The Best Bars in Innsbruck for Pre-Dinner Drinks
After a long day out and about exploring the city, what better way to start the evening than with a drink at one of the local bars? Here are some of the top spots in downtown Innsbruck to enjoy an atmospheric apéritif in the Alps.
ELFRIEDE – Beer and More in the Medieval Oldtown
In centre of the city, just a stone's throw from the famous Golden Roof, lies a bar by the name of Elfriede. Known to locals simply as "Elfi", it offers an excellent location in the heart of the oldtown as well as a selection of beers (bottled and on tap), including a special "children's wheat beer" (alcohol-free, of course). The food is mostly vegetarian or vegan. If and when there is meat on the menu, it's always organic. Definitely worth a visit next time you are in the city.
Outdoor seating: Yes, right in the middle of the city.
Food: Everything from vegan spreads to organic Wiener Schnitzel.
Must-try drinks: Aperol Spritz (with a twist), "Cerveziano" with Aperol, beer and soda water. Lots more beer-inspired drinks for all tastes.
Non-alcoholic option: Homemade peach ice tea.
Why? Because it's a great central place for everyone to meet and offers a selection of drinks and food where everyone will find something they like.
FUCHS & HASE – Hidden Gem Next to the Cathedral
The Fuchs & Hase bar is hidden away in a corner of a large square in the centre of the city home to Innsbruck's mighty cathedral. It takes a bit of finding, but we definitely recommend making the effort. Inside there are vaulted ceilings dating back to the Middle Ages, while outside you can enjoy drinks overlooking the cathedral. Talking of drinks, most of those on the menu have been created by the barkeepers themselves. There is also a selection of wines, including several natural wines. Georg and Stephan, the two guys in charge of things at Fuchs & Hase, make a real effort to work closely with local producers. Follow them on Instagram to find out more about who they are and what they stand for.
Outdoor seating: Yes, with excellent views of Innsbruck Cathedral.
Food: Creative sandwiches like "Vietnamese Banh Mi" with pulled pork, pickled radish, fresh coriander and homemade Sriracha soy sauce.
Must-try drinks: "Fuchs & Hase-Special Spritzer" available in a range of colours: white, yellow, pink, red, purple and green. The White version is a mix of mango juice, yoghurt liqueur, soda water and prosecco.
Non-alcoholic option: Homemade cola.
Why? Urban setting and a wonderfully cool place to sit on a hot day.
Cafe Bar PLANSCH – A Place to Get the Party Started
The "Bögen", dozens upon dozens of railway arches running from east to west across the city, are Innsbruck's number one party spot. Heval Özkan chose number 69 as the location for his new cafe and bar called Plansch. The name, which means "splash", comes from the fact that Heval used to run the cafe at the local swimming pool. However, that is about the only similarity between the two locations. This new bar has a modern, stylish vibe yet has kept the original stone walls dating all the way back to 1856. When it comes to furniture and fittings, things are minimalistic. On hot days you can enjoy the evening sun on the west-facing terrace, though there is also plenty of shade available. A popular place for pre-dinner drinks despite the fact it isn't in the centre of the city.
Outdoor seating: Two outdoor seating areas – west and east.
Must-try drinks: "Negroni Sbagliato" – a slightly lighter version of the classic Negroni made with prosecco instead of gin.
Non-alcoholic option: "Zirbe Zitrone" – a fun fusionn of lemon, fresh strawberries and basil.
Why? You'll always find a nice place to sit: in summer on the east-facing terrace, in spring and autumn on the west-facing terrace, and in winter inside.
BLAUE BRIGITTE – Stylish Hotel Bar in the Oldtown
The first time I set foot in the Blaue Brigitte bar I was lost for words. This place is just so ... beautiful! It may be located on the top floor of the Hotel Weisses Kreuz in the oldtown, but it isn't a classic "rooftop bar". Instead, it has been built into the loft and designed in a Baroque style with lots of blue and gold elements. In the middle stands a brass-topped table where guests sit opposite each other – a great way to meet new people.
