Surrounded by the Alpine peaks Innsbruck is known for its beautiful architecture and attachment to tradition. But its main qualities are unique vibe of resort and the best in Europe ski infrastructure.
The capital of Tyrol fascinates with its architecture of colourful town houses and churches, as well as with breath-taking views of the Alpes that surround the city. It is best to sightsee this city, situated by the river, while on a walk. It is worth going to its historical part, which is a street Maria-Theresien-Strasse, where Annasaüle – a column of St. Anna, commemorating the victory of Tyrolians in Bavaria – is located, as well as many historical town houses. On your way to the baroque cathedral of St. Jacob (Dom zu St. Jakob), you will pass by a representative street Herzog-Fredrich-Strasse, the Caesarean palace Hofburg and Goldenes Dachl, which is covered in golden-coloured plates made of copper roof on premises of Tyrol’s rulers, built in 1500.
Innsbruck, thanks to its great location, is one of the most popular centres of winter sports in Europe. The area is perfect for skiing or sledding, as well as trekking and mountain hiking. In the neighbourhood there is Olimpia Ski World Innsbruck, that comprises of nine skiing centres with beautiful and perfectly prepared skiing routes of different difficulties and reach infrastructure. Glungezer, situated a 15 minutes’ drive from the city, has one of oldest and longest (15-kilometres) skiing route in Tyrol.
When it comes to cuisine, in Innsbruck you can find both traditional eateries, as well as restaurants, wineries or pubs, bars with a beautiful view for the mountains. In Tyrol the most popular are potato dumplings and noodles available in many versions (such as Kaspressknödel from Tyrolean grey cheese). It is also worth to try smoked bacon speck, a garlic soup with croutons, a beer soup or dishes based on wild meat or veal, for instance Tiroler Gröstl. Due to the closeness of Italy, in regional cuisine you can find polenta (Sterz), as well as many fishes and pastas. It is best to go to Gasthof Weisses Rossl or Kiebachgasse, Weinhaus Happ at Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse or to a restaurant Speckeria at Hofgasse.
