Are you looking for the perfect day trip from Innsbruck? Then you are in the right place! 13 beautiful places within a two-hour drive from Innsbruck.
Innsbruck, the capital of Austria’s Tyrol region, is a paradise for tourists looking to explore natural beauty and quaint cultural gems. Just outside this delightful alpine city lies a plethora of awe-inspiring wildlife, stunning landscapes and unique places.
With stunning mountain peaks to take in heart-stopping views, crystal clear lakes for fun outdoor activities, and a multitude of cultural gems – your ideal getaway is never far away.
Discover our top picks of must-see highlights near Innsbruck that are sure to make your holiday memorable.
From adventurous thrills to much-needed relaxation spots – Innsbruck is the perfect destination for any traveler looking to catch some authentic Tyrol vibes!
1. Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens
If you are looking for a day trip near Innsbruck that is truly unforgettable, then look no further than Swarovski Kristallwelten!
Swarovski Kristallwelten is a magical world filled with sparkling crystals and amazing art installations.
This complex of 18 chambers and huge gardens, created by some of the world's greatest artists, is located in Wattens, just 19 kilometers from Innsbruck, easily accessible by both car and train.
Visiting the Swarovski Kristallwelten is a unique experience that will make you believe in miracles, so plan to spend at least half a day here.
Its most recognizable object is the Giant head, which will remain in the memory of everyone who has seen it. A sculpture of a giant's head covered with grass, equipped with two large crystal eyes and a mouth from which a fountain flows directly into the pond in front of it.
This is where the entrance to the Swarovski Kristallwelten with its 18 Chambers of Wonder is located. At night the Giant is illuminated in different colors.
Each of 18 Chambers of Wonder has been designed by different artists from around the world, and each offers an experience like no other.
Highlights include Crystal Dome which consists of 595 mirrors creating a special depth effect and giving the viewer the feeling of being deep inside the crystal.
Chandelier of Grief is the next chamber worth noting, the mirror-lined chamber has a dazzling crystal chandelier in the middle that continuously rotates on its axis, creating a spectacular effect.
Eden Chamber cannot be also overlooked, in which you will feel as if you are in a real forest of miracles.
Silent Light - winter magic chamber, and The Art of Performance - the last created chamber.
Once you have explored The Giant, take a stroll through the 7.5 hectares of Swarovski Kristallwelten garden. Here you will find contemporary art sculptures as well as ancient artifacts, all surrounded by lush gardens with plenty of hidden surprises to discover along the way.
Don't miss the opportunity for the little ones to take a ride on the carousel and explore the Playtower & Labyrinth, or just relax in the Crystal Cloud & Mirror Pool while admiring the breathtaking views!
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Innsbruck, Austria
2. Alpbach village
Alpbach is an idyllic alpine village located 52 km from Innsbruck, Austria. It is renowned for its captivating beauty and makes for one of the top day trips from Innsbruck.
Once you arrive, you will easily fall in love with the traditional wooden chalets with their colorful balconies full of flowers.
Here you can spend your time hiking, skiing, or biking through the stunning alpine environments which include the Tyroler Alps. Alpbach truly embodies why Austria is known for its incredible landscapes.
Whether you're looking for a short excursion from Innsbruck or just a getaway to experience a traditional alpine village, Alpbach should be on your “day trips from Innsbruck” list!
Read also: 12 must-see alps villages in Austria
3. Lake Achensee
The stunning Lake Achensee is one of the best day trips to take when visiting Innsbruck, Austria. Located a mere 48 km away, it is the largest lake in the Tyrol region and sits at 930 meters above sea level.
Often referred to as "Tyrol's Ocean" the crystal clear alpine lake stretches 10 kilometers long and provides perfect wind conditions for water sports such as sailing, surfing, paddling, and even diving with underwater visibility reaching up to an incredible 10 meters.
Additionally, there are several hiking trails along the lake's shoreline suitable for all kinds of hikers and walkers. Truly a stunning destination near Innsbruck not to be missed!
Read also: Holidays at Lake Achensee, Austria
4. Stubai Glacier (Stubaier Gletscher)
Located about 44 km from Innsbruck, Stubai Glacier is one of the top day trips from the city and an ideal way to enjoy places to visit near Innsbruck.
This family-friendly ski resort is perfect for winter sports enthusiasts, providing an incredible mountain panorama that stands at more than 3,000 meters.
Austria's biggest glacier ski area also provides plenty to meet any winter sports enthusiast’s wishes.
In the summer months the Stubai Glacier offers a variety of hikes ranging in difficulty levels and visitors have access to a stunning Ice Cave/Ice Grotto that gives insight into the snow and ice-covered world.
Families can also take full advantage of the Mammut Playground while also making use of various viewpoints across the Stubai Glacier.
Read also: Visit Dachstein Krippenstein in Obertraun, Austria
5. Lake Braies (Pragser Wildsee) in Italy
Innsbruck is very close to the Italian border and for visitors looking for a unique place for a day trip near Innsbruck, a trip to the beautiful and by now very famous Lake Braies, or Lago di Braies as it's better known in Italian, is not to be missed.
Located in the breathtaking Dolomites of Italy and just 134 kilometers from Innsbruck (a two hour drive with a car), this captivating lake offers visitors a chance to take in its natural beauty—from the turquoise waters framed by majestic peaks to the traditional wooden canoe lined up along its shores.
A morning hike around the lake can also offer incredible views that are sure to make any traveler's photos even more eye-catching.
For those looking for an unforgettable experience during their stay in Innsbruck, a day trip to Lake Braies should definitely be on top of their list.
Read also: Lake Braies: A Dream Destination for Photography Enthusiasts
6. Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is an exquisite place and is widely considered as one of the top day trips from Innsbruck. Located around 114 kilometers away, it is accessible within two hours by car.
It features beautiful sights and holds a rich culture. Built by King Ludwig II for himself at the outset of his reign and also called “the castle of the fairy-tale king”, this palace nestles on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Fussen in southwest Bavaria.
The visit to this Castle is only possible with a guided tour, with fantastic knowledgeable guides that bring alive the memories from past glory inspiring awe and bringing forth enchanting scenes from long forgotten times.
Read also: Most Beautiful Castles to Visit in Germany
7. Area47
Area47 is one of the top day trips from Innsbruck and is a great place to visit near Innsbruck. Located approximately 53 km from Innsbruck, Area47 is an enormous amusement park which offers a wide range of activities.
Here, you can spend a whole day indulging in thrilling adventures such as canyoning, rafting, climbing and mountain biking. There are over 30 sports and recreational activities to choose from, allowing guests to either explore on their own or with company.
Moreover, there are ample restaurants and bars around the area that make it even more enjoyable. However, a visit to Area47 must be booked in advance in order to secure your spot.
Read also: 12 Best Ski Resorts in Austria
8. Krimml Waterfalls
Austria's Krimml Waterfalls are one of the top day trips from Innsbruck. Located at High Tauern National Park, they are an impressive three-tiered waterfall that few will not forget.
Spanning almost 385 meters in height, each year countless visitors marvel at its majesty and beauty.
Krimml Waterfalls lies about 97 km from Innsbruck, making it a great destination for those looking for nearby attractions.
From atop the viewing platform, visitors can see all three stages of this thunderous cascade as it tumbles down into the Krimmler Ache River below.
With its lush mountain scenery and cascading waters oozing down the rock wall of the Krimmler valley, this picturesque sight should be added to anyone’s list of must-visit destinations near Innsbruck.
Read also: 19 Top Places to Visit in Austria
9. Plansee Lake
If you're looking for the perfect day trip from Innsbruck, consider Plansee Lake in Austria!
The lake, located about 100 km from the city's center, offers an abundance of breathtaking views and recreational activities like swimming, windsurfing and boat rentals.
Visitors appreciate the area's serene atmosphere and unspoiled beauty.
With plenty of hiking trails crisscrossing the surrounding hills and diverse wildlife populating the forests and meadows, it is no wonder that so many flock to Plansee Lake for a day of outdoor enjoyment!
Read also:13 must-see lakes in Austria
10. Tratzberg Castle
Tratzberg Castle is located about 30 km east from the city of Innsbruck, making it an ideal day trip destination. Visitors can take “Tratzberg Express” slow train shuttles to get around Tratzberg Castle.
Inside the castle, guests can explore century-old preserved interiors such as bedrooms, living rooms, still containing antique furniture and fixtures and a small chapel.
The castle also boasts a cozy guest garden where visitors can relax after all the historical sightseeing, and even engage in some virtual reality activities with a fairy tale experience in 3D!
Tratzberg Castle makes for one of the most charming and memorable experiences when exploring places to visit near Innsbruck.
Read also: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Hallstatt, Austria
11. Stams Abbey
Stams Abbey is an unforgettable day trip from Innsbruck, located approximately 43 kilometers west of the city.
Lovers of history and art will be delighted by this Tirol gem, with its eye-catching early Baroque elements.
Inside the Monastery walls, visitors can explore the impressive “Prelates' Staircase”, Bernardi Hall and beautiful Chapel of the Holy Blood - making it a must-visit destination near Innsbruck.
Unfortunately, Stams Abbey can only be visited with a guided tour.
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Innsbruck, Austria
12. Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Germany
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a popular day trip destination located 64 km from Innsbruck. It is best known for its traditional Bavarian village charm, magnificent mountains and ski resorts.
Being one of the largest ski resorts in Germany, winter travelers come to Garmisch-Partenkirchen in droves every year.
The town offers an array of attractions and activities, from skiing to hiking and climbing nearby glaciers.
During the summer season, visitors can explore the surrounding countryside with scenic gorges or take a cable car up to the picturesque Zugspitze summit for stunning mountain views.
Whether you are looking for adventure or just want to soak in the beauty of nature and German culture, Garmisch-Partenkirchen makes for an ideal day trip from Innsbruck.
Read also: Attractions and Things to Do in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
13. Salzburg - The city of Music
From the iconic baroque architecture to its history as the birthplace of the legendary composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg is an unforgettable city with something for everyone.
This idyllic Austrian city is full of incredible attractions and activities that will make your visit truly special.
When it comes to things to see in Salzburg, the options are endless! Start off by visiting some of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
For example, take a stroll through Mirabell Palace and Gardens, marvel at the stunning views from Hohensalzburg Fortress, or explore historic Old Town Square. Or check out some of the many museums such as Mozarts Wohnhaus (Mozart's Residence) or Museum der Moderne (Museum of Modern Art).
Nature lovers should also be sure to visit Hellbrunn Castle and its beautiful gardens!
If you’re looking for something more unique to do in Salzburg, consider taking a Sound Of Music tour.
This popular tour takes visitors around all the sites used in the classic film, including Mirabell Gardens and Mondsee Cathedral (where Maria and Captain Von Trapp got married).
You can even take a boat ride on Lake Wolfgangsee like Maria did with her seven charges!
Salzburg is known for its delicious cuisine so don’t leave without trying some traditional dishes! For breakfast, be sure to try Kaiserschmarrn (a shredded pancake-like dish) or Lebkuchen (gingerbread cookies).
For lunch and dinner perhaps sample Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Wienerschnitzel (breaded veal cutlet), or Gulaschsuppe (goulash soup). And don’t forget dessert—be sure to try some Sachertorte (chocolate cake) or Apfelstrudel (apple strudel)!
With its impressive castle walls, cobblestone streets, and beautiful gardens, there’s no question why Salzburg is one of Austria's top destinations.
Whether you're looking for culture, music, nature walks or delicious food—Salzburg has it all! So make sure you add this beautiful city to your day trip list – we guarantee you won't regret it!
Read also: Top Attractions & things to do in Salzburg, Austria
And Finally… So, if you're staying in Innsbruck, don’t miss the chance to explore some of the many unique nearby attractions!
From scenic mountain peaks perfect for wonderful hikes and skiing, to medieval castles surrounded by lush green forests; some of the most beautiful sights in Austria are only a short drive away. Experience it all on your Austrian getaway with day trips starting from Innsbruck!
Is there really any better way to immerse yourself in the full beauty of Austria? Try it out for yourself and we guarantee you will not be disappointed in any way!
