City break or ski? Well, you don’t have to make that choice in Innsbruck: this Baroque beauty, the capital of the Austrian Tirol, is surrounded by 13 ski areas in the Stubai Valley, including one that towers over the city.
What's more, they're all on the same SKI plus CITY Pass, along with 22 attractions in the city and the chance to visit three swimming pools. You’ll have 308km of a gorgeous winter playground to explore in this alluring corner of the Austrian Tirol.
Skiing for all abilities
You don’t have to go far to experience Innsbruck’s skiing.
Let the fantastically futuristic funicular, designed by Zaha Hadid, take you up to the Nordkette ski area that overlooks the city and promises some challenging runs.
Take advantage of the free ski bus and go further afield. For example, Kühtai soars above 2,000m and is one of Austria’s highest – and cutest – ski resorts. The 3,200m glacier at Stubai – the largest in Austria – also promises excellent snow from October until June.
Alternatively, for family-friendly fun, try the gentle slopes at Muttereralm, south of Innsbruck.
Local history and attractions
Innsbruck’s elegant streets are home to some of Austria’s loveliest examples of medieval, Habsburg and Baroque architecture.
Be dazzled by the 2,657 tiles covering the landmark Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof), along with the 16th-century City Tower that lords it over the broad, pedestrianised Herzog-Friedrich street.
Stop for a cocktail at Lichtblick restaurant, whose rooftop bar gives you panoramic views of the city.
Explore the Hofkirche (Court Church), above, in the old town. Wander through the glittering staterooms of the Imperial Palace before heading to the southern edge of the city to Ambras Castle, a splendid, 16th-century Renaissance construction.
Also, just 20km from Innsbruck is Swarovski Crystal Worlds, a magical park whose star attraction is the 800,000 crystals that make up the shimmering Crystal Cloud.
Spas, saunas and the Christmas market
When you’re off the slopes, pamper yourself with a spa visit. The Art Nouveau sauna spa in Salurner Strasse will soothe tired muscles, and there’s a “fitness triangle” of spa facilities on Mitterweg where three fitness studios offer relaxing saunas and hot tubs.
When winter arrives in Innsbruck, that’s the cue for the Christmas market, above, to set up its tantalising stalls in the city. Surround yourself with Tirolean culture and folklore as you try some of the region’s specialities.
Austria’s version of mac and cheese, Käsespätzle, will warm you up on a chilly winter’s day, as well a hefty plate of Gröstl. This Tirolean take on a fry-up has bacon and potato topped with a fried egg – just the thing for an après-ski treat.
To find out more about the Austrian Tirol, visit austria.info and innsbruck.info
