Imperial Palace (Hofburg) Tours

Dating back to the 15th century, the Imperial Palace (Hofburg) was among the lavish imperial residences of the Hapsburg dynasty. Redesigned by Empress Maria Theresa in the 18th century, it’s a feast of baroque and rococo style, adorned with gleaming marble, glittering gold, and elaborate frescoes.

The Basics
A visit to the Hofburg is a popular inclusion on Innsbruck city tours, and walking tours of the Old Town often include at least a photo stop outside the grand palace. Visitors can also explore the magnificent interiors, including the state rooms and imperial apartments. Highlights include the Giant’s Hall, with its stunning ceiling frescoes; the Guard Room, covered with paintings of the Hapsburgs; the Furniture Gallery; and the opulent Empress Elisabeth Apartment.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an admission fee for the palace; entrance is included with the Innsbruck Card and free for children.
• The Hofburg is also home to the Sacher Café Innsbruck, a branch of the famous Viennese coffeehouse. Be sure to try the world-renowned Sacher torte chocolate cake.
• Audio guides, included with the entrance fee, are available in multiple languages including English. 
• The palace is wheelchair-accessible.

How to Get There
The Hofburg is located at the northern end of Innsbruck Old Town. It’s easy to reach the landmark on foot, just a short stroll from the Golden Roof and the Court Church (Hofkirche) or a 15-minute walk from Innsbruck train station.

When to Get There
The palace is open daily all year round from morning to late afternoon; last entrance is at 4:30pm. Visitors with children should opt for a Sunday visit, when entrance is free for kids and up to two accompanying adults.

A Walking Tour of Innsbruck Old Town
The Hofburg is one of a number of historic attractions in Innsbruck’s Old Town, and a walking tour is the most convenient way to explore. After visiting the Imperial Palace, head to the neighboring Hofkirche, which houses the impressive cenotaph of Maximilian I, then stop to admire architectural landmarks such as the Golden Roof and Helbling House along Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse. Other notable highlights are the 18th-century Cathedral of St. James, the Stadtturm watch tower, and the Tyrolean State Museum.