Things to Do in Zell am See

Zell am See, Österreich - Complete Travel Guide

Zell am See is a picturesque lakeside town nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. Situated on the shores of pristine Lake Zell with the dramatic Kitzsteinhorn glacier as its backdrop, this charming resort town has been captivating travelers for centuries with its stunning alpine scenery and crystal-clear mountain lake. The town serves as a gateway to the Hohe Tauern National Park and offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking, swimming, and water sports in summer. With its traditional Austrian architecture, excellent infrastructure, and proximity to Kaprun's glacier skiing, Zell am See has evolved into one of Austria's premier mountain destinations while maintaining its authentic alpine charm and welcoming atmosphere.

Top Things to Do in Zell am See

Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Cable Car

Take the spectacular cable car journey to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier at 3,203 meters, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the Austrian Alps. The glacier features year-round skiing, the TOP OF SALZBURG viewing platform, and the unique Ice Arena with its suspension bridge and ice sculptures.

Booking Tip: Tickets cost around €45-55 for adults. Book online for discounts and skip-the-line access. Best visited on clear days for optimal views, with early morning trips offering fewer crowds and better photography conditions.

Lake Zell Water Activities

Enjoy the pristine waters of Lake Zell through swimming, sailing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding during the warmer months. The lake maintains comfortable swimming temperatures from June to September and offers several beaches and water sports rental facilities around its perimeter.

Booking Tip: Equipment rentals range from €15-30 per hour depending on activity. Book with established operators like Zeller See Schifffahrt for boat tours (€12-15). Summer months offer warmest water temperatures, with July-August being peak season.

Schmittenhöhe Mountain

Ascend Austria's most famous viewing mountain via cable car for panoramic vistas of 30 surrounding peaks and Lake Zell below. The summit offers hiking trails, mountain restaurants, and in winter, excellent skiing terrain suitable for all levels across the Schmittenhöhe ski area.

Booking Tip: Cable car tickets cost €28-32 for adults return. Purchase the Zell am See-Kaprun summer card for discounts on multiple attractions. Visit during sunrise or sunset for spectacular lighting, and check weather conditions before ascending.

Historic Town Center Walking

Explore Zell am See's charming old town with its traditional Austrian architecture, historic church, and lakefront promenade. The pedestrian-friendly center features local shops, cafes, and the iconic parish church with its distinctive onion dome, all set against the stunning alpine backdrop.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free, but consider joining a guided walking tour (€8-12 per person) for historical insights. Tourist office provides free maps and suggested routes. Best experienced in early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.

Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs

Visit the impressive Kaprun hydroelectric power plant and its mountain reservoirs via funicular railway and bus. This engineering marvel offers insights into alpine renewable energy while providing access to high-altitude hiking trails and spectacular mountain scenery in the Hohe Tauern National Park.

Booking Tip: Combined tickets for funicular and bus cost around €25-30 for adults. Book tours through the visitor center in Kaprun. Best visited May through October when access roads are clear. Allow 4-5 hours for the full experience including travel time.

Getting There

Zell am See is easily accessible by train, car, or bus from major Austrian and European cities. The nearest airports are Salzburg (90 minutes by car) and Munich (2.5 hours by car), both offering good rental car options and airport shuttle services. Regular train connections run from Salzburg, Vienna, and Innsbruck, with the scenic journey from Salzburg taking approximately 1.5 hours. The town is also well-connected by Austria's efficient bus network, and many hotels offer shuttle services from Salzburg airport.

Getting Around

Zell am See is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations within walking distance of the town center and lake. The local bus system connects to nearby Kaprun and surrounding areas, while the Zell am See-Kaprun guest card provides free public transport within the region. Bicycle rentals are popular for exploring the flat lakeside paths and nearby valleys. Cable cars and mountain railways provide access to higher elevations, and taxi services are readily available for longer distances.

Where to Stay

Town Center Lakefront
Schüttdorf District
Thumersbach Lakeshore
Steinerne Stiege Area
Seespitz Peninsula
Kaprun Village

Food & Dining

Zell am See offers an excellent mix of traditional Austrian cuisine and international dining options, from cozy mountain huts serving hearty alpine dishes to sophisticated lakefront restaurants. Local specialties include fresh lake fish, schnitzel, and regional game dishes, often accompanied by Austrian wines and local beers. The town center features numerous cafes perfect for apple strudel and coffee, while higher-end establishments along the lakeshore offer fine dining with spectacular views. Mountain restaurants accessible by cable car provide authentic alpine dining experiences with panoramic vistas.

When to Visit

Zell am See is a year-round destination with distinct seasonal appeals. Summer (June-August) offers warm weather perfect for lake activities, hiking, and sightseeing, with temperatures reaching 20-25°C and long daylight hours. Winter (December-March) transforms the area into a snow sports paradise with reliable skiing conditions and festive Christmas markets. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide fewer crowds, mild weather, and beautiful scenery, though some high-altitude attractions may have limited access. Peak seasons are July-August and December-February, requiring advance bookings.

Insider Tips

Purchase the Zell am See-Kaprun summer or winter card for significant discounts on cable cars, attractions, and free public transport throughout the region
Visit the Kitzsteinhorn glacier early in the morning for the best weather conditions and clearest mountain views before afternoon clouds roll in
Take advantage of the free lakeside beaches and walking paths - the 11km circuit around Lake Zell offers stunning scenery and is suitable for all fitness levels

Explore Activities in Zell am See