Zell am See

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Zell am See: Alpine idyll between glacier, lake and mountains

Zell am See is one of Austria's most popular year-round destinations. Surrounded by Lake Zell, the Schmittenhöhe and the nearby Kitzsteinhorn, the town offers an impressive backdrop for nature experiences, sports, and relaxation. The mix of Alpine lifestyle, charming town center, and diverse activities makes Zell am See an ideal destination for all ages.

Short info:

Where is it located? 5700 Zell am See, Salzburg (near Kaprun)
What can you do there? Hiking, skiing, swimming, sightseeing, boating, water sports
How much time should I plan? At least 2 days
Child-friendly? Yes, many activities for families (e.g. beach resorts, family mountain Schmittenhöhe)
Accessible? Yes, many areas and the lake promenade are barrier-free
Parking facilities? Parking garages in the city, paid short-term parking zones
Accessible by public transport? Yes, by train (Zell am See train station) and bus
special features? Combination of lake, mountains and glacier view

Old Town Zell am See: Historic and charming

The old town offers a successful blend of history and flair. The pedestrian zone is lined with small boutiques, cafés, and restaurants – ideal for strolling. Particularly worth seeing:

Parish Church of St. Hippolytus: Romanesque origin, Gothic west tower, early medieval crypt, Celtic-Roman relief stone
Vogtturm: Oldest building in the city with a small city museum
Old provost's house: Former official residence with historic charm
Rosenberg Castle: Today the town hall, with four corner towers and a central tower in the southern Bavarian style

Historically, Zell am See has repeatedly been affected by natural disasters—such as flooding caused by the Schmittenbach stream (most recently in 1966) or a major fire in 1770 that also destroyed a church. Nevertheless, its medieval character has been well preserved to this day.

Lake Zell: Swimming and water sports

The up to 68 meters deep Lake Zell is the heart of the region and a popular spot for swimming, boating, or relaxing on the shore. In summer, several beach resorts attract visitors:

Zell am See beach (in the city, with water slides and diving tower)
Thumersbach lido (on the sunny side of the lake, ideal for families)
Seespitz lido (on the south bank, smaller and quieter)

There are also several freely accessible shore areas for swimming. The lake is ideal for Stand-up paddling, pedal boating, kayaking and also Sailing or surfing are permitted. Cruises on the excursion ship MS Schmittenhöhe offer a leisurely alternative with panoramic views.

Anglers can Lake Zell Catch trout, char, pike and zander, among others – a fishing license is required and available at the tourist office.

Grand Hotel Zell am See

This 4-star hotel, located directly on the peninsula in the lake, is not only a landmark but also one of the most popular photo motifs in Zell. Its elegant white Belle Époque-style facade is particularly striking.

For overnight stays we recommend the New Post Upside Down Hotel.

Schmittenhöhe – year-round mountain with views and action

The Schmittenhöhe is the local mountain of Zell am See and offers a spectacular 360° panorama at 2,000 m above sea level – with a view of the Lake Zell, the Hohe Tauern, the Steinernes Meer, and over 30 three-thousand-meter peaks. Whether summer or winter: a special experience awaits you here in every season.

Winter: Skiing fun between Schmittenhöhe and Kitzsteinhorn

In winter the Schmittenhöhe into a versatile ski area with 77 kilometers of slopes for every skill level. Particularly attractive: With the Ski ALPIN CARD you also have the Kitzsteinhorn glacier ski area and the Ski Circus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn open – total over 400 kilometers of slopes.

The nearby Kitzsteinhorn guarantees snow until spring and offers a glacier feeling at over 3,000 m altitude.

Here you will find a piste map

Summer: Hiking, views and mountain experiences

In summer, the Schmittenhöhewith varied hiking trails, themed trails, and several panoramic terraces. There's also plenty for families – from easy walking paths to exciting nature stations.

Further highlights throughout the year:

Elisabeth Chapel, dedicated to Empress Sissi
paragliding with a view of the lake and mountains
Mountain cart tracks and summer cable cars

The best photo point in Zell am See: Mitterberghof

One of the most spectacular views of Zell am See is from Mitterberghof above the city at MitterbergOn the panoramic terrace of the inn you can see the entire Lake Zell, the old town, the Grand Hotel, the Schmittenhöhe, and the Kitzsteinhorn. Perfect for atmospheric photos at sunrise or sunset. It's also a popular spot for drone photography—and a culinary highlight!