Innsbruck in 3 Days
Experience the "Capital of the Alps" at its best
Innsbruck residents are known for their love of the outdoors – how could they not, with some of the most impressive mountains in the Alps right on their doorstep? Their passion for good food and cultural immersion is equally strong, and Innsbruck offers the perfect combination of all these elements.
Locals’ top tips
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 the medieval city surrounded by the majestic Alps, rich in history and natural beauty.
Secure your Innsbruck Card, which gives you access to 22 sights, 2 cable cars, and public transport throughout your visit.
Morning
Stroll through Innsbruck’s city centre, where Imperial relics, colourful Gothic mansions, and modern architecture blend seamlessly.
Enjoy a diverse breakfast selection at the 140-year-old Café Central – a beloved meeting spot for locals and visitors alike.
Walk by the Golden Roof, built for Emperor Maximilian I's wedding in 1500, with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles.
Visit the Cathedral of St. James, the final resting place of Emperor Maximilian III, and admire Cranach’s "Mary of Succor" on the main altar.
Explore the Imperial Palace, one of the most impressive Habsburg landmarks, and tour the staterooms, banquet hall, Imperial apartments, and palace tower.
Visit the Imperial Court Church, intended as Emperor Maximilian I’s final resting place. Though his tomb remains empty (he was buried near Vienna), 28 bronze statues of historical figures watch over the cenotaph.
Did you know....?
...that during the 15th century, Innsbruck served as the official seat of the Habsburg Empire? During the time, it became an important nexus of European power.
Afternoon / evening
Explore the iconic Bergisel Ski Jump, designed by Zaha Hadid, where you can watch elite ski jumpers train and soar (May to October, Wednesday to Monday), take a seat at the ski jump-start bar yourself or enjoy a drink at the start bar.
Visit the Tirol Panorama Museum, home to one of the few remaining 19th-century panoramic paintings showcasing Tirol’s fight for freedom between the proud Tiroleans and the Kingdom of Bavaria.
Cap off your day of sightseeing at the Grassmayr Bell Foundry, Austria’s oldest family business, where you can watch artisans craft massive bells (each weighing around 10 tons) and learn about their global success.
Savour great cuisine with local influences at Die Wilderin restaurant, offering seasonal dishes. Each day comes with a different/new menu.
Morning
Start your day with a sweet or savoury breakfast, or indulge in some of the town's best pastries and cakes at karaffu. This trendy, modern café is known for its delicious pistachio cake.
Take the cable car from the Old Town station up to the Nordkette mountain range at 1905 m (6,250 ft).
Ride the Hafelekarbahn cable car to 2,256 m (7,400 ft), then enjoy a 10-15 minute hike to the Top of Innsbruck, where you can take in stunning views and snap a photo with the summit cross or enjoy a coffee at the Top of Innsbruck Restaurant.
Take the cable car back down to Seegrube Restaurant for a panoramic lunch at 1,905 m (6,250 ft). Savor Tirolean classics like cheese and bacon dumplings, or the iconic Austrian Schnitzel.
Afternoon / evening
From Seegrube station, explore different perspectives of the mountain views along the Perspectives Trail. Be sure to bring along a picnic backpack from Restaurant Seegrube, filled with Tirolean delicacies.
Hop on the cable car down to the Hungerburg station and take the funicular to the Alpine Zoo. It's one of Europe’s highest zoos, home to 2,000 animals from nearby mountain regions.
For dinner, head to BLUM restaurant for a modern vegetarian dining experience with a creative and colourful menu.
Enjoy the sunset at Bar 360°, where, true to its name, you'll be treated to stunning 360° views of Innsbruck and the majestic mountain ranges.
Morning
After breakfast, hop on the Swarovski Crystal Worlds shuttle bus, which is included with your Innsbruck Card and get taken straight to the crystal maker’s iconic headquarters in nearby Wattens.
Explore the glittering world of art across 18 acres of land awaits, including 17 “Chambers of Wonder,” and the iconic waterspout and fountain known as "The Giant."
Enjoy an exclusive lunch at Daniels Kristallwelten, Swarovski’s in-house gourmet eatery.
Afternoon / evening
Back in Innsbruck, hop on the Innsbruck Sightseer Bus or tram to the romantic Schloss Ambras, a 16th-century castle, featuring remnants of a medieval fortress, beautiful gardens, and lush forests. Once the emperor’s favourite residence, it was the cultural heart of his court. Don’t miss the castle museum, home to the famous Habsburg Portrait Gallery.
If you have time, explore the rural charm of nearby villages like Lans and Igls, known for their picturesque architecture and peaceful town squares. Enjoy highlights like scenic golf courses or, on warm days, the serene Lanser See.
For dinner, try an authentic Tirolean village tavern, like Der Walzl in Lans, a cosy, rustic spot blending traditional charm with a modern twist.
Alternatively, opt for a traditional Tirolean Evening at Gasthaus Sandwirt in Innsbruck, complete with a delicious dinner and a folk performance by the Gundolf family.
Innsbruck Tourismus
Burggraben 3
6020 Innsbruck
Phone: +43 512 53560