Day Trip to Innsbruck
One of the things I love best about Europe is their rail system. With so many lines and fast trains that go in different directions, one can very easily travel throughout Bavaria and beyond during their stay in Munich. For this occasion, I chose the Alpine destination of Innsbruck, Austria, less than 2 hours away from Munich Hauptbahnof (central station) and close to northern Italy.
Innsbruck, whose literal translation means “Inn Bridge” is internationally known for its winter sporting activities, its ski resorts and for having played host to past Winter Olympics and several games of the 2008 European Football Championship. With its location being in the Alps, Innsbruck is also highly sought after for its beautiful landscape and architecture. The mountainous backdrop, scenic Inn River, lush gardens, and quaint cobblestoned pedestrian streets make Innsbruck an ideal place to go for a day trip or weekend get away from Munich.
Arrival at Innsbruck Hauptbahnof- central train station
Altstadt (Old Town) is within walking distance from the Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof station. Walk out of the Hauptbahnhof, cross the street at the train station cross walk, turn to your right, and go down to the next street to your left. Walk on this street until Maria-Theresien Strasse, then turn right toward the city center. Taking this street all the way leads to the pedestrian zone and old town.
Central Square
City Centre is just outside of the gate
A must-do in Innsbruck is to take the cable car to the mountain top. The ticket counter is located in the city centre (5 minutes from the tourist information) near the Landstheater and Hofgarten. Follow the road called Rennweg and you’ll see the sign for Congress Station. There are several ticket options available depending on how far up you would like to go. I chose the very top which offers stunning views! There’s also a nice little café called Hitt und Söhne where you can enjoy a coffee, tea, pastries, as well as savory dishes and drinks with a view.
The village at the top of the mountain…
This adorable little school looks like one in a children’s story book!
Innsbruck is famous for its sporting events. In the wintertime there is skiing. In the summer, mountain biking is the popular sport.
Hitt und Söhne is the gathering place for locals and visitors
Local meat and cheese plate
At sundown
