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.



<h3>How to Get There</h3>


<b>From Austria (Innsbruck):</b>


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.


<b>From Italy (Bolzano):</b>


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.


<h3>Things to Do in Innsbruck</h3>


<b> 1. Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl):</b>


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.


<b>Cost:</b> Free to view from outside, entry to the museum is around €5


<b>Address:</b> Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck


<b>Opening Hours:</b> Daily, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM



<b> 2. Nordkette Cable Car:</b>


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


<b>Cost:</b> Around €38 for a round-trip ticket


<b>Address:</b> Rennweg 3, 6020 Innsbruck


<b>Opening Hours:</b> Daily, 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM


<b> 3. Hofburg Imperial Palace:</b>


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


<b>Cost:</b> €9 for adults


<b>Address:</b> Rennweg 1, 6020 Innsbruck


<b>Opening Hours:</b> Daily, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM


<h3>Things to do in Vipiteno (Sterzing)</h3>


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.


<b> 1. Visit Zwölferturm (Torre delle Dodici):</b>


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


<b>Cost:</b> €3


<b>Address:</b> Piazza Città, 39049 Vipiteno


<b>Opening Hours:</b> Daily, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM



<b> 2. Multscher Museum:</b>


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


<b>Cost:</b> €5 for adults


<b>Address:</b> Via Città Nuova 18, 39049 Vipiteno


<b>Opening Hours:</b> Tuesday - Sunday, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM



<h3>Accommodation Recommendation</h3>


<b>Hotel Innsbruck (Innsbruck )</b>


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.


<b>Cost:</b> From €150 per night


<b>Address:</b> Innrain 3, 6020 Innsbruck


<b>Contact:</b> +43 512 59868



<b>Hotel Lilie (Vipiteno)</b>


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


<b>Cost:</b> From €120 per night


<b>Address:</b> Via Città Nuova 49, 39049 Vipiteno


<b>Contact:</b> +39 0472 764330



<h3>Dining Recommendation</h3>


<b> Stiftskeller (Innsbruck)</b>


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


<b>Cost:</b> Main courses from €15


<b>Address:</b> Stiftgasse 1, 6020 Innsbruck


<b>Contact:</b> +43 512 570706



<b> Prantneralm (Vipiteno)</b>


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.


<b>Address:</b> Fam. Gogl, 39049, Vipiteno, Valle Isarco


<b>Contact:</b> +39 338 495 9084


<b>Website:</b> www.prantneralm.com


<b>Email:</b> info@prantneralm.com



<h3>Useful Tips and Guidance</h3>


<b>Weather Check:</b> Monitor weather forecasts for optimal outdoor activities.


<b>Local Transport:</b> Explore the area with ease using local buses and trains.


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


<b>Language:</b> 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!