If you are looking for a weekend trip that blows your mind with beauty and stunning views, then you need to add Kufstein to your Itinerary. Kufstein is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a true gem that everyone should consider visiting.
Here are some of my top things to do in Kufstein:
- How to Reach Kufstein from Munich
- Where to Stay in Kufstein
- Top Things to Do in Kufstein
- 1. Visit the Kufstein Fortress (Festung Kufstein)
- 2. Take a stroll through the Old Town
- 3. Ride the Panoramabahn cable car (Kaiserlift Kufstein)
- 4. Explore the nature around Kufstein
- 5. Visit the Riedel Glass Factory
- 6. Visit the Tischofer Cave
- 7. Attend a concert at the Festungarena
- 8. Enjoy some local cuisine
How to Reach Kufstein from Munich
Train: From Munich East station you can take the regional train BRB RB54 to Kufstein. The whole trip is covered by the 49€ ticket so no need to buy another ticket. It takes around 1h 10 min.
By Car: Take A8 up to Dreieck Inntal. Then follow A93 towards Kufstein. It takes around 1h 15min.
It is also well connected to the cities of Innsbruck and Salzburg which takes around 1.5hrs
Where to Stay in Kufstein
There are several options available depending on your budget and preferences. If you want to experience the local culture, you can choose to stay in a traditional guesthouse or a bed and breakfast. These accommodations offer a cozy and comfortable stay with personalized service.
For those who prefer modern amenities, there are several hotels and resorts in Kufstein. These properties offer luxurious rooms, spa facilities, and fine dining options. You can also choose to stay in a vacation rental if you want more privacy and space
Check the Free Kufsteinerland Card and activities you can do for free with the Card
Top Things to Do in Kufstein
1. Visit the Kufstein Fortress (Festung Kufstein)
Kufstein Fortress is a stunning medieval fortress located in Kufstein, Austria. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, attracting visitors from all over the world. The fortress was built in the 13th century and has been well-preserved to this day. During World War I, the fortress was used as a prison camp for Italian soldiers. And, did you know that the fortress holds the record for having the largest organ in the world? It’s made up of an impressive 4,948 pipes!
You can also visit the prison rooms where you can see all prisoners’ information, photos, and history. If you visit the prison rooms, you can experience one-room play of the conversation between the priest and the commander as a hologram
The fortress is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Kufstein and the River Inn. It served as an important defensive structure during the Middle Ages and was a key stronghold during many battles and wars. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to learn about the history of the region.
Visitors to Kufstein Fortress can explore the various rooms and chambers inside, including the armory, chapel, and dungeon. They can also enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area from the top of the fortress tower. The fortress is also home to a museum that showcases the history of the region and the fortress itself.
You can download the Kufstein app to listen to an audio-guided tour and also take the fortress lift to the top for stunning views.
Overall, Kufstein Fortress is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history or medieval architecture. Its stunning location, well-preserved structure, and fascinating history make it a truly unique and memorable experience and it should be on the top list of things to do in Kufstein
Opening times: The Kufstein Fortress is open daily from 9-6 pm (Summer) and 10-5 pm (Winter)
Fees: The entrance fee for Kufstein Fortress is €14 (Summer) and €12.5 (Winter) for adults, For more details check the below image
2. Take a stroll through the Old Town
Kufstein’s Old Town is a charming area full of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and quaint shops and cafes. The centerpiece of the Old Town is the Kufstein Fortress, a medieval castle that dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about its rich history, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
Other notable attractions in the Old Town include the Town Hall, the Parish Church of St. Vitus, and the Römerhofgasse, a street lined with colorful houses and shops. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just soaking up the atmosphere of a charming European town, Kufstein Old Town is definitely worth a visit.
3. Ride the Panoramabahn cable car (Kaiserlift Kufstein)
The Kufstein Panoramabahn cable car is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Austria. This cable car takes you on a breathtaking ride up the mountains, offering stunning panoramic views of the town and the Tyrolean Alps. The cable car takes about 30 minutes to reach the top (Brentenjoch station – located at 1256 m)
Once you reach the top, you can take a leisurely walk along the mountain trails, enjoy a picnic with your family, or simply relax and soak in the stunning views. The Kufstein Panoramabahn cable car is open all year round and offers a unique experience in every season. In winter, you can enjoy the snow-capped mountains and go skiing or snowboarding. In summer, the mountains are covered in lush greenery and offer a perfect escape from the heat.
