Whether you’re a fervent skier, foodie or culture enthusiast, a winter holiday in Innsbruck – the famed capital of Tyrol, Austria – caters to every traveller’s wildest dreams. While it may seem silly to plan half- or full-day trips to the surrounding area when you’ve got some of the world’s finest pistes, restaurants and landmarks right in front of your doorstep, Shuttle Direct’s popular airport transfer from Munich to Innsbruck is certain to change your mind. This two-hour drive is not only convenient and comfortable, but also takes you past some of the region’s most worthwhile attractions, which transform any excellent getaway into an outstanding one. From spa days to sublime hikes, our four favourite spots along the route make for reinvigorating experiences that are second to none.
1. Bad Aibling
Approximately 55 kilometres southeast of Munich, your driver may point out Bad Aibling to you… and if not, definitely ask about it! Although this Bavarian town name may not ring a bell now, it’ll be forever ingrained in your memory once you learn more about it – after all, who wouldn’t be tempted to indulge in a day of opulent pampering?
In addition to its idyllic setting on the River Mangfall, this town boasts a refreshing mineral spa and a peat pulp bath, which are guaranteed to make any aches and pains induced by skiing (or sightseeing and overeating) disappear in a jiffy. Prepare to relax to the max in Therme Bad Aibling, the town’s award-winning spa centre. In addition to bathing in its famous thermal springs, this state-of-the-art health resort is known for its luxurious Turkish bath, massages and outrageously lavish couples’ experiences. Why not treat yourself to a day of R&R during your action-packed holiday?
Recommended Visit Time: Full-Day Trip
2. Kaiser Mountains (Ellmauer Halt)
If you’re a true adrenaline junkie, even a sports paradise like Innsbruck may not keep you entertained for long. For those who embrace hair-raising heights, taking on the Kaiser Mountains, which you’ll spot about halfway through your transfer from Munich to Innsbruck, may be the ideal challenge.
Thanks to its myriad trails and panoramic views, this limestone mountain range has been a playground for amateur and professional climbers for well over 100 years. If you’re an average climber, it’s worth soaking up the surrounding scenery via the Gamsängersteig, which makes for a difficult yet highly enjoyable 2.5-hour outing. For experienced athletes, the Kaiserschützensteig is a more daring and physically demanding alternative that takes you across the massif’s three summits. The highlight of this four-hour trail is undoubtedly the Ellmauer Halt, which – at an altitude of 2,344 metres – is the highest peak of the mountain range. Do you have the guts to look down?
Recommended Visit Time: Half-Day Trip. Do not attempt these hikes without a certified tour guide and climbing equipment.
3. Steinberg am Rofan
Just when you thought that your transfer from Munich to Innsbruck couldn’t get any more scenic, your jaw will drop yet again when you pass the Brandenberg Alps (Rofangebirge). Along with marvelling at their breathtaking beauty, we recommend that you pick your driver’s brain about Steinberg am Rofan, a village that’s nestled in the mountain range at an altitude of 1,000 metres. While the Brandenberg Alps encompass several rural villages that exude the region’s natural splendour, Steinberg am Rofan is notoriously the most beautiful – and that’s saying something!
Although this town is most renowned for its picturesque views, hiking and cycling trails and off-piste skiing, it’s equally appealing to those in search of traditional Alpine charm. Culture vultures will love visiting the parish church of St. Lambert, which came into existence as early as 1,118 AD. The original structure was rebuilt in the fifteenth century and subsequently Baroque-ified in the eighteenth century, as evidenced by its exterior and its altar. It’s worth venturing inside the church to behold its rare altarpieces, including an exceptional eighteenth-century painting of the Virgin Mary and a pine statue that personifies the Holy Spirit. Of course, these religious representations are widespread, but the Alpine touch of St. Lambert’s adornments present them in an entirely new and exceptional light.
Recommended Visit Time: Half-Day Trip
4. Karwendel Nature Park
Near the end of your transfer from Munich to Innsbruck, you’ll whizz past Karwendel Nature Park. This reserve is not only the largest in Austria, but is also only a hop, skip and a jump away from Innsbruck – so you have no valid excuse for not visiting! Extending across an area of more than 700 square metres and 11 conservation zones, you’re sure to be overwhelmed by the natural galore of this impressive site. From untamed rivers and rare Sycamore tree forests to myriad wildlife, such as red deer and sandpipers (depending on the time of year), you’ll struggle to keep up with the gorgeous sights and sounds that extend as far as the eye can see and the ear can hear. To learn more about the archetypal Tyrolean flora and fauna, simply grab your binoculars, camera and hiking boots and immerse yourself in the beauty of the park.
Recommended Visit Time: Full-Day Visit. To make the most of your experience, be sure to book a guided tour and/or hike.
From Munich to Innsbruck
From posh pampering to uncovering the region’s natural gems, the attractions that you’ll encounter on your airport transfer from Munich to Innsbruck are both a literal and figurative breath of fresh air. If you’d like to spice up your holiday in Innsbruck, half- and full-day trips to some or all of our top four destinations are a fantastic starting point for an unforgettable getaway.
About Shuttle Direct
Let Shuttle Direct, Europe and North Africa’s premier airport transfer service, introduce you to the wonders of Bavaria and Tyrol via its quick, comfortable and scenic route from Munich to Innsbruck. Whether a private, shared or group ride strikes your fancy, this top-notch service offers transfers that fit every travel style and budget.
This route guide has been compiled as an aid to visiting the region. Your airport transfer service from Munich to Innsbruck does not include stops to these destinations.
