Top 10 Things to Do in Zell am See in the Summer (and Nearby)

Forget about Vienna. Zell am See-Kaprun is where Austria actually gets interesting and packed with exciting activities—especially in summer. This is not a “walk around and admire cute buildings” destination. This is the “sweat, hike, drive, and explore” kind of place.

Zell am See is where you do stuff. Whether it’s glacier trekking, dam-exploring, or just floating on Lake Zell like a sunburnt seal, this is your ultimate, no-BS list of the best things to do in Zell am See (and nearby)—ranked by how much I actually enjoyed them, not by how close they are to the town square.
 

Quick list of the best things to do in Zell am See (summer edition)

1. Drive the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse

2. Hike or take the gondola up Kitzsteinhorn Glacier and explore Gipfelwelt 3000

3. Choose one of 3 waterfalls… or visit them all! 

4. Visit Kaprun Dam (inclined elevator, anyone?)

5. Explore Hohenwerfen Castle + Austria’s creepiest witch exhibit

6. Hike up Schmittenhöhe for epic lake views (or hop on the mountain cable car)

7. Swim or play in Lake Zell, or stay late for the laser water show

8. Climb the Vogtturm and check out local history at the museum

9. Pop into the 13^th-century Church of St. Hippolytus

10. Admire Zell am See’s Town Hall—it used to be a castle!

Note: Some of these activities aren’t in the town of Zell am See itself, but to be honest, Zell’s biggest advantage is that it sits in the middle of all of this. I’ve ranked these based on how awesome they are, not by distance from your hotel. If you’re looking for things right in the town, scroll down to #6–10 (spoiler: the best stuff’s a short drive away anyway).

 

From conquering Kitzsteinhorn to driving the epic Grossglockner High Alpine Road

 

What counts as a “Thing to Do” in Zell am See (vs. just a place to see)?

Let’s set expectations straight. This isn’t one of those articles that tells you to “see the town square” or “walk around and soak in the atmosphere.” It wouldn’t do Zell am See justice in the slightest, even if it is a cute little town.

This is about doing stuff in Zell am See and nearby. So if it didn’t require actual (and worthwhile) effort, involvement, or at least a mildly stressful experience, it didn’t make my list.

Pro tip: Looking for museums, palaces, and leisurely strolls with ice cream? That’s what Salzburg is for. 

 

My top tips for experiencing the best of Zell am See: 

• Get the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card – It’ll save you a chunk of money on cable cars (yes, the expensive kind), boat rides, and other attractions. Most good hotels include it.

• Want to actually sit down and eat? Book ahead. In summer, restaurants fill up fast.

• ​Pack a rain jacket and thermal underwear, even in July. It rains a lot in Austria in summer!

• Parking fills up fast. Get to trailheads, cable cars, and main sights early—especially on weekends.

• Hiking apps: Use Komoot instead of AllTrails. It’s way more accurate for Austrian routes.

• Get a hotel with amazing views: Elevate your experience at a hotel where the views don’t stop even when you’re going to bed. I vote for the Senses Violett Suites. Zell am See-Kaprun Summercard included!

 

Imagine the views from the cozy rooms at Senses Violett Suites Hotel

 

Here are Zell am See’s top things to do, ranked by me from WOW! to nice-to-do: 

 

1.  Drive the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse—Austria’s most insane mountain road

Passing the Grossglockner in the Alps is a dream come true

 

There are plenty of places to park the car and stare out onto the mountains, so even the driver gets to enjoy the views on the High Alpine Road 

 

This drive is hands down the best thing to do in Zell am See! I would also say the most beautiful place in Europe. The Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria at 3,798 m (12,461 ft). The High Alpine Road leads you through the mountain range at around 2,500 m (8,200 ft). 

 

 

I want to be clear: This isn’t a scenic drive where you sit and yawn. You’ll stop, hike, photograph, and actually get out of the car. For us, it was a full-day trip, but your experience could vary based on how much you want to explore the surroundings. The 48 km (30 mi) route starts in Bruck an der Grossglocknerstrasse and leads to Heiligenblut. 

Pro tip: Stop at Edelweißspitze for the best panorama.

• Opening times: Open roughly from late April to early November (depending on weather conditions and the amount of snow). Opening times vary based on the month. In June through August, the road is open from 5:30 am to 9 pm.  
• P​rice per day: EUR 45 for cars, EUR 35 for motorcycles (in 2025). 