It has 2 sections I (Duxer Alm) and II (Brentenjoch station) and you need to change at Duxer Alm station to reach the top
Once you reach the top, you can also enjoy playing with Alpacas.
The cable car is safe and comfortable, making it an ideal activity for families with children or elderly people. The staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring that your experience is enjoyable from start to finish. If you’re planning a trip to Austria, make sure to add the Kufstein Panoramabahn cable car to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience! Also, make this top list of things to do in Kufstein
Opening times: 29.04 (April) – 29.10 (October). Kaiserlift daily 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
The last entry for ascent is 4:15 p.m., last descent 4:30 pm
Fees: Both up and down is €21 for Adults, for more details check the below image
You can save €21 and take a free ride with Kufsteinerland Card
4. Explore the nature around Kufstein
Kufstein is a beautiful town surrounded by breathtaking nature. The area is known for its stunning mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. There are plenty of hiking trails that offer amazing views of the surrounding landscape. One of the most popular trails is the Kaisertal Nature Reserve, which features a picturesque valley with waterfalls and streams.
Another great option is the Pendling Mountain Trail, which takes hikers to the summit of the Pendling Mountain for panoramic views of the region. For those looking for a more leisurely stroll, the Thiersee Lake Trail is a great choice. This easy trail follows the shoreline of the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic walk, Kufstein has something to offer everyone who loves nature and the great outdoors.
5. Visit the Riedel Glass Factory
If you’re a fan of wine, don’t miss the chance to visit the Riedel Glass Factory. This world-renowned glassware manufacturer produces high-quality wine glasses that are used by wine connoisseurs around the world. You can tour the factory and learn about the glass-making process, as well as purchase some beautiful glassware to take home.
The tour also includes a visit to the showroom where you can see and purchase their stunning glassware. The factory is open year-round, but it’s best to book in advance as tours fill up quickly.
Overall, visiting the Riedel Glass Factory is an unforgettable experience that combines art, science, and wine. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each glass and a desire to bring some of that beauty into your own home.
Entrance fees: It’s free
Opening times: 9.30 am to 6 pm
6. Visit the Tischofer Cave
Visiting Tischofer Cave is an incredible experience that should not be missed. Located in the Austrian Alps, this cave offers a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of nature.
As you enter the cave, you will be greeted by stunning stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over thousands of years. The intricate formations create a surreal atmosphere that is both mesmerizing and awe-inspiring. One of the highlights of Tischofer Cave is the underground waterfall. As you make your way through the cave, you will come across this breathtaking natural wonder. The sound of the water cascading down adds to the magical ambiance of the cave.
Exploring Tischofer Cave requires some physical fitness as there are steep and narrow passages to navigate. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight to fully enjoy the experience.
Overall, visiting Tischofer Cave is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will leave you in awe of the beauty and power of nature. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Austrian Alps.
7. Attend a concert at the Festungarena
The concert held at the Festungarena which is an open-air stage located inside the Kufstein Fortress was an absolutely breathtaking event that left the audience in complete awe. The venue itself was a magnificent sight to behold, with its ancient walls and stunning architecture that absolutely took your breath away.
The performers were equally impressive and delivered a show that was not only thoroughly entertaining but also completely captivating. The sound quality was superb, and the lighting added an extra dimension to the overall experience. The crowd was enthusiastic and engaged throughout the entire concert, cheering and singing along to every song. The atmosphere was electric, and it was crystal clear that everyone was having an amazing time.
Overall, the concert at the Festungarena was a truly unforgettable experience that showcased the absolute best of live music and entertainment. If you ever get the opportunity to attend a concert at this venue, don’t hesitate – it’s an experience you definitely won’t regret!
8. Enjoy some local cuisine
No trip to Kufstein is complete without trying some of the local cuisines. Tyrolean cuisine is known for its hearty, filling dishes, such as schnitzel, dumplings, and strudel. There are plenty of restaurants in Kufstein that serve traditional Tyrolean dishes, so be sure to indulge in some local flavors.
In conclusion, Kufstein is a hidden gem in Austria that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, there are plenty of things to do in Kufstein and see in this charming town. So pack your bags and head to Kufstein for an unforgettable vacation!
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