Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol and is primarily known for its winter sports appeal. However, this city is definitely worth visiting in the summer as well. With its charming old town (altstadt) and beautiful attractions, it’s perfect for a day out. Innsbruck is a medium-sized city, making its highlights easily accessible and not far apart. Read on to discover the Innsbruck attractions you must admire during your day out!
The best attractions in Innsbruck
- Goldenes Dachl
- Ambras Castle
- Hofkirche
- Maria-Theresien-Straße
- Innsbruck Cathedral
Goldenes Dachl
Goldenes Dachl, or the Golden Roof, is the symbol of the city and should definitely be included in your Innsbruck attractions itinerary. As the name suggests, you’ll see a stunning golden roof. This roof was built about 500 years ago for Emperor Maximilian. He wanted to have a view of the square from the balcony and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
You can visit this balcony yourself to enjoy the magnificent view. You can also visit the accompanying museum where you can learn all about the history of the Golden Roof. The city was a place where guilds and estates ruled, where townspeople, aristocrats, and beggars shaped the cityscape, and where lively festivals were held by the light of burning torches. But there was also a dark side to the late Middle Ages: public burnings in the shadow of the Golden Roof, bloody battles, and violent confrontations. An entrance ticket costs €2.50.
Ambras Castle
Ambras Castle is one of the city’s main attractions. The castle was owned by Archduke Ferdinand II (1529-1595), who promoted the arts and sciences as a true Renaissance prince.
Today, you can admire various collections. The collection includes more than 200 portraits, featuring valuable works by famous artists such as Lukas Cranach, Anton Mor, Titian, van Dyck, and Diego Velásquez. On the ground floor of the upper castle, you’ll find a collection of late medieval sculptures, with the centerpiece being the St. George’s Altar, which belonged to Emperor Maximilian I. An entrance ticket costs €12 for adults, and children up to 19 years old are free. You can reach the castle by car or by bus line C, tram 3, or tram 6.
Hofkirche
This church was built by Emperor Ferdinand to bury his grandfather, Emperor Maximilian. Ultimately, Maximilian is buried in Wiener Neustadt, but Hofkirche is very popular among tourists. The church houses 28 bronze statues, which is why it is also known as Schwarz-Mander-Kirche.
Maria-Theresien-Straße
This old street is over 700 years old and still full of life. Locals love to come here to shop and meet friends. You can also sit and admire the beautiful buildings. From this street, you can walk to the Golden Roof. You’ll also find Kaufhaus Tyrol here, with trendy shops.
Innsbruck Cathedral
The Cathedral of St. James officially dates back to 1180 but was destroyed by an earthquake in the seventeenth century. The church you can admire today was built afterward. The cathedral has 57 bells, making it the largest carillon in all of Austria. Inside, you’ll see beautiful ceiling paintings, and the tomb of Maximilian III can also be found here.
Innsbruck attractions: Bike tour
A fun way to explore a city is by bike. During our Innsbruck MTB tour, you ride with a local guide on a comfortable e-mountain bike through the city and its beautiful surroundings.
First, you’ll see the city center, including the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), the icon of Innsbruck. The St. Anne’s Column, the Annasäule, is also a must-see. You’ll quickly discover that this is a delightful city to cycle around. Afterward, it’s time to gain some altitude. From the Hungerburg, you have a stunning view over the city. Not long after, you’ll arrive at the Arzler Alm, where you can relax with a nice drink.
Can’t get enough of this area? Check out our other Austria mountain bike tours.
