Zell am See

Austria, Europe

Nestled between the stunning shores of Lake Zell and the breathtaking Hohe Tauern mountains, Zell am See is a picturesque alpine town known for its year-round outdoor activities. Visitors are drawn to its scenic lake, charming old town, and skiing opportunities in winter, while summer invites hiking, biking, and water sports. The appealing blend of nature and vibrant nightlife, along with stunning views from the Schmittenhöhe mountain, makes it a captivating destination for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Active

Airport

Salzburg

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Zell am See

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a cable car to Schmittenhöhe.

Enjoy stunning alpine views and hiking trails high above.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Swim in Lake Zell.

Experience the crystal-clear waters of this beautiful lake.

No booking required
3

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Ski at Zell am See-Kaprun.

Hit the slopes in one of Austria's top ski resorts.

Booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Old Town.

Wander charming streets filled with shops and cafes.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kaprun Castle.

Discover medieval history with panoramic views of the valley.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a scenic boat ride on Lake Zell.

Relax and enjoy beautiful lake views from the water.

No booking required
7

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike to the Schmittenhöhe summit.

Challenge yourself with breathtaking views at the top.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Zeller See Promenade.

Stroll along the lakeside path with stunning scenery.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Enjoy après-ski in the town.

Experience lively nightlife and local cuisine after skiing.

No booking required
10

Est. 2.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Visit the Sigmund-Thun Klamm Gorge.

Explore a stunning natural gorge with walking paths.

No booking required
11

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local wines at a winery.

Savor regional wines in a scenic vineyard setting.

No booking required
12

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Walk the scenic hiking trails.

Discover beautiful landscapes on well-marked paths.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-15%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

9 (#13 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

German

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Tafelspitz

Boiled beef with root vegetables. (National dish)

Wiener Schnitzel

Breaded and fried veal cutlet.

Sachertorte

V

Chocolate cake with apricot jam.

Apfelstrudel

V

Apple-filled pastry with cinnamon.

Kaiserschmarrn

V

Shredded pancake with powdered sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

German

Hello

Hallo

(Hah-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nein

(Yah / Nine)

Thank you

Danke

(Dahn-keh)

Excuse me

Entschuldigung

(Ent-shool-dee-goong)

How much?

Wie viel?

(Vee feel)