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Discover these amazing day trips from Innsbruck, Austria. From fairytale castles to alpine lakes, this is perfect for adventure and nature seekers!
For me, Innsbruck has always felt like the perfect base in the Alps. I love that it has all the charm of a small alpine city – colourful Baroque buildings, snow-dusted rooftops, and that backdrop of jagged peaks – but it also has a real energy to it. You can wander through museums, grab a coffee in the Old Town, or ride the funicular straight up into the mountains, all within the same morning. There aren’t many places in the world where you can do that!
What really makes Innsbruck special though is how well connected it is. Within an hour or two you can be hiking through valleys, swimming in turquoise lakes, exploring castles, or even crossing into Germany or Italy for the day.
It means I can settle into one hotel, travel light, and still tick off so many incredible places without the hassle of constantly moving around.
I also love how Innsbruck changes with the seasons – from wildflower meadows in summer to cozy winter evenings when the snow is piled high outside. I’ve been to Innsbruck in both seasons, and it’s really hard to choose between the two – they are both magical in every way.
For me, it’s that mix of convenience, culture and jaw-dropping scenery that makes Innsbruck such a joy to come back to, and the ideal starting point for so many amazing day trips.
In this blog post, I am going to tell you all about the best day trips from Innsbruck. All of these places are within 2 hours of the town, so they are all doable in a day.
If you’re looking at staying in Innsbruck itself and are looking for all the best things to do, then this is my winter guide and my summer guide.
Are you planning an amazing holiday to Innsbruck? If so, you may want to book your hotels and tours asap to ensure availability. Here are some links to quickly help plan your trip!
Best hotels and apartments in Innsbruck:
- Altstadthotel Weisses Kreuz (top rated 4* hotel)
- aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck (best views of the mountains)
- Boutique Hotel Zach (top rated 3* hotel)
Best activities and tours in Innsbruck:
Contents:
Swarovski World
Only about 15 km east of Innsbruck is Wattens. The star attraction here is Swarovski World – part art installation, part museum, part immersive experience. Think ornate gardens, giant crystal heads, underground chambers and fun installations.
It’s perfect for an easy half-day or full day trip. You can combine the museum with a pleasant walk in the countryside or eat at the amazing on-site restaurant. Because it’s so close, traffic and travel time are minimal, which means more time enjoying the sparkle of the crystals rather than rushing around. I would really recommend this day trip if you’re looking for something very different to do. It really is such a unique attraction!
By public transport: Around 30–40 minutes by train and shuttle/bus from Innsbruck.
By car: About 20 minutes from Innsbruck.
Nordkette Mountains
If you want alpine views without long travel, the Nordkette is very tough to beat. A cable car right from Innsbruck takes you up into dramatic heights above the city. You get sweeping vistas of the Inn valley and the peaks beyond.
At the top of the Nordkette, there are loads of hiking trails to explore during summer. Or it’s an amazing skiing spot during winter with eerie cloud inversions over Innsbruck. If you’re looking for something a little more chilled, I’d suggest eating in the restaurant here and enjoying the stunning views all around you. It really is such a stunning spot.
By public transport: 15–30 minutes via funicular and cable car from Innsbruck centre.
By car: Around 30 minutes to the cable car base station.
Stubai Valley (Stubaital & Stubai Glacier)
South of Innsbruck lies the Stubai Valley, where mountain trails, waterfalls, glacier views and alpine meadows await. You could ride a cable car up to the glacier or explore lower elevation hikes like the WildWaterPath, the Grawa Waterfall, or the Blaue Lacke (Blue Pond) for scenic breaks.
This day trip is perfect for those who want nature, fresh air, and dramatic landscape without a full multi-day hike. In winter it’s a playground of snow; in summer, wildflowers and glacier hikes. What’s not to like about that?
By public transport: About 1–1h15 by train and bus.
By car: Roughly 35–45 minutes, depending on how far into the valley you go.
Mittenwald, Germany
Cross the border into Bavaria and you reach Mittenwald in just under an hour by train. This is a pretty alpine town famous for its colourful painted façades, violin-making history, and stunning mountain backdrop. I’d recommend going for a stroll through quaint Bahnhofstraße, grabbing a spot for lunch with a view, and then going for a hike in the countryside afterwards. It offers a different cultural flavour while still feeling alpine. It’s also really easy to get to and from Mittenwald in a day.
By train: Direct trains from Innsbruck take around 55–70 minutes.
By car: About 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic at the border.
Seefeld in Tyrol
Tucked onto a plateau just north of Innsbruck, the Seefeld region offers a peaceful alpine escape with gentle hiking trails, sparkling lakes, dense forests, and lush meadows. The charming villages are full of picturesque architecture and inviting cafés, giving you a relaxed, mountain-air vibe that’s perfect for unwinding.
In winter, Seefeld is a hub for Nordic skiing, with well-groomed trails and stunning snow-covered scenery. In summer, the area comes alive with hiking, biking, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. It’s an excellent choice for travellers seeking something less strenuous than glacier hikes, with opportunities for wellness, spa experiences, and leisurely exploration.
By train: Direct trains from Innsbruck take approximately 30–35 minutes.
By car: About 20–25 minutes via the Seefelder Straße.
Ötztal Valley
Ötztal Valley offers a dramatic alpine landscape of glaciers, towering peaks, and rushing rivers. The region caters to a wide range of interests, from adventurous activities such as glacier hiking, via ferrata, and waterfall exploration, to more relaxed pursuits like soaking in the thermal waters of the Aqua Dome in Längenfeld.
