34 Things to do in Tyrol, Austria: Best places to visit

Tyrolsko Rakousko

Are you planning a holiday in Tyrol and wondering where to go? In this article, we’ve put together the best places to visit in Tyrol and plenty of ideas for things to do, from the impressive peaks in the Zillertal and Ötztal Alps to beautiful lakes like Achensee and Plansee to the historic city of Innsbruck.

Here you will find practical information on hiking routes, attractions and traditional cuisine that you should definitely try. We’ve also included a map that you can save and easily plan your route based on it.

What you can find in this article:

Things to do in Tyrol in Austria

Here’s a quick overview of the best areas to visit in Tyrol:

Zillertal Alps | Ötztal Alps | Kitzbühel Alps | Stubai Alps | Lake Achensee | Hohe Tauern | Innsbruck | Lienz Dolomites | Lake Plansee

1. Zillertal Alps

And first we start with our favourite region in Tyrol. On the border with Italy are the Zillertal Alps – an area that delights us with its glaciated peaks, long green valleys and clear lakes. Add to this the far-reaching views that never get old.

If you’re looking for interesting places to see in Tyrol, visit the Krimml Waterfalls, the highest in Austria and an impressive natural sight. Another place worth exploring is the Schlegeis Dam with its turquoise water and stunning alpine backdrop.

Krimmler Waterfalls / things to do in Zell am See

Hintertux Glacier

Hintertux Glacier is one of the largest glaciers in Austria and offers skiing opportunities for most of the year. If you’re looking for more details about the ski season or current conditions, check the official website.

Tip: A convenient place to stay near the glacier is Hotel Thermal-Badhotel Kirchler, located just a few minutes from the cable car. It also has a spa and a restaurant.

Schlegeis Dam

The Schlegeis Alpine Road connects the valley with the Schlegeis High Dam. While it might not be as famous as the Grossglockner Alpine Road in the Hohe Tauern, it still takes you to one of the most scenic reservoirs in the region.

Practical information: The road is 13 km long and climbs about 800 metres up to an altitude of 1,780 metres. In 2025, the toll is €18 per car and €15 per motorbike. The road is open from 16 May to 31 October 2025. Parking at the dam is free, and there is a restaurant and snack stand.

Schlegeis Stausee and Schlegeis Dam
Hiking around Schlegeisspeicher

It rained a lot on the day we visited, but it was still worth seeing. You can take a simple walk along the dam, or continue further into the mountains.

One of the nicest hikes is the route to Pfitscherjoch Hut, just across the border in Italy. It is about 7.4 km one way and takes roughly 2.5 hours. Most of the trail follows the valley along a mountain stream with views of waterfalls, and only towards the end does it climb more steeply to the Pfitscherjoch saddle.

Or head the other way to Olperer’s hut, which attracts more visitors. The climb is steeper, but at the top you’ll be rewarded with a wide view of the entire dam.

Part of the trail to Pfitscherjoch Hut is suitable even for strollers or wheelchairs, but further on it turns into partly rocky but still manageable terrain. You can also walk along the dam itself, where there is a paved path, and then continue on a wide gravel trail past the mountain huts.

Schlegeis Stausee and Schlegeis Dam

Zillergründl Dam

The Zillergründl dam lies to the east of Mayrhofen. You can walk directly to the dam along a 4 km trail from the Bärenbad Inn. The other option is a bus directly from Mayrhofen station, which runs every hour during the summer season.

You can take an easy walk around the reservoir to the Hohenaualm hut (1.5 hours one way, suitable for bikes and strollers).

Would you like to see the dam and its surroundings from a bird’s eye view? Then head to the Plauener Hütte (less than 2 hours away). There is a bigger climb ahead, but the views are great from here.

Zillergründl Austria

Zillertal high mountain road

Thanks to the 50-km long Zillertal Alpine Road, you can enjoy the beautiful nature and views of the Zillertal Alps.

