Innsbruck (Austria): a piece of Prague in the Alps

This small mountainous Austrian town is licked and well-groomed, as, however, all in the Tyrolean region. It is ancient, medieval. Magdeburg law, allowing to be called a city, received in the thirteenth century. And then even became an imperial residence - the Habsburgs loved to live here. Like an egg Faberge, in the frame of the heights shines Innsbruck. Austria is a mountainous country, but here it is especially noticeable. They say that in this city it is difficult to get lost. After all, the main landmarks are mountain peaks, which are illuminated at night.

The architecture of Innsbruck is as if by magic inscribed into the surrounding breathtaking landscape. The latter is very difficult to describe, it is so beautiful and unique. As for the sights, it is often compared to Prague. True, he is very small, this Innsbruck. Austria, like most European countries, is mostly small, cozy and beautiful small towns. Its center is a pedestrian zone, which can be bypassed in a few hours. If you want to see everything and save at the same time, use Innsbruck Card - this system allows you to visit many museums in the city (even the famous Swarovski collection) for free, as well as cheaper to eat in some cafes and restaurants.

If we are talking about a comparison with Prague, there are even coincidences in the names. But if crowds in the Czech capital flock to see Zlata Ulicka, then there is the Golden Roof. This late Gothic bay window became the symbol of the city of Innsbruck. Austria in the 15th century was under the control of Kaiser Maximilian. He ordered a balcony (which for some reason was called a roof) to be lined with two thousand or more gold-plated sheets. In the same era, the town hall was built with a dome and a gallery under the arches - another landmark of the city. Of the ancient buildings can be mentioned the Helbling house - a dwelling, used in this capacity almost 800 years. Only its facade was redone in the 18th century. In the city are very beautiful baroque churches - Hofkirche, Wiltener and the Cathedral of St. James.

What else is Innsbruck famous for? Austria is famous for its museums, and the capital of Tyrol also opens doors of very interesting collections for tourists. This is, first of all, the palace of Ambras, where you can admire the portraits and weapons in the residence of Ferdinand II. Then the already mentioned collection of Swarovski. And there are a lot of original museums: hunting, Olympic games, bells, mountaineering ... Children will like the alpine zoo, which is famous all over Europe for Innsbruck.

Austria (tours to this country are popular not only in summer, but also in winter) due to the fact that most of its territory is in the Alps, has many ski resorts. Innsbruck is located near the Stubai Glacier, where you can ride at any time of the year. In addition, it is surrounded by nine routes of varying complexity. In winter you can buy one ski pass and then calmly ride on any of them. The price of this ticket includes also travel by a special bus to any route. All these skiing areas (Nordpark, Patcherkofel, Glunzeczer and others) are the best ski resorts in Austria. Innsbruck is also good because, stopping in this city, lovers of high-speed descents on the slopes can devote a day to sports, and evening - to entertainment, walks and a diverse cultural program.