Add-on activity: Grossglockner Loop Hike 

• Difficulty: Hard 
• Distance: 8 km (4.8 mi) 
• Elevation gain: 396 m (1,300 ft) 
• Time: 3 hours 

 

 

The feeling when you get to the top is priceless 

 

On the way, there are numerous parking lots with hiking trails leading to the most popular lakes and peaks. We decided to take the Grossglockner hike (as it’s obviously the most badass one). 

Not that you'd be hiking up to the actual Grossglockner peak, it’s a trek in its surroundings through the Hohe Tauern National Park. It was a tough hike, defitnitely one I’d strongly recommend if you’re visiting Zell am See, but very much worth it. The views are absolutely spectacular!

 

2.  Hike or take the gondola up to Kitzsteinhorn and explore the glacier at 3,000 m

We conquered Kitzsteinhorn! @ Top of Salzburg

The views are incredible

 

About a 20-minute ride from Zell am See is another place I simply couldn’t miss. Kitzsteinhorn is at an altitude of 3,203 m (10,508 ft) and is an iconic landmark of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The absolute top of the glacier is reserved for professional climbers, but there’s the Gipfelwelt 3,000 Center at 3,000 m (9,800 ft) with a restaurant, cinema, ice arena, ski site, and of course, the panorama platform.  

A few tips for activities on Kitzsteinhorn based on my experience:  

• Hike up there! There are multiple hiking routes up to the peak, but they're rather demanding, and you need to take into consideration that there is around 2,500 m (8,200 ft) elevation gain. And it’s freezing up there, even in the summer. Make sure you have some warm clothes in your suitcase for this trip! On the other hand, if you’re not a wuss, it’s a really beautiful and exciting hike. 

• Or ride the lifts instead: There are 7 kinds of ski lifts/gondolas to the top , and you should prepare your wallet as this is usually the most expensive item on this trip. The return ticket costs EUR 40–50 per adult , based on how high you want to go.  When enjoying the view and taking an unreasonable number of photos, don’t forget that the last cable car down leaves at 4:30 pm.  

• Check out the epic views and take the tunnel experience: As you’d expect, there are incredible views from the top, and to get there, you need to walk through a large tunnel with a very well-structured Glacier exhibition.  

Eat lunch at 3,000 m: personal tip is to hike up and enjoy the scenery, reward yourself with a delicious meal in the restaurant, and then catch the mountain cable car down. 

Practical information: 

• Opening times vary depending on the lift and weather conditions but are generally daily from 8 am to 4:45 pm (the time of the last descent). 
• There is a large parking lot next to the cable car station under the mountain. It’s free of charge and mostly designed for the surge of skiers in winter, so it’s often half-empty in the summer. 

 

3.  Tour Kaprun Dam: a technical marvel with Alpine views

Gotta love some Austrian beer! 

 

Chilling at Kaprun Dam

 

Speaking of Kaprun, 13 km (8.2 mi) further south of the Sigmund Thun Klamm lies the Kaprun Dam. The technical marvel is at an altitude of around 2,000 m (6,500 ft) and provides electricity for the entire Zell am See-Kaprun region. It also looks fantastic while doing it!

This isn’t just a quick photo stop. You're in for:

• A ride up via bus + inclined elevator (about 45 minutes total)
• ​Several hiking trails with panoramic views
• A chance to tour the hydropower plant (optional but cool)
• A proper mountain meal—goulash is always a safe bet

Pro tip: Be mindful of the rapid elevation gain (around 1,500 m), which may cause trouble with breathing or dizziness for some people. 

 

There it is!

 

How to get to Kaprun Dam

You can’t just drive up—you’ll need to take a special bus and inclined elevator combo to get to the top. And brace yourself—it’s an experience. Buses are often packed, and if you're not a fan of strangers breathing down your neck, plan to get there early.

Here’s how it works:

• Drive to Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus and leave your car in the free parking garage.
  Travel hack: Park on the highest level—it’s closest to the bus stop.

• The ticket office is located above the parking lot, where you can buy a combo ticket that includes two bus rides and the inclined elevator. You can also book a guided tour of the power plant here.

• The ride up takes about 45 minutes, including transfers. There’s no strict timetable, but buses usually run every 15 minutes.

• Opening times: From the end of May to mid-October, daily from 8:10 am to 4:45 pm (last bus up at 3:30 pm). Opening may vary depending on weather—check the official site before you go.

• Price:  EUR 38 for adults + EUR 11 for a dam tour (kids and family discounts available)

 

4.  Go chasing waterfalls: 3 epic options around Zell am See (pick one or do them all)

Krimmler Waterfalls—the largest waterfalls in Europe!

