Innsbruck in 3 Days
The "Capital of the Alps"
Trip Highlights
Discover the Golden Roof, Innsbruck's iconic landmark located in the heart of the Old Town.
Take in breathtaking views from the towering peaks of the Nordkette mountain range.
Immerse yourself in the glittering wonders of the world-famous Swarovski Crystal Worlds.
Feel the thrill of soaring like an eagle at the Bergisel ski jumping area.
Explore a medieval city surrounded by the majestic Alps, rich in history and natural beauty.
Morning
Innsbruck’s Old Town is full of contrasts: Colorful Gothic mansions pop against the mountain backdrop, and centuries-old church spires compete with some of Austria’s most interesting modern architecture. The Habsburgs made Innsbruck their home around the 1500s, leading to plenty of Imperial relics still dotting the inner city.
Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the renowned 500-year-old Café Katzung, then secure your Innsbruck Card, which gives you access to 22 sights, two cable cars and public transport throughout your journey. Up next is Innsbruck’s landmark, the Golden Roof. It was built for the wedding of Emperor Maximilian I to Bianca Maria Sforza and comprised 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles.
Located just behind the iconic Golden Roof, the Cathedral of St. James stands as a testament to the Habsburg influence in Innsbruck. This opulent Baroque cathedral is the final resting place of Emperor Maximilian III, the great-great-grandson of Maximilian I. Don't miss the captivating painting of 'Mary of Succor' by Cranach, adorning the main altar, adding to the cathedral's rich historical significance.
Walk along Burggraben street to one of Innsbruck’s most impressive Habsburg landmarks. The Imperial Palace stretches out against the Nordkette mountain range with a bright Baroque facade. During the 15th century, it served as the official seat of the Habsburg Empire and became an important nexus of European power. Take a guided tour of the staterooms, the breathtaking banquet hall, the Imperial apartments, and the place tower.
Hop next door for a look at Innsbruck’s Imperial Court Church, which was meant to be the final resting place of Emperor Maximilian I. His elaborate tomb sits empty (Maximilian’s remains lie near Vienna), but 28 larger-than-life bronze statues of historical figures still watch over the cenotaph. These “Schwarzmander” were created over the span of 53 years and involved contributions from a long list of famed 16th-century artists.
Lunch
Elevate your lunch experience to 1905 m (6,250 ft) by ascending to the stunning Nordkette mountain range! Hop on the cable car in the Old Town and alight at Seegrube station, where the panoramic Seegrube Restaurant awaits. The menu is filled with Tirolean classics like cheese or bacon dumplings and, of course, the iconic Austrian Schnitzel.
Afternoon
For those craving more mountain views, take a ride on the Hafelekarbahn cable car and ascend to 7,400 feet (2,256 m). The summit of Hafelekar mountain, also known as the Top of Innsbruck, is just a 10-15 minute easy hike from the cable car offering the finest panoramic views over Innsbruck. Snap a photo with the summit cross before descending the mountain to visit the Alpine Zoo.
Innsbruck boasts one of the highest-elevation zoos in Europe: the Alpenzoo is nestled against the Nordkette mountains and provides a sanctuary for endangered species found in the nearby mountainous regions. Explore a diverse collection of 2000 animals, including ibex, marmots, bison, lynx, snow hare, wild bears, wolves, boars, as well as Alpine snakes and lizards.
Dinner
Restaurant Das Schindler features a modern dining room adorned with black chandeliers and a colourfully lit bar. The food is equally flashy, offering dishes like braised veal and suckling pig dim sum. Order a la carte, or commit to a thoughtfully crafted 3, 4, or 5-course menu.
Evening
Innsbruck’s Court Theatre was once the source of entertainment for Archduke Ferdinand Karl and his guests. Today, you can enjoy concerts, dance performances, theatre, and other cultural events in the heart of Innsbruck. Head to the neoclassical theatre building on the opposite side of the Imperial Palace for a night that echoes the grandeur of archdukes and emperors.
Morning
Pastries, cakes, and oven-fresh bread line the vitrines at Cafe Munding. Tirol’s oldest cafe cooks up a sweet or savoury breakfast inside a charming Medieval building. After indulging in food and coffee, it’s time to board the Swarovski Crystal Worlds shuttle bus, which is included with your Innsbruck Card. The bus takes you to the crystal maker’s iconic headquarters in nearby Wattens, where a glittering world of art sprawls across 18 acres of land. Explore 17 “Chambers of Wonder,” curated like a crystal-inspired art museum and situated next to a decorative pond.
