There’s something magical about packing the car, loading up the kids, and hitting the open road. Our family road trip from Germany to Italy took us through the heart of the Alps, with a quick but memorable overnight stop in Innsbruck, Austria.

While Innsbruck wasn’t our final destination, it was the perfect pause between long hours of driving. I’m so glad we decided to spend a night there — even with just a short stay, it gave us a taste of the mountains, a deep breath of fresh air, and a few lovely moments we’ll always remember.

Leaving Germany: The Excitement Begins

After a month of planning and daydreaming, our 12-day family road trip finally began! Starting from Germany, we set off with snacks, suitcases, and a car full of excitement—ready to explore the beauty of the Alps and the heart of Italy. From scenic mountain roads to charming towns, each stop promised new memories.

Our adventure kicked off with laughter, last-minute packing, and the unmistakable thrill of hitting the road. The car was packed to the brim: snacks in every nook, coloring books, stuffed animals, cozy travel pillows, and fully charged tablets loaded with Netflix shows to keep our two wide-eyed little ones entertained. Our calm, thoughtful teenager quietly settled in as the clock struck 5 PM, and with a hopeful GPS and golden evening light guiding us, we rolled out onto the open road toward the Austrian Alps. The kids chattered excitedly about the mountains ahead, cartoons played softly in the background, and the occasional rustle of chip bags kept rhythm with the hum of the wheels. From scenic highways to the promise of charming towns and alpine views, this first leg already felt like a memory in the making—the perfect start to our 12-day adventure through the heart of Italy and beyond.

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Our Scenic Route: From Germany’s Hills to Alpine Peaks.

We chose the scenic Allgäu route, adding an extra layer of charm to our journey. There’s something special about setting off in the evening—the sunlight softens, the roads calm, and the world feels poised on the edge of adventure. As we drove deeper into southern Germany, rolling fields dotted with quaint farmhouses and grazing cows passed by, while the air carried the fresh scent of summer grass and distant forests.

 

Gradually, the flat landscapes gave way to gentle hills, then soaring mountains that rose effortlessly from the earth. Inside the car, a peaceful calm settled—soft stories whispered in the background, the occasional rustle of snack wrappers, and little heads nodding off one by one. Outside, twilight painted the world in shades of deep blue and silver, the sky fading with delicate strokes of pink and gold.

 

Our Cozy Stay in Innsbruck

By the time we arrived in Innsbruck, it was nearly midnight. The town lay silent beneath the towering silhouettes of the Alps, twinkling like a hidden jewel reserved for night travelers. We checked into a warm, family-run inn tucked along the edge of town. The check-in was smooth and effortless, and within minutes, we were settling into our cozy rooms—quiet, inviting, and a perfect haven after a long day on the road. As we tucked ourselves into crisp linens, the majestic peaks stood just outside our window, watching over the sleeping valley. We felt both tired and incredibly grateful. Day one had given us everything we’d hoped for—laughter, beautiful scenery, and the perfect start to a journey we’d been dreaming of. Tomorrow promised alpine air, new discoveries, and even more memories to collect. One day down, eleven to go—and if this beginning was any sign, the road ahead would be unforgettable.

Family Road Trip Diaries – Day 2: Innsbruck Wonders & a Wild Day at Alpenzoo

A Perfect Day Exploring Innsbruck: From Hofgarten to Alpine Heights

Our day in Innsbruck began with a slow, easy morning—a warm breakfast paired with a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. Everyone was rested and ready to explore this alpine gem nestled between towering ridges.

Wandering Through Hofgarten Park (And Finding Our Way)

After parking near the city center, we set off on foot through the lush Hofgarten Park. Our path to the Hungerburgbahn wasn’t exactly planned—we wandered a bit, figuring out our route as we went, which only added to the sense of adventure. The park’s winding paths and vibrant greenery felt like a secret oasis in the heart of the city. The kids delighted in spotting squirrels darting through the trees while we savored the peaceful atmosphere and occasional glimpses of the distant mountains. It was a gentle and refreshing start to the day, balancing perfectly with the more active adventures ahead.

🚠 We booked the Hungerburgbahn & Alpenzoo Combo Ticket

This combo ticket https://booking.tpo.lv/wdPEoot3 offered the perfect mix of scenic adventure and family-friendly fun in Innsbruck. It included:

• A ride on the Hungerburgbahn funicular, and

• Entry to the Alpenzoo, one of Europe’s highest-altitude zoos.

The journey started at Congress Station, where we boarded the Hungerburgbahn, a sleek, modern funicular designed by Zaha Hadid. As it climbed toward the mountains, the views over Innsbruck became more stunning with each stop. One of the stops along the route was Alpenzoo Station, where we hopped off to visit the zoo.This combo was ideal for travelers who wanted to enjoy panoramic alpine views and see unique mountain animals all in one half-day trip. It was convenient, easy to access, and great for both adults and kids.

Tip: Take the funicular all the way to the top at Hungerburg for even more spectacular photo spots!

Pro tip: Try to grab a window seat on the right side for the most breathtaking views as you ride up!

