The capital of the Alps invites you to enjoy city impressions, skiing and après ski

© 2004 | TVB Innsbruck

Innsbruck’s winter is an interesting “gentlemen”: “he” wears a ski suit and a tuxedo; he wedels and carves, he swings and strolls, he has an unforgettable scent and gives you that tingly feeling. Together with the capital of the Alps he asks you to take pleasure in the most fantastic winter scenery worldwide. The number of residents in the lively city amounts to 120,000 and very often you will come across people walking through the Old Town, wearing a ski suit and ski boots, carrying their pair of skiers on their shoulder – what are they doing? Shopping? No, they are on their way to the base station of the “Nordkettenbahn” uphill facilities. And only 20 minutes later you will see them in the most colorful and yet snow white scenery. Under the clear blue sky everything is glistening and sparkling. Ski runs, such as the super-steep “Karrinne” or the snowboarding fun park are quite a challenge. However, both, skiers and sunbathers sitting on the spacious terrace enjoy the fantastic view of Innsbruck’s city center that nestles about 1,400 m below. And all of a sudden it becomes obvious, why the Skyline Park located on the Northern Mountain Change/Seegrube is called “incity”.

The ski run situated on the Northern Mountain Chain is one of eight ski runs of “Olympia SkiWorld Innsbruck”, which also comprises the Stubai Glacier and the Kuehtai ski region on an altitude of 2,000 m above sea level. Looking for well groomed ski runs? It goes without saying that you will definitely find them here, but apart from that almost every ski resort also offers a funpark and numerous powder slopes that await all the freeriders. All those, who are looking for a thrilling holiday adventure,  Innsbruck and its Holiday Villages are is the right place for you: experience a bobsleigh ride in Igls or if a “regular” ride is not fast and thrilling enough, rent a wok to race down the icy channel.

Night Skiing represents an unforgettable experience – illuminated ski runs allow you to turn night into day. If you prefer a toboggan ride at night don’t forget to visit the mountain hut before you race down the illuminated tracks that will take you back to the valley. A sleigh ride through the winter wonderland will be a romantic and idyllic memory. People who want to be more active could try some snow shoes to trudge through the snow and listen to the sound of nature. Numerous winter hiking trails and cross country skiing tracks (on several altitudes) also invite you to enjoy a stress-free and natural winter experience.

Sports activities and cultural highlights are just a heartbeat away from each other, and it really would be a pity to miss the magnificent Ambras Renaissance-Castle, the Imperial Court Palace and the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum representing our cultural heritage: If you decide to make a break from your sports activities, we recommend to buy the Innsbruck Card, which includes free admission to many sights in the city and its surroundings.

The 25 Holiday Villages surrounding Innsbruck not only invite you to take a trip, the valleys and sunny plateaus in the South and the West all provide the best accommodation. Stay in the rural area and be close to the beautiful parish churches, village centers, traditional farm houses and of course the village fountain and watch the local residents and their daily routine – all this creates the image of the Holiday Villages. Not to forget hotels, restaurants and guest houses that offer highlights ranging from spa-treatments to culinary delights and family holiday packages. And sometimes you will also find unusual attractions: for example, the Iglu Village, established in the Kuehtai ski region, lets you experience “hot nights” in an icy palace. Whereas, luxury and a stunning view can be enjoyed in the AlpinLodges holiday apartments. And this can even be bettered: Jagdschloss Kuehtai offers “royal accommodation” with the most luxurious equipment you can dream of – here you will not only stay – you will reside!

Having spent an active winter’s day on the slopes, cross country skiing tracks or just in open space, you have the opportunity to enjoy après ski in the city. Before you spend a relaxing chill-out-evening in the city center, don’t forget to visit the 360° panoramic bar to take a last breathtaking view of the mountains shimmering in the moonlight. Get together and have a drink in one of the many wine bars, lounges and beer halls. Culinary highlights at the highest level are served in many restaurants and traditional inns with wooden paneled parlors where candle lights create a romantic atmosphere.

Prior to dinner you can stroll through the shopping area of the newly created Maria-Theresien-Strasse, where you will find the elegant “Kaufhaus Tyrol” shopping center and the Rathausgallerien; or you have a look into the small and beautiful shops situated in the Old Town – happy shopping!

From November to January 6, no citizen of Innsbruck will miss an evening walk over one of the four Christmas markets which you can find in the inner city and on the Hungerburg area. They all turn Innsbruck into a winter fairytale which does not only attract children.