Travel Guide For Innsbruck Austria

Innsbruck Travel Guide

Innsbruck is the capital city of the federal state of Tyrol in western Austria, and is undeniably the most popular vacationing destinations in the country. Nestled in the verdant valley of the Inn River and situated between towering mountains, the city of Innsbruck lies beautifully at the very heart of the majestic Austrian Alps.

The history of Innsbruck dates back to the early Stone Age, but the first record of the city dates back to 1187, when the Inn Bridge was mentioned. With the bridge intact, the city became a major transport and communications link and the easiest route across the Alps. Today tourism is the most important source of income for the Innsbruck, primarily due to the beautiful town centre and the friendliness of the locals.

Innsbruck Tourist Guide

Innsbruck is overflowing with historic buildings and monolithic monuments. Walking along the picturesque streets of the city, you will find impressive examples of Baroque architectural gems for the 16th century as well as the 14th-century Stadtturm on Herzog Friedrich Strasse. The Golden Roof is one of the most famous landmarks and a definite 'must-see' when visiting Austria. Built in 1500, the Golden Roof was decorated with 2657 fire-gilded copper tiles shimmering atop a Gothic oriel window for Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor. The balcony was used by the emperor and members of the royal family to watch events in the square below.

Innsbruck is also an internationally-renowned ski resort that sees top celebrities and jet setters from all over the world who dare to take to the slopes of the Alps. There are five main skiing areas within reach of the city, including year-round skiing at the Stubai Glacier, around 40 km from Innsbruck. Skiing and winter sports are so popular here that Innsbruck has twice been home to the Winter Olympics.

Besides skiing, the city offers a plethora of high adrenaline sports to choose from, including great walking paths, mountain climbing, hiking and trekking and snow boarding. For several years, Innsbruck hosted the Air & Style Snowboard Contest. In 2005, the city hosted the Ice Hockey World Championship. It is also one of the host cities for Euro 2008, an event to be held in Switzerland and Austria.

Innsbruck's Cultural Attractions

For culture seekers, Innsbruck offers a number of attractions including numerous museums, a stunning symphony orchestra and fine restaurants, not to mention opportunities to see live yodelling and folk dancing. There is also a glitzy casino for those wishing to try their luck at the crap tables.

Prior to visiting Innsbruck, we highly recommend that you take out travel insurance, especially if you are planning to drive or participate in mountain sports. Innsbruck is an extremely safe destination; however, if get insured, you can rest easy and enjoy your trip with the peace of mind that you will be covered in the event of a mishap.