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Innsbruck

Innsbruck is the capital city of Tyrol, Austria, and is surrounded by some great skiing at nine different areas. The city is in a narrow valley surrounded by rugged mountain peaks that soar dramatically above the city. More than a ski vacation, Innsbruck is a European cultural experience in a city that offers both beauty and old-world charm.

Innsbruck has hosted the Olympics twice (in 1964 and 1976), so it’s a city with plenty of experience when it comes to winter sports. Skiers and snowboarders have access to over 500 kilometers of trails in 25 surrounding village resorts. The nine main ski areas are connected by a free bus that departs from city hotels, so staying in Innsbruck has the distinct advantage of offering a lot of variety in terrain if you visit all the resorts. However the associated disadvantage of not staying on-mountain, is having to travel each day. There is some limited on-mountain (or nearby) accommodation in villages associated with the ski areas, but this then restricts accessibility to other resorts unless you hire a car. As each resort is quite small, the terrain is only enough to warrant a one day visit to each. The exception to this is the Stubai Glacier which would warrant a couple of days visit, has 19 lifts, and a vertical of 4,790 feet.

The resorts of Igls, Mutters and Schlick have long open trails and appeal to families, novices and intermediates. Axamer Lizum has the Olympic tram lift which enables access to the women’s downhill course, and a variety of other trails, some of which are for advanced skiers. Patscherkofel and Nordpark also provide steep challenging runs for the more advanced skiers and snowboarders.

The city of Innsbruck has plenty to offer with a history of over 800 years, and many attractions including the castle, palaces, theatres, opera houses and museums. The old town has beautiful architecture, and many cosy bars and restaurants. The après is centred here rather than slope-slide, and is fairly vibrant. In addition to the inner city attractions, there are other things to do such as a ride on the Olympic bobsled run. Alternatively, a visit to the ski jump and the viewing platforms afford fabulous views of the city and the spectacular natural beauty surrounding it.

Innsbruck is a great place for a ski holiday, because it offers so much more than just an enjoyable skiing or boarding experience. Considering the culture of Austria, it has so many benefits compared with holidays to New Zealand, Canada or the United States. To experience more Austrian culture there are daily excursions to Vienna, Salzburg, Kitzbuhel and St Anton, and you can discover more of Europe with a day trip to Venice.

For information on travel tips for Austria, including associated costs, see our Austria overview page.