Cycling day trip from Sterzing to Innsbruck

Roll out from Sterzing/Vipiteno’s pretty medieval center (look up at the Zwölferturm) and follow the Wipptal north. The route climbs steadily to the Brenner Pass, topping out around 1,370–1,390 m, mostly on quiet roads and cycleways. It’s a long, gentle grind with great valley views; take it at your own pace and bring a layer—weather can flip quickly on the pass.

From Brenner it’s payoff time: a sweeping descent along the Sill through towns like Matrei and Steinach, passing below the mighty Europabrücke, then cruising riverside paths into Innsbruck. Expect mostly paved riding with a good share of quiet roads and dedicated cycle paths; there are a few short, busier stretches near towns.

You’ll cross from Italy into Austria, so keep an ID handy. Cafés are frequent on both sides—perfect for strudel stops.

Finish in Innsbruck, Tyrol’s capital, framed by the Nordkette. Park the bike to see the Golden Roof or the sleek Bergisel Ski Jump before celebrating a solid 76 km day that mixes alpine climb with big, grin-inducing descent.