Innsbruck is famous for its stunning mountain views, historic old town, and endless outdoor adventures. But what happens when the skies turn grey and the rain starts pouring down? Don’t worry — whether you’re a solo traveler, an adventurous backpacker, or a nature lover looking for indoor alternatives, Innsbruck has plenty to offer even on a rainy day. Here’s our ultimate guide to making the most out of wet weather in the heart of Tyrol.
Sweat It Out: Visit a Sauna
Need to warm up and relax? Head to Salurner Straße. Their sauna area is the perfect place to detox, recharge your muscles after a hike, or simply embrace the cozy vibes of a rainy day. Solo travelers will love the chill atmosphere, and backpackers will appreciate the affordable day pass options.
https://www.ikb.at/baeder/dampfbad-und-sauna-salurner-strasse
Also Happy Fitness has very affordable options! The roof terrace is one of a kind. It’s the sauna area of a big and popular fitness studio, there are infusions every 30 minutes and also a steam bath and a bar!
Dive into Sound: Audioversum Science Center
For a unique experience, visit Audioversum — an interactive museum all about hearing and sound. It’s fun, educational, and super engaging for all ages. Ideal for solo adventurers who love to learn something new or travelers escaping a wet afternoon.
https://www.audioversum.at/en/ausstellungen
Sightseeing in Comfort: Hop on the Sightseer Bus
Still want to explore the city but stay dry? Jump on the Sightseer Hop-On Hop-Off Bus! You’ll cruise past Innsbruck’s top attractions without getting soaked — from the Golden Roof to the Bergisel Ski Jump. Perfect for first-time visitors and those who don’t want the rain to slow them down. The best stop to hop on starting at Montagu Hostel is at the Market Square just in front of the cafes.
https://www.innsbruck.info/sehenswuerdigkeiten/sightseeing/sightseer.html
Get Lost in a Book: City Library & Bookstores
Sometimes there’s nothing better than curling up with a good book. The Innsbruck City Library offers a modern, cozy space to read, study, or simply chill. If you’re more into browsing and vintage finds, check out local bookstores — like Tyrolia for a mix of English and German titles or well sorted, small second-hand shops hidden in the Old Town. Montagu’s favorite is Wagnersche, with a broad selection of travel books, local history books and which even has an amazing little café on the first floor.
https://stadtbibliothek.innsbruck.gv.at/de/home/1-0.html
https://www.wagnersche.at
http://www.liberwiederin.at/php/start.php/wiederin/?SS=3qmeooeh8tkd2brk92jbub4ep3&DB=wiederin&S=a
https://www.haymonbuchhandlung.at
Culture Fix: Theaters & imperial Castles
Innsbruck’s vibrant cultural scene doesn’t take a break when it rains. Catch a show at one of the city’s theaters, such as the biggest one: Tiroler Landestheater. There are many small, independent theaters, such as Montagu’s favorite “Theater Praesent”, the Brux Theater in the famous club street Bögenmeile, or the Keller Theater and Westbahntheater. Some of the theater shows are even in English language.
https://www.landestheater.at
https://www.theater-praesent.at
https://www.brux.at
http://kellertheater.at
https://westbahntheater.at
If you’re up for some real-life fairy tale vibes, Innsbruck’s castles are a total must-see. From royal halls to secret gardens, places like the central Hofburg in the old town and Ambras Castle feel like stepping straight into history of former royals— but with way better views. Perfect for anyone chasing hidden gems, epic photo ops, and a little adventure off the beaten path.
http://burghauptmannschaft.at/Betriebe/Hofburg-Innsbruck.html
Daydrinking, Anyone?
Let’s be honest — rainy days are perfect for a laid-back drink (or two). Innsbruck’s cozy cafés, local breweries, and hidden bars offer the perfect atmosphere for some guilt-free daydrinking. Try a craft beer at Tribaun, sip Austrian wine in a snug wine bar like La Pausa or visit a hip space like Kater Noster, Machete or 6020. The best sunny locations are the terraces of the Marktplatz Café, the 360 Degree Café or the terrace of A casa.
Indoor Fun: Escape Games, Yoga, and Ping Pong
Looking for something a bit more active? Challenge yourself at Escape Games Innsbruck, join a drop-in yoga class at one of the local studios, or unleash your competitive spirit at Mr. Tischtennis “PinkPong”— a cool ping pong bar that’s popular with locals and travelers alike.
https://www.mr-tischtennis.at/
There is also a location called “B1” that has several amazing indoor options like a go-cart track, a bowling area with over 10 bowling alleys, escape rooms and even a laser dome.
https://www.b1.at/
YOGA
https://www.latifee.studio
https://www.yoga-innsbruck.com
https://www.yoganest.at
ESCAPE GAMES
https://www.escapegame-innsbruck.at
https://innsbruck.nowayout-escape.at/de
https://worldofescapes.at/innsbruck
Treasure Hunting: Vintage Shops & Shopping Centers
Spend the rainy hours vintage hunting in Innsbruck’s quirky second-hand stores. If you spend an afternoon exploring Innsbruck’s second-hand stores, chances are you’ll leave not just with a bag full of unique finds — but looking like a true local yourself. The vintage and thrift scene here perfectly reflects Innsbruck’s laid-back, adventurous spirit: practical outdoor pieces, cool streetwear, and a touch of Alpine charm. Whether you pick up a retro ski jacket, a timeless denim piece, or a cozy fleece sweater, blending in with the stylish Innsbruck crowd will feel effortless.
Montagu’s favorite is Die Diele in the hostels neighbourhood: Each piece is handpicked, ensuring that shoppers find unique items that tell a story. The store’s cozy atmosphere and Janine’s passion for vintage fashion make it a must-visit for those seeking distinctive, eco-friendly wardrobe additions. The shop is run by a friend and offers 10% discount to hostel guests. https://www.diediele.at/
NOWHEREVINTAGE is a must-visit for vintage enthusiasts in Innsbruck. Located at Anichstraße 21, this store offers a curated selection of second-hand clothing and accessories that blend style with sustainability. From classic dresses and retro jackets to unique
accessories, each item is handpicked, ensuring a diverse range of styles from various eras. https://nowherevintage.com/
Monte Gwand stands out with its curated selection of high-quality vintage and second-hand fashion — perfect for anyone who loves stylish finds with a story. https://www.montegwand.com/
For more mainstream shopping, hit the Kaufhaus Tyrol, DEZ, Einkaufszentrum West or Sillpark Mall — both great spots to stay dry and pick up some unique souvenirs.
Get Creative: workshops & classes
Sometimes the best memories start when you try something new — and Innsbruck has just the right workshops to spark your creativity. Build your own dream skis or snowboard at Spurart; learn about creativity and innovation at KI — Kulturinitiative Innsbruck with exhibitions and workshops or paint, craft, or jam with locals; whip up delicious dishes at a Futterkutter cooking class, or create your own piece of jewelry magic with Smykker. No experience needed, just curiosity and a little sense of adventure — because here, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about having a story to tell.
https://www.tki.at/veranstaltungen
CLASSES
Cooking
https://www.futterkutter-innsbruck.at/kochkurse
Building skis + snowboards
Design Jewelery:
GET SPORTY: KLETTERZENTRUM INNSBUCK & FLIP. LAB TRAMPOLINE PARK
Rainy day energy to burn? If the mountains are calling but the weather isn’t playing along, head indoors to KI – Kletterzentrum Innsbruck. One of Europe’s leading climbing gyms, KI offers towering walls, bouldering caves, and endless routes for every level — from total beginners to seasoned climbers. It’s the perfect place to challenge yourself, meet other adventure seekers, and feel that mountain spirit even when it’s raining outside. They also rent out shoes and everything else you might not have brought 😉
Or bounce off the walls (literally) at Flip Lab, a giant freestyle and trampoline playground that’s all about flips, tricks, and laughing like a kid again.
https://fliplab.at/innsbruck/
https://www.kletterzentrum-innsbruck.at/
A Sparkling Detour: Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Visiting Swarovski Crystal Worlds is like stepping into a dream woven from light and fantasy. Behind the giant’s head, hidden worlds unfold — shimmering labyrinths, floating art, and secret gardens that invite you to lose yourself for a while. Whether you’re chasing creativity, wonder, or just a break from the everyday, this place lets you see the world through a thousand sparkling reflections. Grab your backpack, hop on the bus just 10 walking minutes from Montagu Hostel, and let the crystals guide you into a world where imagination shines brighter than the rain outside.
https://kristallwelten.swarovski.com/Content.Node/wattens/index.de.html
Rainy Days = New Adventures
Rain doesn’t have to ruin your time in Innsbruck — it just opens the door to new kinds of adventures. From steamy saunas and historic palaces to cozy cafés and indoor playgrounds, you’ll find that this Alpine city shines even when the sun doesn’t.
Looking for even more insider tips? Ask our team at Montagu Hostel Innsbruck — everyone has their own best rainy day spots and are happy to share our local favorites! 🌧️🗺️
