Things To Do
in Schwaz
Schwaz sits in the Inn Valley of Tyrol, Austria, with a rich mining heritage and a charming historic core of timber-framed houses. The town serves as a gateway to the surrounding Alps, offering easy access to hikes, museums, and traditional Tyrolean cuisine. Its cultural blend of medieval architecture and alpine scenery creates a relaxed base for year-round exploration.
Visitors will find a welcoming local scene, a well-preserved old town, and proximity to Innsbruck and the Zillertal valleys.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Schwaz, take some time to settle into your accommodation and soak in the fresh alpine air. Once you are refreshed, stroll through the charming streets of the town and admire the historical architecture. Be sure to grab a coffee at a local café while enjoying the beautiful views of the mountains surrounding Schwaz.
Visit the Schwaz Silver Mine, where you can embark on an underground tour and learn about the town's rich mining history. The guided tour offers fascinating insights into the past, and you can see the impressive tunnels and chambers. After your adventure, take a leisurely lunch in town, sampling some traditional Tyrolean cuisine.
As dusk falls, wander to the Hauptplatz, the main square of Schwaz, where local shops and restaurants come alive. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Tyrolean restaurant, savoring the flavors of local dishes. Conclude your night with a scenic walk along the river, where the illuminated landscape creates a magical atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the Schwaz Museum, which chronicles the history and culture of the region. Explore various exhibits filled with artifacts, historical documents, and art that reflect the town's rich heritage. Engage with friendly guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge of Schwaz's past.
Spend the afternoon at the nearby Pfarrkirche Schwaz, a stunning parish church known for its impressive Gothic architecture. Take a moment to absorb the beauty of the interior, highlighted by intricate stained glass and historical altars. After this peaceful visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro that showcases local specialties.
In the evening, attend a local event or concert if available, as Schwaz often plays host to cultural happenings. Enjoy the ambiance and perhaps meet some locals who can share more stories about their traditions. Finish your day with a nightcap at a cozy pub, toasting to your experiences so far.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚌One-way local transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨1-night in mid-range hotel | $100-150 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-4 |
| 🍷Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Alpine scenery and easy access to Tyrolean culture.
- Compact town with walkable center and mining history.
- Smaller nightlife compared to Innsbruck; limited direct international flight options.
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello (good day)
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Wo ist das Stadtzentrum?" - Where is the city center?
Places to Visit in Schwaz
Visit one of these nice places.
Photogenic timber-framed façades, the market arcades, and the surrounding mountain backdrop.
Historic church façade with Alpine light and details ideal for architecture and sunrise photography.
Scenic overlook along the valley offering sweeping views of Schwaz and the surrounding peaks.
Food in Schwaz
Schwaz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fry-up of potatoes, onions, and meat, often topped with a fried egg.
Must-Try!
Cheesy egg noodles layered with caramelized onions, a beloved Tyrolean staple.
Shredded pancake dessert served with fruit compote or applesauce.
A mixed grill platter featuring local cured meats and charcuterie.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market stalls with regional produce, breads, cheeses, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Grüsse Gott or Servus; be courteous and address using polite forms.
Be punctual; quiet behavior on public transport and in residential areas, especially at night.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Schwaz
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants and cafes.
Cash and cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days; long daylight hours ideal for hiking, biking, and outdoor dining. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible.
Cold temperatures with snow in the higher Alps; great for winter sports in nearby resorts and Christmas markets in town.
Mild temperatures with blooming flora; good for city exploring and lighter outdoor treks.
Fall colors in the surrounding hills; harvest markets and quieter trails as crowds thin.
Schwaz at Night
Hiking in Schwaz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Panoramic day hikes with views of the Inn Valley and surrounding peaks.
Relaxed hikes along the river with scenic foothill landscapes.
Ridge hike near Schwaz offering alpine scenery and photo opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Schwaz by plane.
The closest airport, about 30-60 minutes by car or rail to Schwaz.
A major international hub about 2-3 hours by train or car and a common gateway for travelers to Tyrol.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Tyrolean Austrians with deep-rooted alpine traditions.
Tourists and hikers in summer; winter sport enthusiasts in the colder months.
People passing through Schwaz en route to Innsbruck, Zillertal, or Achensee.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter sport traditional in Tyrol with many nearby resorts.
Summer trails in the Alps with glacier views and alpine meadows.
Road cycling along the Inn Valley and mountain biking in the surrounding hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schwaz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Tyrolean dishes can be made vegetarian; look for cheese and mushroom-based dishes, and ask for egg-free options on request.