The most beautiful sights in Innsbruck
Innsbruck’s sights blend imperial history with alpine modernity. In the Old Town, the Golden Roof, the Imperial Palace, and the Cathedral dominate the cityscape. Modern touches include the Bergisel Ski Jump and the Hungerburg funicular stations designed by Zaha Hadid. The city’s proximity to the mountains is unique: the Nordkette cable car takes you directly from the city center into the high Alps.
Explore Innsbruck like a local. Based on years of living here, I’ve put together a guide to the city’s best spots—independent of official tourism organizations. From world-famous attractions to hidden local favorites, these are the things you really shouldn’t miss. Even though Innsbruck’s historic center is impressive, Tyrol’s largest old town is actually located nearby. It’s a bit of an insider secret, and I’ll tell you exactly why it’s worth the short trip.
Innsbruck insider tips
INNSBRUCK SECRET TIPS: TYROL’S LARGEST OLD TOWN
This is one of my promised Innsbruck insider tips that the local tourist office doesn’t reveal: a visit to Tyrol’s largest old town. It’s located just a few kilometers away in the historic town of Hall in Tirol . This was once the site of the mint . Coin production brought great wealth to the town, which was used to build numerous historic houses and sights that you can still admire today. If you love narrow, historic streets with picturesque corners and imposing city towers , then you should definitely make time during your Innsbruck trip for a stop in Hall in Tirol, just 10 kilometers away. It’s also the birthplace of the dollar! Here’s the link to Tyrol’s largest old town with pictures and interesting facts:
–> largest old town in Tyrol
EXPERIENCE TYROL IN INNSBRUCK
Experience Tyrol in Innsbruck is an extraordinary attraction that not every local knows about, but is definitely worth a visit. Centrally located in the old town, it offers an unforgettable experience for all the senses. This modern attraction combines VR technology , holograms , and immersive experiences to transport you into the history, culture, and traditions of Tyrol in a truly unique way. In five different rooms, you can experience Tyrol’s nature , customs , and important historical events up close. The VR experiences are particularly impressive , allowing you to step back in time with VR glasses, for example, on a carriage ride with Emperor Maximilian or with Andreas Hofer on the battlefield at Bergisel .
–> What to expect at Experience Tyrol
Recommended places to visit in Innsbruck
What other sights are worth seeing in Innsbruck ? I’ll show you in the following paragraphs – from the world-famous Golden Roof to the city’s highest landmark, the Hafelekar. Most visitors don’t realize that you can easily reach the Top of Innsbruck directly from the Old Town. I’ll show you how in this post, along with what else is worth seeing in the capital of the Alps. At the end, you’ll also find an overview of the city’s museums. They aren’t my personal favorites, but I wanted to include them for all museum enthusiasts. But first, let’s talk about the city’s hotspot, which you absolutely shouldn’t miss – the Golden Roof:
The Golden Roof – the most famous of Innsbruck’s sights
What are the most beautiful sights in Innsbruck? For me – and probably for most visitors – the Golden Roof is the first place to go when visiting Innsbruck’s Old Town. Tourists can be found here at almost any time of day. It’s the hot spot in Innsbruck and one of the city’s most visited attractions. Whether the sun shines on the golden roof tiles in summer or the snow transforms the roof into a romantic backdrop in winter – this sight is simply always beautiful! You’ll find the most famous view right in the pedestrian zone .
Even though I’ve been here many times, the Golden Roof never fails to fascinate me . It’s an exceptionally ornate roof, boasting 2,657 gilded shingles . Depending on the season and the light, it always looks different. That’s why visitors to Innsbruck, and even locals, love coming here. What many don’t know: you can not only admire the Golden Roof from the outside, but also go inside. There’s a museum inside. There’s an entrance fee. While there are many visitors outside, it’s very quiet inside. Hardly any of the day-trippers dare to venture into the building. Most just take a quick photo or selfie of the most famous roof in Europe and then move on to the next spot. The museum itself isn’t particularly worthwhile unless you’re interested in art history. The best thing is the view from the roof. Emperor Maximilian is said to have stood here in the past. Want to learn more about the Golden Roof?
–> You can read more about the Golden Roof here.
- Iconic old town attraction, heavily frequented by tourists.