In 2025, you will pay €10 for the drive (motorbikes €7). It’s definitely worth it, as you can easily spend the whole day here.

You’ll find several mountain huts for refreshments, and you can choose from a variety of hiking trails leading further into the mountains. See the official website for more details about the available routes.

Zillertal High Road Austria

Finkenberg

The Finkenberg hiking area is located between the Penken and Knorren peaks. Due to its easy accessibility, this is an ideal trip for families with children or if you are looking for an easy hike in Tyrol. You can reach the top on foot or by cable car from Finkenberg or Mayrhofen.

There are easy hiking trails and restaurants with views. If you’re looking for something more challenging, take the ridge trail to the top of the Wanglspitze (1.5 hours one way).

Penken

Krimmel Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls are among the most beautiful places to visit in Tyrol and should definitely be on your list. These impressive waterfalls are 380 metres high and divided into three cascades, connected by a 4-kilometre paved trail.

Along the way, there are 11 viewpoints where you can get very close to the waterfalls. The higher you climb, the fewer tourists you’ll meet, and you can continue all the way to the picturesque valley around the Krimmler Ache mountain stream.

Krimml Waterfalls Hohe Tauern Austria

The Krimml Waterfalls are accessed via a turn-off from the Gerlos Strasse toll road, which is open all year round (in winter, make sure you have the required winter tyres and equipment). The toll costs €12.50 per car and €9 for motorbikes in 2025.

Practical information: At the Krimml Waterfalls, you’ll find a large parking area, an information centre, and kiosks along the trail to the falls. There is an admission fee to access the waterfalls. You can check the current opening hours and ticket prices at this link.

Where to stay in the Zillertal Alps

  • ZillergrundRock Luxury Mountain Resort: An alpine resort in the Mayrhofen valley featuring a rooftop pool, spa, and excellent half board included
  • VAYA Zillertal: A stylish four-star hotel with a swimming pool, spa, and half board available
  • Hotel Persal: Cozy Alpine-style accommodation at a good price, with great cuisine and optional half board

🏡 Where to stay in the Zillertal Alps

ubytování Zillertalské Alpy Rakousko
Thermal-Badhotel Kirchler

Traditional hotel near the Hintertux glacier cable car, wellness and half board

ubytování Zillertalské Alpy Rakousko
Hotel Persal

Cozy Alpine-style accommodation at a good price, with great cuisine and optional half board

2. Ötztal Alps – things to do in Tyrol

In the western part of Tyrol, you will find the Ötztal Alps, one of the most impressive mountain regions in Austria. This area is dominated by three-thousand-metre peaks, vast glaciers, and traditional alpine valleys with authentic mountain huts.

If you are looking for unforgettable things to do in Tyrol, head to the Sölden Glacier, where skiing is possible from autumn to spring, or explore the iconic Kaunertaler Glacier Road leading to the foot of the Kaunertal Glacier.

For a more relaxing day, especially if you are travelling with children, you can enjoy the family-friendly trails around Rifflsee Lake, which offers beautiful panoramic views.

Sölden Glacier

Sölden is one of the most popular ski areas, which is more suitable for more experienced skiers due to its extensive exposed slopes. You can relax here from September to May.

However, even if you don’t plan on skiing, there are still plenty of things to do in Tyrol around Sölden. Take the cable car to admire the breathtaking views of Tyrol’s highest peaks. Near Sölden, you will find these famous viewpoints, collectively known as the BIG3:

  • Gaislachkogl (3,056 m) — here you can also visit the Ice Q restaurant, the highest in the region, where scenes from James Bond were filmed, and explore the 007 Elements Museum.
  • Panorama footbridge on Tiefenbach (3,250 m) — a spectacular glass bridge with panoramic views.
  • Schwarze Schneid (3,340 m) — from Tiefenbach, climb another 90 metres to this quieter viewpoint with far-reaching views, sometimes as far as the Dolomites on a clear day.
Panorama Footbridge at the top of Tiefenbachkogl
Panorama Footbridge at the top of Tiefenbachkogl

Kaunertal Valley

The Kaunertal Valley is one of the three valleys in the Ötztal Alps. The Kaunertaler Gletscherstrasse, or Kaunertal Glacier Route, is open all year round and runs for 26 km, earning the nickname “the most beautiful dead-end in Austria.” Sounds like a pretty good reason to visit, right?

