Greetings, Lykkers! Have you ever dreamed of visiting two countries on a weekend?

The Brenner Pass, straddling the border between Austria and Italy, offers a unique opportunity to do just that.

In this lively guide, we'll take you on a journey through Innsbruck, Austria, and Vipiteno (Sterzing), Italy.

Both cities are rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty, making them perfect for a weekend getaway trip from the Brenner Pass.

How to Get There

From Austria (Innsbruck):

By car, it‘s a scenic 30-minute drive via the A13 motorway. Alternatively, the ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) offers frequent trains from Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof to Brennero/Brenner station, with a journey time of around 40 minutes.

From Italy (Bolzano):

You can reach Brennero by car via the A22 motorway, or take a Trenitalia train from Bolzano, which takes approximately 50 minutes. Once you arrive at Brenner, it’s easy to continue your journey to either Innsbruck or Vipiteno.

Things to Do in Innsbruck

1. Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl):

Located in the Old Town, this iconic landmark is a must-see. The Golden Roof is adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles, built in the 15th century to mark the wedding of Emperor Maximilian the First.

Cost: Free to view from outside, entry to the museum is around €5

Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

2. Nordkette Cable Car:

For breathtaking views of the Alps, take the Nordkette cable car from the city center to the mountain range.

Cost: Around €38 for a round-trip ticket

Address: Rennweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck

Opening Hours: Daily, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

3. Hofburg Imperial Palace:

Dive into history with a visit to this 15th-century palace, once the residence of the Habsburgs.

Cost: €9 for adults

Address: Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck

Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Things to do in Vipiteno (Sterzing)

Just a short drive or train ride from the Brenner Pass, Vipiteno is a picturesque Italian town with a unique blend of Austrian and Italian cultures.

1. Visit Zwölferturm (Torre delle Dodici):

This medieval tower is a symbol of Vipiteno and offers panoramic views of the town.

Cost: €3

Address: Piazza Città, 39049 Vipiteno

Opening Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

2. Multscher Museum:

Explore the works of the Gothic artist Hans Multscher and learn about the town’s history.

Cost: €5 for adults

Address: Via Città Nuova 18, 39049 Vipiteno

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Accommodation Recommendation

Hotel Innsbruck (Innsbruck )

For a comfortable stay in Innsbruck, consider the historical Hotel Innsbruck (which was built in 1870). Located in the city center, it offers modern amenities, a spa, and beautiful mountain views even from the city center.

Cost: From €150 per night

Address: Innrain 3, 6020 Innsbruck

Hotel Lilie (Vipiteno)

In Vipiteno, the Hotel Lilie provides a cozy and traditional Italian experience with excellent service and a central location.

Cost: From €120 per night

Address: Via Città Nuova 49, 39049 Vipiteno

Dining Recommendation

Stiftskeller (Innsbruck)

For a delightful dining experience, visit Stiftskeller, offering traditional Austrian cuisine in a historic setting.

Cost: Main courses from €15

Address: Stiftgasse 1, 6020 Innsbruck

Prantneralm (Vipiteno)

Slightly outside Vipiteno, there is Prantneralm, a scenic farmhouse restaurant, ready to highlight your weekend with a breathtaking mountain view and a delicious traditional meal.

Address: Fam. Gogl, 39049, Vipiteno, Valle Isarco

Useful Tips and Guidance

Weather Check: Monitor weather forecasts for optimal outdoor activities.

Local Transport: Explore the area with ease using local buses and trains.

Currency: They use Euro (EUR); ATMs are available for cash withdrawals.

Language: German and Italian are commonly spoken; English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Enjoy your journey through the Brenner Pass, exploring the best of Southern Austria and Northern Italy in a relaxing unforgettable weekend!