Relaxing In The City: Innsbruck‘s Best Parks

The mountains and forests surrounding Innsbruck are pretty epic, we’re not going to lie. But you don’t have to leave the city to enjoy beautiful nature. It’s time to discover Innsbruck’s parks. These little pockets of green can be found right across the city, and are perfect for enjoying nature while staying close to home.

So grab your sunglasses (or your scarf, depending on the season) and check out these beautiful parks.

Located right in the middle of the city, the Hofgarten (or “imperial garden”) is definitely Innsbruck’s premier park. Gravel paths separate the beautifully manicured lawns, and there is a beautiful old pavilion in the centre where Austrian emperors once held their concerts and royal receptions. But the best thing to do in the Hofgarten is to simply look up. Towering above you are some of the oldest trees in the city—a few of which were planted by Empress Maria Theresa herself. This natural canopy changes with every season, giving you something new to discover each time you visit the Hofgarten.

This winter, the Hofgarten will also host the wonderful Lumagica light park, a collection of over 300 illuminated sculptures that bring the park to life at night. The Lumagica light park will open on the 1^st December 2020, please check the website for the most up-to-date information regarding opening times.

Close to Innsbruck is the village of Rum (yes, that is its actual name) and on the edge of Rum is the Römerpark. This cute little park has a naturally-landscaped feel with some stunning views of the mountains and is the ideal place for a family day out. The kids can run wild in the playground, chase ducks by the pond or get messy in the sandpit. There’s even an ice rink in winter, complete with tiny penguins statues to hold on to if you’re feeling a little wobbly!

The Waltherpark is always full of colour, and not just because of the painted houses behind it. This little park right by the river Inn is home to the Vogelweide society, who organise concerts and events with aim of turning the park into a cultural community for everyone. From book swaps and live radio shows to rooftop musical performances, the Waltherpark really is a cultural space that everyone can get involved in.

The Rapoldipark park, situated right behind the Sillpark shopping centre, is a park for everyone. And really, I mean everyone. There are families playing in the playground, groups of students having post-exam beers, outdoor yoga classes. One of the main cycle paths in the city passes right through the centre of the park, as does the footpath to the suburb of Pradl. The Rapoldipark is a living, breathing embodiment of Innsbruck and it is the best spot in the city for people-watching. If you want to discover the real Innsbruck and its wonderful citizens, you’ve found your place.