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I discovered Zell am See on a trip through Austria, travelling from Poland to Innsbruck via winding mountain roads.
It was an instant trip highlight — the kind of place that makes you think, “Yes, I could come back here.” With a mix of stunning scenery, lake swims, mountain air and plenty of cosy spots to relax, it’s perfect for couples, families and groups of friends.
While many people flock to Zell am See-Kaprun in winter to ski, there’s just as much to do if you’re a non-skier.
In summer, you can swim in the lake, hike or cycle through the mountains, explore local shops and enjoy long, lazy lunches with a view. Even in winter, non-skiers have plenty of options — think ice skating, horse-drawn sleigh rides, winter hiking, snowshoeing, tobogganing, visiting the Tauern Spa in Kaprun, or simply soaking up the snow-dusted scenery around Lake Zell.
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What’s the weather like in Zell am See in summer?
I visited in early July and, much like the UK, the weather was a mix of sunshine, cloud and occasional showers. Don’t be put off by a bit of rain — the scenery is still incredible, and there are plenty of indoor activities to fill a drizzly afternoon.
On sunny days, the lake sparkles and the surrounding mountains feel almost alpine-meets-Mediterranean. Temperatures can reach the mid-20°Cs, but evenings are cooler, so bring a light jacket.
Here’s a complete guide to what to do in Lake Zell am See, come rain or shine.
Best things to do in Zell am See (that aren’t skiing)
Swim in Lake Zell
Lake Zell is the town’s shimmering centrepiece, and in summer it’s irresistible. There are three main lidos (designated swimming areas) around the lake where you can take a dip, sunbathe or rent equipment. I swam at the Seespitz lido on the south shore — a peaceful spot that’s an easy walk from the centre of town.
I usually hate freezing water and will dip a toe before deciding against it, but here it was surprisingly warm. I was in within a minute, and even braved the floating trampoline. Bring a picnic, relax on the grass, and enjoy the mountain backdrop.
Hire a paddleboat
Paddleboats are a fun way to explore both the north and south ends of the lake. Prices are reasonable (around €15–20 an hour), but they do get busy on sunny afternoons, so go early if you can. It’s an easy, laid-back activity — perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying the stillness of the water.
Try watersports
If you want something more active, Lake Zell is a hub for watersports. You can:
Paddleboard along the shoreline
Learn to windsurf
Take a scenic boat trip around the lake
- Paragliding over the lake
Many hire points are dotted around the lidos, so you can rent gear by the hour and be on the water in minutes.
Visit the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier
Known as the “Top of Salzburg,” the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier offers year-round snow and jaw-dropping views. You’ll need to take a series of gondolas from Kaprun to reach the summit, and the changing scenery is worth the journey alone. At the top, there’s a restaurant, viewing platforms and the “Gipfelwelt 3000” info tunnel, which tells the story of the surrounding mountains.
The altitude is high, so don’t be surprised if you feel a little breathless — but the sight of Lake Zell in the distance is worth it.
Ride the Maisi Flitzer Alpine Coaster
An all-weather thrill ride down the mountainside in Kaprun, the Maisi Flitzer is part toboggan, part rollercoaster. I had every intention of trying it, but a sudden downpour at the bottom of the mountain sent me into nearby Baumbar instead for hot chips and a beer. It’s still firmly on my “next time” list.
Go shopping in town
Zell am See’s centre isn’t huge, but it’s full of charm. You’ll find independent boutiques, outdoor gear shops, and delis selling local delicacies — perfect for edible souvenirs. I loved browsing here in the rain, ducking into cafés between stops.
See the Magic Lake Show
From late May to mid-October, Lake Zell comes alive at night with the Magic Lake Show — a choreographed mix of water, light and music. We stumbled across it one afternoon and came back later with ice creams to watch. Yes, it’s a little cheesy, but it’s free, fun, and worth catching if you’re in town.
Explore hiking trails
Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Zell am See in summer. Trails range from easy lakeside strolls to challenging alpine hikes. Even if you’re not a seasoned hiker, there are plenty of cable cars and gondolas that can take you up to higher routes without the legwork.
Bike around the lake
Cycling is a great way to see more of the area, and you can rent bikes — including e-bikes — in town. The path around Lake Zell is mostly flat, making it ideal for a leisurely ride. If you’re into mountain biking, there are also challenging trails in the surrounding peaks.
Visit Sigmund Thun Gorge
Just outside Kaprun, this wooden walkway winds through a narrow gorge, with rushing water beneath your feet. It’s a short but spectacular outing, especially after rainfall when the water is at its most dramatic.
Book activities to do in Zell am See
Zell am See Summer Card
If you’re visiting between late May and mid-October, check whether your accommodation includes the Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Card. It gives you free or discounted entry to dozens of attractions — including cable cars, boat trips, swimming lidos, the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, and the Maisi Flitzer Alpine Coaster — plus free public transport in the region. We saved a lot using ours, and it made it easy to try things spontaneously without worrying about extra costs.
What to do in Zell am See when it rains
We had one particularly wet day and decided to embrace it with an afternoon at our hotel spa (Hotel Tirolerhof Zell am See — highly recommend). Other rainy-day options include:
Visiting Castle Kaprun
Exploring local museums such as Kaprun Museum, Museum Vogtturm or the Ski Museum
Swimming at the indoor pool (Zell am See Aqua and Sauna World) complete with a sauna, diving tower and toddler pool
Spending the day at Tauern Spa, with its thermal pools and saunas – you can stay at the spa or book a day ticket here
Whether you’re here for an active holiday or a laid-back lakeside escape, Zell am See is a year-round gem. In summer, it’s all about lake swims, hiking trails and mountain views. In winter, it turns into a snowy wonderland with plenty to do even if you don’t ski.
I left already planning a return trip — and next time, I’m definitely riding that alpine coaster.
