★ 4.7🇦🇹 InnsbruckSuggested visit 1 dayBest season June to September for hiking; December to March for skiing
Historic siteSnow mountainsCity walk
An Alpine valley old town where the Golden Roof frames snow peaks, host of two Winter Olympics.
Overview
In the Inn valley, Innsbruck's core is the Golden Roof built in 1500 as a viewing balcony for Maximilian I, its roof covered in 2,657 gilded copper tiles. Beside it stands the painted facade of the Helblinghaus, and Maria-Theresien-Strasse frames the snow peaks of the Nordkette range. The city hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976, and a cable car climbs to 2,256 metres on the Nordkette.
History
Chartered in 1239 and a Habsburg residence from the late 15th century, where Maximilian I built the Golden Roof; it hosted the Winter Olympics in 1964 and 1976.
Highlights
•The Golden Roof and its balcony
•The painted Helblinghaus facade
•The Nordkette cable car and snow peaks
•Maria-Theresien-Strasse
Practical tips
•The cable car is expensive but the mountain views justify it
•The old town is walkable and close to the station
Practical information
Best time
June-September
Tickets
The old town is free; cable car return about EUR 45
Opening hours
Old town open all day
Local food
Wiener schnitzel, käsespätzle, apple strudel
Getting around
About 1.5 hours by train from Munich, four hours from Vienna.
Visa
A Schengen visa is required; apply about one month in advance.