Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Zell am See, Austria

Nestled in the Austrian Alps, Zell am See is a picturesque town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural charm. With its crystal-clear lake, majestic mountains, and historic landmarks, Zell am See attracts visitors from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting destination, here are 10 things to do in Zell am See that you simply can’t miss.

1. Explore the Historic Old Town

Start your Zell am See adventure by strolling through the charming streets of the historic old town. Admire the colorful buildings, many dating back centuries, housing boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss these key landmarks:

• Vogtturm: This 11th-century tower now houses a local museum showcasing the town’s history.

• Parish Church of St. Hippolyte: Known for its beautiful frescoes, this impressive church is a must-visit.

As you wander, keep an eye out for the town’s many traditional shops selling local specialties like handmade chocolates, artisanal cheeses, and traditional Austrian clothing.

2. Take a Boat Trip on Lake Zell

Lake Zell, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, is the jewel of Zell am See. One of the best ways to experience its beauty is by taking a leisurely boat trip. Here are some options:

As you glide across the serene waters, soak in the breathtaking views of the Alps reflecting on the lake’s surface. Keep your camera ready to capture these picture-perfect moments.

3. Hike or Ride the Cable Car to Schmittenhöhe

Schmittenhöhe, Zell am See’s local mountain, offers a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Take the Schmittenhöhe cable car to nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, where you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of Lake Zell and the surrounding peaks.

• In summer, explore the well-marked hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels.

• For an adrenaline rush, try paragliding from the mountain top for a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape.

• In winter, Schmittenhöhe transforms into a ski resort, offering slopes for all skill levels.

Whether you hike, ski, or simply admire the view, a trip to Schmittenhöhe is one of the top zell am see attractions.

4. Visit the Sigmund Thun Gorge

Just a short walk from the town center, the Sigmund Thun Gorge offers a wonderful nature experience. Follow the wooden walkways through the gorge, admiring the turquoise waters of the Kapruner Ache river as it rushes past towering rock formations.

• The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for most visitors.

• At the end of the gorge, you’ll reach a picturesque lake, perfect for a picnic or a moment of tranquility.

• The gorge is open from May to October, with a small entrance fee.

Add the Sigmund Thun Gorge to your list of things to do zell am see, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of nature.

5. Relax at the Zell am See Leisure Center

If you’re looking for a day of relaxation and fun, head to the Zell am See Leisure Center (Freizeitzentrum). This family-friendly complex offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities:

• Indoor pool with water slides

• Sauna and spa area

• Ice skating rink (in winter)

• Tennis and squash courts

• Mini-golf course

Whether you want to swim, skate, or simply unwind, the leisure center has something for everyone. It’s a perfect option for rainy days or when you need a break from outdoor adventures.

6. Discover the Krimml Waterfalls

While not directly in Zell am See, the Krimml Waterfalls are a natural wonder worth the 1.5-hour drive. These waterfalls, the highest in Austria, plunge down three stages, with a total drop of 380 meters.

• Follow the well-maintained trails to various viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the cascading waters.

• The hike to the top of the falls takes about 1.5 hours, but you can also enjoy the lower sections if you prefer a shorter walk.

• The waterfalls are most impressive in late spring and early summer when the snow melts.

7. Climb to the Top of Mitterberg

For another stunning viewpoint, head to Mitterberg, a hill overlooking Zell am See. You can reach the top by car or on foot:

• By car: Drive up the Mitterberg road and park near the Mitterbergalm, a traditional mountain hut with a viewing terrace.

• On foot: Follow the hiking trail from the town center, which takes about 1.5 hours to reach the top.

8. Enjoy Coffee and Cake at the Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel, open since 1896, is one of Zell am See’s most iconic landmarks. While staying at this historic hotel is a luxury experience, you can still enjoy its charm by visiting the lake-view terrace for coffee and cake.

• The terrace offers a prime spot to admire Lake Zell and the mountains while indulging in delicious Austrian pastries.

• The hotel’s elegant interior, with its grand staircase and crystal chandeliers, is also worth a peek.

9. Visit the Weekly Market

If you’re in Zell am See on a Friday, don’t miss the weekly market held in the town center. This colorful market showcases the best of local produce, crafts, and delicacies.

• Browse stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and baked goods.

• Sample traditional Austrian snacks like pretzels, sausages, and strudels.

• Shop for unique souvenirs, such as handcrafted wooden items, local honey, and schnapps.

Stay Connected in Zell am See with Airtel

As you explore zell am see attractions, staying connected is key to making the most of your trip. With Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming, you can enjoy seamless connectivity in Austria. Choose from a range of affordable plans that offer generous data allowances and validity options. Enjoy high-speed internet access to share your Zell am See adventures on social media, navigate with Google Maps, and stay in touch with loved ones back home. With 24/7 customer support, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that Airtel has you covered.

Conclusion: Your Zell am See Adventure Awaits

From the sparkling waters of Lake Zell to the majestic peaks of the Austrian Alps, Zell am See offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler.

As you plan your things to do in Zell am See, remember to pack your sense of adventure and your camera to capture the stunning beauty of this Alpine gem. And with Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming, you can stay connected and share your unforgettable moments with the world.