 

Are you also thinking about the barrel scene in The Hobbit? @ Sigmund Thun Klamm

 

One of the underrated perks of visiting Zell am See in the summer? The waterfalls actually exist—unlike in winter when they’re frozen shut or barely dripping like a broken faucet.

You’ve got three waterfall experiences nearby, each totally different in vibe and intensity. Yes, they all involve rushing water and slippery paths. No, they’re not interchangeable. Here's the breakdown:

• One is a vertical beast and Europe’s tallest waterfall.​
• One is a narrow gorge with a fun walkway.
• And one is a hidden city-side cascade with surprisingly good coffee nearby.

If you only have time for one:

• Want dramatic power? Go to Krimmler Waterfalls.
• Want a short, magical walk? Pick Sigmund Thun Klamm.
• ​Want to snap one quick (e)pic and move on? Drive out to Bad Gastein.

Or just be an overachiever and hit all three. 

The Sigmund Thun Gorge Waterfall: A Fairytale hike through a narrow canyon

Everything is wet and slippery at Sigmund Thun Gorge, even on a sunny day!

 

Just 10 minutes from Kaprun, this is the easiest and most accessible of the three—and the most photogenic per square meter. It’s a wonderful narrow zig-zag route through the cliffs where you can admire the crystal-clear waterfalls and moss-covered stones.

Take at least two hours to walk the route. The roaring river forces its way through the valley, offering a magnificent view from the narrow and slippery boardwalks and bridges (proper footwear is essential!). It kind of reminded me of the Hobbit barrel scene, where the dwarves escape from the elves.

• Generally open daily from mid-May to November 5. Opening times: July and August: 9:30 am to 7 pm; May, June, September: 9 am to 5:30 pm; October and November: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm ​
• ​Price: EUR 6   

 

Krimmler Waterfalls: Europe’s tallest and most powerful  

Fantastic misty atmosphere at Krimmler Waterfalls

 

This is the “go big or go home” waterfall. The full 4 km (2.4 mi) trail climbs over 400 m (1,300 ft) alongside a roaring monster of a river. Wear real shoes!

Located in the western part of Hohe Tauern National Park, the Krimmler Waterfalls offer many viewpoints and platforms leading you up to the top through the Krimml Ache Valley along the numerous waterfalls. 

The trail takes about 2 hours out-and-back (if you’re as ripped as I am). Just don’t forget to look up and enjoy the scenery while taking all the pics for your feed.  

• Open daily from mid-April to November 5
• Price: EUR 8

 

Bad Gastein: A spa town on top of a cliff… with a waterfall running down the middle of it

Bad Gastein Waterfall

 

On your waterfall quest, you can’t miss Bad Gastein, a spa town in the hills with a waterfall running right down the middle of it! It’s only a 45-minute drive from Zell am See.

Now, be warned that the town itself is past its prime, so if you aren’t considering hiking in the area, you may find it underwhelming in terms of things to do. That said, a soak in one of the spas after a gorgeous hike and coffee with a view of that incredible waterfall doesn’t sound half shabby, does it?

Pro tip: Try Betty’s Bistro. It doesn’t have a waterfall view, but you won’t be able to keep your eyes off your plate anyway.

I’ve talked a bit more about Bad Gastein in my list of the Best Cities to Visit in Austria.

 

5.  Visit Hohenwerfen Castle and explore Austria's dark, witchy past

Hohenwerfen Castle… come for the fairytale setting, stay for the witch exhibit 

 

Hohenwerfen is one of the top things to do near Zell am See if you're into medieval fortresses and a bit of creepy history. Perched on a hill about an hour northeast of Zell am See, it’s impossible to miss—you’ll see it looming above the valley long before you get there.

The castle dates back to 1077 and has lived many lives: archbishop’s hunting lodge, military base, prison, ruin... and now a tourist magnet. Understandable, but make sure you know what to expect.

While the exterior is properly badass—a cool structure in a beautiful setting—, the interior… not so much. I tried hard to be happy admiring the frescoes, wooden floors, and a lot of empty rooms.

Do this:

• I very much enjoyed the “Mythos Jackl” witchcraft & mythology exhibit with holograms and interactive presentations about a gruesome time in Austria’s history. Witcher fans will be happy.

• Time your visit with the falconry show if you’re into birds of prey doing stunts. You can also see the Falconry Museum.

• Decide between hiking up (150 m elevation gain) or riding the funicular—both are worth the effort.

• Arrive early: Parking near the base fills up fast in summer.

