7 Unique Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria

Last Updated on September 9, 2026 by Marisa

Did you know that Innsbruck, Austria is considered the Capital City of the Alps? I did not and this was the first of many facts where this charming Alpine town continued to surprise me. There are so many things to do in Innsbruck, Austria…many of which leave you speechless

Nestled between dramatic mountain peaks and charming historic streets, Innsbruck, Austria is a destination that truly offers the best of both worlds. This picturesque city combines imperial history, outdoor adventures, world-famous attractions, and incredible food… all within minutes of each other.

And if you are visiting with a family ( like we did!!), it caters to the kiddos too!!

How many days do you need in Innsbruck, Austira?

We spent 3 days there and felt it was PERFECT. We got to see everything we wanted to do and didn’t do so had a crazy pace. If you are strapped on time, you can do 2 days but I feel like you would miss some of the beauty when finding the time to stroll around. Also there is a great lake to visit about an hour away which would make for a great day trip. Information on that below!

#1- Ride the Nordkette Cable Car to the “Top of Innsbruck”

One of the most unique experiences in Innsbruck is how quickly you can go from city sightseeing to an alpine adventure.

The Nordkette Cable Car takes you from the heart of Innsbruck into Austria’s largest nature park in just minutes. Starting with the Hungerburgbahn funicular, you’ll travel upward through the mountains before reaching breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the city below.

At the top, you’ll experience panoramic views of:

• Innsbruck’s historic city centre
• The surrounding Tyrolean Alps
• The dramatic peaks of the Karwendel mountain range

The contrast is what makes this experience so special … you can enjoy breakfast in the city and be standing above the Alps shortly after.

Travel tip: Visit on a clear day for the best views and bring a a light sweater even in summer, as temperatures are cooler at higher elevations.

#2- Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds- Things to do in Innsbruck, Austria that will blow your mind!

Located just outside Innsbruck in Wattens, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is one of Austria’s most unique attractions. And honestly- one that blew me away the most!!!

This immersive experience combines art, design, nature, and imagination. Inside the famous Giant, visitors can explore artistic chambers filled with incredible crystal installations created by international artists. They have over 14 individual rooms within the Museum…but that is just the beginning!

Outside, you’ll find:

• Beautiful gardens
• The famous Giant sculpture
• A mirror pool
• A maze
• Family-friendly play areas ( think Caroseol, 4 level indoor play area with trampolines, nets and slides, a playground and more!)

It’s an experience that feels part museum, part art installation, and part fantasy world.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is one of the most memorable things to do near Innsbruck.

Tip: I would recommend at least 4-5 hours here especially if you are having lunch on site!

#3 Hike to a Traditional Tyrolean Mountain Hut

One of the best ways to experience Innsbruck’s connection to nature is by hiking to a traditional Alm (mountain hut).

The hike to Arzler Alm offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Located above Innsbruck at approximately 1,067 metres, this mountain restaurant provides incredible views of the city and surrounding peaks. The good thing is that the trail is VERY well marked so almost impossible to get lost or go off track.

After a scenic walk through the forest, you can enjoy classic Tyrolean cuisine on a sunny terrace overlooking the Alps.

At first I was a bit intimidated by it being 1 hour there and 1 hour back, but it was not bad at all and completely doable with kids!!!

At the restaurant, try traditional dishes like Tyrolean dumplings (Knödel)- this was my fav!!!, schnitzel, or homemade desserts while taking in the views. There is also a great playground on site!

#4- Wander Through Innsbruck’s Historic Old Town

Our first afternoon started with a guided tour through Innsbruck’s charming Old Town with our wonderful guide, Monika. This is a great option if you want to get the lay of the land and learn a bit about the city ( roughly 1.5 hours too so perfect length!)

• See Innsbruck’s iconic symbol- the Golden Roof in town (Emperor Maximilian I ordered the building built around 1500 to mark his wedding to Bianca Maria Sforza and it’s truly one of a kind)
• Visit one of their 35 churches ( we loved Hofkirche in Innsbruck….the church famous for it’s 28 statues featuring past rulers)
• See the waterfront set against the colourful buildings ( the most photographic spot in maybe Austria- truly stunning!!!)
• Hofburg Innsbruck ( visit the old palace where you can see SO many lavish rooms and ballrooms). My kids said it felt like a Disney movie!
• Spot all the historic signage at each store or restaurant ( my fav!!)

