Kufstein
Austria
The “Pearl of Tyrol”
Known as the “Pearl of Tyrol”, the small town of Kufstein has been celebrated by a popular folk song, and is steeped in history and character. Surrounded by the mighty Kaiser Mountains and Brandenburg Alps, the historic town on the banks of the Inn River is a charming place full of cobblestone streets, unusual shops and ancient sights. It offers excellent shopping and a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars, all within a compact town center characterized by medieval arches, lanterns, and elaborately frescoed facades, and sitting below a memorable clifftop castle.
The neighboring Kaisertal was Austria's last inhabited valley to be connected to the rest of the country by road, in 2008. Only locals are allowed to drive into the valley, so visitors must climb 300 steps to take in its unspoiled beauty. More easily reached at the surrounding region's many lakes and organic farms, including distilleries and dairies. Upstream from Kufstein lies Innsbruck, an hour's drive away (or half that by high-speed train), while the German border is a short distance to the north.
What I love about Kufstein
Sasha
Central Europe Destination Expert & Prague City Host
I'd never heard of Kufstein before I started to work for JayWay Travel - and what a shame that is! The second largest Tyrolean city truly is a hidden gem. The fortress is the main attraction here but my favourite spot is the Romerhofgasse - a picturesque alley with a gingerbread-like charm to its houses and, more importantly, "Stollen 1930" - a stylish bar with the largest collection of gin in the world (over 1000 types)!
Where to stay in Kufstein
Kufstein's quaint size is a big part of its appeal, but while you won't find quantity here, you'll certainly find quality. We've picked the town's best accommodations, from charming lodgings that will take you back centuries, to modern boutique hotels with thoughtful touches. Once we start preparing your customized itinerary, we will present our recommended options for you to select from.
Classic Central Hotel
Comfortable rooms in the heart of Kufstein with a good restaurant onsite.
Design Boutique Hotel
Riverside boutique mixing Austrian traditions with themed rooms and the world's largest gin collection.
Modern Design Hotel
Bright, modern hotel in the Culture Quarter with firendly staff and fortress views. A small gym, sauna and a wine bar also onsite.
Things to do in Kufstein
Kufstein itself is a charismatic delight, especially the Romerhofgasse, a mesmerizing, dreamlike road that brings to mind nursery rhymes, with its overhanging arches, cobbled surface, and elaborately carved and painted walls. Kufstein wears its eponymous 800-year old fortress like a crown, its circular towers accessible by funicular. Within the castle is the world's largest freestanding organ -- its 5,000 pipes can be heard across town at noon, when it's played to honor WWI's victims. The town is also home to the famed Riedel Glassworks.
Kufstein is surrounded by natural beauty, from lakes to natural reserves, and the original stud farm for the region's beloved Haflinger horses. Take the Kaiserlift up the side of the Kaiser Mountains to enjoy some of the area's best hiking trails, or even climb 300 steps into the Kaisertal, the last inhabited valley in Austria to be connected to the rest of the country by road (in 2008, although only local drivers are allowed).
Kufstein Fortress Private Tour
Popular Tour Itineraries Featuring Kufstein
Spend some time in Kufstein on a tour that takes in other cities in Austria and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Kufstein and other destinations make traveling in Central & Eastern Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.
Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Kufstein
Can I pay by card in Kufstein?
Credit cards are widely accepted in Kufstein, but we still recommend having 20 EUR/person/day in cash. You can take out Euros from the ATMs in the entrances to banks, or exchange other currencies at exchange offices.
How can I get around Kufstein?
Kufstein is easy to explore on foot. You may even spend more time inside the fortress, marveling from within its thick walls, than walking on the streets, although there are plenty of other engaging museums to discover. Of course, one of the town's big draws is the memorable surrounding museum. There are a lot of engaging and thrilling museums in Kufstein to discover! Consider getting a Kufstein Card, which covers the cable cars and funiculars that will take you to stunning vistas and beautiful hiking routes.
When are the local shops and cultural hotspots open?
Kufstein's museums are generally open from 10 AM to at least 6 PM, but are usually closed on Mondays and public holidays. Concert halls offer acoustic experiences nearly every day. Shops open from the early morning until around 8 PM but close on Sundays. Souvenir shops await guests year round, but close in the late afternoon. Some restaurants close on Mondays.
Is Kufstein safe?
Even by Austrian standards, little Kufstein is especially safe.
What is there to eat in Kufstein?
Kufstein is a Tyrolean town with a great variety of traditional food on offer in its restaurants.
How long should I spend in Kufstein?
History buffs and avid hikers should spend a night in Kufstein. Otherwise, we tend to recommend it as a stop for those traveling between Salzburg, Munich, and Innsbruck.