Your Essential Innsbruck Travel Guide: Must-See Sights, Unmissable Experiences

Nestled in the middle of the magnificent Austrian Alps, Innsbruck, which is Austria's fifth-largest city, is the perfect combination of historic charm and contemporary flair.

The capital of the Tyrol region, it is the epitome of Alpine beauty with snowcapped peaks visible throughout the year. It is a much sought-after destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts as well as adventure junkies. Whether you are looking to visit engaging museums or spend time amid the calming mountains or skiing down spectacular ski routes, Innsbruck has something for everyone. Perched on the Inn river, this multifaceted city - located just under 400km from the capital, Vienna - allures visitors with its yesteryear vibe and vibrant energy.

Medieval Old Town

Walking along Innsbruck's oldest district is akin to taking a journey back in time. Filled with historic churches, boutique shops, antiquated buildings, and charming cafes on its cobbled streets, this is the oldest district in the city and can be traced back to as early as the 13th century. Most of its buildings are bursting with character and are richly decorated and built in the Baroque and Rococo style of architecture. The vintage feels are unmissable as you stroll past elaborate arches, ornate statues, and enigmatic towers.

Arguably the most striking attraction of old town is the Golden Roof, which is the city's most famous landmark. Also known as the Goldenes Dachl, this is the most beautiful oriel window in the city and is adorned by as many as 2,657 gilded copper shingles that shimmer splendidly as they reflect sunlight. The entire façade of the balcony window is covered with stunning frescoes, mural paintings, and relief structures. This Gothic structure, dating to the late 15th century, was built for Emperor Maximilian I and is a favourite haunt for visitors and tourists alike.

Apart from the Golden Roof, old town houses several treasures like the Helblinghaus, which is a work of Baroque architecture augmented by stucco work located on Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 10, the town hall, aka Rathaus, is in the centre of the old town on Maria-Theresien-Straße.

Take time to climb the Innsbruck City Tower (Stadtturm), which treats you to some stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It was originally used by the town watchman, who would keep guard and alert residents in case of any impending danger.

Another key monument not to be missed in the old town is the Hofkirche, or court church, which is known not only for housing the cenotaph of Emperor Maximilian I but also has 28 bronze statues of the latter's ancestors. Cast in bronze, these statues are highly intricate and are known for their superior craftsmanship. Located right next to the church is the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, home to a great collection of objects and artefacts - including costumes, glassware, pottery, furniture, folk art - related to the social and cultural life of the Tyrol region.

If you are a fan of all things local, visit a few of the old time craft and novelty stores that have managed to retain their old-world charm. From speciality stores retailing artisanal candles and soaps to shops manufacturing and selling a wide variety of hats and umbrellas and even paint and art supplies, these stores are a great idea if you want to experience a slice of the native culture while picking up exclusive souvenirs. This area is also a great place to sample some authentic Tyrolean delights at a quaint inn or pastry cafes.

Diverse sights

Take a stroll along the city's famous bridge that connects old town to St Nikolaus district to view the breathtaking scenery all around. Incidentally, this bridge over Inn river (Innbrucke) gives the city its name and has been aoround since the 12th century. The bridge, which was renovated a few decades ago, is one of the most Instagrammable spots in the city as it overlooks an array of picture postcard pastel-hued buildings lined along the Inn river. It also offers views of the magnificent Alps that frame this beautiful city.

Visit Ambras Castle, or Schloss Ambras, if you are a lover of art and history. Often considered one of the first museums in the world, this Renaissance castle is one of the most visited sights in Austria. Located on a hillock on the outskirts of the city, the castle was a gift from Archduke Ferdinand II (1529-1595) to his love Philippine Welser, who was the daughter of an Augsburg merchant.

Ferdinand II was an avid collector of artefacts crafted from precious metals and crystals apart from weapons and art. All this is housed in the famous Chamber of Art and Wonders. The complex also houses the Habsburg Portrait Gallery, the Strasser Glass Collection, the Ambras library, Turkish chamber, etc. The sprawling gardens surrounding the castle are a treat for the senses with their massive trees, manicured lawns, fountains and lakes. Do not miss the artificially constructed grottos in the garden, which were used for celebrations during the 16th century.

Innsbruck is a favourite with people who love the outdoors and this is especially true in summers when the days are clear, temperatures are just right, and the air feels crisp. From hiking and cycling to trail running and climbing, there are a lot of activities that you can do in and around Innsbruck. Head out to Nordkette, which is often referred to as the top of Innsbruck.

Easily accessible by a short bus ride from the city centre, this one gives you a stunning 360-degree view of the Tyrol capital as well as the Alps. Whether you choose to explore the Karwendel Nature Park or the Alpine Zoo located close by or visit the cable car museum, there is plenty to see in Nordkette.

Alternatively, you can choose to sit back and enjoy the spectacular sunset from Hermann Buhl Platz.

You can also reach Nordkette via the Hungerburgbahn funicular whose station at the top is a piece of art designed by famous architect Zaha Hadid.

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