Exploring Alpenzoo: An Alpine Wildlife Adventure

 

At the top, we arrived at Alpenzoo, an alpine zoo unlike any other. It felt more like a nature hike than a typical zoo, with paths winding through forested areas and rocky outcrops. We saw a fascinating range of native animals—from agile ibexes deftly climbing steep rocks to elegant lynxes prowling silently through their enclosures. Even cows grazed peacefully, reminding us of the region’s farming heritage. One of the kids cheerfully called the marmots “mountain guinea pigs,” and it was hard to disagree. The focus on local wildlife made Alpenzoo feel like a living biology lesson—educational, immersive, and thoroughly enjoyable for the whole family.

A Stunning Glimpse of Innsbruck

From the top of the zoo, we were treated to a breathtaking glaze of Innsbruck below—the sparkling river weaving through the city, the sleek ski facilities nestled on the slopes, and the charming rooftops stretching out beneath the towering Alps. It was a panoramic view that captured the unique blend of urban life and alpine majesty, reminding us why this city is such a special place to explore.

A Refreshing Walk Back Along Mountain Streams

After soaking in the views, we began our walk back toward the Hungerburgbahn station. The temperature was hot, making the little streams of fresh mountain water bubbling over smooth stones even more inviting. We all eagerly soaked our hands in the cool, crisp water—a refreshing relief from the summer heat. That simple moment, connecting with the pure mountain environment, added a special touch to our alpine adventure and left us feeling recharged as we descended back toward Innsbruck.

Though our route was a bit spontaneous at times, every twist and turn made the day feel even more authentic and memorable. Innsbruck’s perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm offered something for everyone—from tranquil parks and thrilling funicular rides to immersive wildlife experiences and refreshing mountain moments.

If you’re planning a visit, take your time to wander, pack layers for changing mountain weather, and don’t forget a sense of adventure—you never know what unexpected joys await around the next bend!

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Next Up: Heading Toward Venice’s Canals

After a memorable day exploring Innsbruck and its stunning alpine surroundings, we packed up and hit the road once again, eager for the next chapter of our journey. Our destination? Venice—the legendary city of canals, gondolas, and timeless romance—just a few hours’ drive south through some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes.

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The Pragser Wildsee, or Lake Prags, Lake Braies: A Refreshing Alpine Oasis

Along the way, we made a refreshing two-hour stop at Lake Braies, a true alpine gem and the largest natural lake in the region. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, the lake’s crystal-clear waters perfectly reflected the dramatic sky and rugged mountains, creating a breathtaking mirror-like surface that captivated us instantly.

After a leisurely hike along the well-marked trail circling the lake, we couldn’t resist dipping in and soaking our feet in the cool, refreshing waters—a delightful way to cool down, beat the heat, and feel fully immersed in the serene mountain atmosphere. The peacefulness of the water, paired with the grandeur of the surrounding Dolomite peaks, made this stop a magical pause in our journey—a chance to recharge and reconnect with nature before continuing on.

Driving further, we passed through the picturesque alpine village of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where we caught sight of the Olympic ski facilities—a reminder of the town’s winter sports heritage. The dramatic cliffs and serene meadows framed the view beautifully as we continued our drive toward Venice.

Venice: Resting Near the City of Canals

We arrived in Venice around 11 PM and checked into our Hotel, where we stayed for two nights. The check-in was easy and fast, a welcome relief after a long day on the road. Our family room was very spacious, providing plenty of room to unwind and settle in comfortably. While we didn’t venture into Venice’s bustling city center this time, the peaceful surroundings near the hotel offered a quiet retreat—the perfect place to rest and recharge before more adventures.

Our journey from Innsbruck through the Dolomites and to the outskirts of Venice beautifully showcased the stunning diversity of northern Italy and Austria. From alpine adventures to the serene Venetian outskirts, each stop brought its own magic and memories.

Final Thoughts

This family road trip from Germany to Innsbruck was everything we hoped for—beautiful scenery, exciting adventures, and precious time together. Traveling with kids can be challenging, but with a little planning and a flexible spirit, it’s incredibly rewarding.

If you’re thinking about a similar trip, I hope our experience inspires you to hit the road and create your own unforgettable memories. Safe travels!

Stay tuned for Day 3 in Venice, as we continue our 12-day road trip through Germany and Italy’s most captivating cities!

 

Helpful Links & Resources:

• Official Innsbruck Tourism Site
• Alpenzoo Innsbruck
• Hungerburgbahn Funicular

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🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q1: How long does the road trip from Baden-Württemberg to Innsbruck take?

A1: The drive takes around 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen scenic stops along the route.

Q2: Is this road trip suitable for kids and families?

A2: Yes! With fun stops like Alpenzoo, Hungerburgbahn, and alpine lakes, it's a perfect route for families.

Q3: Are there any tolls or vignettes required when driving to Innsbruck?

A3: Yes. You’ll need a vignette (toll sticker) to drive on Austrian highways. You can purchase it at gas stations near the border and Online.

Q4: What's the best time of year to do this road trip?

A4: Late spring to early autumn (May–October) is ideal for clear mountain views and pleasant driving weather.

Q5: What should we pack for this trip?

A5: Pack layered clothing, water bottles, snacks, sunglasses, camera gear, and entertainment for kids if traveling with family.