A Weekend in Zell am See: The Perfect Itinerary

Zell am See is an incredible destination for a weekend in Zell am See, where you can immerse yourself in outdoor activities year-round. This beautiful lakeside resort in Austria is famous for its glacier skiing on the Kitzsteinhorn, as well as various adventure activities that cater to families and active couples alike. Below, you will find a detailed two-day itinerary that balances exhilarating exploration with relaxed enjoyment of the stunning surroundings.

Spacko98 / CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Day 1: Glacier skiing and lakeside relaxation

Morning: Hashing out your plans for glacier skiing

Begin your weekend in Zell am See with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a local bakery. Try Bäckerei Brean for fresh pastries. Then, make your way to the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier for a thrilling day of skiing. The glacier, accessible via the K-Town lift in Kaprun, offers excellent conditions from October to May. Be sure to purchase a ski pass which costs around €50-80 for a day pass offering access to a variety of slopes ranging from easy to expert.

As a family-friendly destination, Kitzsteinhorn has dedicated areas for beginners including the Maiskogel and the Glacier Park – perfect for children and novice skiers. More advanced skiers can tackle the black runs from the summit, like the "Black Mamba," renowned for its steep descents.

Lunch: Refueling at a mountain hut

After an exhilarating morning on the slopes, take a break for lunch at the Gipfel Restaurant perched at 3,029 meters. This eatery offers an impressive panoramic view of the Alps. Try the traditional Wiener Schnitzel, a favorite among skiers, for approximately €10-20.

Afternoon: More skiing or explore adventure activities

Depending on your energy levels, you can either continue skiing or explore other Zell am See adventure activities. The area offers tandem paragliding through operators such as Fly with Me, with flights starting around €110-180 per person. Enjoy the stunning alpine scenery while soaring above the valley.

If a more relaxed pace suits your family, consider a leisurely lakeside walk. The route around Lake Zell is approximately 11 kilometers and is manageable for families.

Evening: Dinner and lakeside stroll

End your day with dinner at the Hotel Tirolerhof’s restaurant. Local specialties such as Zeller Schafskäse cost around €10-15. After dinner, take a romantic stroll along Lake Zell, enjoying the illuminated surroundings and fresh mountain air.

Day 2: Adventure sports and local culture

Morning: Watersports on the lake

Start your second day with a breakfast packed with energy at Café San Francisco in the pedestrian zone. Get ready to dive into some watersports on Lake Zell. In summer, you can enjoy activities like stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking. Rentals are available on site for around €20-30 per hour.

Midday: Lunch in the town

After a busy morning, explore the charming streets of Zell am See and enjoy lunch at Brauhaus Zell am See, where hearty dishes and local beer await you. The cost averages around €10-20 per person.

Afternoon: Cycling or hiking

In the afternoon, explore the scenic surroundings on two wheels. Rent a bike from any of the local shops downtown, such as Intersport, where you can find local trails promoting cycling. The Tauern Cycle Path is a popular choice that leads you through stunning mountain landscapes and quaint villages.

Alternatively, hike one of the nearby trails such as the Schmittenhöhe. Taking the Schmittenhöhebahn lift (around €20-30 for a round trip) will save you some energy, and the trails from the top offer views that are simply breathtaking.

Evening: Cultural experience

For your final evening, engage with the local culture by visiting the Schloss Ort cultural center in the nearby village of Kaprun. Here, you can enjoy an event or exhibition to learn more about the history and traditions of the region.

At a local restaurant, consider trying their variations of Austrian dumplings, with prices around €8-10. Wind down with a local aperitif at one of the lakeside bars.

Outdoor recreation options beyond skiing

While Zell am See is famed for its winter sports, the summer months are equally enticing due to the plethora of outdoor activities available. Hiking trails vary in difficulty and allow you to explore the stunning landscapes in the area. Popular trails include the Höhenburg Trail, which provides a moderate hike with fantastic views and historical sites. Most trails are accessible from spring through autumn, with detailed maps available at local tourist offices.

For biking enthusiasts, the region offers several bike parks tailored to different skill levels. The newly opened Monti Bike Park in the nearby Kaprun region provides a mix of challenging trails and a family-friendly area designed for younger riders. Bike rentals typically cost around €25-35 per day.

Additionally, in winter, snowshoeing has grown popular, allowing visitors to explore serene trails without skis. Local companies like Adventure GmbH provide guided snowshoe tours, often available for around €40-60 with equipment included.

Culinary delights of Zell am See

A significant part of any trip is the culinary experience. Zell am See has a diverse dining scene that celebrates both local and international flavors. For a charming breakfast or afternoon coffee, Café Bernsteiner offers a selection of homemade cakes and local pastries.

As the sun goes down, consider dining at the iconic Restaurant Hohenhaus Tenne, renowned for its authentic Tyrolean cuisine. Main courses like venison goulash and dumplings average around €20-30. Do not overlook the region's wines; local wine shops often feature small vineyards from the nearby Wachau Valley.

Perhaps even more enticing are the numerous food markets held in the town square, particularly during peak seasons. Here, you can sample fresh cheeses, cured meats, and baked goods from local vendors. Seasonal markets usually occur weekly from June through September, and various stands provide a taste of Austrian culture.

Frequently asked questions

How much does glacier skiing in Zell am See cost?

A day pass for the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier ski area costs approximately €50-80, which includes access to various slopes and lifts. Equipment rentals range from €30-50 per day depending on the quality.

What are the best adventure activities in Zell am See?

In addition to glacier skiing, Zell am See offers thrilling adventure activities such as tandem paragliding, cycling along the Tauern Cycle Path, and various watersports on Lake Zell like kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

Is Zell am See suitable for families?

Zell am See is family-friendly, offering skiing lessons for children, lakeside activities, children's menus in restaurants, and numerous hiking paths that cater to younger visitors. The atmosphere is welcoming and accommodating for families.

What is the best time to visit Zell am See?

Winter (December to April) is ideal for skiing, while summer (May to September) provides opportunities for watersports and cycling. Each season offers different activities, so the best time depends on your interests.

Are there accommodation options suitable for families in Zell am See?

Zell am See has various accommodation options ranging from family-run hotels to apartments. Family rooms are often available in several establishments, including hotels like the Hotel Tirolerhof, to accommodate families comfortably.

How do I get around Zell am See?

Zell am See is easily navigable with public transportation options like buses and trains connecting you to nearby attractions. Many locations, especially within the town and around the lake, are also walkable, making it simple to explore on foot.

Ready to go

Ready to book your adventure? Browse experiences in Austria on Roundtripski. Keep planning with the adventure guide to Kitzbühel and the adventure guide to Mayrhofen.

Guide requirement

Ski touring and glacier terrain in this region require a certified IFMGA mountain guide. Ski schools can provide lessons and resort guiding, but they are not permitted to guide glacier or backcountry terrain without one. If your plan includes any off-piste, ski touring, or glacier travel, book a certified IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide.