Tyrol is Austria's most spectacular alpine state, home to the historic city of Innsbruck and some of Europe's finest mountain scenery. Bordered by Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Austrian states of Salzburg, Vorarlberg, and Carinthia, Tyrol offers world-class skiing in winter and superb hiking in summer.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Tyrol.
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1
Nordkette Mountain & Cable Car
The Nordkette mountain chain rises dramatically directly above Innsbruck to 2,334m. The Nordkettenbahn cable car departs from the city centre and ascends through Hungerburg to Seegrube and the Hafelekar peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views across the Inn Valley and 500+ peaks. In summer the high-alpine terrain is ideal for hiking; in winter there is a ski area.
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2
Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl)
Innsbruck's most iconic landmark, the Golden Roof is a late-Gothic oriel window balcony built in 1500 by Emperor Maximilian I. Its roof is covered with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. The adjacent museum details the history of Emperor Maximilian I and the Habsburg dynasty.
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3
Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Kristallwelten)
Located in Wattens, 20 km east of Innsbruck, Swarovski Crystal Worlds is a unique art and design museum created in 1995 to mark the centenary of the Swarovski company. The underground chambers of wonder feature crystal installations by world-renowned artists. The surrounding garden park is spectacular.
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4
Bergisel Ski Jump
The Bergisel ski jump is one of the Four Hills Tournament venues and was redesigned by architect Zaha Hadid in 2002. The tower features a panoramic restaurant and observation deck at 750m above sea level with sweeping views of Innsbruck. The ramp was used in the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics.
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5
Imperial Palace (Hofburg) Innsbruck
The Innsbruck Hofburg is one of the most important imperial palaces of the Habsburg dynasty. Originally built in the 15th century and comprehensively rebuilt by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century, it houses the Giant's Hall (Riesensaal) — a 31-metre long Rococo ceremonial room — and an extensive collection of Habsburg portraits.
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6
Ambras Castle (Schloss Ambras)
Ambras Castle is a Renaissance-era castle and palace set in parkland above Innsbruck. Archduke Ferdinand II transformed the medieval fortress in the 16th century into a magnificent Renaissance residence. Today it houses the Chamber of Art and Curiosities — one of the world's oldest museums — and an exceptional armour collection.
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7
Alpine Zoo Innsbruck (Alpenzoo)
Situated on the slopes of the Nordkette at 727m, the Alpenzoo Innsbruck is the highest-altitude zoo in Europe. Home to around 2,000 animals representing 150 species native to the Alpine region, including wolves, lynx, brown bears, bearded vultures, and golden eagles. Accessible via the Nordkettenbahn cable car.
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8
Achensee (Lake Achen)
Achensee is Tyrol's largest lake, stretching 9 km in length between towering mountain walls in the Karwendel Nature Park. The turquoise-blue water is ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding in summer. The lakeside villages of Pertisau and Achenkirch offer excellent accommodation and dining.
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9
Kitzbühel Old Town
Kitzbühel is one of Austria's most beautiful medieval towns and the world's most glamorous ski resort. The pedestrianised old town features colourful facades, upscale boutiques, historic churches, and excellent restaurants. In winter it hosts the legendary Hahnenkamm downhill ski race — the toughest in the world.
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10
Zillertal Valley
The Zillertal is one of Tyrol's most popular and dramatic alpine valleys, stretching 32 km south from the Inn Valley. Home to five ski resorts including the famous Mayrhofen, the valley offers spectacular hiking, the Zillertaler Höhenweg ridge walk, and the historic narrow-gauge Zillertalbahn steam railway.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.