Things To Do
in Telfs

Telfs is a charming Tyrolean town in the Inn Valley, just west of Innsbruck, surrounded by limestone peaks and rolling meadows. It serves as a convenient gateway to the Mieming Plateau and other Alpine trails, blending small-town charm with easy access to outdoor adventures. The town center offers traditional Tyrolean architecture, welcoming cafes, and seasonal markets that reflect the region’s culture.

With its compact size and scenic setting, Telfs is ideal for relaxed exploration, family trips, and nature lovers seeking authentic Tyrolean experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Telfs parish church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. After admiring the intricate details, stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, where local shops and bakeries beckon with the aroma of fresh pastries. Grab a traditional Austrian breakfast at a cozy café, enjoying coffee and a slice of Apfelstrudel while soaking in the atmosphere.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the local museum to learn about Telfs' rich history and cultural heritage. Explore the surrounding area on foot, taking in the scenic views and perhaps stopping for lunch at a traditional Gasthaus. As you wander, keep an eye out for local art installations and quaint boutiques showcasing handcrafted goods.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a spot at a local restaurant with outdoor seating to enjoy a traditional Tyrolean dinner. Savor local specialties such as Tiroler Gröstl or Speckplatte while basking in the ambiance of the town square. Conclude your evening with a leisurely stroll under the stars, appreciating the tranquility of Telfs at night.

day 2
Hiking in the Alps
morning
:

Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby mountains for a hiking adventure. Choose a trail suited to your skill level, such as the scenic paths leading to the picturesque Zirbenweg. The fresh mountain air and breathtaking views will invigorate your spirit as you ascend through the enchanting alpine landscape.

afternoon
:

After a morning of hiking, find a lovely spot for a packed lunch amidst the stunning alpine scenery. Spend the afternoon continuing your trek, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and unique flora along the way. The panoramic vistas from the mountain peaks will serve as a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.

evening
:

Return to Telfs in the evening, where you can relax at your accommodation or visit a local tavern. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner featuring regional dishes, perhaps complemented by a glass of Austrian wine. End your day by reflecting on your adventures while unwinding in a cozy atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-20
🥖Loaf of bread$2-4
🚆One-way local transit ticket$2-3
🛏️Basic hotel room per night$70-120
Coffee in café$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning Alpine scenery and easy access to outdoor activities
  • Compact town with walkable streets and authentic Tyrolean culture
  • Good value for money compared to larger alpine destinations
  • Proximity to Innsbruck and other Tyrolean regions for day trips
  • Friendly locals and seasonal markets with fresh local produce
  • Limited nightlife within Telfs itself; more options nearby in Innsbruck
  • Public transport can be less frequent in the evenings outside peak season
  • Some higher-altitude trails may require good planning and equipment
  • Smaller town amenities compared to big tourist hubs
  • "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Vegetarische Optionen?" - Vegetarian options?

Places to Visit in Telfs

Visit one of these nice places.

Inn River Vista at the Telfs Old Town Bridge

Photograph the river with the mountains in the backdrop, especially at sunrise or golden hour when the water reflects the sky.

Stadtplatz and Parish Church Facade

Capture the colorful town houses and the Baroque church facade in soft morning light; a classic Tyrolean street scene.

Inn Valley Panorama from Hillside Paths

Hike a short, gentle ridge overlook above the town for wide-angle shots of the valley and distant peaks.

Mieming Plateau Perspective

Low-altitude alpine meadows with distant mountains; ideal for wide landscape shots and seasonal flower displays.

Culinary Guide

Food in Telfs

Tyrolean cuisine is hearty and mountain-inspired, featuring dairy, potatoes, cabbage, game, and fresh herbs. Expect seasonal specialties and rustic flavors, often enjoyed with local bread and regional cheeses.

Telfs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tiroler Gröstl

Pan-fried potatoes, onions, and meat topped with a fried egg, a staple comfort dish in Tyrol.

Must-Try!

Kaiserschmarrn

Shredded pancake dessert dusted with sugar and served with plum or apple sauce.

Schlutzkrapfen

Delicate cheese-filled dumplings, often served with melted butter and herbs.

