Innsbruck is a city in Austria that links Germany from the North and Italy from the South. We spent one night in Innsbruck as we were enroute from Neuschwanstein Castle in Fussen, Germany to Venice, Italy. Within the short time, we managed to visit Swarovski Crystal World, stroll through Innsbruck Old Town and take the train and cable-car up the Austrian Alps.
The Capital of the Alps
Dubbed as the “Capital of the Alps”, it is probably impossible to visit Innsbruck without seeing the Alps. The very first thing we saw when driving from Germany to Austria was the majestic Austrian Alps.
Swarovski Crystal World
Our first stop in Austria was at the Swarovski Crystal World (or Kristallwelten Swarovski) in Wattens featuring fascinating works of art using crystals.
The Swarovski Crystal World had the largest collection of Swarovski products on sale. This included bracelets, brooches, watches and other fashionable accessories. Crystal lovers would be blown away by the huge selection of Swarovski crystals in different sizes and colours. A lot of the products I browsed were cheaper than the ones back home. Details of Swarovski Crystal World are available on its website kristallwelten.swarovski.com.
Innsbruck Old Town
Probably the most popular attraction in Innsbruck is the Innsbruck Old Town. We strolled along the Old town with its historic buildings and the famous Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl). The balcony below the roof was where the emperor soaked in the beauty of the Alps and the hustle and bustle of the town.
As Innsbruck is nestled in the heart of the Alps, visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the Austrian Alps from most parts of Innsbruck.
Up the Austrian Alps
The next morning, before departing by train for Venice, we took the funicular and cable car up the Austrian Alps and enjoyed the view from the top. As we travelled in June, some parts were not covered in snow, but it was still extremely cold. See more photos here Austrian Alps.
Where to stay
We stayed at Hotel Zach, as it was reasonably priced and was within walking distance from both the Hertz car drop-off point and the train station. It was also walking distance to the Old town and the train station to go up the Alps. Other family accommodations in Innsbruck are listed here in Innsbruck accommodations.
Tips
Get the Innsbruck card which covers many attractions and transportation around Innsbruck.
Beyond Innsbruck
Our trip to Innsbruck was part of our adventures to Europe with Kids in 15 days. In the afternoon, we headed for Venice, Italy which was about a 5-hour train ride from Innsbruck.
