Innsbruck

Innsbruck Region – Alpine Urban

Summit conquests and après-ski, idyll, charm and high-alpine drama

In Innsbruck, the city and the mountains combine to create unique experiences. In what other city can you travel in just under half an hour from a fascinating medieval old town to the sun-drenched terrace of a mountain restaurant at an altitude of 2,000 metres? The Nordkettenbahnen make it possible. From the terrace of the Seegrube, the city and the mountains come together: Innsbruck, with its magnificent medieval city centre, lies at your feet, whilst the giants of the Zillertal and Ötztal Alps mark the distant horizon. Here, you also find yourself in the heart of the Karwendel Alpine Park, which begins right on Innsbruck’s doorstep.

However, those who prefer a more laid-back, ‘bear-like’ approach can choose from countless hiking options around Innsbruck and its holiday villages. One of the most interesting is located to the south of the city, on the Patscherkofel, the local mountain. There, at 2,000 metres above sea level, the Zirbenweg trail entices visitors with the splendour of nature.

Evening bells, the scent of grass and hay, perhaps a refreshing evening dip in the Lansersee or Natterersee – tranquillity accompanies the atmospheric end to the day.

For those who prefer a bit more variety, a stroll through Innsbruck’s Old Town and its picturesque street cafés is a must. Be sure to have a look around the narrow lanes or beneath the medieval arcades – small shops offer beautiful, unusual and typically Tyrolean items. From there, head straight to Maria-Theresien-Straße with its magnificent Baroque buildings. Here, the Kaufhaus Tyrol, designed by David Chipperfield, and the Rathausgalerien (architect: Dominique Perrault) are just some of the places where you can enjoy a spot of shopping. The numerous bars and lovely restaurants, as well as the traditional inns, are the perfect place to unwind after a day in the mountains.

Information: Innsbruck Tourism, T +43 (0)512 5356, www.innsbruck.info, office@innsbruck.info