If you’re planning on Austria travel in the winter time, you may want to give some thought to staying in the city of Innsbruck. Innsbruck, Austria’s fifth largest city, is known for its winter sporting opportunities. In fact, Innsbruck has twice been the host of the Winter Olympics. The cold, snowy winters are perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Innsbruck has been called the “largest ski resort in the alps”, and was a major center of the 1990s snowboarding boom. The city is convenient to both Munich and Northern Italy, making it possible to combine a stay in the city with travel to other cities in Europe. Here are some of the things the you’ll be able to see and do while you’re there.
- The Bergisel Ski-Jump Tower. Bergisel mountain has always been full of historic significance for Innsbruck. This has been the site of ski-jumping competitions dating all the way back to 1927. The Winter Olympic games were held here, and the site was even visited by Pope John Paul II. In 2012, The Youth Olympic Games were held at the stadium at Bergisel in 2012. The site is the host of a world renowned ski jumping competition every January, and it’s a sight worth seeing any time of year. You can take an elevator or walk the 255 steps to the top to see the absolutely amazing view of Innsbruck from the top of the jump.
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This fascinating indoor theme park is run by Swarovski, the company that produces the famous crystal items. All of the exhibitions in the park are related to crystals. Exhibits such as the crystal dome, Winter Wonderland, or the Crystal Forest are beautiful and intriguing to explore.
- Ambras Castle. Originally a fortress, Archduke Ferdinand II transformed the structure into a palace after he acquired it in 1564. Ambras Castle is historically significant because of its connection with Archduke Ferdinand II, who filled it with art collections and even began a museum on the premises.
- The Olympia Bobbhan. The Olympia Bobbhan, built for the 1976 Winter Olympics, makes for an exciting ride for thrill-seekers visiting Innsbruck. You can hop aboard with a professional bobsled driver for a slippery ride over the ice and snow. You’ll go around 14 curves, make a loop, and take a 124 meter vertical drop. The high speed ride is a bit pricey, but it is, without a doubt, an experience that you’ll never forget.
The city of Innsbruck blends history, sports, and local culture in a way that allows any tourist to find something that will interest him. The city has a variety of lodging options that range from the inexpensive to the elegant, and you can sample local cuisine at restaurants like the Gasthaus Anich. All in all, your trip to Innsbruck should be an entertaining and memorable experience.
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