Kaunertaler Glacier Road (Kaunertaler Gletscherstraße) in the Kaunertal Valley in Tyrol

The journey begins in Feichten and takes you past the Gepatsch Dam to the foot of the Kaunertal Glacier. From there, you can take a modern cable car up to the glacier, where you’ll find almost year-round skiing, scenic hiking trails, and views stretching all the way to Italy.

Practical information: You can find current details on opening hours, toll fees, and the cable car at this link.

The Gepatsch dam (Gepatschspeicher) in the Kaunertal valley in Tyrol
The Gepatsch dam (Gepatschspeicher) in the Kaunertal valley in Tyrol

Pitztal Valley and Glacier

The Pitztal Glacier lies below Austria’s second-highest peak, Wildspitze (3,768 m). As the highest glacier in Austria, it offers skiing for much of the year, typically from September to May.

To reach the glacier, take the Gletscherexpress from Mittelberg, which travels through the mountains and connects to a cable car leading up to the slopes.

How about enjoying a good meal at the highest café in Austria? Located at 3,440 metres above sea level, the futuristic-looking café includes an observation deck with spectacular views over the Ötztal Alps.

Waterfall and rocky slopes around the Braunschweiger Hütte in the Pitztal Valley in Tyrol
Waterfall and rocky slopes around the Braunschweiger Hütte in the Pitztal Valley in Tyrol

Rifflsee

Rifflsee is located just a short distance from the Pitztal Glacier, sharing the same starting point. This area is perfect for families or anyone looking for an easy hike. You can take the cable car up and then follow a gentle trail around the lake.

The scenic circular route begins at the top station of the cable car to Rifflsee (accessible from the Mitterberg car park) and continues around the lake along the Fuldaer Höhenweg trail.

Rifflsee ötztal Alps what to visit in Tyrol in Austria

Where to stay in the Ötztal Alps

When you book these hotels, you get a free Ötztal Premium Card on arrival, which includes free use of local transport, cable cars and access to activities in the surrounding area (valid from June to October).

🏡 Hotels in the Ötztal Alps

These hotels include the Ötztal Premium Card, which provides free access to cable cars, public transport, swimming pools, bike rentals, and other attractions in the area. All guests receive the card automatically upon arrival. It is valid from 6 June to 5 October 2025.

ötztalské Alpy ubytování
Regina Hotelsuites

4* hotel right by the cable car in Sölden, rooms with kitchenette, wellness with indoor pool, excellent cuisine

die Berge Lifestyle Hotel

Modern hotel suitable for couples and families, heated swimming pool, rich breakfast, restaurant and wellness

3. Kitzbühel Alps – things to do in Tyrol

Let’s move to the eastern part of Tyrol, where you’ll find the Kitzbühel Alps — an area with a slightly different character compared to the high glacial peaks to the south. Here you can enjoy gentler mountain ridges, green pastures, picturesque villages, and traditional Alpine huts fragrant with cheese and bacon.

The Kitzbühel Alps are perfect if you’re looking for relaxing hikes with scenic views, clear lakes for swimming, or legendary places like the famous Hahnenkamm, which hosts the world’s most famous ski races in winter.

Kitzbüheler Horn

The Kitzbüheler Horn (1,996 m) is one of the most popular hikes in the Kitzbühel Alps. You can reach the summit via a bike path, a hiking trail (about 2.5 hours), or take the cable car from Kitzbühel.

