Luna Explores Europe
3 Unexpected Things to Do in Innsbruck (Plus the Best Käsespätzle ever)
I'm Luna, and a few years ago I began exploring Europe with my wonderful boyfriend. I’m eager to share my adventures, tips, and more with fellow travelers. So far, I've embarked on 8 trips and visited 12 countries.
Looking for unique things to do in Innsbruck, Austria?
If you're planning a trip to Innsbruck, you're probably imagining snow-capped mountains, baroque architecture, and winter sports. That's all true - but the city surprised us in a few unexpected ways. From heart Tyrolean food to budget-friendly mountain hikes, here are three experiences in Innsbruck that stood out during our visit.
Visit the Museums (Especially if You're Traveling with Kids)
We explored a few of Innsbruck's top cultural sports, including the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, Court Church (Hofkirche), Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras), and the Tyrolean State Museum (Ferdinandeum).
To be honest, these museums are quite traditional - lots of religious art, classic displays, and historical artefacts. But if you're traveling with children, they're full of hidden gems: medieval dollhouses, colorful paintings, and cool armor displays.
Travel tip: check the website for Schloss Ambras in advance - parts of it were closed during our visit.
Try Authentic Tyrolean Food at Restaurant im Leipziger Hof
Looking for the best traditional Austrian food in Innsbruck? We found it at Restaurant im Leipziger Hof, and it was honestly one of the highlights of our trip.
The Tiroler Gröstl (a local dish made with potatoes, bacon, and a fried egg) was comforting and flavorful - but the real star was the Käsespätzle. Think soft, cheesy noodles topped with golden crispy onions. Pure alpine comfort food. A must-try for any food lover exploring Tyrolean cuisine!
Hike to the Hungerburg Instead of Taking the Nordkette Cable Car
Most visitors take the Nordkettenbahn cable car to reach the top of the mountains above Innsbruck. Instead, we decided to hike to the Hungerburg, and it ended up being one of the best choices we made.
The trail winds through the trees and offers peaceful nature, great views, and a solid workout. Despite the chilly -3C weather, we warmed up quickly and even ditched our jackets halfway. Once we reached the top, we rewarded ourselves with a slice of apple strudel and panoramic views of the city and Alps.
Not only did we save money, but the hike gave us a deeper connection with the landscape - and way fewer crowds.
Final Thoughts: Is Innsbruck Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! While Innsbruck may not be packed with modern attractions, it offers something better: authentic local culture, stunning alpine scenery, and warm, traditional food. Whether you're here for a weekend or just passing through, there's plenty to discover - especially if you're open to a few surprises.
