Things To Do
in Zell am See
Zell am See is a charming alpine town located in the western part of Austria. It is famous for its stunning mountain scenery and picturesque lake, which offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and water sports. The town is also known for its historic old town with cobblestone streets and traditional Austrian architecture.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and a range of cultural events throughout the year.
- "Servus" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Tschüss" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Then, take a brisk walk around Lake Zell to enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant and try some authentic Austrian dishes. Afterward, rent a bike to explore the picturesque paths that meander around the lake.
Wind down with a relaxing dinner at a cozy mountain hut. Enjoy the stunning sunset views over the lake as you sip on a glass of local wine.
Start your morning with a quick breakfast before heading to the Schmittenhöhe mountain. Take the cable car up for breathtaking views.
Enjoy hiking the various trails available on the mountain, with options for different skill levels. Pack a picnic to have on one of the scenic trails.
Return to Zell am See for a delicious dinner at a restaurant that specializes in alpine cuisine. Consider taking an evening stroll along the promenade to enjoy the night lights.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery with beautiful mountains and a picturesque lake.
- Variety of outdoor activities available year-round, including skiing, hiking, and water sports.
- Charming alpine town with rich cultural heritage and historical architecture.
- Family-friendly with numerous attractions and events throughout the year.
- Good accessibility with transport links to major cities and surrounding regions.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially in winter and summer.
- Higher cost of living and accommodation compared to nearby towns.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, especially during shoulder seasons.
- Some areas may require a vehicle for better access to attractions and amenities.
Best Activities in Zell am See
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails around Zell am See, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes with stunning views of the Alps.
Ride the various mountain biking trails that cater to different skill levels, offering breathtaking landscapes and thrilling descents.
Enjoy a variety of water activities on Lake Zell, including swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing.
Experience the thrill of paragliding over Zell am See, providing an unparalleled perspective of the lakes and mountains.
In winter, take advantage of the skiing and snowboarding opportunities on the nearby slopes of Schmittenhöhe.
Play a round of golf at the scenic Zell am See-Kaprun Golf Club, which features an 18-hole course with stunning alpine vistas.
Try your hand at fishing in Lake Zell, a popular spot for anglers, with options for both beginners and experts.
Experience an adrenaline rush on the zip lines located in the surrounding mountains, perfect for adventure seekers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Zell am See with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Zell am See
Visit one of these nice places.
The peak of Schmittenhöhe offers breathtaking panoramic views of Zell am See, the Zeller See, and the surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
The lake itself provides stunning reflections of the mountains and clear skies, ideal for capturing the beauty of nature. Walking around the lake offers various vantage points.
A short drive from Zell am See, the Kitzsteinhorn offers year-round snow and spectacular views of the Hohe Tauern National Park, ideal for dramatic landscape photography.
The scenic reservoirs provide a unique landscape, featuring turquoise water surrounded by dramatic hills, perfect for artistic and nature photography.
For a unique perspective, parasailing offers stunning aerial shots of Zell am See and the captivating landscapes surrounding it.
The museum's location gives a quaint view of the town and the lake, providing a mix of cultural and picturesque photography opportunities.
The gondola ride to Schmittenhöhe gives impressive views along the ascent and is a great photo opportunity with the backdrop of the alpine scenery.
Food in Zell am See
Zell am See Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish of Austrian dumplings smothered in cheese sauce and topped with crispy onions. It can be savored at Gasthof Mittersill, a charming inn with a cozy atmosphere.
Must-Try!
A timeless classic, Wiener Schnitzel is a breaded and fried veal cutlet, typically served with potato salad. It's a must-try at Restaurant Schmiedhof Alm, offering a picturesque setting with stunning mountain views.
This fluffy shredded pancake, served with plum compote or applesauce, is a delightful dessert. You can relish an exquisite version at Cafe-Central, a historic cafe in the town center.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Zell am See better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The weekly market on the town square presents a delightful array of local produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and regional delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to sample traditional street food like Langos, a Hungarian fried bread, and Bosna, a delicious hot dog with onions and condiments.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone, a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is common. Austrians appreciate polite language, so using 'Bitte' (please) and 'Danke' (thank you) can go a long way in showing respect.
If you're invited to someone's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, such as flowers or chocolates. During a meal, wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.
Austrians tend to dress well, valuing neat and tidy appearance. Casual attire is acceptable for daytime activities, but for dining out or cultural events, smart casual or more formal attire is preferred.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Zell am See with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Zell am See
Ensure a smooth experience
In Zell am See, Austria, tipping is customary but not mandatory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants, cafes, and bars, especially if the service is satisfactory. In some cases, travelers may choose to leave a small amount of change. Tipping is also appreciated by taxi drivers and hotel staff.
Payment methods in Zell am See are varied and convenient. Cash (Euro) is widely accepted, and most establishments also accept credit and debit cards. Contactless payments and mobile payment options are increasingly available. It's advisable to carry some cash, particularly for smaller vendors or markets. ATMs are accessible throughout the town for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Zell am See.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Zell am See (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit as nature comes back to life. Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, particularly in April and May. Activities include hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the scenic views of the mountains and lake.
Summer (June to August) is peak tourist season with warm weather ideal for outdoor activities. Expect temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Popular activities include swimming in Lake Zell, hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying various festivals.
Autumn (September to November) offers stunning fall foliage and mild temperatures. Expect to experience fewer crowds and cooler weather. Activities include hiking, wine tasting, and enjoying the beautiful landscapes as the leaves change colors.
Winter (December to February) transforms Zell am See into a winter wonderland, attracting ski enthusiasts. Expect snow-covered mountains and a range of winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The Christmas markets add a festive charm.
Zell am See at Night
Hiking in Zell am See
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular mountain offering various hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Zell and the surrounding Alps.
A scenic hiking area with impressive reservoirs, surrounded by beautiful nature and offering trails of varying difficulty.
A picturesque trail around Lake Zell, perfect for leisurely walks with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
A glacier area that provides access to numerous hiking trails, including high-altitude paths with panoramic views.
A family-friendly hiking area with easy trails and playgrounds, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Zell am See through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Zell am See by plane.
Located approximately 80 km from Zell am See, Salzburg Airport is the nearest major international airport, serving numerous airlines and destinations across Europe.
Located around 120 km from Zell am See, Innsbruck Airport primarily serves seasonal flights, especially catering to winter sports enthusiasts.
Located roughly 180 km from Zell am See, Munich Airport is one of the largest international airports in Germany, offering extensive global connections.
Situated about 300 km from Zell am See, Zurich Airport is a major international hub in Switzerland, serving numerous international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic, comprising native citizens of Austria.
A significant expatriate community, particularly due to geographical proximity.
A notable minority group within the region, often involved in various sectors.
Includes residents from countries such as Poland and Slovakia, contributing to the workforce.
A smaller demographic group with cultural and historical ties to the area.
Includes individuals from countries such as Vietnam and China, though in smaller numbers.
The Soul of Zell am See
Discover the essence of Zell am See through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Zell am See is renowned for its skiing opportunities, with numerous slopes and high-quality ski resorts such as Schmittenhöhe.
Alongside skiing, snowboarding is a popular winter sport in Zell am See, attracting enthusiasts to its varied terrain.
During the summer months, hiking becomes a major attraction, with trails offering stunning views of the Alps and Lake Zell.
Zell am See features several mountain bike trails that cater to different skill levels, making it a favored spot for biking enthusiasts.
Lake Zell provides a fantastic location for swimming and other water sports during the warmer months.
The Zell am See-Kaprun region offers beautiful golf courses that attract players looking to enjoy golfing with scenic views.
The stunning landscapes make paragliding a popular adventure sport in Zell am See, offering breathtaking aerial views.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zell am See.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Zell am See cater to vegetarian and vegan diners, providing creative and flavorful plant-based dishes. Notable options include Kupferkessel, renowned for its innovative vegetarian fare, and Zum Metzgerwirt, offering a diverse selection of vegan-friendly dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dishes at places like Wirtshaus zum Metzgerwirt, which features a dedicated gluten-free menu with traditional Austrian specialties prepared without gluten.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Zell am See with these cultural adventures.
