approximately €15–€20, depending on traffic.

Weather and best time to visit Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a year-round destination with activities and events to suit every season. Here’s a guide to help you decide the best time for holidays to Innsbruck:

• December to February is the high season for winter sports. The city and surrounding areas are bustling with skiers and snowboarders. Expect temperatures between -5 and 5°C, with plenty of snowfall.

• March to May offers a quieter experience and is the ideal time to enjoy a mix of winter and spring activities. Temperatures range from 0 to 15°C, with melting snow and blooming flowers.

• June to August is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking, mountain biking and exploring the alpine scenery. Average temperatures are between 15 and 25°C, with occasional rain.

• September to November offers a peaceful season with fewer tourists. Temperatures drop from 15 to 5°C, with beautiful autumn colours, and it’s a great time for hiking and enjoying the crisp, fresh air.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: German is the official language, but English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases is appreciated.

• Local habits and customs: Austrians value punctuality and politeness. When greeting people, a friendly Grüss Gott (hello) is appreciated. Remember to thank your host (danke) when leaving.

• Currency: Austria uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, with debit and credit cards accepted in most establishments.

• Getting around: Innsbruck has an efficient public transport system, including buses, trams and a funicular. A single journey fare is about €2.90, and tickets can be purchased at vending machines or via a mobile app. Bike-sharing services are also available.

• Electricity and plug types: Austria's supply is 230V and uses the standard European plug types C and F with two round pins. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Austria is on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

Best things to do in Innsbruck

Capital of the Tyrol region, Innsbruck is an enchanting alpine city that offers a rich blend of history, culture and outdoor activities. Here’s a guide to the best things to do on Innsbruck holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Nordkette: Take the Nordkette cable car up to Seegrube and Hafelekar for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding mountains. The journey itself is an experience, with panoramic vistas in every direction.

• Bergisel Ski Jump: This iconic ski jump offers a platform with stunning views over Innsbruck and the valley. It’s also a great place to learn about the history of ski jumping and watch live events.

The best districts

• Old Town (Altstadt): Wander through the charming medieval streets, admire the Golden Roof and visit the impressive Imperial Palace (Hofburg). The Old Town is packed with history and lovely cafés.

• Mariahilf District: Known for its colourful row of houses along the Inn River, this district is perfect for a picturesque stroll and offers excellent photo opportunities.

Historical monuments

• Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl): Innsbruck’s most famous landmark, the Golden Roof, is adorned with copper tiles and was built for Emperor Maximilian in the 1490s.

• Imperial Palace (Hofburg): Once the residence of the Habsburgs, this palace showcases luxurious rooms and a rich history. The Giant’s Hall and the Chapel are particularly impressive.

• Ambras Castle: Located on the city's outskirts, this Renaissance castle houses an impressive art collection, armoury and beautiful gardens.

Day trips in the area

• Swarovski Crystal Worlds: Located in Wattens, just a short drive from Innsbruck, this magical place features stunning crystal installations and a beautifully landscaped garden.

• Seefeld: A charming alpine village perfect for a day trip. Enjoy hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter, along with a stroll through its picturesque streets. Discover our holidays to Seefeld.

• Zugspitze: Take a trip to Germany’s highest peak, which offers stunning views, a glacier and year-round skiing. The journey involves a scenic drive and a thrilling cable car ride.

Activities for families in Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a fantastic destination for families, offering a variety of activities for all ages. Here’s a roundup of what families can enjoy:

• Swimming pools: The Olympiabad in Seefeld, just a short drive from Innsbruck, offers indoor and outdoor pools, a wave pool and water slides.

• Playgrounds: Innsbruck has several playgrounds, including one in Hofgarten and the Adventure Playground at Rum, where kids can run, climb and play.

• Museums: The Audioversum Science Centre offers interactive exhibits that provide children with a fun and educational experience, focusing on the wonders of sound and hearing.

• Other: Tobogganing on the Muttereralm, ice skating at the Olympic Ice Hall and guided nature walks tailored for families are all great ways to explore and enjoy Innsbruck together.

Free things to do in Innsbruck

Innsbruck offers plenty of free activities that let you enjoy its beauty and charm without spending a penny. Here are some great options:

• Free events: Throughout the year, Innsbruck hosts various free events such as outdoor concerts, village festivals and seasonal celebrations that offer a taste of local culture and entertainment.

• Hiking trails: Exploring the scenic hiking trails around Innsbruck is completely free. Trails like the Zirbenweg offer beautiful views and are perfect for a leisurely walk.

Wellness in Innsbruck

• Spas and thermal baths: The Aqua Dome in Längenfeld, about 1 hour’s drive from Innsbruck, provides a luxurious spa experience with thermal pools, saunas, steam baths and a variety of treatments designed to soothe tired muscles.

• Traditional body care: Embrace alpine wellness traditions with treatments that use local herbs and natural products. Many of Innsbruck's spas offer massages, facials and body treatments using alpine plants, which are known for their healing properties.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Several wellness centres and hotels in Innsbruck offer yoga and meditation classes. Practising yoga amidst the tranquil alpine scenery adds a unique element of relaxation and connection to nature.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking and trekking: The region boasts an extensive network of trails suitable for all levels of hikers. Trails like the Zirbenweg and Patscherkofel offer breathtaking views and are perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty.

• Mountain biking: With numerous trails ranging from easy routes to challenging paths, Innsbruck is a fantastic destination for mountain biking. The well-marked trails take you through forests, along rivers and up mountains, providing a thrilling experience.