Outdoor seating: No.
Must-try drinks: : "The Bee in the Lemon Tree" is a special cocktail with a little taste of honey and thyme. It is made with vodka infused with honey and thyme for a period of 24 hours.
Alhohol-free option: "Basil Smash", an alcohol-free version of "Gin Basil Smash" made using homemade basil syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice and Tanqueray alcohol-free gin.
Why? This bar is the perfect combination of stylish and welcoming. It also has chilled-out music in the background and is the ideal spot to unwind.
LA CANTINA – The Perfect Cappuccino in the City Centre
La Cantina is not new – it has been around for many years and has become a firm favourite with Italians living in Innsbruck and all those who want a bit of Italian flair without having to drive south over the border. Coffee and croissants are served in the morning, while at lunch there is a small but fine selection of typically Italian dishes and in the evening it transforms from a café into a wine bar. Thursday is "aperitivo day" with a sumptuous buffet of North Italian dishes plus one drink available for a set price.
Outdoor seating: Yes.
Food: Yes.
Must-try drinks: Fine Italian wines like Lugana (my personal favourite) as well as really good coffee. On hot summer days, try an "affogato" (an espresso poured over a scoop of vanilla ice cream).
Why? Because the coffee really does taste like the stuff you get in Italy.
KATER NOSTER – Urban Vibe in the Centre of the City
It’s no wonder that the Kater Noster is so welcoming – with its mismatched retro couches, stools and chairs, everyone will find his or her favourite seat here. People come for the laid-back vibe and the atmosphere – this simply is a great place to chat into a long, unwinding evening and to enjoy a cold beer or a stunning drink from their unusual cocktail menu. There is often live music in the adjoining basement in the evenings.
Outdoor seating: On the pavement out front.
Food: Soups & stews, cake.
Must-try drinks: Gin & tonic. With over 30 different types of gin, you can enjoy a very special custom-made gin & tonic here. The bartender’s choice is the Star Gin & Tonic (Star of Bombay gin, lemongrass, pink grapefruit, tonic and pepper).
Non-alcoholic option: Vanilla-Cinnamon Iced Coffee (with just the right amount of sweetness, perfect for whiling away an evening outdoors).
Why? Because this sophisticated place gives you the full package of great cocktails and an amazingly urban ambience.
STAGE BAR – The Place to Be in Maria-Theresien-Straße
This is not a place you’ll likely stumble across, yet this stylish hideaway is definitely worth the extra effort to seek out. Hidden away down a narrow alley off the bustling Maria-Theresien-Straße you will find the brand-new Stage 12 Hotel by Penz. Its contemporary ground floor interiors feature the all-new Stage Bar, which takes its name from the fact that it was built on the site of the popular Breinössl-Bühne, an amateur dramatics theatre in the centre of Innsbruck. Cosy up in the comfy chairs and small tables in front of floor-to-ceiling windows or head to the bar to watch the bartenders at work. Top marks for the attentive service, with staff bringing plenty of water and bowl after bowl of popcorn – both essential after a few drinks here.
Smoking: No.
Outdoor seating: Wonderful beer garden in the inner courtyard and on Maria-Theresien-Straße.
Food: No.
Must-try drink: “Herbal Highball” (Beefeater Dry Gin, ginger, lemongrass, lavender vinegar, Schweppes Ginger Ale).
Non-alcoholic option: Eizbach Crystal Coke (transparent coke from Munich, Germany).
Why? Because this place is doing more to push bartending forward than any bar that’s opened up in a while in Innsbruck.
DIE PIZZEREI – Italian Food, Drinks and Vibe in the City
Sipping a cocktail in a pizzeria? Yes, if it’s the Pizzerei we are talking about. It’s a stylish and hip place with a good dose of Italy. So if you’re feeling more in the mood to sit back and sip something slowly, you’ve come to the right place. There’s real talent here. Specialising in finest Italian food and drink, it's an excellent spot for pre-dinner or post-dinner drinks with plenty of finger food such as homemade tramezzini, Piadine romagnole and Olive ascolane. Or, why not go all out and order what is widely considered the best pizza in town?
