MY * GUiDE Exclusive ZELL AM SEE & Great Time in the Glacier Snow TOUR from Munich

A Scenic Journey to Zell am See and Kitzsteinhorn Glacier — All in One Day

Imagine starting your day in Munich and ending it gazing over mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and snow-covered glaciers—all within a 10-hour window. This private tour, priced at around $795 per person, offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, charming towns, and high-altitude adventure. Led by a knowledgeable guide in a comfortable Mercedes or VW minivan, you’ll explore Austria’s stunning Zell am See and the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, with plenty of flexibility to tailor the experience to your preferences.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the comfort of the vehicle—luxurious, air-conditioned, and well-suited for a full day on the road—and the ability to customize your stops. Whether you want more time in Zell am See’s old town or an extended glacier experience, your guide is happy to accommodate. That said, a possible consideration is the price, which is on the higher side, but for many travelers, the all-inclusive comfort and personalized attention justify the cost.

This tour works well for those who cherish scenic drives combined with unique alpine experiences. If you’re a traveler who enjoys a mix of cultural sights, outdoor adventure, and striking vistas, this trip is likely to appeal. It’s also an excellent choice if you want a day that’s both relaxed and active, with the chance to explore at your own pace and indulge in some snow fun even in summer.

Key Points

• Customizable itinerary allows you to spend more time at places that interest you most.
• Luxurious transportation ensures comfort throughout the long day of exploration.
• Varied landscapes from lakes and historic towns to glaciers and snowfields offer diverse photo opportunities.
• Expert guide helps you understand the sights and makes the trip smoother.
• Flexible timing lets you extend your glacier experience or enjoy leisurely strolls.
• All-inclusive pricing covers tolls and water, with optional paid activities like the glacier lifts.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Journey from Munich

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a pickup in Munich, where you’ll hop into a luxurious Mercedes or VW minivan. The vehicle is equipped with air conditioning, which is a definite plus on a day expected to reach into the high teens or twenties Celsius, especially since mountain weather can be unpredictable. The driver and your guide, who is friendly and professional, will set the tone for a relaxed yet informative day.

Within roughly 30 minutes, you’ll make your first stop at the Serways Raststätte Irschenberg Süd—a favorite vantage point for many travelers. From this elevated spot, you get your first glimpse of the Bavarian Alps and the surrounding scenery, making it a great photo opportunity and a brief stretch.

Walchsee: A Charming Austrian Mountain Lake

After crossing into Austria, your next stop is Walchsee, a picture-perfect mountain lake with a small beach kiosk and a playground, ideal if you’re traveling with children or simply want to soak in a peaceful alpine setting. The lake is a favorite for active families, offering summer toboggan rides and various attractions like the petting zoo, adventure land, and trampolines.

We like that the stop is brief—about 25 minutes—allowing for a quick refreshing break without feeling rushed. If you wish, you can rent a toboggan or just relax by the water, soaking in the mountain air and panoramic views.

Zell am See: Alpine Charm and Lakeside Leisure

Next, your group’s drive takes you through the beautiful Tyrolean and Salzburg Alps to Zell am See, a town that balances history, nature, and leisure. Here, your guide will point out sights in the old town, with its charming streets and historical buildings, or you can opt to stroll along the lakeside promenade.

You’ll have about 2.5 hours here, plenty of time to explore or enjoy a 45-minute scenic cruise across the lake. The cruise offers a different perspective of the mountains and the town’s quaint charm, with tickets costing around €15.50 per adult. The surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with towering peaks reflecting in the crystal-clear water—a sight that many mention as a highlight.

Kitzsteinhorn Glacier: The Summit of the Day

The most talked-about part of the tour is the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, reached via a modern cable car ride up to over 3,000 meters. A 20-minute drive takes you from Zell am See to the Kaprun Glacier Railway, where state-of-the-art cable cars whisk you up the mountain.