 

 

Practical info:

• Opening times: April and October 9:30 am–4 pm (closed Mondays), May to September 9 am–5 pm daily
• Price: Tickets from EUR 13.90 if you hike up and are not joining the guided tour, up to EUR 20.90 for all-inclusive tickets that include the funicular and a guided tour.  

 

6.  Hike Schmittenhöhe for unreal views of Zell am See (or just hop on the mountain cable car) 

Walk up and then look down and enjoy the view

 

If you only have one afternoon in Zell am See proper, this is your best move. Schmittenhöhe is the closest mountain to the town, rising nearly 2,000 m (6,562 ft), and it’s one of the top things to do in Zell am See in the summer.

Why? Because once you’re up there, the mountains practically fall open in front of you. You get a jaw-dropping panorama of Lake Zell, the town below, and a lineup of Alpine peaks that’ll make your camera cry.

If you’re like me, you’ll take the Panorama Route, a scenic trail that winds around water reservoirs and multiple viewing platforms on the way to the summit. It’s not the easiest hike, but it’s absolutely worth the sweat.

Not into hiking? No problem. You can take the Schmittenhöhebahn cable car straight to the top.

You’ve got a few ways to tackle Schmittenhöhe:

• Hike up, cable car down—my preferred option
• Cable car up, walk around the summit—max views, minimal effort
• Hike both ways—if you hate your legs or love bragging rights
• Cable car round trip—if you came for the panorama, not the pain
   

Schmittenhöhe Panorama Route: hike details

• Difficulty: Moderate 
• Distance: 8 km (4.8 mi) 
• Elevation Gain: 1,143 m (3,750 ft) 
• ​Time: Approximately 4 hours (including photo stops)
   

At the top, don’t miss the Kaiserblick viewing platform (the “Emperor’s View”). This is the crown jewel of the hike—a panoramic terrace offering unobstructed views of over 30 Alpine giants, including the Grossglockner.

After hiking and soaking in the views, which took us about 4 hours total, we grabbed lunch at the summit restaurant, then took the cable car down.

Fun fact: There’s a small wooden chapel up there dedicated to Empress Sissi, who loved this place. 

Practical info: 

• Cable car tickets cost EUR 31.50 without Kaiserblick access and EUR 43 with Kaiserblick
• One-way cable car tickets start at EUR 12 if you’re going down, and EUR 20 if you’re going up

 

7.  Swim in Lake Zell or just stick around for the evening light show

This lake turns into a magical light show when the sun goes down

 

Zell am See’s lake isn’t just for photos. Get in, get wet, or just rent something that floats..

Fun fact: Lake Zell is in fact very warm compared to other lakes in the Alps thanks to the hot underwater springs... but in my opinion, it’s still damn cold!

But don’t worry, you can enjoy the lake without actually getting into it, too. Here are your options: 

 

Swimming and water sports on Lake Zell

Cloudy skies, clear waters

 

There are several public beaches around the lake where you can spend a relaxing afternoon swimming in the crystal-clear water with beautiful mountain views in the background. 

I also saw places renting various sports equipment and boats, and you can hop on a steamboat ride, too. And if you’re brave enough, come here at night and try skinny dipping in the most romantic setting. 

If you’re lucky, it won’t be raining all the time, like it was during our vacation in July. 

Lake Zell beaches: 

• Zell am See Esplanade 
• Strandbad Maishofen 
• Strandbad Thumersbach 
• Strandbad Erlberg 

 

Watch the water and light show

The cool thing I missed because I didn’t know about it at the time is the Magic Lake Show, best seen from  Elisabeth Park. As soon as the sun dips down, the laser show takes place right on the lake. The enchanting performance includes water and sound effects, and it’s supposed to be truly impressive. You'll need to visit in spring through fall to witness it. 

If you’re not able to see the evening show, there are also hourly daytime water shows (just without the magic of the lights).

Practical info:

• 2025 schedule: May 15 to October 14, 2025
• Evening shows: Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday (9 pm or 9:30 pm, depending on daylight)
• Themes:
  • Tuesdays: "Best of Disco"
  • Thursdays: "Best Movie Themes"​
  • Sundays: "Rock Legends Orchestrated"
• Daytime water shows: Daily, every hour on the hour, from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm
• free entry 

 

Bonus: Quick things to do in Zell am See town

Lake Zell by day vs. night

 

Not all of Zell am See’s highlights require hiking boots or a full day’s commitment. If you’ve got a few hours to kill or just need a break from the mountains, these quick stops are perfect for soaking up some local culture and history. They won’t exactly wow you, but they’re worth checking out if you’re in the area.