Depending on the area you visit, Ötztal can feel like a playground of alpine extremes or a peaceful retreat in nature. A day trip here can easily combine outdoor adventure with wellness, giving travellers the perfect balance of exhilaration and relaxation amid some of Tyrol’s most spectacular scenery.
By public transport: Around 1h15 by train and bus.
By car: About 1 hour from Innsbruck.
Kufstein
A small Austrian town about an hour from Innsbruck (or less by train), Kufstein is so charming and well worth visiting. The fortress overlooking the town is an absolute must – climbing up there feels like stepping back in time, and the views over the river and rooftops are breathtaking. I always make time for a riverside stroll, maybe a local bar for a drink, and if I’m feeling energetic, a short walk up to the nearby hills. It’s the perfect mix of culture, history, and scenery, without having to rush or tackle anything too strenuous.
By train: Around 35–60 minutes on direct services from Innsbruck.
By car: Roughly 55–65 minutes, depending on traffic.
Achensee
Known as Tyrol’s largest lake, Achensee is easily reachable from Innsbruck in around an hour by car. The lake is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, framed by the dramatic peaks of the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges.
Achensee is ideal for gentle walks along the shore or combining a day on the water with hiking in the surrounding mountains. In summer, the lake’s clear waters are perfect for swimming or boating, while cooler months provide a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere. Early mornings and late afternoons are especially peaceful, making it a versatile destination for visitors seeking both activity and relaxation in a stunning alpine setting.
By public transport: About 1h50–2h by train and bus connections.
By car: Around 45–60 minutes, depending on your lakeside destination.
Kitzbühel
About a 1.5-hour drive from Innsbruck, Kitzbühel is a world-famous ski resort that’s well worth a full-day visit. Famous for its winter skiing and the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill race, the town also charms people year-round with its colourful streets, boutique shops, and elegant cafés.
Even outside the ski season, Kitzbühel offers scenic walks, picturesque drives through the surrounding mountains, and a unique blend of glamour and traditional Tyrolean character. The town’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with breathtaking mountain views, makes it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a stylish alpine experience with plenty of opportunities to explore both culture and nature. Honestly, this place deserves a lot longer than a day, so if you can stay for longer then I would recommend that!
By train: Direct trains take 1h10–1h40 from Innsbruck.
By car: About 1h10–1h30 via the Brixental Valley.
Salzburg
There’s a reason why Salzburg is one of the most popular places to visit in Austria – it is absolutely stunning. The city is famous for its baroque architecture, the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, and as the birthplace of Mozart. Here you can wander the charming streets of the Old Town, explore beautiful gardens such as Mirabell, and enjoy the local cafés and apple strudle.
While it offers a contrast to Innsbruck’s alpine scenery, the journey itself is scenic and rewarding. To make the most of a day trip, it’s best to start early, allowing time to soak in Salzburg’s rich history, cultural landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere.
If you’re heading to Salzburg, then make sure you check out my guide with all the best things to do in the city!
By train: High-speed Railjet services take 1h50–2h from Innsbruck.
By car: Around 1h55–2h (≈160–190 km).
Neuschwanstein Castle & Hohenschwangau, Germany
I always think this looks like the perfect fairytale castle, don’t you agree? Neuschwanstein Castle’s iconic silhouette, ornate interior, and surrounding Bavarian hills make it a photographer’s dream and a delight for anyone fascinated by history and legends.
Crowds can be heavy during the peak summer season, so visiting early in the day is recommended to enjoy the magic without the rush. Pairing Neuschwanstein with a visit to nearby Hohenschwangau Castle offers a richer glimpse into royal history, making the day a perfect mix of architecture, storytelling, and breathtaking scenery.
By public transport: Typically 2½–3h with multiple train and bus changes.
By car: About 1h20–1h40, depending on traffic.
Alpbachtal
I really love Alpbachtal and will always fly a flag for this place. It’s a charming, lesser-known valley that offers a peaceful alternative to the region’s more popular destinations. The valley is dotted with picturesque villages, alpine meadows, and scenic hiking trails, making it ideal for travellers seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-track experience. Trust me, it really is an idyllic spot.
You can can enjoy traditional Tyrolean cuisine in local inns, explore the surrounding nature, or simply relax and take in the serene landscape. Alpbachtal’s combination of pastoral charm, hiking opportunities, and low tourist density makes it a perfect day trip for those looking to escape the crowds while still soaking in authentic alpine beauty. If you’re heading here, then make sure you check out my guide to Alpbachtal!
By public transport: Around 1h30–2h by train and bus.
By car: Roughly 1h10–1h30, depending on the village.
Zillertal Valley
The Zillertal Valley offers dramatic alpine landscapes, a wide network of hiking trails, and in winter, excellent skiing opportunities. Cable cars and alpine huts provide easy access to high-altitude areas, giving visitors a true “big mountain” experience.
Due to its rugged terrain, it’s best to start early and plan carefully, considering transport options and weather conditions. For those prepared, Zillertal Valley rewards with breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, and an authentic alpine atmosphere.
Again, I’ve been here in winter and it’s brilliant. I really loved the slopes and the different runs they have. If you’re visiting Zillertal in winter, then this is my guide to skiing in Zillertal.
By train: About 1h via direct regional train to Jenbach and onwards into the valley.
By car: Roughly 35–45 minutes from Innsbruck.
So there we have it! I really love all of these Innsbruck day trips, and I hope you get to explore more of Austria and Germany.
Which one of these day trips would you like to do? Let me know in the comments below!
