Innsbruck

Innsbruck is the capital of the Alps, combining historic architecture with mountain sports. It hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1964 and 1976.

Its old town holds the Golden Roof, a balcony covered in gilded copper tiles built for Emperor Maximilian I around 1500. From the city centre a funicular and cable car climb the Nordkette range, looking down on the whole city from above 2,000 metres.

About 20 minutes away, the Swarovski Crystal Worlds at Wattens, with their gardens and art chambers, are a family favourite.