Smoking: No.
Outdoor seating: Yes, but only for dining as space is limited; table bookings essential.
Food: Yes.
Must-try drink: Americano, custom-made to your personal preferences.
Non-alcoholic option: I asked the friendly bartender for a non-alcoholic drink that tastes not like your ordinary juice. I told him what I like, and he brought something new that was “so me” – a gin bitter without gin but ginger instead. I couldn’t believe it was non-alcoholic but it definitely was. The bartenders know their stuff and bring their A-game to any challenge!
Why? Because I love to pair my aperitivo lungo with pizza.
TRIBAUN – For Hop Heads and Malt Mavens in the City
Steep stairs sweep down into this basement bar, which has become a firm favourite among serious beer fans. Vintage seating and furniture and 1950 chairs set the tone. Pride of place is given to the counter, which boasts an array of interesting tap lines. Dedicated to craft beer, Tribaun is not your ordinary brewery pub – it’s a place where you’ll find selected beers from small-batch artisan breweries on tap and in bottles. There are so many different beers, the choice is almost overwhelming. But don’t worry, ask the friendly staff for recommendations and you’ll be presented with something magic. I tried a few different drops of the hoppy stuff before I ended up with a beer that was “so me” – delicious and somehow special. For some reason, drinking beer seems to be quite a male affair, but I would strongly recommend a visit the Tribaun to the ladies, too. After all, who needs prosecco if you can sample creative, daring and delicious brews? Cheers!
Outdoor seating: Yes.
Food: Nachos, tarte flambée, pizza on select days.
After-work special: They have often live music – make sure to check their Facebook page for details!
Must-try drinks: Blond Funky Wheat, which is low in alcohol (3.75% ABV) yet delicious. Or one of the creations from “Bierol”, a microbrewery in Schwoich, Tirol (5.6% ABV).
Non-alcoholic options: Fenitmas, Curiosity Coke.
Why? Great beer, nice people – what's not to like?
PANINOTHEK – Stylish Location Near the Railway Station
Contrary to the brooding mystery of many cocktail bars, the Paninothek is friendly, welcoming, chic and stylish. This is a revolving-door of a place and there are many things this neat spot does very well: espressos in the morning, with or without breakfast; Italian specialties at lunch; fine wines in the evening, when Paninothek transforms itself into one of Innsbruck’s best wine bars. Their wine list is almost overwhelming, yet the charming staff are both well informed and passionate about what to have. And if you’re here for a classic aperitif, they have everything from Americano and Prosecco to Aperol Spritz. On “Apero Wednesday” it’s a party bar, and live acts or DJs spin music to match. The Paninothek is a cafe by day, a wine bar by night, and an exquisite Italian bread shop all day long.
Smoking: No.
Outdoor seating: Yes.
Food: Panini, Focaccia, and more terrifically good Italian specialties.
After-work special: “Apero Wednesday” (Wednesdays from 17:00).
Must-try drink: I strongly recommend their iconic “Negroni” (gin, vermouth and Campari).
Why? Because this beautiful and loveable place adds a touch of Italian glamour to any evening.
THE 5th FLOOR – Classic Spot in the Heart of Innsbruck
Known to locals as the "Penz Bar", The 5th Floor is located on the top floor of the Hotel Penz in the centre of Innsbruck. Its large terrace overlooks the city and mountains – the perfect place to relax on a warm summer evening. Thanks to its location in a bustling hotel, this bar welcomes an interesting mix of locals and international visitors.
Outdoor seating: Large top-floor terrace.
Food: No.
Must-try drinks: This typically American bar has lots of great cocktails like Berry Seccy with sloeberry gin, prosecco, rose lemonade and fresh berries.
Alcohol-free options: Aprico Cooler with peach juice, freshly squeezed orange juice, lemon juice and ginger ale.
Why? The rooftop views are simply unbeatable.
DIE WÄSCHEREI – Location for Billiards, Darts & More
A friendly, warm and welcoming place. With its informal and relaxed vibe, this is a place where everyone feels at home. Men especially like the area right near the entrance, where the spacious billiards room is located. Plus, there is much more going on between the covers here, including an eclectic mix of table soccer, darts, board games and poker. The actual bar is situated on the left hand side, with a huge bar top and quiet corners to sit and dine. The food is definitely well worth trying. Die Wäscherei’s best feature is the rooftop terrace with lounge seating overlooking rugged and lofty Nordkette Mountains.
Outdoor seating: The rooftop terrace features some of the best panoramic views of Nordkette Mountains.
Food: Excellent dishes, including satisfying bar food such as tacos.
After-work special: Ladies night with free pool on Tuesdays from 18:00.
Must-try drink: Americano (Campari, Vermouth Rosso, soda water).
Non-alcoholic option: Taxi Driver (lemon, passion fruit juice, Ginger Ale, cucumber).
Why? Because it’s such a welcoming and relaxed place.
DIE WILDERIN – Poacher's Paradise in the City Centre
With its gorgeous, eclectic and vintage décor, you’ll be in for a treat at this restaurant and bar. And with decorative delights like sparkling chandeliers, drinking here is a little like being aboard the Titanic – albeit without that sinking feeling. The charming bar provides a range of unusual cocktails – whatever your preference, there’s bound to be something that will quench your thirst. Dishes are available in small and large plates so you can decide on just how you want to eat. Their vibrant and fresh menu changes weekly and makes the most of seasonal and locally sourced produce. The owners know all their meat suppliers personally – little surprise considering that the name "Die Wilderin" translates as "The Poacher".
Outdoor eating: No.
Food: Yes.
Must-try drink: "There comes a time in every woman’s life when the only thing that helps is a glass of champagne." This Bette Davis appears on the website of Die Wilderin. To help you get through in less dramatic moments of your life, Die Wilderin offers a wonderful Crémant Princess Lea, which bubbles and tastes like champagne at a fraction of the cost.
Non-alcoholic option: Spicy Ginger.
Why? Because this beautiful place is filled with fun, food and, most importantly, cocktails.
WOHNZIMMER – A Home from Home next to the Uni
“Wohnzimmer” translates to “Living Room”. And that’s just what it is. Its playful and quirky interior features plush vintage couches and armchairs, mismatched chairs and tables and plenty of decorations from Tirol and around the world. It’s easy to feel truly at home at this warm, inviting and welcoming place. There are a range of classic cocktails available, along with a good selection of more innovative signature drinks. With the sort of relaxed, informal vibe that you might expect from a bar with this moniker, it has quickly become a favourite haunt for locals.
Outdoor seating: Yes
Food: No
Must-try drink: “Rocco Siffredi”, their variant of a classic “Porn Star Martini” (Ketel One Vodka, Habanero Vodka, vanilla liquor, lemon juice, passion fruit syrup, fresh egg white and freshly grated parmesan cheese for that special “living room” touch).
Non-alcoholic option: Homemade iced tea.
Why? Because there’s no place like home.
DAS SCHINDLERS – Stylish Bar in the Heart of the City
Located right in the middle of Innsbruck sits a gleaming jewel with a chic vibe by the name of Das Schindler. With its sophisticated ambience and friendly staff, this bar right in the centre of the city is perfect for after-work cocktails to unwind and destress from the day you’ve just had. Finest house tunes are spun by local DJs like "The Waz Experience" on Fridays and Saturdays. Luckily, with good drinks come good people, and it’s a happy place.
Outdoor seating: No.
Food: You can order from the adjoining restaurant and have it delivered to the bar.
After-work special: DJs playing Friday & Saturday nights.
Must-try drink: A glass of wine like their Sauvignon Blanc from Burgenland, Austria, Schindler Selection.
Non-alcoholic option: “Virgin Schindler” cocktail (lychee juice, lime juice, coconut syrup, passion fruit juice).
Why? Because it’s such a happy place.