- Artful architecture with 2657 gilded shingles that vary depending on the light and season.
- The exterior view is the main attraction and free of charge.
A curious fact about this top Innsbruck landmark:
The 2,657 shingles are made of copper and gilded with real gold. This has repeatedly attracted thieves in the past. Several times, individual gold shingles have even been stolen. Curiously, they all came back! No one wanted to or could keep the shingles. Through a series of winding paths, all the stolen gold shingles found their way back to their rightful place. Crazy, isn’t it?
The Anna Column – one of Innsbruck’s feudal sights
The St. Anne’s Column is a 13-meter-high column made of Kramsach marble. It adorns Maria-Theresien-StraĂźe in the Old Town. It’s an integral part of the pedestrian zone’s overall artistic concept – the St. Anne’s Column stands on Innsbruck’s grand boulevard. Around the column, you’ll find many shopping opportunities and great shops. There are also cafes. The St. Anne’s Column is, of course, one of Innsbruck’s must-see sights. Without a stroll around the column, you’ll be missing out on something truly special. Admire not only the striking column but also the houses with their many oriel windows, all painted in a vibrant array of colors. The St. Anne’s Column is accessible free of charge, 24/7. You can find out how to reach the column and other interesting information here:
–> this is the beautiful St. Anne’s Column
- An imposing 13-meter-high column made of Kramsach marble.
- Centrally located on Maria-Theresien-StraĂźe, surrounded by shops and cafes.
- Freely accessible, it offers a fascinating sight and is an essential part of the historic cityscape.
Like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris: The Triumphal Arch
Modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris: the Triumphal Arch in Innsbruck . Like the St. Anne’s Column, it’s located on the city’s main thoroughfare. You’ll find it at the end of Maria-Theresien-StraĂźe. The Triumphal Arch is a huge monument that you should definitely see on your city tour. This massive structure was built to commemorate a wedding, but that was a long time ago. I particularly like this landmark in Innsbruck because, on clear days, the striking peak of the Serles mountain seems to rise directly into the sky behind the archway. It really brings home the city’s proximity to the mountains!
—> more about the Triumphal Arch
- Modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, it marks the entrance to the old town.
- Impressive monument with a view of the Serles summit in the background.
- It symbolizes the connection between the city and the mountain landscape, especially on beautiful days.
The Imperial Palace in Innsbruck
The Hofburg was the residence of the Habsburgs. Originally a castle, it was later converted into a palace, hence the name “Hofburg” (Imperial Palace). The Hofburg in Innsbruck is particularly worth a visit in bad weather. You can walk around the perimeter of the Hofburg and see parts of it from the inside. Be sure to allow plenty of time, as there is much to see. The Hofburg houses the apartments of Empress Maria Theresa and the magnificent Giant’s Hall . Entry is by admission only.
For those who want to save on admission fees but still experience a touch of imperial history in Innsbruck: Next to the Hofburg Palace lies Innsbruck’s most beautiful park, the Hofgarten. It’s free to enter. Families with children will find one of the city’s best playgrounds here. For couples, it’s a great place for a stroll or a picnic. Where the nobility once sunbathed, you can relax like royalty right next to the Hofburg Palace. Here are the links for more pictures and information:
–> look here, this is the Hofburg Palace in Innsbruck
- Historic Habsburg residence, impressive architecture in the heart of the old town
- Includes the apartments of Empress Maria Theresa and the magnificent Giant’s Hall
- Combination of paid interior tour and free visit to the adjacent courtyard garden
Innsbruck Cathedral St. Jakob
Also located right in the heart of the old town, Innsbruck Cathedral is one of Innsbruck’s top attractions. The cathedral is dedicated to St. James. The current cathedral was built between 1717 and 1724 in the Baroque style, based on plans by Johann Jakob Herkomer and Johann Georg Fischer. Over time, the cathedral suffered damage from an earthquake in 1689 and Allied bombing raids in 1944. Nevertheless, it remains an impressive example of Baroque architecture. The two large church towers of St. James’ Cathedral are truly impressive. I think the exterior view is fantastic. Anyone wanting to take photos inside has to buy a photo ticket. Personally, I find this a bit excessive and it smacks of the church trying to make money . I don’t like that at all. I would be in favor of everyone who pays church tax not having to pay an entrance fee again. Dear officials: Perhaps this is something to consider for the future? In any case, I skipped the interior view. You can see what it looks like inside by clicking on the link:
Innsbruck Cathedral
- Cathedral and episcopal seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Innsbruck, dedicated to Saint James.
