Innsbruck: attractions, restaurants, itineraries

Innsbruck - a fabulous city in the middle of the Alps

Pure Alpine air, majestic mountains, ancient architecture, and modern ski slopes – all of this describes Innsbruck, the capital of the Austrian region of Tyrol. Innsbruck is renowned worldwide as one of the best ski resorts in the Alps. The city has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, ensuring the local infrastructure and surrounding areas are of the highest quality.

Around Innsbruck, there are 9 ski zones with dozens of slopes for various purposes. This ski resort is suitable for families with children, beginners, professionals, thrill-seekers, and snowboarders.

During leisurely walks through Innsbruck, take the time to notice attractions such as the Golden Roof, the Stadtturm town hall, Wilten Basilica, Hofkirche Cathedral, Ambras Castle. Also, make sure to visit the local restaurants and enjoy Tyrolean cuisine. A highlight of the city is the local Alpenzoo zoo, situated at an altitude of 727 meters and considered the highest zoo in Europe.

When to go?

Innsbruck is beautiful in both summer and winter. As it's surrounded by some of the best ski slopes in the Austrian Alps, the peak season in Innsbruck falls during the winter months. The slopes are covered with snow in December, and skiing is possible until April. In summer, you can enjoy the beauty of the Alpine meadows, but keep in mind that July in Innsbruck is the rainy season. However, if you plan to only explore the city during your trip to Innsbruck, you can choose any time that suits you.

What to buy?

For souvenirs, you should head to Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse, where there's a huge array of souvenir shops and stalls. Here you can find not just the standard magnets and mugs, but also authentic handmade lace, hand-painted porcelain, and embroidered national costumes.

The Tyrol region, and Innsbruck in particular, is famous for its cheeses. They are made from ecologically clean local milk, produced by cows grazing on Alpine meadows. Amidst a wide variety, you will surely find a cheese to your taste and take home a delicious souvenir.

As a gift for friends or to add to your collection, you can buy traditional Tyrolean schnapps, available both in regular supermarkets and specialized stores.

What to try?

Innsbruck is the heart of the Tyrolean Alps region, which is why the city's traditional dishes are typically Tyrolean. Innsbruck's cuisine is filled with the freshness of the mountains and a rustic charm. Among the local dishes, it's worth mentioning the yeast pie "Kiachl" with lingonberry filling and a rich, aromatic soup with dumplings.

To feel like a true Tyrolean, order "Gröstl" for breakfast. This hearty dish is made of fried potatoes, meat, sausages, and onions. Gröstl is served with a fried egg on top. You will also not remain indifferent to oven-cooked liver, Tyrolean potato pancakes, and apple strudel.

Such substantial meals can be complemented with local schnapps, which is made from ripe fruits grown in the region (plums, pears, apples). The main dessert is "Prügeltorte" – a multi-layered, cylindrical cake baked on a spit over an open fire.

Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck - a fabulous city in the middle of the Alps

When to go?

What to buy?

What to try?