• Paragliding: Experience the thrill of paragliding over the Alps. Tandem flights are available for beginners, offering a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape and the opportunity to soar above the majestic peaks.

• Climbing: The area offers several climbing and via ferrata routes for those looking to challenge themselves. The Martinswand and Kaiser Max Klettersteig are popular choices and provide stunning panoramic views.

• Fishing: The rivers and lakes around Innsbruck are perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Spend a peaceful day by the water, surrounded by the serene beauty of the alpine environment.

• Wildlife watching: The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including ibex, marmots and golden eagles. Guided tours allow visitors to observe these animals in their natural habitat and learn about the local ecosystem.

• Canyoning: For an adventurous day out, try canyoning in the nearby gorges. This activity involves descending into a canyon and navigating through its various obstacles, including waterfalls and rock pools, using techniques like abseiling, jumping and sliding.

• Ziplining: Experience the thrill of ziplining over the alpine landscape. The high ropes courses and zipline parks in the region offer an exciting way to enjoy the scenery from above.

Local dishes in Innsbruck

One of the great delights of holidays to Innsbruck is indulging in the hearty and delicious culinary offerings that reflect the alpine traditions of Austria. Here’s what you should look out for:

Some typical dishes

• Käsespätzle: A traditional dish of soft egg noodles layered with melted cheese and topped with crispy onions. It’s Austria’s answer to macaroni cheese and is perfect for warming up after a day in the mountains.

• Tafelspitz: Slow-boiled beef served with horseradish and apple sauce. It’s a comforting dish often accompanied by vegetables and potatoes.

• Wienerschnitzel: Although originally from Vienna, this breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet is now a favourite throughout Austria.

Meat dishes

• Gröstl: A hearty Tyrolean dish made from fried potatoes, onions and leftover pork or beef, topped with a fried egg. It’s a great choice for a filling meal after a day of skiing.

• Tiroler Speckknödel: Bacon dumplings served in a rich beef broth. These dumplings are packed with flavour and are a staple in alpine cuisine.

Sweets and desserts

• Apfelstrudel: A classic Austrian dessert of apples, cinnamon, raisins and sugar, all wrapped in a thin pastry and baked until golden.

• Kaiserschmarrn: Fluffy shredded pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with a side of fruit compote. It’s a popular dessert that’s also great for breakfast.

• Sachertorte: A rich chocolate cake with a layer of apricot jam, covered in dark chocolate icing. Originally from Vienna, it’s a favourite across Austria.

Local drinks

• Glühwein: Warm yourself up with a mug of this spiced mulled wine, which is especially popular in winter.

• Schnapps: Try the local fruit brandies, which come in a variety of flavours such as pear, apricot and plum.

• Beer: Austria has a strong beer culture, and in Innsbruck, you’ll find plenty of local brews to enjoy. A pint of Märzen or Dunkel is a perfect accompaniment to a hearty meal.

Sports Activities in Innsbruck for Your Holiday

Innsbruck, known as the "Capital of the Alps," offers a diverse range of sports activities year-round, making it a perfect destination for active holidaymakers. Whether you visit in winter or summer, there are plenty of options to keep you engaged and exhilarated.

Winter Sports

Skiing and Snowboarding Innsbruck is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding, featuring multiple top-tier ski resorts such as Nordkette, Patscherkofel, and Kühtai. These resorts cater to all levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. The SKI plus CITY pass offers access to 13 ski resorts and includes transportation, making it easy to explore different slopes.

Freeriding and Night Skiing For those seeking more adventure, the region around Innsbruck is renowned for its freeriding opportunities, particularly on the Nordkette and Stubai Glacier. Additionally, night skiing at various resorts provides a unique experience of carving down the slopes under the stars.

Guided Winter Activities Innsbruck offers a range of guided winter sports activities such as snowshoeing, winter hiking, and cross-country skiing. These tours are free with the Welcome Card, which also includes free public transport, making it easy to access different trails and regions.

Summer Sports

Hiking and Trail Running The summer months transform Innsbruck into a paradise for hikers and trail runners. With trails like the Zirbenweg and Obsteiger Larchsteig, you can explore alpine meadows, forests, and stunning mountain vistas. The Innsbruck Alpine Trail Run Festival is a highlight for trail running enthusiasts, offering various routes that cater to different skill levels.

Mountain Biking and Crankworx Festival Mountain biking is hugely popular in Innsbruck, with numerous trails catering to different skill levels. The Crankworx festival, held annually in June, brings together the world’s top mountain bikers for competitions and showcases the latest in biking trends.

Climbing and Via Ferratas Innsbruck is also a hotspot for climbing, offering both indoor and outdoor climbing opportunities. The region features several via ferratas, such as the Kaiser Max, which provide thrilling climbs with breathtaking views. The Climbing World Cup held in Innsbruck attracts top climbers from around the globe.

Additional Activities

Lake Swimming and E-Biking For those who enjoy water sports, Innsbruck's natural lakes like Lake Lans and Natters Lake provide perfect spots for outdoor swimming. E-biking is another great way to explore the scenic landscapes, with numerous trails designed for varying levels of difficulty.

Paragliding and Golf Paragliding offers an adrenaline-pumping way to see the Alps from a unique perspective, while golf enthusiasts can enjoy several courses surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops. The combination of these activities ensures that there's something for everyone in Innsbruck.

Innsbruck’s blend of winter and summer sports activities makes it a versatile destination for sports enthusiasts. Whether you're hitting the slopes, biking down mountain trails, or hiking through alpine meadows, Innsbruck promises an unforgettable active holiday experience.