Schloss Ambras

The 16th-century Schloss Ambras consists of two parts. In the Upper Castle you'll find numerous regal rooms to explore, not to mention a phenomenal portrait gallery featuring the works of Titian and Velázquez among others. But it's the Lower Castle that distinguishes this royal residence from other Germanic palaces. Conceived by Archduke Ferdinand II, this section hosts a large collection of armor and his "Chamber of Art and Curiosities," a fascinating assortment of bizarre objects.  As one recent TripAdvisor explains, it's here that you'll find the most interesting -- and unusual -- exhibits:  "See several depictions of the crucifixion, but all in coral," they write. "See paintings on cobwebs, giant playing cards, stuffed sharks, deer horns mysteriously embedded in a tree trunk … This is what you want in a proper Germanic castle! And all from the 1500s."

South of downtown, Schloss Ambras welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 pm. Admission costs €10 EUR (about $14 USD) between April and October and €4.50 EUR (or about $6.50 USD) the rest of the year. Both Upper and Lower Castles are free for Innsbruck Card holders. For more information, check out the castle's website.