From the top, you’ll enjoy a wonderful view of the surrounding region, including the majestic Kaiser Mountains, which you can see in their full glory.

Kitzbüheler Horn in Tyrol
Kitzbüheler Horn in Tyrol

Hahnenkamm

The Hahnenkamm (1,712 m) is a world-famous ski slope, known for hosting the Alpine Ski World Cup races. Outside of the winter season, it offers easy hiking and cycling trails in a beautiful Alpine landscape. A cable car runs from Kitzbühel to the summit.

Hahnenkamm Kitzbühel Alps
Hahnenkamm Kitzbühel Alps

Schwarzsee

The Schwarzsee is one of the warmest lakes in Tyrol, with beautifully clear water that invites you to swim. You can walk around the entire lake on an easy, well-maintained trail that is about 2.5 km long and mostly flat.

Alternatively, you can rent a boat or pedal boat and enjoy a ride across the lake, which reflects the peaks of the Kaiser Mountains.

🏡 Where to stay in the Kitzbühel Alps

Kitzbühelské Alpy ubytování
Lebenberg Schlosshotel

4* hotel with rooms for 2-4 people, indoor pool and spa, restaurant and great location

Kitzbühelské Alpy ubytování
Hotel Kaiserhof

Traditional alpine hotel with rooms for up to 2-4 people, location right by the cable car

Schwarzsee Kitzbühel Alps Tyrol what to visit

4. Stubai Alps – things to do in Tyrol

To the west of Innsbruck are the Stubai Alps, an area that delights us with its diversity and easy accessibility.

You’ll find easy trails and challenging hikes that often leave you with almost no one to meet and the Stubai Alps almost to yourself.

For truly spectacular views, take the cable car up to the Top of Tyrol viewpoint at 3,210 metres.

Stubai Alps

Stubai Glacier and Top of Tyrol

Stubai Glacier is an ideal destination all year round. From October to June you can ski here and in summer it is ideal for hiking around the mountain huts.

The Top of Tyrol viewpoint is also located on the glacier, from which you can enjoy views of the Alps from an altitude of 3,210 metres. You can visit a ice cave a short distance away.

The cable car to the Top of Tyrol, things to do in the Austrian Alps
Top of Tyrol – what to see in Tyrol

Peak Serles

Travelling to the Stubai Alps with children? Plan a fun family day out at the foot of Mount Serles. There is a children’s playground, a bobsleigh run, a small dam with an easy sightseeing trail, and a restaurant. You can reach the top by cable car from Mieders.

But it’s definitely worth a visit even if you aren’t travelling with kids. The views from here are fantastic — with the lake and the rocky peak of Serles in the background, it’s hard to beat.

The surrounding area offers a network of hiking trails — from easy cycling paths that are suitable even with a stroller, to more challenging full-day hikes.

Serles Austria

Panoramic route over the Kreuzjoch saddle

A cable car will take you to the Kreuzjoch saddle from the village of Fulpmes. The saddle has a playground, mountain huts and a number of hiking trails. From here you can hike to the top of Krinnenköpfe, where there is a small skywalk at 2139 m.

The more demanding route then leads in the other direction – towards the summit of Hoher Burgstall (2611 m, see photos below). On the way back you descend past the Starkenburger Hütte.

Hoher Burgstall Stubai Alps

Finstertal reservoir

The Finstertal reservoir is one of the two reservoirs used for the supply of electricity in the Kühtai region of Tyrol, Austria. In winter, the area comes alive with a ski resort and in summer you can enjoy the beautiful hiking trails.

The dam can be reached by a four-seater cable car from Kühtai, from which there are stunning views of the surrounding lakes. From the cable car, you can take an easy trail for about 40 minutes, which you can do even with children.

If you don’t want to take the cable car, you can take the marked route directly from Kühtai, from where the journey takes about an hour.

You can go around the dam from one side or climb the iconic Sulzkogel peak (3016 m), which offers fantastic views (experience with high mountain terrain is required).

🏡 Hotels in the Stubai Alps

These hotels include the Stubai Super Card, which gives you free access to selected lifts, public transport, and attractions in the area. All guests will receive their card automatically on arrival. It is valid from 16 May to 2 November 2025.

ubytování Stubai
Dorf.Apart (great price)

Comfortable rooms and apartments with kitchenettes, a friendly host, and excellent value for money considering the location

ubytování Stubaiské ALpy
Hotel Stubaierhof

Traditional Alpine hotel with excellent cooking, cosy accommodation suitable for families, swimming pool and wellness

5. Lake Achensee

Next we head to one of our favourite lakes in Tyrol. In the north of the region lies Achensee, a fjord-like lake with turquoise water framed by steep mountain slopes. Achensee is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria.

rofan achensee
View of Achensee from the Rofan Mountains

There is an easy walking trail around the lake, you can take a boat trip, or ride the cable car up to Zwölferkopf, where you’ll have spectacular views of Achensee below. You can also take a cable car to the Rofan or Karwendel mountains, where the views of the turquoise waters are truly impressive.

What we like most about Achensee is that it remains unspoilt and easily accessible.

Read more: Here is our detailed guide to Achensee in Austria.

things to do at achensee

Rofan Mountains

The Rofan Mountains are easily accessible from Achensee by cable car from Maurach. Within a few minutes, the cable car takes you several hundred metres higher to an altitude of 1,840 metres.

The Rofan area is criss-crossed with hiking trails of varying difficulty, from easy walks to more demanding treks. Children can have fun at a playground or try a kids’ via ferrata, while those looking for more excitement can go paragliding.

You can find up-to-date information about the cable car and activities in the Rofan Mountains at this link.

Rofan what to visit in Tyrol

Peak Zwölferkopf

Zwölferkopf is part of the Karwendel mountain range, which borders Achensee along its western shore. If you’re looking for one of the best views of the lake, Zwölferkopf is a great choice.

You can reach the top with the Karwendel Bergbahn from Pertisau. Around the cable car station, there are plenty of cycling routes and easy hiking trails — the most popular goes to the Bärenbadalm hut and is suitable for families.

🏡 Where to stay near Achensee

These accommodations include the AchenseeCard, which provides free transportation and discounts on local attractions. Guests receive the card automatically for stays of at least one night.

ubytování Achensee
Das Rotspitz Hotel

A traditional Alpine hotel ideal for couples, with free parking, an on-site restaurant, a garden (good value for money)

ubytování Achensee
Alpenhotel Edelweiss

Comfortable, clean accommodation with breakfast included, suitable for couples and families, close to the Rofanbahn cable car

things to do at achensee

6. Hohe Tauern – things to do in Tyrol

A long weekend or holiday in the Hohe Tauern is always a good idea. Few places in Austria offer such unspoilt nature, beautiful cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear lakes.

The Hohe Tauern is a national park that forms the backbone of the Austrian Alps. It spans several regions, with some areas lying within Tyrol. You could say this part of the park is a bit less visited — if you’re looking for more peace and quiet on the hiking trails, it’s definitely worth exploring.

Dabakklamm gorge

Dabakklamm is located in the Dorfertal valley north of Kals am Großglockner. It takes you through beautiful scenery along the Kalserbach mountain stream.

Practical information: The route through the gorge is not difficult and is manageable even with children. The gorge is open from early June to mid-October. You can find more details in our article about the Hohe Tauern.

Dabakklamm and Dorfer See

Gschlösstal Valley and Schlatenkees Glacier

If you want to experience the best of the Hohe Tauern National Park, head to the Gschlösstal Valley towards the Schlatenkees glacier in the western part of the park. When you visit the valley, you’ll understand why it’s called the “Royal Valley of the Eastern Alps.”

Gschlösstal Valley and Schlatenkees Glacier

It’s a picturesque valley with traditional wooden houses, surrounded by majestic peaks including the Großvenediger, the highest mountain of the Venediger group. The highlight is the Schlatenkees glacier, which stretches from the summits deep into the valley.

Gschlösstal Valley and Schlatenkees Glacier

Jagdhausalmen settlement

At the end of the Defereggental Valley lies Jagdhausalmen, the oldest mountain settlement in Austria. It consists of 15 stone huts and a small chapel scattered across a picturesque alpine landscape. At times, you might even feel as if you’re in Tibet.

In the past, these cottages served as summer shelters for settlers and grazing pastures for their cattle. Today, the huts are mostly used for storage, but you can also stop here for refreshments.

Read more: Best things to do in the Hohe Tauern (+ map and practical tips)

Jagdhausalmen Hohe Tauern Austria

Where to stay in the Hohe Tauern

If you’re looking for accommodation in the western part of the Hohe Tauern, we can recommend Landgasthof Steiner — a rustic guesthouse in Matrei in Osttirol with half board and excellent cuisine.

It’s a great base for exploring Jagdhausalmen or the Gschlösstal Valley, while offering a quiet location away from the main tourist centres. 

7. Innsbruck – the capital of Tyrol

Innsbruck is considered the heart of Tyrol, located in the western part of Austria and surrounded by impressive mountain scenery.

The city is famous for its historic architecture, including the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), as well as numerous palaces and castles with a rich history. In winter, you can enjoy excellent skiing, while in summer you can explore the local monuments or head out on scenic hikes in the surrounding mountains.

Nordkette mountain ridge

Nordkette cable car takes you from the city centre to Austria’s largest nature park in just a few minutes. From one side you can see Innsbruck, from the other side you can see the Karwendel Nature Park.

The lower cable car station is located next to the congress in the city centre. From here you take the funicular, which also stops at the Alpine Zoo and Aquarium.

From the city, you can continue with a modern cable car that takes you all the way to the Hafelekar – also known as the Top of Innsbruck – where you can enjoy stunning views over the entire Innsbruck area.

You can also get off at the previous station, Seegrube, which is especially suitable for families with children. From both stations, you will find hiking trails of varying difficulty (Seegrube is the better choice for easy routes) and a restaurant where you can have refreshments.

If you don’t want to take the funicular from the city centre, you can also park directly at the base station of the cable car, where there is a paid parking lot.

Muttereralm

The Muttereralm area is located southwest of Innsbruck and offers one of the best views of the city with a backdrop of the Karwendel Mountains.

You can reach the top by cable car or along well-maintained hiking and cycling trails (the ascent on foot takes about 2 hours). More information about the Muttereralm and the cable car can be found on the official website.

There is parking available at the base station of the cable car, or you can take a tram from Innsbruck (free for guests).

At the upper station, you will find a mountain hut, a small reservoir, a playground, single trails and other activities that can fill the whole day. There are routes of various difficulty levels. If you’re after a bigger challenge, you can continue on to Saile, which is about an hour’s hike from the upper station.

Swarovski Kristallwelten Museum

Would you like to experience something extraordinary in Tyrol? Visit the Swarovski Kristallwelten museum and entertainment complex in Wattens near Innsbruck. Opened in 1995 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Swarovski brand, it will quickly draw you into the fascinating world of crystal.

The main attraction is the so-called Wunderkammern (Chambers of Wonder), featuring art installations and interactive exhibitions that showcase crystal in all its forms. The complex also includes extensive gardens with artworks, such as the famous giant face with a waterfall and pond.

There is also a playground and amusement area for children, a restaurant, and of course, a Swarovski jewellery and souvenir shop. You can find more details on the official website.

8. Lienz Dolomites – things to do in Tyrol

In the very southeast of Tyrol rise the Lienz Dolomites. These mountains resemble the famous Dolomites of Italy, but they have a much quieter atmosphere and far fewer tourists, making for a more relaxing experience.

Mountain hut Karlsbader Hütte and Laserzsee

The landscape here is dramatic, with sharp rock peaks, green alpine meadows, and clear lakes hidden among the rocks. A great option is to take a walk to Laserzsee Lake and the Karlsbader Hütte mountain hut, which offers wonderful views.

Mountain hut Karlsbader Hütte and Laserzsee

One of the most rewarding mountain trails starts at the Dolomitenhütte hut, where you’ll find a parking area. From there, follow the trail towards Karlsbader Hütte and Laserzsee Lake. The hike takes around two hours and is moderately challenging.

Mountain hut Karlsbader Hütte and Laserzsee
Mountain hut Karlsbader Hütte and Laserzsee

Tristacher See

Lake Tristacher lies south of Lienz and is a popular spot for swimming or taking an easy walk around the lake, surrounded by mountain scenery. You can park directly at the lake or walk here from the centre of Lienz, which takes about 1.5 hours.

Steinermandl Peak

If you’d like to enjoy more hiking and panoramic views, head to Steinermandl, located north of Lienz at 2,213 metres above sea level. It’s easily reached by cable car.

Steinermandl is a great starting point for a variety of hiking routes. One of the easier options is the trail to Lake Neualplseen around the Goiselemandl peak, which takes about 2.5 hours round trip.

9. Lake Plansee – things to do in Tyrol

In the north of Tyrol, near the border with Germany, you’ll find Lake Plansee, a spot definitely worth visiting. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water reflecting the surrounding Alpine peaks.

The area is surrounded by traditional mountain villages and fresh mountain air, making it a perfect place to recharge.

If you want to try something a bit different, you can take a boat ride on the lake or walk to the Highline 179 suspension bridge, which connects historic forts above the valley and offers stunning views. Lake Plansee is also great for swimming, paddleboarding or cycling in the surrounding area.

Plansee what to visit in Tyrol

Highline 179 Suspension Bridge

One of the biggest attractions near Lake Plansee is the Highline 179 suspension bridge, located in Reutte just a short distance away.

This impressive bridge is 114 metres high and 406 metres long, connecting the ruins of Ehrenberg Castle and Fort Claudia. Thanks to these dimensions, it made its way into the Guinness Book of Records as the longest Tibetan-style suspension bridge in the world.

You can check the official website for up-to-date information on opening hours and ticket prices.

Plansee Highline 179 Reutte

Hahnenkamm Peak

The Hahnenkamm peak is located east of Reutte, just about a 15-minute drive from Lake Plansee. You can reach the summit either on foot or by cable car.

At the top station of the cable car, you’ll find a panoramic restaurant with a children’s playground, as well as plenty of easy hiking and climbing routes offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Practical information: Free parking is available at the lower cable car station. You can find the current opening hours and ticket prices on the official website.

Plansee what to visit in Tyrol in Austria

Vilsalpsee

Vilsalpsee is one of the most beautiful lakes in Tyrol, surrounded by majestic mountains and featuring crystal-clear water.

You can partly walk around the lake on an easy, well-maintained trail. There is also a mountain hut for refreshments, and several hiking trails leading further into the mountains. The most popular route goes to Lake Traualpsee and the Landsberger Hütte, which takes about 2.5 hours from Vilsalpsee.

Vilsalpsee

Practical information: There is a parking lot a short distance from Vilsalpsee, but it is only accessible between 8:00 and 17:00. Outside these hours, the gate is closed and you cannot enter or leave the parking area.

If you don’t plan to stay around the lake all day, it’s better to park at the Tannheim car park, which is about 40 minutes away on foot, or you can use the tourist train to reach the lake. 

Stuiben Waterfalls

The Stuiben Waterfalls offer one of the easier hikes in Tyrol, suitable even for families with small children. The trail includes footbridges and bridges following a mountain stream, where you’ll see smaller cascading waterfalls. In summer, don’t forget to bring a swimsuit if you’d like to cool off in the water.

