Dozens of Innsbruck’s numerous historical attractions are packed into its old town, a neighborhood of picturesque streets and lively Austrian culture.
Innsbruck’s Old Town is one of the highlights of Tirol’s capital city. Colorful, tall house fronts hiding palaces and art galleries line classically Austrian streets. Stroll along cobbled paths to visit some of the architectural and cultural highlights of Innsbruck.
Climb up the 148 steps of Innsbruck City Tower for the best views of the old town. This guard tower, built in 1450, will give you a vantage point over the medieval city center. Marvel from this height at an old town that has stood here for over 800 years much of the Baroque and Gothic architecture was built later, at the turn of the 16th century.
Learn more about the old town and surrounding region in the Ferdinandeum Tyrolean State Museum. Follow the story of Tirol from the Stone Age to the present day. The Museum of Tyrolean Folk Art contains local treasures from bygone eras, including traditional festival costumes.
Tour the imperial landmarks of the old town. The emperors of old lived in the Imperial PalaceOpens in a new window (Hofburg) and were buried in the Court ChurchOpens in a new window (Hofkirche). One of the most famous and impressive landmarks is the Golden RoofOpens in a new window (Goldenes Dachl), which gains its name from the gold-plated copper tiles on the façade. Explore the museum inside to learn about Emperor Maximilian I.
Spend an evening at the Tyrolean State Theatre, a classically styled venue that was built in the 1650s. Watch operatic, dance and orchestral performances in this historic setting.
Come to the area in December for the festive experience of the Innsbruck Old Town Christmas Market. The city has six markets, including one on the banks of the river at Marktplatz. Admire the Christmas tree decorated with over 170,000 Swarovski crystals and listen to the trumpeters playing from the Golden Roof.
Walk around Innsbruck’s Old Town on foot to soak up the atmosphere. The old town is located directly next to the city’s main train station. Visit in winter for skiing and the Christmas markets, or come in summer for warm days strolling around this beautiful part of the city.
