What to do in Innsbruck

Advice on what to do in Innsbruck, including culture, relaxation, nightlife, sport and food.

Cultural attractions in Innsbruck
The Triumphpforte is an impressive monument on the southside of Maria-Theresian street, which was built under the orders of empress Maria-Theresian to celebrate the marriage of her son Leopold, and the death of her husband.

Ambras Castle is a must-see for visitors to Innsbruck, its stunning Renaissance architecture at its most disarming in the snow, but set in extensive and well-kept grounds that are tremendous to picnic in during the summer.

Relaxation in Innsbruck
Daredevils can try their hand at the new target="-blank">Bergisel ski jump, a towering feat of engineering that stands proudly in the stadium. The panoramic views from the top are breath-taking, as is the rush if you make the jump. It is also located in one of the many area of Innsbruck that are great for taking a ski break.

Innsbruck's Old Town is ideal for spending a relaxing afternoon in an atmosphere of medieval austerity, and there is a wealth of shops and arcades to pick up everything from clothes to souvenirs and some great locally-produced food.

Nightlife in Innsbruck
A grimy yet hip and endearing range of bars can be found underneath Innsbruck's viaducts on Ing-Etzel-Strasse. Drinks are fairly cheap and there is a vibrant, up-for-it crowd.

For a proper, locally-brewed ale, head to the Theresienbrau, an enormous, old brewery-cum-pub on Maria-Theresien-Strasse. Full of equipment that looks like it does indeed belong in a brewery, it is an interesting place to grab a drink in and provides a good variety of hearty food. Relaxed during the day, it gets going at night.

Sport in Innsbruck
A game of football can be caught with Tirol at Stadt Innsbruck.

Recommended restaurants in Innsbruck
The Goldener Adler on Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse carries that essential seal of approval – its immense popularity with the locals. Split across two levels, there are delightfully updated dishes on offer, such as pork medallions dripping with ham and Gorgonzola.

For a river-side dining experience, the Cammerlander comes highly recommended. Set across a number of levels, it offers fine views of the Inn River, with a typical array of well-cooked, traditional meals which provide good values for money.