Six Reasons to Visit Innsbruck, Austria
2019-05-28Lying in the midst of two mountain chains, Innsbruck is a charming city with impeccable views. This lively and colorful destination has a little something for everyone, from historic art and architecture to high-end and boutique shopping opportunities. Here are six reasons why this Austrian hideaway deserves to be put on your must-visit list:
Christmas Markets:
A Christmas market, also known as Christkindlmarkt, is a street market accompanied by traditional singing and dancing, food and drink. These markets originated in the Middle Ages in Austria, Germany, and Alsace, France and still serve as a major draw for visitors and locals alike. Generally held in the town square and adjacent pedestrian zones, Innsbruck has 6 different Christmas markets open from November 15th through January 6th. A typical Christmas market food you will only get in Innsbruck is the Kiachl, a kind of doughnut served with Sauerkraut or cranberry sauce.
Olympic Ski Jump:
Innsbruck has been host to the Olympic Winter Games in 1964 and 1976, making it a major winter sports center with plenty of year-round outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Take a funicular or walk 455 steps to view the steep Bergisel Ski Jump ramp – a mighty sight to see. And, if you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll get chance to watch professional athletes training on this epic jump.
Stunning Architecture:
In Innsbruck, modern architecture stands right beside buildings that have been there for 800 years. Join a local guide for a panoramic tour of the city’s must-see sights like the famous Golden Roof, the Imperial Palace or Ambras Castle punctuated by modern structures like the Swarovski Crystal Worlds and the Olympic ski jump.
Dazzling Crystal Experience:
The Swarovski Crystal Worlds, just 20 minutes by shuttle bus outside of town is a truly unique destination. Discover stunning contemporary art installations made with crystal as you travel through 16 subterranean crystalline chambers of whimsical wonder. While here, you’ll see amazing crystal works from the likes of Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Salvador Dalí, Jean Paul Gaultier.
The Alps:
Innsbruck is known as the capital of Europe’s mighty mountain range. Many of the Austrian people’s favorite activities – including skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing and hiking –have developed because of the Alps. The plentiful lakes, glaciers and rare flowers that lie on and around the mountains make for amazing vistas and one reason why tourism flourishes. The Innsbruck region boasts 7 cable cars making great mountain views always easily accessible. Especially the Nordkette cable cars, which starts right in the city centre next to the Imperial Palace with an underground funicular.
Cuisine:
From charming cafés to delicious chocolate shops, your sweet tooth will be doing a happy dance here (and so will your dentist). The locals of Innsbruck take their confections and their coffee very seriously. Savor some delicious treats and take in the local atmosphere at a relaxing café. The locals’ favorite: Café Munding, the oldest cake shop in Tirol that once served the royal court in Innsbruck.
Ready to immerse yourself in all that Innsbruck has to offer? Venture to Austria now on the Discover Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria tour or the Magical Christmas Markets of Austria and Germany tour with Collette.
