Things To Do
in Zell am See

Zell am See is a picturesque town located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, known for its stunning lake and surrounding mountains. It serves as a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer. The charming old town features traditional Austrian architecture, vibrant shops, and cozy cafes.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Zell am See
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café and then take a stroll along the shores of Lake Zell, enjoying the views and fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zell am See-Kaprun Museum for insights into the region's history, followed by a cable car ride up to Schmittenhöhe for hiking and panoramic views.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Austrian restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through the beautifully lit old town.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Kick off with a morning hike on the local trails, either around the lake or up in the mountains, to immerse yourself in nature.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic boat trip on Lake Zell or visit the nearby Kaprun for a tour of the impressive Kaprun High Mountain Reservoir.

evening
:

Unwind at a lakeside bar with a drink while watching the sunset, followed by dinner at a highly rated pizzeria.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local Beer$4-$7
🚍Bus Ticket$2-$3
🏨Hotel Night$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor activities year-round.
  • Rich cultural experiences with charming local traditions.
  • Well-connected transport and easy access to nearby attractions.
  • Can be overcrowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher costs compared to other Austrian destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options for those seeking a vibrant party scene.
  • "Grüß Gott" - Hello
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you
  • "Wo ist ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Ich hätte gerne..." - I would like...
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Zell am See

Visit one of these nice places.

Lake Zell

Capture the stunning reflections of the mountains on the crystal-clear water, especially during sunrise.

Schmittenhöhe

Panoramic views of the surrounding Alps make this a must-visit for landscape photography.

Zell am See Old Town

Charming streets with colorful buildings and historical architecture create perfect photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zell am See

Zell am See offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Austria, from hearty alpine dishes to fresh lake fish.

Zell am See Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Käsespätzle

A traditional Austrian dish made with egg noodles and melted cheese, often served with fried onions.

Must-Try!

Fischfilet vom Zellersee

Fresh fish caught from Lake Zell, typically grilled or pan-fried, served with local vegetables.

Apfelstrudel

A popular dessert made of thin layers of dough filled with spiced apples, typically served warm with vanilla sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zell am See Weekly Market

Held every Thursday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts.

Street Food Stalls

Find various stalls around the town serving local sausages, pretzels, and schnitzels.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zell am See experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winters (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn see mild weather with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F). Rain is common year-round, especially in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is standard when meeting someone, and it’s polite to greet with 'Grüß Gott'.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin; it's customary to say 'Guten Appetit'.

Personal Space

A respectful distance is maintained in social interactions; avoid standing too close.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zell am See is considered a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, travelers should take usual precautions, such as securing valuables and being cautious in crowded areas. In winter, be aware of icy conditions on roads and paths.

Tipping in Zell am See

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for hiking and enjoying outdoor cafes.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for swimming, boating on the lake, and exploring the hiking trails.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning fall foliage, making it a great time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winter transforms Zell am See into a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Zell am See at Night

Zell am See has a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The town features cozy wine bars and more energetic clubs where you can dance the night away. In winter, après-ski bars are very popular, while summer evenings often include outdoor events with live music.

Hiking in Zell am See

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Schmittenhöhe Hiking Trail

A well-marked trail that leads hikers up to Schmittenhöhe, offering stunning panoramic views of the Alps.

Zeller See Rundweg

An easy, scenic trail around Lake Zell, perfect for all skill levels, providing beautiful views of the water and surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Zell am See by plane.

Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Located about 80 km from Zell am See, Salzburg Airport is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights. The airport provides shuttle services and car rentals for easy access to the town.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zell am See is very walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance of the town center. The waterfront promenade along Lake Zell provides a pleasant walking route with stunning views. Pedestrian zones ensure a safe environment for visitors exploring the old town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The town is home to a mix of locals, primarily involved in tourism, hospitality, and agriculture.

Tourists

Zell am See attracts visitors from all over the world, particularly outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking leisure activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing

Skiing is a popular sport in Zell am See, with numerous ski resorts offering slopes for all skill levels.

Mountain Biking

During the summer months, mountain biking trails in the region attract enthusiasts from around the world.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zell am See is generally light, especially outside peak tourist seasons. Public transportation includes buses connecting to nearby villages and attractions. The town is easily navigable on foot, and biking is also a popular mode of transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zell am See.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check if they can accommodate gluten-free or vegan requests.

Allergies

Always inform your server about any food allergies, as some dishes may contain common allergens.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Zell am See is generally high-quality, with a local hospital and several clinics available for visitors. Emergency services can be reached easily, and pharmacies throughout the town offer a range of health products. Travelers are advised to have health insurance that covers overseas medical expenses.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide