Zell am See: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!

Majestic mountain peaks, snow-white glaciers, and a sparkling, clear lake – and all of this at one destination? That's exactly what you will experience during your stay in Zell am See in Pinzgau! The popular holiday resort in the Salzkammergut offers you a perfect vacation program in both summer and winter.

Table of contents

Zell am See - Must-see attractions
Zell am See - Secret spots
Zell am See - In 3 days
Zell am See - Climate

Zell am See - Must-see attractions

Zell am See - Holiday homes & apartments

Old Town Zell am See

The Romanesque parish church of St. Hippolyt with its 36-meter-high tower dominates the image of the old town. Its interior houses significant art treasures. Right next to it rises the six-story Vogtturm, which houses the city museum. Discover exciting insights into regional history. The landmark of Zell am See is the town hall in the charming four-story Rosenberg Castle from the 16th century. The snow-white Grand Hotel on the lakeshore is built in the enchanting Belle Époque style. During the summer months, the widely popular summer night festivals take place in the center.

Elisabeth Park

The Elisabeth Park is located directly on the shore of the picturesque Lake Zell. It is considered a popular local recreation area, especially among the residents of Salzburg. Various music events take place here in the summer. A special highlight is the Zeller Lake Magic. As part of this, light shows are organized several times a week during the summer months, transforming the lake into a magical sparkle. But even in winter, a visit is well worth it: A large Christmas market is held annually.

Lido Zell am See

In hot weather, the beach baths around Lake Zell are the first point of contact. Look forward to water temperatures of up to 23 °C, well-maintained lawns, and numerous leisure activities. Three beach baths with first-class service can be found around the lake. Adventurers feel at home at the Zell am See beach bath: they dare to perform bold stunts on the diving tower or have fun on the water slide. The Thumersbach beach bath offers a beach and a well-maintained pool. The Schüttdorf beach bath is located on the southern shore.

Schmittenhöhe

Climb the Schmittenhöhe during your hiking vacation. Once at the top, the Elisabeth Chapel awaits you in memory of Empress Sisi, who once undertook this ascent and was certainly also thrilled by the fantastic panoramic view over the Kitzbühel Alps. Families can look forward to a children's adventure world on the Schmittenhöhe with various offerings such as an adventure trail around a "mystical forest" and an exciting dragon cave, as well as other play opportunities. Additionally, there is an adrenaline-filled e-motocross park for young and old.

Summit World 3000

In the Salzburg region, the Gipfelwelt 3000 on the Kitzsteinhorn is a guarantee for unique alpine experiences. The cable car ride alone from the mountain station in Kaprun up to 3,029 meters is incomparable. At the top, you will find a breathtaking panorama and extraordinary attractions. In the long tunnel of the National Park Gallery, you can learn exciting facts about the Hohe Tauern at information stations. The Nature Cinema Cinema 3000 and the Ice Arena with sledding opportunities directly on the glacier are also worth a visit. Two unique viewing platforms offer summit views that will amaze you.

Pinzgauer Local Railway Railways

Emperor Franz Joseph I was the one who commissioned the construction of the Pinzgauer Lokalbahn in 1896. Two years later, it was ready, and the narrow-gauge railway was opened. The route is 53 km long. With the Pinzgauer Regionalbahn, you travel through the grassy mountains of the Pinzgau and the Hohe Tauern National Park. At 40 stations, you have the opportunity to get on and off. A hidden gem is the nostalgic rides in the summer with the steam locomotive.

Zell am See - Secret spots

Zell am See - Holiday homes & apartments

Lamprecht Cave

The Lamprechtshöhle, the longest through cave in the world, is located near Zell am See and is a true hidden gem. With a total length of 62 km, it is one of the largest cave systems in Europe. In 1993, Polish cavers discovered another entrance at an altitude of 2,178 m. This impressive cave offers fascinating underground formations and a unique experience for all visitors. A trip to the Lamprechtshöhle is a must for nature lovers and adventurers who want to explore the silent beauty of the underground world.

Thumersbach Village

Thumersbach, a picturesque village near Zell am See, is a true gem. Surrounded by breathtaking Alpine panoramas, it offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Here you can experience the unique fact that it is the only village in the region located directly on Lake Zell, making it an ideal place for water sports enthusiasts.

Mining and Gothic Museum Leogang

The Mining and Gothic Museum in Leogang, about 30 minutes by car from Zell am See, is worth a visit despite this distance. It offers fascinating insights into the local mining history and impressive Gothic art that reflect the rich culture and tradition of this region.

Sculpture Park Thumersbach

The Sculpture Park Thumersbach near Zell am See is a true work of art in nature. This idyllic park is lined with impressive sculptures by local artists. Interestingly, all artworks were made from natural materials, which perfectly integrates them into the surrounding landscape. A walk here is a unique combination of art and nature experience.

Zell am See - In 3 days

Zell am See - Holiday homes & apartments

Day 1

First, explore Zell am See with a leisurely walk along Lake Zell. Enjoy the fresh morning air and the breathtaking panorama of the surrounding Alps. Afterwards, a boat trip on the lake is recommended to experience the beauty of the region from a different perspective. After the boat trip, you can explore the old town of Zell am See. Stroll through the charming alleys, admire the historic buildings, and visit the parish church of St. Hippolyt, one of the oldest churches in the Pinzgau. For lunch, try local specialties in one of the cozy inns. In the afternoon, a ride on the Schmittenhöhe cable car is recommended. Once at the top, enjoy a magnificent view of over 30 peaks and take a short hike. End the day with a relaxing dinner and unwind in one of the traditional parlors, where you can experience warm Austrian hospitality.

Day 2

Today you visit the Kitzsteinhorn. Take the cable car up to the summit and experience the fascinating world of eternal ice. Once at the top, you can enjoy the breathtaking view from the panorama platform and explore the Gipfelwelt 3000 visitor center. After this impressive experience, return to the valley and visit the Hohe Tauern National Park Center in Mittersill. Here you will learn all about the region's flora and fauna and can enjoy interactive exhibitions. For lunch, return to Zell am See and strengthen yourself with more regional delicacies. In the afternoon, a visit to the lido is recommended, where you can swim in the clear waters of Lake Zell or simply relax. Spend the evening with a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade before ending the day with a delicious dinner in one of the local inns.

Day 3

On the third day, start with a relaxed breakfast in one of the city's charming cafes. Then head to the Schmittenhöhe, one of the most beautiful panoramic mountains in the region. Take the cable car up and enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding Alps and Lake Zell. Once at the top, you can go for a hike on one of the well-marked trails or simply take in the fresh mountain air and the impressive landscape. After returning to the valley, a visit to the city center of Zell am See is recommended. Stroll through the picturesque alleys, browse the local shops, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. For lunch, try more regional specialties in one of the cozy inns. In the afternoon, a boat trip on Lake Zell is a good option. Let your mind wander and enjoy the peace and beauty of nature. Spend the last evening of your trip with a festive dinner, where you can once again fully enjoy the culinary highlights of the region.

Zell am See - Climate

In Zell am See, there is a continental climate: the summers are moderate and the winters are cool. Snowfall usually begins in November. In February and March, the average snow depth on the mountain reaches more than 140 cm. In January, it snows on 15 days. From December to February, the average temperatures are below 0 degrees Celsius. The best time to travel for a beach holiday is in July and August: 10 hours of sunshine can be expected daily in the peak summer. The water temperature in Lake Zell then reaches 22 degrees Celsius and the air temperature averages 18 degrees.

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