- Historic building with baroque architecture, imposing towers and a rich history.
- A special attraction is the Innsbruck Peace Carillon in the north tower, which rings daily.
WORTH IT!
The Innsbruck Peace Carillon hangs in the north tower of Innsbruck Cathedral. These 48 bells have been there since 1982. Every day at 12:10 pm, the Innsbruck Cathedral Peace Carillon rings in the city center. Additionally, the north tower houses the Mariahilf Bell. It rings every Friday at 3 pm, commemorating the hour of Jesus Christ’s death.
Hofkirche Innsbruck
Emperor Maximilian used Tyrol’s wealth for his government. He openly admitted to collecting money in Tyrol . However, Emperor Maximilian also invested heavily in Innsbruck, leaving a lasting legacy. Today, we would consider his investments sustainable. Emperor Maximilian’s buildings attract visitors to Innsbruck. The best place to experience them is the Court Church (Hofkirche). The interior of the Court Church is dominated by the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I, around which 28 larger-than-life bronze figures are grouped. The tomb was commissioned during the emperor’s lifetime but remained unfinished. It was only his grandson, Emperor Ferdinand I, who completed the magnificent tomb and the Court Church. It is an impressive work of art and one of the most important funerary sculptures of the Renaissance.
The Court Church also houses other tombs, including that of the freedom fighter Andreas Hofer, who played a key role in the Tyrolean uprising against Napoleon. There are also tombs of Hofer’s comrades Josef Speckbacher, Joachim Haspinger, and Kajetan Sweth. The “Silver Chapel” is another remarkable attraction of the Court Church and was built by Archduke Ferdinand II as a burial chapel for himself and his wife, Philippine Welser. Besides the impressive building itself, you’ll gain a wealth of information about Emperor Maximilian: I visited the Court Church in Innsbruck and was very pleasantly surprised by the multimedia show and the famous tomb within. It’s not one of the dusty Innsbruck tourist attractions you might expect at first glance. It’s interestingly presented; see here:
—> Court Church Innsbruck
- Known for the tomb of Emperor Maximilian I.
- Renaissance building with richly decorated details and historical significance.
- It offers an insight into the history of the Habsburg dynasty and its connection to Innsbruck.
Jesuit Church Innsbruck
The Jesuit Church is one of Innsbruck’s most impressive sights and a prime example of Baroque architecture. It’s located in the city center, near the Old University and east of the Old Town. The Jesuit Church was built as part of the Jesuit College complex and was made possible by a generous donation from Prince Leopold V and his wife, Claudia de’ Medici. The church is distinguished by its striking twin-tower facade, divided into four bays and two main stories. The octagonal towers are crowned with slender lanterns – take a closer look when you’re there. The Jesuit Church houses the relics of Saint Pirminius, who was named the patron saint of Innsbruck. It also contains eleven tombs, including some belonging to members of the Habsburg family.
–> Jesuit Church Innsbruck
Inn Bridge Innsbruck
The Inn Bridge is one of Innsbruck’s central landmarks and plays a significant role in the city’s history . It connects the Old Town with the Mariahilf-St. Nikolaus district . The first bridge on this site was originally built in the 12th century. This wooden bridge wasn’t just a simple crossing; at the time, it was the only way to cross the Inn River. Merchants had to pay to use the bridge, which contributed to the city’s prosperity. This bridge gave the city of Innsbruck its name! At sunset, the Inn Bridge offers a particularly impressive view of Innsbruck and the surrounding mountains. A striking crucifix adorns the bridge – I’ll tell you more about its significance here:
–> Inn Bridge
Ottoburg Innsbruck
The Ottoburg is one of Innsbruck’s most striking landmarks, embodying the city’s character with its impressive design and rich history. It’s located directly on the Inn River, where Innsbruck’s pedestrian zone begins. The Ottoburg’s origins date back to 1476. It was originally owned by Emperor Maximilian I. Over the centuries, the Ottoburg has been known by various names, including “Eepurg” or “öd Burg,” meaning “empty castle.” In the 18th century, a connection was established with Duke Otto II of Andechs (the founder of Innsbruck ) – hence the current name “Ottoburg.
–> Ottoburg
Landhausplatz Innsbruck
The Landhausplatz is now called Eduard-Wallnöfer-Platz . Several passageways connect this rather austere square to the grand Maria-Theresien-StraĂźe. Originally, the area around the Landhausplatz was characterized by mansions, villas, and gardens. Unfortunately, nothing of that remains today. After the annexation of Austria, the Gauhaus (regional government building) was built in 1938/39 – today it is the New Landhaus (state government building). This square was designed as a parade ground for political celebrations. After the Second World War, the square was redesigned, and the Liberation Monument was erected to commemorate the events of the war. In 1994, the square was given its current name in honor of the long-serving governor, Eduard Wallnöfer. A comprehensive redesign in the 2000s led to controversy among residents, who criticized the unattractive concrete surface . The Landhausplatz is one of Innsbruck’s most controversial landmarks .
–> Landhausplatz Innsbruck
Hafelekar – The Top of Innsbruck
Few people think of this when sightseeing in Innsbruck : the city’s highest landmark, the Hafelekar . Due to its altitude, it’s also known as the Top of Innsbruck . You can take the Nordkette cable car up into the Karwendel mountains without any hiking gear. From the summit, you can look down on Innsbruck and, on the other side, across the beautiful peaks of the Karwendel range. Uniquely beautiful – and often wonderfully sunny, while the city is shrouded in clouds. You absolutely shouldn’t miss this excursion:
with my discount code, you can even get up there for less!
–> Information for a trip to the Hafelekar
- Innsbruck’s highest landmark, overlooking the city and the Karwendel mountains.
- Accessible via the Nordkette cable car, it offers a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
- A popular destination for visitors to enjoy nature and panoramic views.
Hungerburg: Best view over Innsbruck’s sights
The Nordkette cable car is also your gateway to the best viewpoint overlooking the Old Town and Innsbruck’s sights! You’ll reach the Hungerburg funicular’s valley station next to the Hofburg Palace. Designed by Zaha Hadid , it’s a landmark in its own right. Admire the structure and then descend to the funicular station. The funicular starts as a subway and emerges from underground at the first stop. From here, admire the view. The Hungerburg funicular first crosses the Inn River and then climbs the steep hill to Innsbruck’s highest district – Hungerburg . What was once a remote hamlet above Innsbruck is now an enviably beautiful residential area with a high recreational value. Right next to the Hungerburg funicular’s mountain station, you’ll find the free Hungerburg viewing platform, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and its landmarks. Check out the pictures here.
–> Hungerburg
- Part of the Nordkette cable car, it offers breathtaking views over the city and the surrounding mountains.
- It starts next to the Hofburg and leads to Hungerburg, the highest district of Innsbruck.
- The free viewing platform on the Hungerburg is a popular destination for visitors to admire the beauty of the surroundings.
Figln – Innsbruck sights in spring
I discovered Figln in Innsbruck this April. It’s a seasonal attraction , and you can only experience it in spring . It all starts on April 1st (no, it’s not an April Fool’s joke). That’s when the ski slopes are open for Figln. It’s a real highlight for Innsbruck locals. Figln was invented in Innsbruck, and nowhere else in the Alps is it celebrated quite like here. For Innsbruckers, it’s the sport of spring! Using a kind of short ski, you glide down the steep slopes through the soft snow. It’s great fun! You can see the pictures here, along with an explanation of what Figln is. If you’re in Innsbruck in April, you should definitely check it out, or maybe even try Figln yourself – an unforgettable experience:
–> Innsbruck April Figln.
Innsbruck sights: Beautiful alleys and streets
You should also take time for the walks between Innsbruck’s sights : you can usually stroll through narrow alleyways or magnificent streets with richly decorated facades. I’ve come to really enjoy this. Many historical-looking signs on the buildings give Innsbruck’s old town a wonderful flair. All of this makes Innsbruck’s old town a sight in itself. So you don’t have to go everywhere and pay an entrance fee. Take your time and wander through the city center. If you’d like a particularly grand experience, you can also take a horse-drawn carriage through the city center. In my next two posts, I’ll reveal the most beautiful streets in Innsbruck and my recommendation for a particularly worthwhile city tour .
