Things To Do
in Schwaz

Schwaz, Austria is a charming town located in the Tyrol region, known for its rich mining history and stunning alpine scenery. Nestled between mountains, it offers visitors a blend of cultural heritage and outdoor activities. The town is renowned for its historical structures, including the Schwazer Silberbergwerk, a former silver mine.

Schwaz serves as a gateway to the Zillertal Valley, making it a perfect base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Schwaz
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Schwazer Silberbergwerk to learn about the town's silver mining history through guided tours.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a stroll through the charming streets of Schwaz, visiting the impressive Church of St. Barbara and the historic old town.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Tyrolean cuisine before taking a leisurely walk along the river.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Head to the nearby Zillertal Alps for a morning hike, taking in breathtaking views and exploring the alpine flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and local crafts, or relax in a café with a slice of apple strudel.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local brewery for a taste of Austrian beers and a hearty dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍺Beer$4-7
🚍Public transport ticket$2-4
🏨Hotel night$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural history and heritage
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some attractions may require transportation
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers
  • "Grüß Gott" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Schwaz

Visit one of these nice places.

Schwaz Castle

Perched on a hill, this castle offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding mountains.

St. Barbara's Church

The church's beautiful architecture and intricate frescoes make for a perfect photo opportunity.

Zillertal Valley

Capture breathtaking landscapes of the valley and its majestic peaks, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Schwaz

Schwaz offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects the heart of Tyrolean cuisine, showcasing hearty dishes and local specialties.

Schwaz Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kaiserschmarrn

A fluffy, caramelized pancake served with fruit compote, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Must-Try!

Tiroler Gröstl

A delicious skillet dish made with potatoes, onions, and beef, seasoned with rosemary.

Apfelstrudel

A classic Austrian pastry filled with spiced apples and raisins, often served warm.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Schwaz Market

Held weekly, this market offers fresh local produce, cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Schwaz experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F) and occasional rainfall. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing and substantial snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) provide mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake and direct eye contact are common when greeting someone.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued, especially for social gatherings and appointments.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before beginning to eat, and keep hands on the table but not elbows.

Safety Guide

Safety

Schwaz is considered a safe destination for travelers. Standard safety precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached via the European emergency number 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical situations.

Tipping in Schwaz

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, festivals, and enjoying local cuisine at street markets.

Autumn

Cooler weather and colorful foliage provide perfect conditions for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures and abundant snow create a winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Schwaz at Night

Schwaz has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs where locals and tourists gather for drinks. You can find live music events or themed nights at various venues. The atmosphere is generally friendly and inviting, making it easy to socialize. For a more vibrant scene, the nearby larger towns offer clubs and late-night options.

Hiking in Schwaz

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zillertal High Road

A scenic hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the Zillertal Alps, suitable for all hiking levels.

Schwazer Höhenweg

This trail provides a moderate hike with beautiful vistas of the town and surrounding mountains, perfect for a day trip.

Airports

How to reach Schwaz by plane.

Innsbruck Airport

Located about 40 km from Schwaz, Innsbruck Airport offers both domestic and international flights. It is the nearest major airport and provides convenient access to the Tyrol region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Schwaz is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are clear signs for navigating through the town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Schwaz's population consists of locals who lead a traditional lifestyle and engage in local industries.

Tourists

Visitors primarily come from Austria and neighboring countries, drawn by the town's historical sites and outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

With nearby ski resorts, skiing is a popular winter sport, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.

Football (Soccer)

Local clubs engage in competitive matches, and the sport is widely followed by residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Schwaz is generally manageable, with local roads connecting to major routes. Public transportation options include buses that link Schwaz to surrounding towns and cities. The town is bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and rental services available. Parking can be found in designated areas, but spaces may be limited during peak tourist seasons.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Schwaz.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more available, although it's good to communicate dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Schwaz are reliable, with several clinics and a hospital available for emergencies. Emergency services can be accessed through the local number, and most healthcare providers speak English. European visitors should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare services.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide