Cities

	Innsbruck Innsbruck is the capital of the Tyrol. Located in the Inntal valley at a strategic road and rail junction lying 30km south of the German border and 30km north of Italy. It takes 1.5 hours by road or rail from Munich to Innsbruck, 3 hours from Verona and 4 hours from Venice. Innsbruck is the 5th largest city in Austria boasting 120,000 inhabitants and a rich and varied history. It was one of the centers of culture during the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The rich heritage of that period can still be seen today in the “Golden Dachl”, the Ambras Castle, the Hofkirche and the Hofburg. Modern architecture and art are catered for in the BTV-Stadtforum, the new Bergisel museum, the Bergisel ski jump and the impressive cable railway to the Nordkette mountains, both designed by the world famous architect Zaha Hadid. The winter Olympics were held here in 1964 and 1976 and the youth Olympics in 2012. For many years Innsbruck has hosted a Baroque music festival (“Festwochen der alten Musik”) which is one of the highlights of the summer tourist season. Have a look to the photos
	Hall in Tyrol Hall is only 10 km from Innsbruck. Here you will find a famous salt mine that thrived from the Middle Ages until the 20th century. Salt was exported to Germany and Italy and many other destinations. As a result Hall was the commercial center of north Tyrol for many hundreds of years. Its past prosperity is reflected in the splendid mix of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and modern architecture. Hall also boasts museums and a rapidly expanding Arts Center.
	Schwaz Schwaz is situated 30km to the east of Innsbruck. Here silver was mined in Medieval times which made the town prosperous a fact reflected in its magnificent medieval buildings.
	Rattenberg Rattenberg is located 50km to the east of Innsbruck and grew up in the shadow of a 10th century castle. It was a centre of trade between the Tyrol and Barvaria. It is known now for its glass factory and its summer festival.
	Kufstein Kufstein is located 80km to the east of Innsbruck close to Barvaria and saw a great deal of conflict in the time of the Habsburg Empire. The most important monument in Kufstein is its fortress, which was used as a prison. Very popular classical music festivals are held here in the summer.