Family tip: There is a great playground right by the Theatre ( yellow building) that is SO cool. Bridges, swings and a little wooden castle hut. 10/10 recommend it if your kids need to get some sillys out!

#5- Experience Tyrolean Food or Innsbruck Dining Scene!

One thing we quickly discovered in Innsbruck? You definitely won’t go hungry!

From Tiroler Gröstl and Käsespätzle to traditional dumplings and, of course, Apfelstrudel, there are so many delicious Austrian specialties to try.

Here are some restaurants we loved:

• Farina: Farina is a cozy Italian restaurant in Innsbruck serving Neapolitan-style pizzas, homemade pasta and classic Italian dishes. With a warm, relaxed atmosphere and quality ingredients, it’s a great spot for an easy dinner in the city.
• Restaurant Weisses Rössl: Hands down the best schnitzel of the trip!!! They have a patio, roof top and interior seating options- all with a great vibe.
• Das Brahms: Located inside Innsbruck’s House of Music, Brahms is a stylish restaurant with a stunning interior and an amazing patio. We loved that the views of the Hoburg palace from the outside and felt elegant without being pretenious.
• Tomaselli Gelateria: This place was always jam packed and after having some gelato one night, we understood why. It’s on the main street in town ( but they also have another location tucked on a quieter street too). Tons of flavours!!!

#6 Tyrolean Folklore Concert

Want to sing like Fräulein Maria? Get inspired at a traditional Tyrolean concert! Expect an energetic evening filled with folk music, yodeling, dancing and traditional costumes. It’s a fun way to experience a little piece of Tyrolean culture while visiting Innsbruck. The performances are lively, family-friendly and give you a taste of the region’s musical traditions.

#7 Visit a ski jump designed by legendary architect Zaha Hadid?

Here’s another one of those Innsbruck moments that completely surprised me.

Did you know Innsbruck is home to a ski jump designed by legendary architect Zaha Hadid?

The Bergisel Ski Jump isn’t just a place to watch ski jumping… it has become one of Innsbruck’s most recognizable landmarks. Take the elevator to the top and you’ll find incredible 360° views over the city, with the Alps stretching out in every direction.

Standing at the top, looking down the same ramp where world-class ski jumpers launch themselves, is pretty incredible.

And this is exactly what I loved about Innsbruck: even the places you wouldn’t expect to be tourist attractions are spectacular.

Bonus: Take a day trip to Lake Achensee

Lake Achensee is about a 45-minute drive from Innsbruck, and it is absolutely worth the trip. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, the bright turquoise water makes it one of the most beautiful spots in the region. You can walk along the lake, stop for lunch with a view, or simply take in the scenery from one of the many lookout points. It’s an easy day trip from Innsbruck and a great way to experience more of the Austrian Alps.

Where to stay in Innsbruck, Austria?

We stayed at the cutest place right in the city of town. Considering it was right downtown, it felt worlds away. Not only that but it was super affordable and SO spacious. Kind of checked every box. It was called Hotel Sailor. I definitely recommend staying somewhere walking distance to the city center

Helpful Tips for visiting Innsbruck, Austria

• Get the Innsbruck Card: If you plan to visit several attractions, it can be great value. It includes many major sights plus selected cable cars and public transportation.
• Stay near the Old Town: Innsbruck is very walkable, and staying central makes it easy to reach the Golden Roof, Hofkirche, St. James Cathedral and restaurants on foot.
• Check mountain weather before heading up: Conditions at Nordkette can be completely different from the city below, so aim for the clearest part of the day.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll likely do a lot of walking, especially if you combine the Old Town with viewpoints or mountain stops.
• Leave room in your itinerary: Innsbruck is small enough to explore without rushing, and some of the best moments come from simply wandering the colourful streets and stopping for coffee.