Lunch
Opt for an exclusive lunch at Daniels Kristallwelten, Swarovski’s in-house gourmet eatery or make your way to 1809 at Bergisel Ski Jump Tower. This glass-enclosed spot is perfect for travellers who appreciate a dramatic setting as well as a killer “Tiroler Gröstl”.
Afternoon
Continue your journey towards the Bergisel Ski Jump, a striking metal tower that emerges from the forest. Designed in the early 2000s by architect Zaha Hadid, it serves as a continuous training and competition ground for some of the world’s elite ski jumpers. Between May and October, Wednesday through Monday, you can witness ski jumpers soar and take the lift up to get the same views as them when sitting on the start bar.
Visit the Tirol Panorama Museum, home to one of the few remaining 19th-century panoramic paintings showcasing Tirol’s struggle for freedom. In the 19th century, fierce military battles were fought between the proud Tiroleans and the Kingdom of Bavaria.
To cap off your day of sightseeing, head to the Grassmayr Bell Foundry, Austria’s oldest family business dating back to 1599, which dazzles with tradition and craftsmanship. Grassmayr bells can be heard in over 100 countries worldwide, and it all starts in the human-sized casts at their Innsbruck foundry. Watch the artisans produce and restore their mighty bells (each weighing around 10 tons) and learn why Grassmayr found international success with their brass creations.
Dinner
Discover the unique charm of Restaurant Die Ottoburg, featuring multiple traditional dining rooms, including one dedicated to Emperor Maximilian of Habsburg. Your dinner will be accompanied by views of the Nordkette mountain range and the River Inn. Indulge in authentic Tyrolean cuisine with distinct Mediterranean flavours. You can order à la carte or commit to an immersive 3, 4, or 5-course experience.
Morning
Don’t depart from Innsbruck without a visit to the romantic Schloss Ambras, perched on the city’s hillside. Built in the 16th century, it’s divided into a lower and an upper castle and features the remains of a medieval fortress, extensive gardens and forests. This was the emperor’s favourite residence and the centre of his court’s cultural life. Schloss Ambras is also home to a museum that houses the Habsburg Portrait Gallery. The Innsbruck sightseer bus and tram line number 6 take you there directly.
Just beyond the castle, Innsbruck’s rural charm begins to unfold. Small villages skirt the city, like Lans and Igls, which count among the most beautiful. On a sunny day, you can walk to the town squares of Igls and Lans and experience the rural quiet of their historic hearts. Highlights include the picturesque architecture, golf courses, and the Lanserhof - a luxurious spa hotel with excellent amenities.
Lunch
Try an authentic Tirolean village tavern for lunch, such as the Wilder Mann Restaurant in Lans! The restaurant is rustic, cosy, and modern all at once.
Afternoon
A walk around Lake Lans is not only rewarding for outdoor enthusiasts. The gentle landscape surrounding this small lake is easy to navigate and doesn’t require more than basic fitness levels. Bask in the views of Innsbruck’s iconic mountain panorama and dip your toes in the water of an actual Alpine lake! Swimming is allowed, so you might see the locals sunbathing and splashing around during the summer months.
Equally popular with Innsbruckians is taking the cable car to Patscherkofel mountain. This is the domed elevation opposite the Nordkette, which provides stunning views in summer and even some skiing in winter. Visit the 800-year-old pine forest on top of the mountain before returning to the city for a memorable final evening. Alternatively, visit the Mutterer Alm, another mountain near Innsbruck. Take the cable car to go up while going down by using their Mountain Carts. A fantastic experience, not only for adrenaline junkies but also for families.
Dinner
For those seeking a traditional evening show with yodel songs and folk dances, consider booking a ticket for a Tirolean Evening. An authentic Tirolean dinner is served at 7:30 pm at the Gasthaus Sandwirt, followed by the Gundolf family's captivating show, a tradition spanning over 50 years, beginning an hour later. Tickets can be booked online, with a special discount available for holders of an Innsbruck Card.
In July and August, the Innsbruck Festival of Early Music will fill Tirol’s capital with music and offers an incredible and less touristic musical experience. Use the chance to journey through rarities, musical treasures, and operas from former centuries.
Want to end your stay by enjoying the views over Innsbruck one last time? Move on to the 360° Cafe, one of the most scenic rooftop bars located in the city centre.
Innsbruck Tourismus
Burggraben 3
6020 Innsbruck
Phone: +43 512 53560