About Innsbruck

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Alps, Innsbruck invites visitors to take advantage of its majestic mountains and urban sophistication. Innsbruck, the only major city in the Alps, has a reputation of being a winter sports capital, boasting six premier skiing areas that offer some of the world’s ultimate skiing experiences. During the summer, students can enjoy free mountain hiking programs and other sporting and recreational activities.

Innsbruck's musical and artistic offerings include the Festival of Early Music, which attracts renowned artists who play orchestral music on historic instruments or who stage Baroque operas. Audiences are brought back to the Renaissance at concerts performed in the Ambras Castle, and International Organ Week concerts are held at the historic Court Church and the Wilten Abbey. The list of cultural activities and fine arts is nearly endless, and students will find plenty of opportunities to cultivate their artistic sides.

Transportation

There are trams and buses that travel throughout Innsbruck. A one-hour ticket is €1.40, but there are also day, week and month tickets available. Taxis are widely available as well.

Bike riding is a great way to get around Innsbruck, and many people purchase a bike once they arrive. Also, in Austria you can get almost anywhere using the bus or train, including neighboring countries.

Climate

Innsbruck's climate is moderate and generally agreeable; however, cold winters with frequent rain in lowlands and snow in the mountains are common. Summers are warm and pleasant with cool nights, and winters are sunny, with snow levels good for winter sports. Warm clothes and shoes or boots with slip-proof soles are essential. In spring and autumn a few warm pieces and a jacket or raincoat are advisable. In summer, you’ll want a sweater or cardigan and an all-purpose raincoat for cool nights.

Top Sights

• The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)
• Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Swarovski Kristallwelten)
• Schloss Ambras
• Hungerburgbahn/Nordkettenbahn
• Tyrolean Folk Art Museum (Tiroler Volkskunstmuseum)

Learn More

• Fodor's online Innsbruck guide
• Dining in Innsbruck
• About Innsbruck
• Austria Info