Innsbruck, Austria » City Info » Travel Tips

Innsbruck is a beautiful city famous for its natural scenery and as a cultural capital of the federal state of Tyrol in Austria. There are two famous tourist attractions in the city, which cannot be missed out on even during short vacations, namely, Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) and Imperial Palace. This city is home to world-class art collections, museums, castles, churches, galleries, and boutiques. Besides the cultural city, it is the best place to enjoy winter sports like skiers, free riders, snowboarders, ice sports, winter hiking, snowshoeing, and summer sports.

Safety

Innsbruck has a low crime rate, and therefore it is considered as the safest city in Austria. However, it doesn't mean that there are no petty crimes like pickpocketing or bag snatching. It is advised to take precautions for your belongings and obey the rules while skiing on the slopes of Alpine.

Smoking

Smoking is banned in public places and educational institutions. But there are no strict rules about smoking at workplaces, bars and restaurants. Smoke-free legislation is passed to reduce smoking in public areas. So it is advised to ask the waiter before lighting up the cigarette in restaurants or bars.

Tipping

Usually, service charges and taxes are included in the bills of the restaurants, cafes, or bars. It is a routine to round up the amount of the bills just like other European cities. Extra tipping can be given to appreciate the excellent service given by the restaurants. Moreover, it becomes obvious to give tips in the form of coins or cash if credit cards are used to pay bills. Tipping is not mandatory for taxi drivers, as it is already added to the total amount of the fares.

Get in

By Plane

Innsbruck Airport (Flughafen Innsbruck / Kranebitten Airport) is the largest and busiest airport in Tyrol. Several airlines have non-stop flights from Europe, UK, Russia etc. Also, seasonal flights are available from many European cities.

By Train

Innsbruck can be reached by train from many European cities like Venice, Munich, Vienna, Grax, Bolzano, etc.

By Bus

Near the central train station, there are three bus stations that serve local, interregional and international traffic.

By Car

Innsbruck can be reached by car. The motorways are: Inntalautobahn (A12) and Brennerautobahn (A13).

Getting Around in Innsbruck

In Innsbruck, the use of public transportation is minimal since most of the Old Town sights are within walking distance and are best explored on foot. Since much of the city area is pedestrianised, driving a car or hiring a taxi doesn't make sense.

By Foot

From the main station, one can reach the city centre in 10 to 15 minutes and then to the pedestrian zone and the Golden Roof.

By Taxi

Taxis are a convenient way of exploring nearby places from Innsbruck. Taxis can be hailed anywhere on the street or hired at one of the taxi stands. Travelling by taxis is a relaxing experience, since their service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Travellers can also book airport taxis for pick up and drop.

Car Rental

To discover its magnificent Alpine beauty, many travellers rent a car in Innsbruck. If you prefer to drive in and around Innsbruck, remain on your toes while choosing the car hire company. There are enough fee-based, short-term parking zones in the downtown area of Innsbruck. While visiting the suburbs or nearby towns, use of public transportation is advisable.

Bus System

Public transportation in Innsbruck comprises of two modes - buses and trams. The dense bus network is operated by Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe, covering all areas of Innsbruck and its suburbs. Multi-ride and 24-hour passes are available for tourists' convenience.

Tram System

Trams of Innsbruck are operated by Innsbrucker Verkehrsbetriebe, connecting several mountain villages in the Stubaital valley, downtown, Old Town, Saggen, parts of Wilten, and parts of Pradl. Riding on a tram gives tourists a chance to photograph lovely landscapes on the way to the Alp villages such as Aldrans, Fulpmes, and Igls.

By Train

S-Bahn is the name of a train system, which has five lines connecting to nearby villages and towns to Innsbruck.

By Bike

Exploring Innsbruck on a bike is a common and cheapest mode and is popular among youngsters and students.

Innsbruck Card

Innsbruck Card offers free use of transportation (also TS line), free admission to sights, one descent & one descent to Nordkette, Patscherkofel and Axamer Lizum and free entrance to Swarovski Crystal Worlds. The validity of the Innsbruck card is 24/48/72 hours and is available at many museums and tourist centres. It is little expensive than other transport cards.