7 Epic Reasons to Visit the Top of Salzburg (Kitzsteinhorn)
If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Zell am See, visiting the Top of Salzburg on Kitzsteinhorn Mountain should be at the top of your list.
Located over 3,000 meters above sea level, this panoramic viewpoint is part of Gipfelwelt 3000, an alpine experience that offers unforgettable views of the Austrian Alps. Right on the edge of the Hohe Tauern National Park, the scenery from the Top of Salzburg is genuinely spectacular.
The best part? Despite the extreme altitude, the Top of Salzburg’s viewing platform is easily accessible via various cable cars—no hiking, climbing, or ski gear required.
In this guide, I’ve shared exactly why I think visiting Kitzsteinhorn and The Top of Salzburg is worth it, as well as what you need to know about planning your visit.
How to get to Kitzsteinhorn from Zell am See
The cable cars for Kitzsteinhorn depart from the town of Kaprun, approximately a ten-minute drive from Zell am See.
If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to reach Kaprun is by bus. Public buses run frequently between Zell am See and Kaprun, and if you have a Ski ALPIN card (valid only during the winter season), the rides are free during the daytime.
You can check the latest timetable here, but I found the 660 bus to be the easiest way to get between the two locations. The bus takes you to the centre of Kaprun, a short walk from the cable car station.
If you’re coming from further afield, such as Salzburg, you’ll likely find your train stops in Zell am See.
It’s worth asking your hotel or accommodation about the Guest Mobility Ticket or Summer Card, which allows free public transport on select trains and buses.
How to get to the top of Kitzsteinhorn
Once you’re in Kaprun, the Top of Salzburg can be reached via cable car. Depending on the time of year you visit and what’s operating, there are several different routes to the top.
In the winter
If you visit in the height of the ski season, most cable cars should be operating. If that’s the case, I recommend this route for the most scenic ride.
- Start from the Maiskogel station in the centre of Kaprun. You can also purchase your ticket here.
- Take the Maiskogelbahn to the very top (don’t get off at the first stop).
- From here, take the stunning 3K K-onnection across to Langwied.
- Then, follow the signs for Gletscherjet 2 and take this route (if you want to visit the Ice Camp, you should do so after getting off Gletscherjet 2).
- The final part of the journey is on the Gipfelbahn (there may be a wait).
The Top of Salzburg is well signed throughout the journey, and it’s easy enough to follow the route.
If any of the cable cars are closed, the staff will give you an alternative route to reach the top.
The other option is to begin your journey at the Kitzsteinhorn Valley Station. This is further out of Kaprun, but it means taking one less cable car. However, you’ll miss the 3K K-onnection, which I believe is the best cable car experience, so I don’t recommend doing this unless you need to.
In the summer
Fewer cable cars operate in the summer, so you’ll likely find you need to begin your journey from the Kitzsteinhorn Valley Station, which is slightly outside of Kaprun.
From here, take the Gletscherjet and follow the signs from there (the staff will direct you to what’s open).
If the winter route is operating, I highly recommend starting at the Maiskogel station as the views are stunning.
You can see which cable cars are open here.
Reasons to visit the Top of Salzburg
For absolutely stunning mountain views (without having to hike)
The mountain views from the top of Kitzsteinhorn are absolutely breathtaking! And the best part: you don’t need to hike to get there.
From the “Top of Salzburg” viewing platform at over 3,000 meters above sea level, you’re treated to a beautiful panorama of snow-covered peaks stretching as far as the eye can see and into Hohe Tauern National Park.
On clear days, you can even spot Austria’s highest mountain, the Großglockner. You may also be able to see several glaciers, depending on the time of year and visibility.
Usually, experiencing views of this scale requires some intense hiking and effort. However, these views can be experienced by simply riding several cable cars to the top.
It’s an excellent activity for all, but especially those who want to witness magnificent alpine views without having to hike.
To experience a high-altitude adventure
Along with epic views, visiting Gipfelwelt 3000 means experiencing a high-altitude adventure.
Sitting above 3,000 metres (9,840 feet), the Top of Salzburg viewing platform makes you feel on top of the world. With thin, crisp air, you’ll certainly notice it’s a little harder to catch your breath.
My ears popped on the way up, and after the second cable car, you could certainly feel the difference in the air.
Ride on one-of-a-kind cable cars
The journey to Gipfelwelt 3000 is very much part of the adventure. It takes over an hour to reach the top, and you’ll need to travel on several different cable cars to get there.
One of my favourite parts of the journey was the 3K K-onnection, known to be one of the most panoramic cable cars in the world. The ride takes you across the valley over alpine lakes, forests and icy cliff slopes.
It’s honestly spectacular and was my favourite part of the whole activity.
You will also have the opportunity to ride the Gipfelbahn, an old tramway that takes you directly to the viewing platform.
It’s suitable for all ages and abilities
When it comes to heading into the mountains, it’s usually restricted to those planning to ski or hike. However, this isn’t the case for the Top of Salzburg, and it’s suitable for all ages and abilities.
