Every tourist destination has it’s attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary’s gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

What began as an alpine skier’s mecca has evolved into a year-round destination for travelers. The Austrian Alps provide a dramatic backdrop for this idyllic village and make Innsbruck a must-see town for visitors to southern Germany and Austria. Include Innsbruck in your central European adventure for at least the following reasons:

1. The main thoroughfare in the Old Town of Innsbruck, Mariatheresenstrasse, offers a spectacular view of the Austrian Alps looming over the city.

Mariatheresenstrasse

2. Innsbruck’s Old Town is charming and is a delightful place to stroll since many of the streets are pedestrian-only.

Golden Roof

3. The village church, Hofkirche, contains the ornate cenotaph of Maximillian I, once ruler of the Holy Roman Empire.

Maximillian I Cenotaph