Zell am See, Austria, is a year-round Alpine destination, renowned for its stunning combination of a crystal-clear lake, majestic mountains, and a glacier. It offers diverse activities for both winter and summer, attracting visitors seeking active adventures, relaxation, and scenic beauty.
The charming old town and the city center are central hubs for socializing, featuring numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars that become lively in the evenings. The lakeside promenade also provides a pleasant environment for leisurely strolls and meeting other visitors.
Top 6 Things to do in Zell am See
Activities in Zell am See encompass a blend of alpine adventures, tranquil lake experiences, and cultural explorations within the town and its stunning natural surroundings.
1. Boat Cruise on Lake Zell
Experience the stunning alpine scenery from the water by taking a panoramic boat cruise on Lake Zell. These cruises offer a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains, including the Steinernes Meer and Hohe Tauern ranges, as well as the picturesque town itself. You can choose from various ships, some with sundecks for optimal viewing. It is a relaxing way to appreciate the area's natural beauty. A full panoramic tour typically lasts around 45 minutes.
Cost: An adult panoramic tour ticket costs approximately €23.00, while children (6-15 years) pay around €11.50 for the 2025 season. Some boat trips are free with the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card.
Transport: Boats depart from the Esplanade in the centre of Zell am See, which is easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations.
2. Ascend Schmittenhöhe Mountain
Travel by cable car to the summit of Schmittenhöhe, Zell am See's local mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of up to 30 three-thousand-meter peaks, including the Grossglockner and Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Once at the top, guests can enjoy leisurely walks on well-marked trails, visit the Sissi Chapel, or explore Schmidolin's Adventure Park during summer. During winter, it transforms into a ski resort with diverse slopes.
Cost: A return cable car ride can cost around €36 for adults and €18 for children, depending on the specific lift and season. The ascent and descent are often free with the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card.
Transport: Cable car stations like Schmittenhöhebahn and CityXpress are located within Zell am See, providing direct access to the mountain.
Visit the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, the highest point in Salzburg accessible by cable car year-round at 3,029 metres. Here, the 'Gipfelwelt 3000' complex features the 'Top of Salzburg' panoramic platform, Cinema 3000 (Austria's highest cinema), and the National Park Gallery, offering unique insights into the Hohe Tauern National Park and spectacular high-alpine views. In July and August, the ICE ARENA provides a unique summer snow experience with slides and a snow beach.
Cost: A standard ticket for an adult for the uphill and downhill journey via cable car to the summit station is approximately €65. The Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card provides free gondola rides from the Kitzsteinhorn Valley Station to the glacier, though an additional fee may apply from Kaprun Centre.
Transport: The Kitzsteinhorn Valley Station is about 8 km from Kaprun centre. It can be reached by local bus line 660, with a regional bus transfer often included in 'ÖBB Plus' offers.
4. Walk through Sigmund Thun Gorge
Wander along wooden boardwalks and bridges through the Sigmund Thun Gorge, where the Kapruner Ache river has carved its way up to 32 meters deep into the rock. This impressive natural monument features thundering waterfalls, eddies, and whirlpools. The trail continues around the idyllic Klammsee lake at the end of the gorge. It is an easy, scenic walk, suitable for families.
Cost: Entrance for adults without a guest card is about €7.50, and for children (6-15 years) it is around €5.40 (2025 prices). The Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card grants free entry to the gorge from May 15 to October 31.
Transport: The gorge is located in Kaprun, approximately 5 km from its centre. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby (around €5 daily fee). Alternatively, take bus line 660 or 670 from Kaprun to the 'Kesselfall' stop, followed by a short 10-minute walk.
5. Hike the Lakeside Promenade or Mountain Trails
Zell am See offers an extensive network of hiking trails catering to all levels. A popular choice is the flat 11 km loop around Lake Zell, perfect for a relaxed stroll with picturesque views. For more challenging experiences, the Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn areas provide countless marked trails, from leisurely family-friendly paths to demanding summit tours with rewarding views. Many trails pass charming alpine huts, inviting hikers for a break and local refreshments.
Cost: Many hiking trails, such as the lakeside promenade, are free to access. However, access to higher mountain trails might require a cable car ticket (e.g., for Schmittenhöhe or Kitzsteinhorn), which can be covered by the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card.
Transport: Lower trails, like the Lake Zell loop, are easily accessible on foot from the town centre. For mountain trails, use local buses or cable cars from Zell am See or Kaprun, as described for Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn.
6. Discover Zell am See's Old Town
Stroll through the compact and charming Old Town of Zell am See, characterized by traditional Austrian buildings and cobbled streets. The St. Hippolyte's Church, with parts dating back to the 10th century, is a significant historical landmark showcasing Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. The town also features the Heimatmuseum Vogtturm, located in a medieval tower, which displays artifacts tracing local history. Enjoy the quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants that contribute to the town's lively atmosphere.
Cost: Exploring the Old Town is free of charge. Entry fees may apply for museums or specific attractions within the town, but general wandering and sightseeing are free.
Transport: The Old Town is centrally located in Zell am See and is easily navigable on foot from most accommodations.
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