
Zell am See Old Town and Lake
Alpine charm meets lakeside serenity in Zell am See, offering stunning mountain vistas and a vibrant old town for year-round adventures.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm lake, fewer crowds

Zell am See Old Town and Lake
Best Time
Calm lake, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Alpine charm meets lakeside serenity in Zell am See, offering stunning mountain vistas and a vibrant old town for year-round adventures.
"A wonderful place with stunning natural beauty and a relaxing atmosphere."

☀️ Summer Card is Key
Get the Summer Card for free/discounted attractions & transport. A must-have for summer visitors!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Old Town
Explore the charming old town for local shops and authentic Austrian vibes.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Zell's Serene Waters
Lake Zell
Crystal-clear alpine lake perfect for boat rides, swimming, or simply enjoying the breathtaking mountain backdrop.

Charming Old Town
Zell am See Old Town
Wander through historic streets, discover local shops, and soak in the authentic Austrian alpine atmosphere.

Schmittenhöhe Views
Schmittenhöhe Mountain
Take a cable car up for panoramic vistas of the lake, town, and surrounding Alps. Ideal for hiking and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Seasons
Summer Card Savvy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Summer Card is Key
Get the Summer Card for free/discounted attractions & transport. A must-have for summer visitors!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Old Town
Explore the charming old town for local shops and authentic Austrian vibes.
🚤 Lakeside Relaxation
Enjoy boat rides or simply relax by Lake Zell for stunning views and fresh air.
🚠 Cable Car Adventures
Ride up Schmittenhöhe for incredible panoramic views of the Alps and lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Summer Card is Key
Get the Summer Card for free/discounted attractions & transport. A must-have for summer visitors!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Old Town
Explore the charming old town for local shops and authentic Austrian vibes.
🚤 Lakeside Relaxation
Enjoy boat rides or simply relax by Lake Zell for stunning views and fresh air.
🚠 Cable Car Adventures
Ride up Schmittenhöhe for incredible panoramic views of the Alps and lake.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Zell am See offers endless photo opportunities, especially from the lake and mountain viewpoints.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zell am See is widely praised for its stunning natural beauty, with the magnificent lake and surrounding mountains creating a relaxing and picturesque setting. Visitors appreciate the charming Old Town atmosphere and the abundance of outdoor activities available year-round. While it can get crowded, many find pockets of peace and authentic Austrian charm.
"Although the town can be crowded, and in some parts you'll feel like you're in the middle of a large city, there are still pockets of peace and beauty where the true atmosphere of good old Austria is still noticeable. Of course, the lake and surrounding mountains create a beautiful setting for a town with an Alpine atmosphere."
Lucca T.
"A wonderful place with stunning natural beauty and a relaxing atmosphere.
An ideal destination for you and your family if you're looking to unwind."
Moza Ahli
"Amazing views (mountains and the magnificent lake), great air, nice food."
Konrad Ciukaj
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car, taking about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Salzburg to Zell am See, which is also a scenic journey.
Yes, Zell am See has a train station and is well-connected by public transport. Buses also serve the region, making it easy to explore without a car.
Absolutely! Zell am See is a popular day trip destination from Salzburg, offering a beautiful escape to the mountains and lake.
The town center is walkable. For exploring the lake and surrounding areas, consider renting a bike, using local buses, or taking advantage of the Summer Card for public transport.
Yes, there are several parking lots available in Zell am See, especially near the town center and the lake. Some may have fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Lake Zell itself is generally free. However, activities like boat tours, swimming areas with facilities, and certain lakeside attractions may require tickets.
The Summer Card is a visitor card offering free or discounted access to numerous attractions, cable cars, and public transport in the Zell am See-Kaprun region during the summer months.
The Summer Card is often included with your accommodation when staying at participating hotels or apartments. Otherwise, it can be purchased. Check with your accommodation provider.
No, exploring the charming streets of Zell am See's Old Town is free. You'll only pay for any purchases you make in shops or restaurants.
Operating hours for cable cars and attractions vary by season. It's best to check the official websites for Schmittenhöhe and other attractions for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, sunbathing, paddleboarding, boat tours, and simply enjoying the scenic promenade.
The Old Town features historic buildings, charming squares, local boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into traditional Austrian life.
Yes, the surrounding mountains, especially Schmittenhöhe, offer numerous hiking trails for all levels, with stunning views as a reward.
From Schmittenhöhe, you'll get breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Zell, the town, and the surrounding peaks of the Hohe Tauern National Park.
Zell am See can get crowded, especially during peak summer and winter seasons. Visiting during shoulder seasons or early/late in the day can help avoid the biggest crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Expect traditional Austrian cuisine, including Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn, and local pastries. Lakeside restaurants offer fresh fish dishes.
Yes, the Old Town has a variety of restaurants, from cozy traditional inns to more modern eateries, offering a range of dining experiences.
While traditional Austrian food is meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to ask or check menus beforehand.
Look for restaurants with lake views for a special experience. @deinsundmeins_1.0 is mentioned for its stylish interiors and friendly staff.
Yes, the Old Town and lakeside areas are dotted with charming cafes perfect for a coffee break, a slice of cake, or a light snack like a pretzel.
📸 📸 Photography
The promenade along Lake Zell, the viewpoints from Schmittenhöhe, and the charming streets of the Old Town are all fantastic photo locations.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour light over the lake and mountains. Midday can be harsh, but the dramatic mountain scenery still photographs well.
Yes, the frozen Lake Zell in winter provides a unique and stunning backdrop for photography.
Drone regulations can vary. It's crucial to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Zell am See to avoid fines.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain vistas. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the mountains. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For adventure, the cable cars up Schmittenhöhe are exciting, and the mountain itself offers family-friendly hiking trails and themed paths. The town also has various attractions that cater to younger visitors. Consider the Summer Card, as it can significantly reduce the cost of family outings to attractions and on public transport.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Zell
During winter, the lake can freeze over, transforming into a unique landscape. While not always safe for walking, its frozen beauty offers a different kind of visual spectacle. The surrounding mountains, like Schmittenhöhe, provide a dramatic backdrop year-round, making the lake a picturesque focal point no matter the season.
For those looking to make the most of their lakeside experience, consider renting a paddleboat or joining a guided boat tour. These offer a fantastic perspective of the town and the alpine scenery from the water. Many lakeside cafes and restaurants also provide opportunities to dine with a view, enhancing the overall enjoyment of this natural wonder.
Wandering Through Zell am See Old Town
Beyond the shops, the Old Town is home to numerous cafes and restaurants, offering a chance to relax and savor local flavors. Whether you're looking for a hearty Austrian meal or a quick coffee and cake, you'll find plenty of options. The town square often buzzes with activity, especially during market days or local events, adding to its lively charm.
Don't miss the opportunity to simply wander and soak in the ambiance. The picturesque buildings, often adorned with flower boxes, create a postcard-perfect scene. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the blend of history and alpine culture that Zell am See offers.
Ascending Schmittenhöhe
Schmittenhöhe is not just about the views; it's also a hub for outdoor activities. In summer, it's a popular destination for hikers, with numerous trails catering to different fitness levels, from gentle walks to more challenging routes. The mountain also features themed trails and adventure playgrounds, making it a great spot for families. In winter, it transforms into a renowned ski resort, offering excellent slopes for all skiers and snowboarders.
Whether you visit in summer or winter, the experience of being on Schmittenhöhe is unforgettable. The fresh mountain air, the stunning scenery, and the array of activities make it a highlight of any trip to Zell am See. Remember to check the cable car operating times and consider purchasing a Summer Card for potential discounts.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit