Zell am See

An impressive viewing platform at 3,029 meters (9,938 ft) on the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Austria's highest peaks, including the Grossglockner. Features a cinematic experience in 'Cinema 3000' showcasing the beauty of the Kitzsteinhorn year-round, and the 'Nationalpark Gallery' – a 360-meter-long tunnel providing insights into the Hohe Tauern National Park. Accessible via cable cars from Kaprun. Opening hours generally 08:30-16:00 (winter) / 08:00-16:30 (summer). Cable car ticket prices apply (approx. €50-60 for adults for a day pass to Kitzsteinhorn, including Gipfelwelt 3000).

A breathtaking natural monument near Kaprun, where visitors can walk on wooden boardwalks and bridges through a narrow gorge carved by the Kapruner Ache river. The rushing turquoise waters and smooth rock formations create an impressive spectacle. Illuminated evenings are often offered in summer. Open approximately May to October, 08:30-17:00 (extended hours in peak summer). Entrance fee around €5 for adults.

Enjoy leisurely boat tours on Lake Zell aboard the MS Schmittenhöhe or MS Grossglockner, offering stunning views of Zell am See, the surrounding mountains, and the Pinzgau region. Various routes are available, including a full lake circuit, with options for lunch or dinner cruises. Operating from late spring to early autumn. Tickets from approx. €16 for adults for a full round trip. Duration approximately 45-60 minutes.

Located in a historic 10th-century tower in the heart of Zell am See, the Vogtturm Museum offers a fascinating journey through the local history, culture, and traditions of the Pinzgau region. Exhibits cover everything from regional geology and mineralogy to traditional crafts, farming life, and the development of tourism. A spiral staircase leads to a viewing platform at the top for town vistas. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00-17:00 (seasonal variations). Entrance fee approx. €6 for adults.

An impressive feat of engineering and natural beauty, these massive hydroelectric dams are nestled high in the alpine landscape above Kaprun. Visitors can take guided tours, experience the sheer scale of the dam walls, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Access is via a scenic bus ride and Europe’s largest open inclined lift. Open from early June to mid-October. Tickets for the bus and guided tour are approx. €25-30 for adults.

An all-year-round alpine coaster located on the Maiskogel mountain in Kaprun. This exciting toboggan run on rails offers twists, turns, and jumps, providing an adrenaline rush for all ages. It features a length of 1,300 meters (0.8 miles) and reaches speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph). Operating hours vary seasonally but are generally daily from 09:00 to 17:00. Prices around €15 for a single ride per adult.

The Schmittenhöhe is Zell am See's home mountain, offering approximately 77 kilometers of perfectly groomed pistes for all skill levels. With 28 modern lifts, it provides efficient access to breathtaking panoramic views of over thirty 3,000-meter peaks. Key attractions include the 'Trass' (black run, one of the steepest in the Alps), the 'Funslope XXL', and a ski movie course. Night skiing is available on selected dates. The resort is connected via the 'zellamseeXpress' gondola to the Skicircus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn, expanding the total skiable terrain significantly. Operating hours typically run from early December to mid-April, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Day passes vary by season, usually around 60-70 EUR for adults.

Just a short drive from Zell am See, the Kitzsteinhorn glacier offers reliable snow conditions from autumn to early summer, making it Austria's first glacier ski area to open. Part of the Ski ALPIN CARD, it provides approximately 61 kilometers of pistes and 21 lifts, reaching altitudes up to 3,029 meters at the 'Top of Salzburg' panorama platform. It features extensive freeride terrain, several snowparks ('Glacier Park', 'Easy Park', 'Central Park', 'Kitzlift Park'), and diverse runs. The 'Gipfelwelt 3000' complex includes a cinema, a panoramic platform, and a restaurant. A free ski bus connects Zell am See to the Kitzsteinhorn base station. Ski season is exceptionally long, typically from October to early July. Prices are comparable to Schmittenhöhe.

Lake Zell is the vibrant heart of the region, offering a plethora of activities. In summer, designated lidos ('Strandbäder') like Seespitz and Thumersbach provide excellent swimming, sunbathing, and playground facilities. Watersports enthusiasts can rent stand-up paddleboards, electric boats, pedal boats, or try windsurfing and sailing. Panoramic boat tours offer relaxing cruises with commentary. During winter, when conditions allow, the lake freezes over and becomes a natural ice-skating rink, offering a magical experience. Seasonal prices apply for rentals and lido access.

A spectacular light, water, and music show presented several times a week during summer (May to October) at the Esplanade in Zell am See. The show combines water fountains, laser projections, and musical arrangements, creating a captivating spectacle that reflects across the lake. It's a free event, popular with families and couples, and lasts approximately 20 minutes, offering a memorable evening experience.

An exclusive and thrilling opportunity to ride along with a professional driver in a powerful PistenBully snow groomer. Participants get a unique insight into the demanding work of preparing the ski slopes at night, while enjoying the quiet, starlit mountain landscape. Available on select evenings during the winter season. Advance booking is essential, and prices are typically around 100-150 EUR per person.