 

8.  Climb the Vogtturm and nerd out on Zell’s local history

Vogtturm museum was a really nice surprise for me!

 

This 1,000-year-old tower still stands guard over Stadtplatz, and inside it hides Zell am See’s one and only museum. And to be honest—there’s not much else to visit in town, so this is your best cultural bet.

Surprisingly? It’s actually pretty good. The Vogtturm Stadtmuseum has interactive exhibits (in English), historical artifacts, and even a video game for kids.

You climb the tower as part of the visit, passing through the different museum levels until you reach the top floor, which rewards you with a great panoramic view of the town and lake.

It won’t take more than an hour, but it’s a solid stop—especially if the weather’s acting up or you need a quick break from all the mountain action.

• Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 1 pm to 6 pm 
• Price:  EUR 9.50

 

9.  Step inside the medieval Church of St. Hippolyt 

The very medieval Church of St. Hippolyt

 

Next, we spotted this 13^th-century parish church—nothing flashy from the outside, but I figured, why not peek in? Turns out, it’s surprisingly well-preserved, with original medieval frescoes still clinging to the walls.

I’m not a religious guy, but I do appreciate good old stonework and gloomy church vibes. It won’t take more than ten minutes of your life, but if you’re already in the town square, step inside. It’s quiet, dark, and actually kind of atmospheric 10. Visit Zell’s castle-turned-town hall—because why not? (Stadtgemeindeamt Zell am See)

 

10.  Visit Zell’s castle-turned-town hall—because why not? (Stadtgemeindeamt Zell am See)

The former Rosenberg Castle and the current Town Hall of Zell Am See

 

Right in the middle of the old town sits what looks like a Disney prop—but nope, it’s the actual town hall, housed in the former Rosenberg Castle, built in 1583. We passed by, admired the exterior, and moved on—because you can’t really go inside unless you’re on a mission to pay taxes or argue with local bureaucracy.

Still, it's worth a quick look. I mean, how often do you see a town hall in a castle?

 

Conclusion: Is Zell am See worth visiting? 

Yes, yes, and yes. Zell am See is absolutely worth it—especially in summer. The setting alone is unreal, and there’s a ridiculous amount to do within a two-hour radius. Sure, it gets crowded in peak season, but that’s what the mountains are for: escape routes with better views.

Honestly, I’d argue summer beats winter here. The ski scene is fine, but the real magic kicks in once the snow melts—the waterfalls rage, the lakes (kind of) warm up, and the mountain roads finally open up for the best drives in the Alps.

Zell am See isn’t just for chilling—it’s for doing. Hike, drive, swim, sweat, take in some world-class scenery, and eat an irresponsible amount of goulash at 2,000 meters. If that sounds like your idea of a vacation, you’re going to love it. If not... well, Vienna’s always there, waiting to bore you.

 

 

How to get to Zell am See

3 possible starting points for your travel to Zell am See!

 

Zell am See lies between Salzburg (a 1.5-hour drive from Zell am See) and Innsbruck (a 2.5-hour drive from Zell am See). Also, pretty close to Munich in Germany (80-minute drive from Zell am See).  

My personal tip for those traveling to Zell am See by plane: Fly to Munich, Germany, and cross the border to Austria by car. Luckily, nowadays it’s much safer than a hundred years ago and also much more comfortable than flying to Vienna. 

 

Zell am See-Kaprun served up epic views and even better food

 

 

FAQ1: What is Zell am See famous for?

Zell am See is famous for its stunning Alpine setting, Lake Zell, and year-round outdoor activities. It’s known as both a ski resort in winter and a hiking, biking, and watersports hub in summer. The town is also a gateway to the Hohe Tauern National Park and attractions like the Schmittenhöhe mountain and Grossglockner scenic drive.

 

FAQ2: Is Zell am See worth visiting in summer?

Yes, Zell am See is absolutely worth visiting in summer. It offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and easy access to iconic Alpine sights like the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, and Lake Zell. Summer is when the mountains open up, waterfalls are at full force, and hiking, swimming, and scenic drives are at their best.

 

FAQ3: Can you swim in Lake Zell in summer?

Yes, you can swim in Lake Zell in summer—and it’s one of the few Alpine lakes that’s actually warm enough to enjoy. Thanks to natural underwater springs, the lake reaches temperatures of around 21–23°C (70–73°F) in July and August. For me, that’s still freezing, but it’s downright toasty by Alpine standards! There are several public beaches around the lake, including Zell am See Esplanade and Strandbad Thumersbach.

 

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