At the summit, you’ll find Summit World 3000, panoramic platforms, and even an ice arena (available July/August). This is not just a photo stop—there’s real fun to be had, especially if you enjoy snow activities. During the summer months, you can borrow sliders and toboggans to slide down the glacier, with a “magic carpet” bringing you back for more.

Trip reviews praise the modernity of the lifts and the impressive views from the platforms—an unforgettable experience for all ages. The ticket, costing €59, also grants access to various attractions, making it a worthwhile addition if you’re eager for adventure.

Returning to Munich

After several hours of sightseeing and glacier fun, your guide will ensure a safe and comfortable journey back to Munich, arriving in the evening. The drive is an opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic route once more.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price covers luxury transportation, professional guiding, all tolls, and refreshing mineral water—no hidden costs. You’ll need to budget for the Kitzsteinhorn glacier lift ticket (€59), and optional activities like the lake cruise (€15.50) if you choose to partake.

The tour is designed to be flexible. You can extend your glacier experience or spend more time at each stop, depending on what interests you most. The guide is happy to adapt the schedule, making it a personalized adventure.

What Travelers Appreciate

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as what made the trip memorable. One wrote, “We loved the way the guide explained everything and made us feel at home,” highlighting the importance of a good guide. Others appreciated the value for money, especially given the comfort of the vehicle and the variety of sights covered.

Considerations Before Booking

While the tour is comprehensive, it is a long day—about 10 to 11 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of exploration and don’t mind some travel time. Weather can change quickly at high altitudes, so packing layers, sunglasses, and sun cream is recommended. Also, those with mobility issues should note that some stops involve walking or standing, though the itinerary is generally manageable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love combining scenic drives, charming towns, and mountain adventures into one day, this trip is a winner. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate comfort and customization will find it particularly appealing. It’s well-suited for those looking for a balanced mix of relaxation and activity with expert guidance making all the difference.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who want to see some of Austria’s most beautiful mountain scenery without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets, this private tour offers excellent value. The opportunity to relax in a luxurious vehicle, explore Zell am See’s historic charm, and enjoy the high-altitude thrill of the glacier makes for a memorable day.

While the cost is higher than some group tours, the personalized experience, flexible itinerary, and comfortable transportation provide a level of convenience many travelers find worth the investment. Plus, the chance to enjoy snow activities in summer—something you might not find elsewhere—is a real bonus.

This tour makes an ideal choice for travelers who want a well-rounded, scenic, and hassle-free alpine adventure packed into one unforgettable day.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your Munich accommodation, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long does the entire tour last?
The trip lasts approximately 9.5 to 11 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Can I extend my time at the glacier or Zell am See?
Absolutely. The tour duration is flexible, and your guide is happy to accommodate extra time at the stops if you wish to linger longer.

What should I bring for the glacier visit?
Bring layered clothing because mountain temperatures can vary by 20°C. Sunglasses, sun cream, and comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if you want to try tobogganing or walk around the glacier.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the glacier lift ticket (€59) is paid separately, and optional activities like the lake cruise (€15.50) are extra.

Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes, especially with attractions like petting zoos and toboggans available at Walchsee. However, check with your guide about specific needs or limitations.

What is the best time of year to go?
The tour runs year-round, with the glacier accessible in summer and winter. Consider the weather and your interest—snow activities are available in summer in the glacier area.

How comfortable is the transportation?
Very comfortable. The vehicle is a new, air-conditioned minivan designed for long journeys, ensuring you arrive rested and ready to explore.

Do I need any special documents?
Yes, valid ID and proof of vaccination or convalescence are needed for crossing the border into Austria.

This private tour from Munich offers a carefully curated day of scenic beauty, alpine adventure, and cultural charm, crafted for those who want to enjoy the mountains without the hassle. Whether you’re chasing snow in summer or soaking up lakeside views, it’s a packaged experience that balances comfort, flexibility, and memorable sights.