Explore the bustling city charm and natural beauty of Innsbruck

Whether you're a thrillseeker looking to climb mountains or a culture-loving city dweller, the Capital of the Alps has something for everyone

Given the charming blend of natural beauty and rich cultural legacy, it's no wonder that Innsbruck in the Austrian Tirol has earned the nickname of the Capital of the Alps, with its irresistible combination of soaring mountains, a fascinating Habsburg history and vibrant urban atmosphere.

Alpine thrills

In just 20 minutes, you can be transported from the city centre to the breathtaking heights of the Nordkette mountains at 2,000m. You’ll be in the heart of the Karwendel Nature Park, which at more than 700 sq km is the largest in Austria. Once you’ve soaked up the spectacular views, hit the hiking trails for invigorating walks that suit all levels. From June to October, you can join one of the free guided mountain hikes on offer.

Innsbruck Tourism / Erwin Haiden (Innsbruck Tourism / Erwin Haiden)

Climbers will want to pit themselves against the challenges of the Nordkette Fixed Rope Route and the Nordkette Climbing Area. Come from 6-16 September for the IFSC World Climbing Championships, when 700 top climbers join the battle for medals.

Mountain bikers on the hunt for an adrenalin rush can tackle the exhilarating trail that leads down the mountain. Fans of road cycling won’t want to miss the UCI Road Cycling World Championship, when the best road cyclists on the planet descend on Innsbruck from 22-30 September. If you’re looking for gentler pursuits, stop at the middle station on the Nordkette cable car and visit the Alpine Zoo, the highest-altitude zoo in Europe.

Urban pleasures

Pull up a seat on a café terrace or a rooftop bar and you soon discover how lively Innsbruck is. With a young population and a popular university, the city buzzes all year round. Head to the south of the city to the Zaha Hadid-designed Bergisel Ski Jump, where you can watch live ski jumping from May to October. Book a table at the panoramic restaurant at the top, or just take in the glorious vistas from the viewing platform.

Innsbruck Tourism / Edi Groeger (Innsbruck Tourism / Edi Groeger)

Cultural delights

Discover Innsbruck’s imperial past at the 16th-century Ambras Castle. Set in extensive gardens, this imposing castle shows off beautiful art and Renaissance interior design in a fabulous setting. Don’t miss the Chamber of Art and Curiosities, surely one of the most unusual and compelling collections of curios you’re likely to see.

My Innsbruck

Tom Öhler, professional trial bike rider

“I have been riding trials for 22 years and love it just as much as on day one. It is the perfect way to relax. Mountains are in the DNA of Innsbruck, but you can even do your tricks in the heart of the city. My favourite spot is the Landhausplatz square. It’s amazing that we have a place like this in the middle of the city where people are allowed to skate and ride BMX bikes.”

With daily scheduled flights to Innsbruck from London Heathrow and London Gatwick, as well as services from Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Liverpool, it’s easy to discover the Austrian Tirol.

See innsbruck.info, visittirol.co.uk and love.tirol #loveTirol, #innsbruck, @visitTirol