Innsbruck, Austria

Innsbruck is Tyrol's treasure house, both historically, culturally, and commercially. It's also situated smack-dab in the center of the Tyrolean region, making for a convenient base from which to explore. The bridge over the River Inn, which gives the city its name, made Innsbruck an important point on the trade routes to Germany from Italy and Switzerland by the 12th Century. Innsbruck became a Habsburg residence in 1363. It has many notable Medieval buildings, including the 16th-Century Franciscan Hofkirche (church) and the Fürstenburg, a 15th-Century castle with a famous copper-roofed balcony. Even if you are staying at an area resort, spend a day or two in Innsbruck firs t, as it will give you a clearer perspective on the rest of the region. The city is surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the high-rising mountains of the Alps. You can take a cable railway up to the famous Hungerburg to get a magnificent Alpine view. Tyrol's location makes it an ideal place in which to enjoy the outdoor life all year round. Ski-crazy travelers descend on the resorts during the winter months; in the summer, when the mountains are awash with wildflowers, camping tents spring up in the valleys like mushrooms as hikers, cavers, and mountain climbers take advantage of the palatial peaks. Innsbruck has a small but beautiful old center (the "Altstadt"). The most important tourist sites are the so-called "Goldenes Dach" (golden roof), a lodge with, naturally, a golden roof that was built in the year 1500 on the order of Emperor Maximillian. The imposing (and, by the way, empty) tomb of this Emperor lies near the famous Hofkirche (Court's Church). Nearby is the Museum of Tyrol Folklore Art, where one can gain insight into ancient Tyrolean architecture, typical costumes and traditions.