Vils in Tirol Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Vils in Tirol with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Vils in Tirol

Vils in Tirol is a picturesque village located in the heart of Tyrol, Austria. This charming town is famous for its stunning Alpine scenery, rich cultural heritage, and endless outdoor recreational opportunities. Vils offers visitors a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers of all types.

List of Places to Visit in Vils in Tirol

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Visitors interested in history and culture will discover a wide range of attractions in Vils, some of which include:

  • Vils Monastery Museum: This museum housed in the old monastery showcases the art, history, and culture of the region through various exhibitions.
  • St. Andreas Catholic Parish Church: This impressive 17th-century church is well worth a visit for those interested in religious art and architecture.
  • Heimatmuseum Vils: This museum showcases the local history and culture through exhibits showcasing traditional costumes, farm tools, and other cultural artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Vils in Tirol: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Vils is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and winter sports. Some of the top natural attractions here are:

  • Vilsalpsee Lake: This tranquil lake surrounded by high mountains and forests is a popular spot for hiking and relaxing.
  • Tannheimer Tal: This gorgeous valley, located just a few miles from Vils, is a fantastic destination for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
  • Neunerköpfle: This peak is perfect for hiking and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vils in Tirol

Vils has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Klimmbrücke Rundtour: This route takes visitors on a 10-kilometer journey through the forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Vilsalpsee-Umrundung: This scenic hike around Vilsalpsee Lake is perfect for those seeking a more leisurely walk with stunning views.
  • Lechweg: This long-distance hiking trail takes visitors on a journey through the Lech river valley and features breathtaking alpine scenery.

Best Things to Do in Vils in Tirol: Activities and Tours

Aside from outdoor activities, Vils offers visitors a wide range of things to do and see. Here are some must-try activities:

  • Skiing: Vils is a popular skiing destination, with several ski resorts in the area.
  • Tiroler Zugspitz Arena: This popular ski resort features an extensive network of slopes and offers visitors a chance to snowshoe and go tobogganing.
  • Ettaler Mandl: A popular hiking trail that takes visitors on a journey through the nearby forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vils in Tirol

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Vils:

Day 1: Visit Heimatmuseum Vils and learn about the local history and culture. Day 2-3: Take a guided hiking tour of the nearby mountains and enjoy the stunning views. Day 4: Visit St. Andreas Catholic Parish Church to appreciate the religious art and architecture of the region. Day 5-6: Ski or snowboard at one of the nearby ski resorts or go tobogganing at Tiroler Zugspitz Arena. Day 7: Relax at Vilsalpsee Lake and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Food and Drink Scene of Vils in Tirol

When it comes to food and drink, Vils offers visitors a variety of local specialties to try. Some must-try dishes and drinks include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kaiserschmarrn: A delicious Austrian dessert made from scrambled pancakes.
  • Wiener Schnitzel: A classic Austrian dish made from breaded and fried veal.
  • Tiroler Speckknödelsuppe: A hearty soup made with dumplings and bacon.

Local Beverages

  • Almdudler: A refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from herbs and water.
  • Schnaps: A traditional Austrian spirit made from fruit.
  • Stiegl Beer: A popular Austrian beer brewed in Salzburg.

Where to Stay in Vils in Tirol: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Vils has several accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best places to stay in Vils include:

  • Hotel Gasthof Löwen: This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent dining options.
  • Gästehaus Schöpf: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Vils.
  • Jugendherberge Jugendherberge Reutte: A budget-friendly hostel with stunning mountain views.

What to Buy in Vils in Tirol: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Vils can take home a variety of local souvenirs and products, including:

  • Traditional Austrian clothing like dirndls and lederhosen.
  • Local delicacies like Tiroler Speck and Kaiserschmarrn.
  • Austrian wines and spirits like Schnaps and beer.

Local Culture and Customs of Vils in Tirol

Vils in Tirol is steeped in rich cultural traditions and customs. Some things to keep in mind when visiting include:

  • Austrians are generally quite reserved and polite, and visitors are expected to be respectful towards local customs and traditions.
  • Tipping is not obligatory but is customary for good service.
  • Smoking is prohibited in most public places in Austria.

Best Time to Visit Vils in Tirol

The best time to visit Vils in Tirol depends on what you want to do and see. For skiing and winter sports, the best time to visit is between December to March. For hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is between June to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vils in Tirol

Do:

  • Take the time to learn about local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and drink options.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities you plan on doing.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Be disrespectful towards local customs and traditions.
  • Leave without trying some of the local delicacies.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vils in Tirol

Vils in Tirol is generally considered to be a safe destination, but visitors should still take common-sense precautions such as:

  • Avoid leaving belongings unattended in public places.
  • Don’t wander alone in unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions and dress accordingly for outdoor activities.

Health in Vils in Tirol

Austria has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors to Vils can expect a high standard of care in case of any medical emergencies. However, visitors are advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical costs.

Getting to Vils in Tirol: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can get to Vils in Tirol by plane, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Vils in Tirol

  • Innsbruck Airport: The closest airport to Vils, with frequent flights to and from major European destinations.
  • Munich Airport: About a three-hour drive from Vils, with regular flights to and from destinations around the world.

Bus Stations Near Vils in Tirol

  • Reutte in Tirol Bus Station: The closest bus station to Vils, with regular regional and long-distance connections to other parts of Austria and Europe.

Other Options

  • Driving: Vils is easily accessible by car, and visitors can rent a car from any major car rental agency in Austria.
  • Train: Visitors can take a train to Reutte in Tirol and then take a bus or taxi to Vils.

How to Get Around in Vils in Tirol

Visitors can get around Vils in Tirol by car, bike, or on foot. The village is relatively small and easy to navigate, and visitors can rent bikes or cars from local vendors.

Where to Go Next from Vils in Tirol: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Vils in Tirol is a great base for exploring other nearby destinations. Here are some places to consider:

  • Innsbruck: The capital city of Tyrol, Innsbruck is famous for its beautiful architecture and rich cultural heritage.
  • Salzburg: The birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors stunning Baroque architecture and captivating history.

Conclusion

Vils in Tirol is a breathtakingly beautiful destination that offers visitors a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. From skiing and hiking to exploring the local museums and enjoying the local cuisine, Vils has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and head to Vils in Tirol for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Austrian Alps.