Tirol is a picturesque alpine region where you can stroll around charming villages, frolic in flower-filled meadows and ski at some of the top resorts in Europe. Base yourself in the lively capital city of Innsbruck or escape to a serene mountain town.

Things to do

Reliable winter snowfall and high-altitude peaks make Tirol one of the top snow-sports destinations in Europe. Choose from more than 80 resorts, including options for beginners, families and seasoned skiers. St. Anton am Arlberg is one of the largest resorts, with spectacular views and more than 300 kilometres of groomed slopes.

Set beneath the rugged peaks of the Nordkette range, Innsbruck is a gateway to the Tirol region. Get lost in the streets of the medieval Old Town and tour Hofburg Palace, a Baroque masterpiece built in the 15th century. Strolling around the Old Town, it’s impossible to miss Goldenes Dachl. The landmark townhouse is decorated with colourful murals and topped with a roof covered with gleaming copper tiles.

Designed by iconic Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, the Bergisel ski jump towers over Innsbruck. Climb the steep staircase or ride the gondola to the top of the glass-and-steel structure for sweeping views over the city and the surrounding mountains.

After ticking off sights and attractions in the city centre, make a beeline for the mountains. In Innsbruck, it’s easy to spend the day hiking along scenic trails and through sunny alpine pastures. The challenging Schaflegerkogel Loop Hike winds for 16 kilometres through the mountains, taking you along a scenic ridge and up four different peaks before dropping into a lush valley.

Tirol’s outdoor-centric lifestyle has helped shape its hearty cuisine. Dine at local restaurants to try classic dishes like “speckknodel” bacon dumplings, “grostl” fried potatoes and “kasspatzln” egg noodles topped with grated cheese. For dessert, indulge in “moosbeernocken” wild blueberry pancakes dusted with sugar.

Getting around

Innsbruck is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore Tirol at your own pace. Trains connect Innsbruck with towns and villages across Tirol, including Kufstein, Telfs-Pfaffenhofen, Hall in Tirol and Lienz.