–> These are the magnificent streets of Innsbruck and here is my suggestion for a city tour in Innsbruck .
See Innsbruck’s sights from above – the City Tower
The City Tower in the Old Town is one of Innsbruck’s landmarks. Completed in 1450, it is about 50 years older than the Golden Roof. The tower rises an impressive 51 meters high and was once a symbol of the self-confidence of Innsbruck’s citizens. In the Middle Ages, the tower served as a watchtower and prison. The tower watchmen had the important task of warning the citizens of fires and other dangers. Today, visitors can enjoy the breathtaking view from the observation platform . To reach the City Tower’s observation platform, however, you have to climb 133 steps . But the effort is worthwhile, as a spectacular view over the medieval streets of the Old Town awaits you. You can admire the imposing mountain panorama with the Bergisel, the Patscherkofel, and the Nordkette.
–> City Tower Innsbruck
- A historic landmark of the old town, built in 1450 and therefore older than the Golden Roof.
- It once served as a watchtower and prison.
- Visitors can climb the 133 steps to enjoy a spectacular view from the viewing platform over the medieval streets and the imposing mountain panorama.
The Sill Gorge – one of Innsbruck’s secret sights
Far from the usual tourist trails lies the Sill Gorge . It’s a paradise for all Innsbruck visitors who enjoy nature. The Sill Gorge is one of Innsbruck’s most impressive natural attractions. It’s located along the Sill River, which originates near the Brenner Pass high in the mountains. For kilometers, it flows through the Wipptal valley to Innsbruck, where it empties into the Inn River after 42 kilometers. The final stretch on the outskirts of the city is particularly interesting: here, the Sill has carved its way through the mountains, creating the Sill Gorge. The Sill Gorge extends from Gärberbach in Mutters to below the Bergisel mountain, forming a fascinating section of the river valley.
I love the Sill Gorge. It’s right on the edge of town and a wonderful addition to Innsbruck’s cultural and historical sights. You can hike from the city through the gorge along the turquoise-green Sill River. Plan a circular hike that includes a climb to the viewing platform ! Entry is free. Here’s what we did:
–> Sill Gorge
- Natural landmark along the Sill River
- An opportunity to explore and enjoy nature near the city.
- Ideal for hikes along the riverbank and offers a welcome change from the cultural attractions of the old town.
Ambras Castle
Ever heard of Ambras Castle ? It’s one of Innsbruck’s most famous historical landmarks. Built in the 16th century by Archduke Ferdinand II, Ambras Castle served as the Habsburgs’ summer residence. Later, his son, Archduke Karl II, transformed it into a museum of art and curiosities, attracting visitors from all over the world. Today, Ambras Castle is a major cultural history museum. The art and curiosities collection includes rare and unusual objects such as astronomical instruments, curious exhibits, as well as remarkable paintings and sculptures. One of the castle’s main attractions is the famous armory, featuring weapons and armor from the 16th century. The Ambras Castle Gardens surrounding the castle are also well worth a visit. Free of charge, they offer a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The castle park is a popular destination for walkers and boasts many historical and botanical features.
–> Ambras Castle
- Historical landmark and summer residence of the Habsburgs
- Contains a unique collection of artworks, weapons, armor, and curious exhibits.
- The castle park offers a relaxing place to stroll and unwind amidst historical and botanical beauty.
Botanical Garden Innsbruck
Also located outside the old town is the Botanical Garden in Innsbruck. It’s situated in the city center, in the Hötting district. The university’s botanical garden has existed since 1793. It has been in Hötting since 1913, where you’ll find over 7,000 plant species spread across 2 hectares. It’s not only one of Innsbruck’s attractions but also a teaching and research center for the Institute of Botany at the Leopold-Franzens University of Innsbruck. Under the direction of Emil Heinricher, the garden’s director from 1889 to 1928, the gardens were designed according to biological groups, setting a standard for other botanical gardens. In addition to the main garden, the Alpine Garden was also created on the Patscherkofel mountain, showcasing the plant communities of high alpine regions. Admission is free, and the botanical garden is interesting to visit at any time of year.
