The Fairy Tale Lane in Innsbruck: A Christmas attraction in the old town
The Fairy Tale Lane is not a permanent attraction in Innsbruck, but a seasonal installation during the Innsbruck Mountain Christmas Market. More than 20 life-size fairy tale and legend figures are displayed in Kiebachgasse, Seilergasse, and the adjacent Riesengasse.
Innsbruck’s Fairy Tale Lane is a special insider tip for anyone wanting to discover the Old Town in a unique way during the Advent season. Anyone visiting the Old Town should definitely make a detour to Kiebach and Seiler Lanes , as a magical charm unfolds here that can only be experienced during Advent. What once began as a decorator’s creative idea has since become one of the most popular attractions of Innsbruck’s Christmas Market: the Fairy Tale Lane , which has been beautifying the Old Town since 1998 and transporting visitors into the world of familiar fairy tale characters.
How it all began: The idea for Fairy Tale Lane
The story of Fairy Tale Lane dates back to 1998, when Innsbruck decorator Margit Riedmann had the idea of adorning Kiebachgasse and Seilergasse with life-size fairy tale figures. At that time, the Christmas market was heavily concentrated on Herzog-Friedrich-Straße . Few tourists wandered through the winding alleys of the old town. To attract more visitors to these hidden corners, Ms. Riedmann wanted to create a fairy-tale atmosphere that would draw people into the alleys. Her idea was met with great enthusiasm by the city administration, and thus the foundation for Fairy Tale Lane was laid.
The first figures to adorn the alleyways were classics like the Frog Prince, Rapunzel , and Mother Hulda. Even in the first year, the figures attracted the attention of passersby, and so the collection grew year by year. Today, a total of 26 fairytale figures can be found in Fairytale Alley – from well-known stories like Snow White and Hansel and Gretel to lesser-known but equally fascinating tales.
The magic of fairytale characters
Over 20 figures from the classic tales of the Brothers Grimm and other stories adorn the facades, bay windows, and alleyways. The fairytale figures in Fairytale Alley are impressively detailed and lend the alleyway a unique flair. Especially during Advent, when the alleys are illuminated with lights and Christmas decorations, the figures exude their own special charm. The artfully crafted Max and Moritz can be found alongside the story of Puss in Boots , and Cinderella and Puss in Boots also create magical moments.
The figures are scattered throughout the two alleys, so you’ll constantly discover new fairy tales as you stroll through Fairy Tale Lane. New figures and themes are added every year, always surprising visitors. The artworks aren’t just a wonderful experience for children – adults, too, can enjoy revisiting childhood memories and reliving these classic stories. Why not take a walk yourself and see which fairy tales you recognize?
Events and special highlights in the Fairy Tale Lane
The Fairy Tale Lane is not just a place to admire fairy tale characters. In recent years, the lane has transformed into a vibrant hub, hosting a variety of special events and activities. Storytellers transport visitors of all ages to the fantastical worlds of fairy tales, and children can participate in drawing competitions . The most beautiful drawings are displayed under the Christmas tree at the Golden Roof, providing a wonderful opportunity for young artists to showcase their work to a wider audience.
A particular highlight is the fairytale stage, which has been a permanent fixture in the fairytale alley for several years. Here, fairytales by the Brothers Grimm are performed daily on a mobile theater . Visitors can experience these well-known stories on stage at 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. The performances are very popular and offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the fairytales from a new perspective. Admission is free .
The fairytale alley for the whole family
The Fairy Tale Lane is not only a wonderful place for fairy tale lovers, but also a true family experience . Especially during Advent, when the Innsbruck Christmas Market opens its doors, the lane transforms into a magical place that delights families of all ages. The figures, the stories, and the festive atmosphere make a visit an unforgettable experience. The lane is also the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the main market and immerse yourself in a world of fantasy. The blend of art, culture and nostalgia makes the Fairy Tale Lane a very special destination for all those who want to be enchanted by the magic of Advent.
Conclusion: A magical place in Innsbruck
The Fairy Tale Lane in Innsbruck´s Old Town is undoubtedly a place that perfectly captures the magic of Advent . Anyone exploring Innsbruck’s Old Town should definitely take the time to stroll through Kiebach and Seiler Lanes and let the life-size fairy tale figures transport them to another world. It’s a place of fantasy and wonder that delights young and old alike and keeps the traditions of Tyrolean fairy tales and legends wonderfully alive. So, next time you’re in Innsbruck, let the Fairy Tale Lane enchant you and discover the magic of the stories that have captivated generations of visitors.
AUTHOR’S TIP:
Another tip for your visit to Innsbruck’s Old Town is Riesengasse (Giant’s Lane ). Here you’ll find impressively large figures that bring Tyrolean mythology to life. The gigantic figures, such as the Giant King Serles and the Giant of Glungezer, are imposing works of art that never fail to amaze visitors. For over 20 years, Riesengasse has captivated visitors with its magical atmosphere and invites them to explore the winding alleys of the Old Town.
–> Riesengasse
INNSBRUCK CHRISTMAS MARKET
The Innsbruck Christmas Market is one of the oldest and most popular in Austria and takes place in the heart of the Old Town, around the famous Golden Roof . Since its inception in 1973, the market has attracted numerous visitors every year, who can discover gifts, handicrafts, and Tyrolean specialties in approximately 70 festively decorated wooden stalls. The daily Amras Tower Brass Band is particularly impressive , spreading the Advent spirit with their Christmas melodies from the Golden Roof. Special highlights include the Fairy Tale Lane with its enchanting figures and the Giant’s Lane , which captivates visitors with monumental, mythical figures from Tyrolean legends. For a unique view of the market and the Old Town, a visit to the City Tower is highly recommended. The Christmas Market is not only a shopper’s paradise but also a place for festive entertainment with storytellers and various activities for children.
–> All information about the Innsbruck Christmas Market
Further links
- the most beautiful Innsbruck walks
- Discover shops and stores while shopping in Innsbruck
- What else is worth doing in Innsbruck in winter?
- New Year’s Eve in Innsbruck – what’s on offer
- Discover the Nordkette mountain range in Innsbruck
