10 ADDITIONAL REASONS WHY INNSBRUCK IS A MUST DO

Besides Vienna, the only imperial residence ("Hofburg") of the Habsburg family is located in Innsbruck, not in Prague, Bratislave or Budapest as many might think. Therefore, the imperial palace "Hofburg" Innsbruck is one of Austria's three major historic imperial structures, alongside the Hofburg and Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.

www.burghauptmannschaft.at/Betriebe/Hofburg-Innsbruck

www.tiroler-landesmuseen.at/haeuser/hofkirche

Surprised? YES, Ambras Castle in Innsbruck is officially recognized as the oldest continuously existing museum in the world. In the 16th century, Archdeacon Ferdinand II commissioned the construction of a building specifically designed to house his world-famous collections. This makes the castle the only museum worldwide where historic Renaissance collections remain on display at their original site to this day.

www.schlossambras-innsbruck.at

The Alpenzoo Innsbruck is Europe's highest themed zoo located at 750 meters (2,461 feet) above sea level at the foot of the Nordkette mountain range in Innsbruck, featuring about 2,000 alpine animals, natural habitats, and panoramic views.

www.alpenzoo.at

The battefields of 1809 where Napoleons' Army suffered their first defeat ever in a war of independence fought by the Tyroleans! The Bergisel panorama painting is a massive 360-degree, 1.000-square-meter circular artwork housed at the TIROL PANORAMA in Innsbruck, depicting the Third Battle of Bergisel from 1809.

www.tiroler-landesmuseen.at/haeuser/tirol-panorama-mit-kjm

Innsbruck has twice hosted the Olympic Winter Games in 1964 & 1976 and nowadays you can visit the spectacular Bergisel Ski Jump in Innsbruck and even watch real ski jumpers training live during the summer. Designed by star architect Zaha Hadid, the Bergisel Ski Jump offers breathtaking 360-degree views.

www.bergisel.info

Hall in Tirol features the largest and best-preserved historic old town in western Austria, built on medieval salt wealth and famous as the birthplace of the thaler coin (the ancestor of the dollar). Located just 10 kilometers east of Innsbruck, this charming town combines rich Habsburg history with narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant shops, and striking architecture.

www.hall-wattens.at

www.muenze-hall.at

The Grassmayr Bell Foundry and Museum in Innsbruck is one of Tyrol's most fascinating destinations. It combines a centuries-old tradition, an interactive museum, and an active production facility - with bells that ring out in over 100 countries worldwide today. Here is a quick overview for your visit: History & Uniqueness: Austria’s oldest family-run business - founded in 1599 by Bartlmä Grassmayr. The craft has been passed down through the family for over 14 generations.

www.grassmayr.at

Innsbruck combines urban culture, Alpine nature and outdoor adventures in one destination. Surrounded by the mountains of Tirol, the city offers everything from sightseeing, gastronomy and cultural experiences to hiking, biking and any kind of outdoor adventure activity.

www.innsbruck.info/en/destinations/summer-holiday

The Innsbruck Christmas markets offer a magical alpine experience featuring seven distinct markets. The 200 market stalls are a treasure trove for Christmas tree decorations, handicrafts, woollen goods and souvenirs. A viewing platform offers wonderful views over the roofs of the stalls. Austrian Turmbläser (brass brands) play traditional Christmas music from the Golden Roof and give the market a truly special feel.

www.christkindlmarkt.cc

Skiing, sightseeing or relaxing in a comfy deck chair 2,000 m above sea level: In Innsbruck you can experience everything winter has to offer in one day! Tirol's capital is the perfect destination for everyone wishing to combine skiing, snowboarding and cross-country adventures with urban amenities such as shopping trips and museums.

www.innsbruck.info/en/skiing/ski-plus-city-pass