Innsbruck

There is a pleasing blend of smart urban hotels, boutique guesthouses and ski hotels in Innsbruck, while quaint and welcoming B&Bs can be found in nearby villages. The five-star Grand Hotel Europa (Südtirolerplatz 2) can lay claim to being top dog in town, boasting a 150-year heritage and strong location opposite the train station. Hotel Goldener Adler (Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 6) can point to a history dating back 600 years, and an affordable rate accompanies the opportunity to stay in rooms once occupied by the likes of Mozart, Goethe and Paganini. Those that prefer modern hotels could try the upmarket Penz Hotel (Adolf Pichler Platz 3).

Innsbruck is notable for its traditional Tyrolean sweets, bacon and schnapps, all of which are popular among visitors, although there is plenty more besides for those looking for a souvenir. Innsbruck offers a number of decent sized shopping centres including the Rathausgalerien (Anichstrasse 24) and Kaufhaus Tyrol (Maria-Theresien-Strasse 31), while quirkier independent shops can be found in the Old Town. Confectioners Konditorei Mundingor (Kiebachgasse 16) is a haven for the sweet tooth, as is Zimt & Zucker (Gumppstrasse 41) and Rajsigl (Maria-Theresien-Strasse 18). Gingerbread and candles are among the specialities at the quaint Tiroler Wachszieher und Lebzelter (Pfarrgasse 5), while schnapps and whisky is the order of the day at Vom Fass (Anichstrasse 1). The farmers’ market (Markthalle) takes place on a Saturday morning for those looking for a culinary keepsake.

Innsbruck boasts an inviting blend of traditional taverns, gourmet restaurants, mountainside haunts and intimate cafés, which contribute to a pleasing dining scene. Alfred Miller's Schöneck (Weiherburggasse 6) has won multiple awards and is one of the most well-known spots in town, also offering a garden and scenic views. Das Schindler (Maria-Theresien-Strasse 31) is great for modern Austrian cuisine, while Restaurant Ottoburg (Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse 1) is housed in one of Innsbruck’s oldest buildings and serves up authentic Tyrolean fare at affordable prices. Elsewhere Seegrube Alpenlounge (Bergstation Seegrube) can be found up in the hills, and affords superb views back over town.

Four Hills Tournament

January

The international Four Hills Tournament stages its third round in Innsbruck, with ski jumpers reaching for the skies from the Bergisel Olympic take-off ramp.

Air & Style

February

Air & Style is Europe’s biggest snowboarding competition, and the action on the snow is complemented by an array of big-name bands, parties and other events put on to entertain the tens of thousands of spectators at Bergisel.

Golden Roof Challenge

June

The Golden Roof balcony used to be the Emperor’s royal box for observing the action below, and now athletes try to pole vault to the height of the three-storied balcony.

Innsbruck Promenade Concerts

July

A series of free concerts are put on in the grand setting of the Imperial Palace’s courtyard, which feature Tyrolean brass bands and international groups.

Christmas in the Mountains

23 December

5km from Innsbruck is the Igls ski resort, which plays host to some excellent festive celebrations where mulled wine complements sweet Tyrolean pastries. St Nicholas parades the streets accompanied by children dressed as angels, wise men and shepherds, while dozens of devil-like characters terrorise the town on the Krampus run.