Practical information: The waterfalls can be reached from a free parking lot near Plansee (the parking area is marked on the map at the end of this article). The same parking lot is a great starting point for exploring the surroundings — for example, you can hike on an unmarked trail to the top of Tauernberg (about 1.5 hours), where you’ll enjoy fantastic views of Plansee.

Stuiben waterfalls

Zugspitze

The Zugspitze (2962 m) lies right on the border with Germany, about half an hour from Reutte. It is the highest peak in Germany and in the Bavarian Alps. You can reach the top by a modern cable car from Obermoos, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Alpine peaks.

For current opening hours and ticket prices, visit the official website.

Eibsee below the Zugspitze, view from the highest mountain in Germany
Eibsee below the Zugspitze, view from the highest mountain in Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle and Waterfalls on the Lech River

Let’s cross over to Germany for a moment, as the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle and the waterfalls on the Lech River are just 20 minutes from Reutte. The best time to visit the waterfalls is in spring after the snow has melted, when the river carries a large amount of water.

More inspiration: The most beautiful places in the German Alps

waterfalls on the Lech River

Tyrolean Cuisine: What to Taste

When you’re in the mountains of Tyrol, be sure to try the local cuisine — it’s hearty, traditional, and will give you plenty of energy for your adventures.

A typical dish is Tiroler Gröstl, a mix of potatoes, onions and meat with a fried egg on top. Also popular are Speckknödel (bread dumplings with bacon) and Käsespätzle, handmade noodles with cheese and onions.

For something sweet, try the classic Apfelstrudel filled with apples and cinnamon, or Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy torn pancake served with fruit compote.

More inspiration: Best things to do in the Austrian Alps

Kaiserschmarrn
Kaiserschmarrn – what to taste in Tyrol

When to visit Tyrol

The best time for hiking in Tyrol is generally from June to September. Thanks to milder winters and climate change, some lower-altitude trails can already be accessible in May, and even in October if the weather stays stable. However, be aware that snowfields can still linger on northern slopes in May and June, especially at higher elevations.

From June onwards, the alpine meadows transform into colourful pastures, but afternoon thunderstorms are more frequent in June and July. August is the busiest month, particularly around cable cars and major attractions, although hikers usually spread out along the trails.

For the most peaceful experience and typically stable weather, September is highly recommended — it’s usually drier, with fantastic visibility on clear days.

The warmest months for swimming in alpine lakes are July and August, when the water reaches a comfortable temperature.

Weather in Tyrol by month

Weather in Tyrol by month

¹ Temperatures correspond to the normal daily range in the valley areas of Tyrol (e.g. Innsbruck, Lienz) according to the different parts of the region.
² Icons 💧 indicate the approximate amount of precipitation – the more drops, the higher the probability of rain. In summer, afternoon thunderstorms occur

Things to do in Tyrol – map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map with the best things to do in Tyrol and the most beautiful places to visit in Tyrol, Austria. Click the icon in the top left corner of the map to display separate layers with highlighted locations. You can easily show or hide these layers, or click on the icons to see the names of each place mentioned in this Tyrol travel guide. If you want to save the map for later, simply star it. For a larger view, click the icon in the top right corner.

This was our travel guide and the best things to do in Tyrol, Austria. What are your favourite places? Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!

More information about the Alps

AUSTRIAN ALPS: Discover the best places to visit in the Austrian Alps, including hiking tips and walking routes in the area.

Get inspired by the most beautiful places to see in Carinthia, with a detailed guide to Lake Wörthersee and tips for the most beautiful lakes in Austria.

BAVARIAN ALPS: Check out the best things to do in the Bavarian Alps.

DOLOMITES: We have prepared a detailed guide with tips on the best hikes and walking routes in the Dolomites.

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