An innovative city, Innsbruck
Renewing itself in many areas, especially in its architecture, artistic texture and cuisine, Innsbruck as the modern face of Austria fascinates tourists from all over the world.
When you see the art collection in Ambras Castle, you realize that the city of Innsbruck was timeless even 400 years ago. You will realize in amazement how innovative the strange objects in the collection were even in their own times as they are today. When you visit Ambras Castle, sculptures and deformed human portraits carved from a tree called “death” are nothing like the kind of artifacts you are used to seeing in an ordinary museum. Today, Innsbruck remains a city with its eyes on the future and innovation. However, it is debated whether it is appreciated sufficiently for this feature.
What they offer their visitors is not limited to skiing …
For many, the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to Innsbruck is that Austria is a city famous for its ski sport and history. Of course, due to its mountainous location, the city offers an environment suitable for winter sports, especially skiing. Innsbruck is also known as a city that hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1964 and 1976. However, the beauty that the city has to offer its visitors is not just skiing and a few old churches. Like Salzburg and the city of Linz, which was reborn from its ashes by being selected as the European Capital of Culture in 2009, Innsbruck decisively changed the showcase. Although it gained a modern look, Innsbruck successfully made this change without losing anything from its traditional elements and historical fabric. All modernization and improvement work has been carried out with the utmost care, respecting the glorious history of Innsbruck. Italian influences can be felt in the city center, which hosts 120,000 people. In fact, this is not surprising. Given the proximity of Innsbruck to Italy, Switzerland and Germany, it shouldn’t be surprising that there are many tourists visiting the city. Although this is a truly cosmopolitan city, it has an important difference from the others: You cannot encounter crowds, air pollution and traffic. The truth is that almost everything that attracts tourists to Vienna can be found in Innsbruck. For example, if you are looking for flashy palaces, delicious food, a busy calendar of events, you can find them all in Innsbruck. One of the advantages of this fascinating city, which is located in a quiet valley at the foot of the mountains, must be its magnificent view. After several years of meticulous restoration, the city’s artists carefully compiled ancient textiles, wallpapers, and paintings to revive the Imperial Palace as one of Austria’s cultural treasures. Today, this historical building from the 14th century is flooded with visitors with its new appearance. World famous brands In Wattens, a small town in the east of Innsbruck, is the headquarters of the Swarovski, its affiliated Kristallwelten or Crystal Worlds brands. Do not think that you will only learn how the crystals are made here and what processes they go through before they are put up for sale in stores with a quick tour. Each of the rooms at Swarovski Kristallwelten is a work of art. Talented artists involved in the project, such as Andre Heller, Niki de Saint Phalle and Brian Eno, offer true creativity and originality to visitors to Swarovski Kristallwelten. Brian Eno is the composer of the great music you will hear while walking around. While you are here, it is not possible to stop by the gift shop. You can relax and eat or drink in the company’s VIP room while looking at the souvenirs and deciding which to buy.
See the famous architect Zaha Hadid’s signature in the city
If you think Swarovski Kristallwelten is the only interesting and futuristic place in the area, then you are wrong. Be sure to visit the Nordpark Cable Railway. Just see the creative designs of the Nordpark Cable Railway’s four stations to understand the talent of Zaha Hadid, winner of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. Another Hadid’s masterpiece in Innsbruck is Bergisel Skijump Stadium. Be sure to visit this unique design. You don’t need to go up a high hill to see the magnificent view of the city. A popular bar serving on the top floor of the shopping center called Rauthaus Galerien is designed as a glass cylinder. You can sip the bar’s magnificent cocktails while watching the breathtaking view of the city. You can also try the restaurant called Lichtblick right next to the bar. If you want to have a superb dinner overlooking the valley view, then be sure to stop by Schöneck. Although it is a little difficult to find, insist and be sure to stop by here. You will love the flavors of the restaurant’s chef, Alfred Miller. One of the popular restaurants in Innsbruck is Sitzwohl. The restaurant is run by two female chefs. These two female chefs, who have worked in the country’s famous restaurants and hotels for many years, present their years of experience to their customers with the unique tastes of this cute restaurant. This used to be a school building. Architect Irmgard Frank turns this historical building into a stylish restaurant with its unique design. Contrasting colors are emphasized in the decor of the restaurant.
How to travel?
With the Innsbruck Card, which you can obtain from the Innsbruck Tourism Office, you can use all public transport in the city unlimitedly during your holiday. With this card, you can take a trip to Swarovski Kristallwelten and enter many tourist attractions in the city with various discounts. For more detailed information;
www.innsbruck.info
You can visit the address.
When to go?
In the summer, the green trees of the city covered with flowers draw attention as the sun shows its face. This period is the best time to visit the city, especially for those who love outdoor sports such as hiking. If you are interested in skiing and other winter sports, it would be better to prefer the cooler months, especially the winter months. If you want to visit the city especially on New Year’s Eve, be sure to stop by Innsbruck’s traditional Christmas Market. This place is considered to be Europe’s largest Christmas Market.
Where to stay?
Grand Hotel Europa
Located in the center of the city, Grand Hotel Europa has recently been restored and started to serve again. If you are looking for affordable and comfortable accommodation, this stylish hotel in Innsbruck is the right choice for you.
The Austria Trend Hotel
If you are looking for a modern and functional hotel in Innsbruck, The Austria Trend Hotel is the place for you. The hotel is also within walking distance of the city’s must-see attractions such as the Landestheater and Hofburg Imperial Palace.
www.austria-trend.at
Where to eat
Lichtblick
Lichtblick is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. You will admire the unique flavors, quality wines and magnificent view of the restaurant, which serves in a modern atmosphere.
www.restaurant-lichtblick.at