9 ways to experience Innsbruck, Austria (other than skiing)

When you think of Innsbruck, the image of pristine slopes and skiers and snowboarders carving through powder comes to mind. But this Alpine gem has so much more to offer, with a treasure trove of experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Here are nine unforgettable ways to discover Innsbruck’s magic – with no skis or snowboards required.

Take a private tour of the city

Start your adventure with a private tour of Innsbruck’s historic streets and bring the city’s storied past to life, with insights and anecdotes about the opulent Hofburg Palace, the shimmering Golden Roof and the gothic St. Jacob’s Cathedral. As you stroll through the charming Old Town, where Baroque and Renaissance architecture collide, you’ll learn so much more if you have a knowledgeable guide accompanying you. Read our review here.

Wine tasting at Weinhaus Tyrol

Known more to locals than it is to tourists, a wine tasting experience at Weinhaus Tyrol is a great way to enjoy – and learn about – Austrian wine. Pair your tasting with a curated platter of artisanal cheeses and cured meats, and you’ll be in for a sensory treat. Read our review here.

Hiking and visiting Nordkette

The Nordkette mountain range is more than just a postcard-perfect backdrop — it’s an invitation to explore with hiking trails that wind their way up and down, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. For those who prefer less exertion, there’s a funicular that takes you halfway up, and two further journeys whisk you almost to the summit, where panoramic views of Innsbruck and the surrounding valleys await. Read our review here.

Snowshoeing with Follow Me at Kühtai

Swap skis for snowshoes and experience the winter wonderland of Kühtai. Guided sowshoeing tours with Follow Me take you through pristine fields of snow, providing the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, hopefully without falling over. No previous experience required. Read our review here.

Visit Experience Tirol

At Experience Tirol, you’ll get to see the best of Tyrolean culture in this merging of tradition and innovation. This interactive museum provides a journey into the heart of the region, immersing you in a story about how a father and daughter clash at the prospect of their family leaving the region so that he can pursue a job in China. Read our review here.

Admire the lights at LUMAGICA

Once darkness has fallen, Innsbruck’s LUMAGICA light festival transforms a small part of the city into a world of illumination. Held in the Imperial Gardens, this enchanting spectacle will delight both young and old alike with pathways illuminated by glowing animals and abstract sculptures. Read our review here.

Tremble bench experience at Bergisel Ski Jump

Visit Bergisel Ski Jump for a truly spine-tingling experience: taking a seat on the ‘tremble bench’ – where ski jumpers sit before launching themselves down the slope and into the air. This unique experience offers heart-stopping views of the jump below and the city beyond.. Read our review here.

Bouldering at K1 Climbing Centre

For those who crave physical challenges, the K1 Climbing Centre offers bouldering opportunities that will test your strength and strategy. With routes that cater for all skill levels, these are as much a workout as they are a mental puzzle. Read our review here.

Bob rafting at Igls

If you’re looking for a thrill, bob rafting at the Olympic bobsleigh track in Igls delivers adrenaline by the bucketload. Climb aboard and brace yourself for this rare opportunity as you speed down the icy chute, experiencing the g-forces and excitement that bobsledders know so well. Read our review here.

Disclosure: Our trip was sponsored by Innsbruck Tourism.

Paul Johnson

Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Telegraph.