Thanks to modern state-of-the-art cable cars and well-maintained trails, visitors of all ages and fitness levels can reach the Top of Salzburg. There is even a lift when you get there for those who want to avoid the stairs.
It’s a rare opportunity to experience the thrill of the Alps, with no hiking or climbing skills required.
Side note: The official website states that the activity is stroller and wheelchair accessible, but notes that during the winter months, some paths may be covered in snow, making them difficult to navigate. It’s best to check with the operator in advance.
To see the snow or check out the ski slopes
If you’re visiting in the winter, a trip to the Top of Salzburg offers the chance to make the most of the snow and explore the ski slopes.
I’ve never tried skiing (and have no plans to – it would be a disaster), but it was fun to see all the different types of ski slopes, ski schools, and what it’s like skiing in the mountains (hello, après-ski).
Each of the ski station areas has lots going on. From winter hikes to ice igloos, the journey to the top takes you through a winter wonderland.
While it might not quite be the same experience in the summer, you’ll have access to more hikes, and you may even have some snow at the very top.
In 2025, the Ice Arena will open as part of the attraction. This will allow you to experience snow in the summer.
Step into history beneath the ice
Along with incredible views, Gipfelwelt 3000 features an immersive exhibit located right inside the mountain itself, known as the National Park Gallery.
After walking along a 360 m long tunnel deep into the mountain, you’ll find various exhibits and displays about the geology, wildlife and mountaineering history of the Hohe Tauern mountain range.
Cinema 3000 also shows a ten-minute movie called “Kitzsteinhorn: The Nature”.
To enjoy one of the most scenic selfie spots in Austria
If you’re hunting for the perfect Instagram shot, this is it. The Top of Salzburg platform features some of the most magnificent panoramic views with a dramatic alpine backdrop.
It even features a couple of photo spots with signs, making it the perfect place for a photo.
Top of Salzburg: FAQ
Do you need to wear special shoes?
Nope! Any closed-toe shoes with a good grip should be okay. In the winter, there will be lots of snow on the ground, so it’s a sensible idea to wear warm shoes with a good grip.
How much does it cost? Do you need a ski pass?
You can check the latest prices on the official website. Even if you’re not planning to ski, I recommend getting a Ski ALPIN card upon arrival in Zell am See/Kaprun. Your Top of Salzburg ticket can then be added to this. It gives you free bus travel in the Kaprun/Zell am See area during the day (and saved me LOADS of money).
There’s no need to book your tickets in advance.
Do you need to ski?
You don’t need to ski or be able to ski to do this activity. You’ll be sharing the cable cars with lots of skiers and snowboarders, but there will also be plenty of people heading to the top to visit the viewing platform.
Are the cable cars all enclosed?
When I did the journey to the top, all of the cable cars were fully enclosed. There was no need to jump on ski chairs (which is what happened when I attempted another winter hike in Zell am See). However, this may vary depending on which cable cars are in operation.
Visiting Kitzsteinhorn is a very tourist-friendly activity, and the journey to the top has been designed to be as easy as possible.
Is there a restaurant or toilets?
There are toilets and restaurants throughout the journey to the top. Each of the cable cars takes you to the top of various ski slopes where there are restaurants, bars and toilets (and even shops).
At the Top of Salzbirg, there is a canteen and toilets.
Can you reach the summit of Kitzsteinhorn?
Yes and no. Reaching the summit of the mountain from the viewing platform requires ropes and climbing knowledge. It’s incredibly steep and should only be undertaken with a guide or by professionals.
You can arrange for a guide to take you via the “First 3,000er Summit Tour“.
How long does the activity take?
It takes over an hour to reach the Top of Salzburg. From Kaprun, it took me approximately 80 minutes to reach the top, and another 70 minutes to return (the exact timing will depend on the route taken and waiting times).
I would allow for at least three hours in total.
Can it be done on a day trip from Salzburg?
In theory, yes, but you’ll need to start your day as early as possible. The train between Salzburg and Zell am See takes around two hours. You’ll then need to travel to Kaprun and allow at least an hour to reach The Top of Salzburg. Check the latest opening hours on the official website.
Is it open all year?
Yes, Gipfelwelt 3000 is open year round and can be enjoyed in the winter and summer. It may close at times for maintenance work, so it’s a sensible idea to check in advance.
Is the Top of Salzburg (Kitzsteinhorn) worth it?
If you’re visiting the Zell am See or Kaprun area, then a visit to The Top of Salzburg is absolutely worth it.
I spent the days running up to my trip debating whether or not to do it (it’s hardly cheap), but I’m really glad I did. While the views from the top are beautiful, I loved riding the different cable cars and the breathtaking panoramic views they offer.
Of course, if you’re already skiing, hiking or spending time in the mountains, then adding this on probably isn’t worthwhile. But for those who don’t ski or plan to hike (or are visiting in the winter), the Top of Salzburg and Gipfelwelt 3000 is an excellent way to experience some of the most magnificent alpine views.
I’m very happy I chose to do this activity, it’s one of my highlights from my trip to Austria.