–> Botanical Garden
- The university garden, which has existed since 1793, contains over 7000 plant species.
- A teaching and research center of the Institute of Botany, showcasing the diversity of the plant world.
- Freely accessible, it offers interesting insights into botanical diversity and is worth a visit at any time of year.
Museums – Innsbruck’s special sights
The destinations listed above are the top sights in Innsbruck. But you can discover much more if you have enough time. Besides its many buildings, Innsbruck boasts unique museums and companies that are also attractions. I’m thinking, for example, of the Grassmayr bell foundry. The family has been producing bells in Innsbruck since 1599. Bells from Innsbruck can be heard in over 100 countries around the world. You can see this for yourself in the family’s own bell museum .
In the city you can also visit several museums and exhibitions. I’ve listed the largest and most unusual museums here. For more information about the museums, simply click on the link – there you’ll also find opening hours, prices, and current information:
The Tyrolean Folk Art Museum is located in the heart of Innsbruck’s old town, next to the Imperial Palace. Originally founded as a Tyrolean crafts museum, its exhibits offer a wealth of information about Tyrol.
The Ferdinandeum
is one of the Tyrolean state museums, dedicated to the former Crown Prince Ferdinand. It houses seven collections spanning from the past to the present day.
The “Tyrol Panorama” Museum:
At the heart of this museum is the so-called Innsbruck Giant Panoramic Painting, which depicts the Battle of Bergisel. It belongs to the Tyrolean State Museums.
The Tyrolean Museum Railways
are an association that preserves, restores, and exhibits historic trams. You can also visit the tram museum. From May to October, the Tyrolean Museum Railways are open every Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A special treat for children: the museum tram runs in Innsbruck during Advent.
Anatomy Museum Innsbruck
: The city’s most unusual museum: Emperor Leopold I founded the University of Innsbruck, which began teaching in 1672. As one of the first universities, it possessed a real skeleton for teaching anatomy. From this, a museum has developed , open every Thursday from 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm.
Summary of the best places to visit in Innsbruck
Innsbruck, the charming capital of Tyrol, offers a wealth of fascinating sights that delight both visitors and locals alike. Off the beaten track, the city boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the outstanding highlights:
- Golden Roof:Â This famous landmark is a must-see. With its 2,657 gilded shingles, it is a work of art in itself and can also be visited from the inside, where the view is particularly impressive.
- Annasäule: This 13-meter-high column made of Kramsach marble adorns Maria-Theresien-Straße and is a prominent landmark for walks in the old town.
- Triumphal Arch:Â A monument reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, offering a view of the Serles, one of the region’s most prominent peaks.
- The Imperial Palace:Â Once the residence of the Habsburgs, it is a large and imposing building. Visitors can explore parts of it while also enjoying the adjacent Court Garden.
- St. James’ Cathedral:Â An impressive cathedral dedicated to the Apostle James the Greater, housing a rich history and art treasures.
- Court Church:Â Here you will find the impressive tomb of Emperor Maximilian I with larger-than-life bronze figures, which is considered one of the most important of the Renaissance.
- Hafelekar:Â The city’s highest landmark, accessible via the Nordkette cable car, offers breathtaking views over Innsbruck and the Karwendel mountains.
- Hungerburgbahn and Hungerburg:Â The funicular railway to Hungerburg is a sight in itself and offers a fantastic view over the city.
- Bergisel Ski Jump:Â The Bergisel Ski Jump is a ski jump located on the Bergisel mountain. It was designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. It is not only a venue for ski jumping competitions but also a tourist attraction.
- Sill Gorge:Â A natural treasure in the heart of the city, an impressive gorge along the Sill River, ideal for hikers and nature lovers.
- Ambras Castle:Â A historic Habsburg residence with art and curiosity cabinets as well as an impressive armory.
- Botanical Garden:Â A place of peace and beauty, showcasing over 7000 plant species on 2 hectares.
Innsbruck captivates visitors not only with its historical landmarks but also with the breathtaking landscape that surrounds the city. From historic buildings and imposing mountain panoramas to natural oases, the city offers a wide range of experiences for all visitors.