ADLERS BAR – Sky-High Cocktails Above Innsbruck
Adler’s Bar is in Innsbruck’s highest spot to drink. At 12 floors up, it offers a dazzling panorama of Tirol’s capital. Every seat in the restaurant and bar is given an unobstructed view of Innsbruck and its surrounding mountain ranges. During the warmer months, grab a seat on the ample outdoor patio where the vistas are even more jaw-dropping. It’s smart, with DJs playing many nights.
Outdoor seating: Oh, hello, views! The stylish outdoor patio affords a dazzling panorama of Innsbruck and its peak-ringed location.
Food: Amazing food is served in the adjoining restaurant.
Must-try drink: “French Kiss” (rosé wine, grapefruit syrup, lime juice).
Non-alcoholic option: San Pellegrino Aranciata.
Why? Because it’s worth coming for the view alone.
MACHETE BURRITO KARTELL – Good Food & Good Vibes
Casual and unassuming, Machete is the place to go for affordable drinks and good fun. The walls, ceiling and tables are adorned and decorated with curiosities, unsubtle nonsense winking away, such as a vintage rotary dial telephone. Unsurprisingly, this special space has its regulars, so the crowd is always good. The vibe is laid-back, the staff is friendly and strangers become family after a drink or two.
Outdoor seating: Yes, there’s an outdoor deck facing the Anichstraße.
Food: Mouth-watering burritos, prepared just the way you like them.
Must-try drink: Bierol Going Hazelnut, hyperlocal craft beer from Tirol.
Non-alcoholic option: All-natural Fritz Kola
Why? Their amazing burritos are guaranteed to leave you wanting more!
360 GRAD BAR – Panoramic Views from the City Centre
This spectacular round glass building is located on the seventh floor of the building which houses Innsbruck City Council. It's not a huge bar, but the limited seating kind of adds to the sense of exclusivity. When the weather’s good, grab a Latte Macchiato and get outside for some fresh air. It’s a chic and loveable place and their drinks are good – so it doesn’t feel like they’re relying on the sights. The views are incredible, stretching from the rooftops of Innsbruck to the Patscherkofel mountain in the south and the Nordkette Mountains in the north. For that special kick, watch airplanes on the most dramatic approach to any airport in Europe. Notably in Foehn conditions, this typical Innsbruck wind that blows in across Inntal Valley and creates turbulence.
Outdoor seating: 360-degree balcony – spaces fill up quickly in fine weather, even on winter days.
Food: No.
After-work special: The views! And the sunset!
Must-try drink: A wonderful white wine spritzer is a simple no-frills classic, best enjoyed outdoors on a warm summer night.
Non-alcoholic option: A creamy Latte Macchiato.
Why? It’s perfect for a few late night cocktails soaking up the view.
CAFÉ SAILER – A Hidden Treasure with a Bustling Vibe
Truth be told, Café Sailer might not look like much from the outside, but sit down for a drink and you’ll be won over by the contemporary interior design. Hidden behind an ordinary looking and unassuming 1970s housefront, Café Sailer’s cocktail offerings are nothing less than accomplished; the varied menu is packed with updated classics and signature mixes. The clientele includes business people working on their laptops and the casual chatter of regular visitors. Opt for a seat on the outdoor patio if you can. You’ll be happy to linger over a delicious toast while soaking up some evening sun. And although Café Sailer is somewhat away from the heart of town (it’s located towards the airport), it's a busy and happy place. There’s also free parking for guests.
Outdoor seating: Yes, they even have patio heaters.
Food: Their signature dish is toast; hot dishes served all day.
Must-try drink: Campari Milano (Prosecco, Campari, cranberry syrup, fresh mint leaves).
Non-alcoholic option: Exotic Cocktail (mango, pineapple, grapefruit, orange).
Why? Because they have no television and no Wifi internet access – which makes it a conversation-friendly and communal spot.
You might also be interested in this:
With a passion for detail and a twinkle in her eye, Christina Schwemberger takes you on a journey to meet amazing people, visit interesting places and experience all that Tirol has to offer.