Speckknödel

Savory dumplings studded with Tyrolean speck (bacon) served in a light broth or with sauerkraut.

Tiroler Speckplatte

Assorted Tyrolean cured meats and cheeses, paired with bread and pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Telfs Wochenmarkt

Weekly market in the town square offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and local specialties (seasonal hours apply).

Street snacks

Casual stalls and small cafés near the town center offering pastries, pretzels, wurstl, and coffee.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences an Alpine climate with warm summers and cold winters. Expect rapid weather changes in the mountains; check forecasts before outdoor activities. Rain is possible year-round, with snow in higher elevations during the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with Grüß Gott or Hallo; use formal Sie with strangers until invited to use du.

Punctuality

Be punctual for appointments and public events; delays are noticed and appreciated to be minimized.

Dress and behavior

Dress modestly in churches and formal settings; speak in a courteous tone and avoid loud behavior in public.

Photography etiquette

Ask for permission when photographing people in private spaces or during performances.

Safety Guide

Safety

Telfs is generally safe for visitors. Practice standard safety for alpine activities, stay on marked trails, and carry a map or GPS. In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate help; healthcare facilities are accessible in Innsbruck and larger towns nearby.

Tipping in Telfs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and bars, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% is common if service is good; check if a service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and cafés.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with long daylight hours; excellent for hiking, biking, and outdoor markets. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible; carry light rain gear and sun protection.

Autumn

Golden foliage and comfortable temperatures; great for scenic walks and harvest festivals. Cooler evenings, so bring layers.

Winter

Snow-covered scenery and access to nearby ski areas; ideal for winter sports and cozy village atmospheres. Shorter daylight hours; plan activities earlier in the day.

Spring

Mild temps with blooming meadows and gradual snowmelt; trails can be muddy in lower elevations while higher passes open gradually.

Nightlife Guide

Telfs at Night

Telfs offers a relaxed nightlife with cozy pubs, beer gardens, and live music venues. For a more vibrant scene, many travelers head to Innsbruck or Seefeld, which have larger bars and clubs within easy reach by train or bus.

Hiking in Telfs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mieming Plateau (Mieminger Plateau)

Wide alpine meadows and forest trails with sweeping mountain views; suitable for day hikes and picnic spots.

Valley trails around Telfs

Gentle routes along the Inn valley with scenic overlooks and accessible trails for all levels.

Airports

How to reach Telfs by plane.

Innsbruck Airport (INN)

Closest international-style airport; easy to reach Telfs by car or train in about 35-45 minutes.

Munich Airport (MUC)

Major international hub; about 2-3 hours by rail or car with connections through Innsbruck.

Getting Around

Walkability

Telfs is highly walkable in the town center, with most attractions, cafés, and markets within a short stroll. For longer trips to the Mieming Plateau or Innsbruck, public transit or a short drive is convenient. Sidewalks and pedestrian routes are well-maintained, and bike-friendly options are available in the surrounding area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Austrians from Tyrol with strong Alpine traditions.

Tourists

Seasonal visitors seeking outdoor activities and Tyrolean culture.

Seasonal workers

Labor force supporting tourism and agriculture during peak seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Access to nearby alpine resorts; winter sports are popular in Tyrol.

Hiking and Trekking

Extensive summer trails in the Mieming Plateau and surrounding valleys.

Cycling and Mountain Biking

Scenic routes through the Inn Valley and plateau regions.

Paragliding

Available from nearby peak areas for panoramic flights over the valley.

Transportation

Traffic

Tyrolean towns like Telfs are well connected by the A12 motorway and regional roads. Public transport (bus and rail) is reliable for day trips to Innsbruck and Seefeld, though services may be less frequent in off-peak times. Winter driving can be challenging due to snow; ensure appropriate tires and check weather conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Telfs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in Tyrolean kitchens; look for dairy-based dishes, dumplings with cheese, vegetable plates, and salads. If needed, request meat-free variations and confirm ingredients in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in Telfs, with more comprehensive hospitals and specialists in Innsbruck (Klinik and university hospital). Pharmacies (Apotheken) are common in town centers. Travelers should carry adequate travel insurance and know emergency numbers (112) for urgent care.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide