The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl) is the most famous landmark in Innsbruck, Austria. This shining oriel window in the heart of the Old Town is recognized globally for its 2,657 gilded copper shingles. While the balcony itself is often seen for free from the square, the building houses a dedicated (and not especially gripping) museum providing historical context about Emperor Maximilian I and the late Gothic era.
The Golden Roof: History and significance
The Goldenes Dachl was constructed between 1497 and 1500 on the orders of Emperor Maximilian I, the Holy Roman Emperor. The opulent balcony was built onto the Neuhof, a former princely residence, primarily to provide a grand viewing platform for the Emperor and his court to observe tournaments and civic events in the square below.
The roof’s dazzling feature is the use of 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. This absurdly expensive decoration served a powerful purpose: to project wealth and imperial authority to all visitors entering the city. While the original reliefs are now preserved inside the museum, the oriel remains a marvellous example of late Gothic architecture in the Alps.
Five great things to do in Innsbruck
- 🚵 Explore the Alpine villages on an ebike tour.
- 🍽️ Take a traditional food tour and indulge in classic Tyrolean dishes.
- 🪂 Fly over the Stubai Valley on a tandem paragliding adventure.
- 🏰 Take a private day tour to the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle.
- 🎶 Embrace the cheese at a Tyrolean folk show.
Location and how to get to the Golden Roof
The Golden Roof is centrally located in the historic core of Innsbruck, making it exceptionally easy to access on foot.
Location details
The landmark is in the Old Town, facing a small, picturesque square.
- Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
- Access: The entire Old Town (Altstadt) is pedestrianized, meaning no traffic worries.
Public transport access to the Golden Roof
The best way to reach the Golden Roof is by public transport, avoiding limited city centre parking:
- Tram & Bus: Many lines stop at the nearby Marktplatz or Maria-Theresien-Straße. The landmark is a short, flat walk from either stop.
- Walking: If you arrive at Innsbruck Main Station (Hauptbahnhof), the Goldenes Dachl is a 15 to 20-minute walk through the main streets.
Golden Roof Museum hours and admission
Viewing the famous gilded roof from the square is always free and accessible 24/7. If you wish to enter the building, the Museum Goldenes Dachl offers exhibits focused on the life and times of Maximilian I and the roof’s history.
Opening times for the Golden Roof Museum
The museum observes seasonal closures, so check the day of the week, especially if visiting outside of summer.
- May to September: Open daily, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
- October to April: Closed on Mondays. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Ticket prices for the Golden Roof Museum
An entry ticket is required to enter the museum exhibits and view the square from the oriel window itself.
- Standard Admission: €5.80
- Reduced Admission: €3.00 (Students, seniors, etc.)
- Children (under 6) and disabled visitors: Free
Innsbruck Card access
A visit to the Golden Roof Museum is included with the purchase of the Innsbruck Card. This pass grants access to most top attractions, museums, and mountain lifts, plus free public transport.
Why book the Innsbruck Card for sightseeing and transport?
- Free access to top attractions: Visit museums, historic sites and landmarks in Innsbruck without paying individual entrance fees.
- Free public transport included: Use buses and trains within the city at no extra cost, making it easier to get around.
- Flexible duration options: Choose a 24-hour, 48-hour or 72-hour pass to match your travel schedule.
- Save time and money: One pass covers many things — great for first-time visitors wanting convenience and value.
- Easy digital format: Use the card on your phone — no need to print any tickets or vouchers.
Visitor tips for the best experience at the Golden Roof
The Golden Roof is one of the most photographed sights in Austria. Plan your visit to secure the best view and minimize crowds.
Timing your visit
The square gets crowded, especially around midday and when tour groups are present. For the best photos, visit early in the morning (before 9 am) or late in the afternoon (after 4 pm).
Inside the museum
The small museum offers a different perspective on the landmark. But you really go there to stand on the oriel window replica and enjoy a unique view of the Old Town square below.
Accessibility at the Golden Roof
The exhibits and the view from the oriel are accessible to all thanks to internal lifts.
Nearby attractions to the Golden Roof
As the roof is in the centre of the Innsbruck Old Town, several other key sights are steps away. These attractions pair well for a concise day of sightseeing.
- City Tower (Stadtturm): Located just behind the Golden Roof. Climb the 133 steps for a superb 360-degree panorama of Innsbruck, the river, and the surrounding Alps.
- Imperial Palace (Hofburg): A magnificent former Habsburg residence, a short walk from the roof. Tour the grand rooms and learn about Empress Maria Theresa.
- Hofkirche (Court Church): Near the Hofburg, this church contains an elaborate tomb and the famous “Black Men” bronze statues.
- Maria-Theresien-Straße: The main boulevard extending from the Old Town. This street features grand Baroque architecture and the famous St. Anne’s Column.
- Nordkette Cable Car: The valley station for the Hungerburgbahn funicular is a short walk away, offering quick access to the Nordkette mountains for views and hiking.
More Innsbruck travel
Other Innsbruck travel articles include:
- The incredible range of strudels at Innsbruck’s Kroll café.
- A practical guide to the Innsbruck Alpine Zoo.
- Visitor tips for St James’ Cathedral in Innsbruck.
- Visiting the world’s oldest existing museum at Schloss Ambras.
- What to expect at Swarovski Crystal Worlds.
