Are you planning a trip to the Zillertal and want to know which Zillertal sights you shouldn't miss? Then you've come to the right place! The Zillertal offers a variety of experiences that will make your stay unforgettable – from impressive natural wonders like the fascinating ice caves at the Hintertux Glacier to breathtaking panoramic views on the Zillertal High Alpine Road.
The most important information at a glance
- The Nature Ice Palace invites visitors to unforgettable experiences in the ice all year round. Guided tours through ice caves or boat trips on the underground glacial lake offer a glimpse into a natural wonder.
- The Zillertal High Alpine Road boasts spectacular views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. Accessible via several roads, it is a paradise for anyone wanting to explore nature by car, bicycle, or motorcycle.
- The Adler Stage Ahorn offers unforgettable moments. Here, visitors can watch impressive flight shows and take exclusive guided tours to get a behind-the-scenes look at falconry.
Nature Ice Palace at the Hintertux Glacier: In the heart of the ice
The Nature Ice Palace at the Hintertux Glacier impresses with bizarre ice formations, huge icicles and an atmosphere that reminds visitors of another world.
Guided tours between 10:30 am and 2:30 pm, you will be taken deep into the interior of the glacier, and the extended basic tour also includes a boat trip on an underground lake. Highlights such as the Glacier Bus 3 or even stand-up paddleboarding in the middle of the ice ensure even more unforgettable moments.
Zillertal High Alpine Road: A panoramic tour through the Alps
The Zillertal High Alpine Road is one of the most impressive panoramic roads in the Alps and is one of the most popular excursion destinations in the Zillertal originally built in the 1960s for the management of the high alpine pastures, it now attracts visitors with a spectacular view.
Above five access roads from Ried, Kaltenbach, Aschau, Zellberg and Hippach, you'll reach the high-altitude road, which winds its way in elegant curves through alpine meadows and past rustic mountain huts. Each section offers visitors new and unforgettable perspectives of the Zillertal Alps.
Whether by car, motorcycle or e-bike, the Zillertal High Alpine Road attracts nature enthusiasts, photographers and all those who want to discover the nature of the Zillertal at its most beautiful.
AdlerBühne Ahorn: Experience birds of prey up close
High above Mayrhofen, at 2,000 meters above sea level waits Europe's highest-altitude bird of prey station: the AdlerBühne Ahorn. Up to 380 visitors enjoy an impressive flight show with eagles, falcons, and buzzards daily at 2:00 PM from mid-June to October, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Zillertal Alps. A real insider tip is...Exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses every Wednesday, a maximum of six guests get an insight into the world of falconry.
Olpererhütte: Der Instagram-Hotspot im Zillertal
Perched above the turquoise waters of the Schlegeis Reservoir at an altitude of 2,388 meters, the Olpererhütte mountain hut is a dream destination for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking spectacular views. The approximately two-hour ascent from the parking lot is rewarded with one of the most popular photo opportunities in the Alps.
Just a few meters above the hut, the Kebema Panorama Bridge over the Riepenbach: a narrow suspension bridge that often appears to float above the lake in photos.
Show dairy Fügen: A family experience in the Zillertal
The Fügen show dairy – also known as the Zillertal hay milk dairy – is a special experience. For the whole family especially in summer, when the cows graze on the alpine pastures and production is underway, visitors can witness how delicious cheese is made from fresh hay milk and taste the treats.
Another highlight is the attached museum. There, old equipment, tools, and stories provide an insight into the...Cheese tradition dating back over 100 years.
There is also a lovingly designed petting zoo for children and free guided tours through the world of the dairy for groups of 10 or more people.
Stiegenhaushof Distillery: Guided tasting tour in Schwendau
The Stiegenhaushof distillery is located in a lovingly converted cowshed in Schwendau, a place where tradition and taste meet. 100 award-winning brandies, liqueurs and homemade specialties demonstrate the skill of the master distiller.
On guided tours, visitors experience the journey from fruit to fine spirit and can taste selected brandies, liqueurs, syrups, and jellies. Special programs are available for groups, such as the popular "Fire & Fine Spirits" package, which includes a visit to the biomass power plant, lunch and a distillery tour.
BrauKunstHaus Zillertal: Beer culture on three floors
At the BrauKunstHaus in Zell am Ziller, visitors immerse themselves in the world of brewing across three floors and over 5,000m².Tyrolean beer culture the multimedia tour shows how Zillertal beer specialties are created from regional ingredients with a great deal of craftsmanship and passion.
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and ends with a Tasting in the cozy brewery taproom open all year round, the BrauKunstHaus is the perfect destination in any weather.
Ginzling Nature Park House: Experience nature in the heart of the Zillertal Alps
The Ginzling Nature Park House awaits visitors with the fascinating exhibition “Hidden Treasures” on two floors and 500m². Rock crystals and grenades, which originated deep in the rock of the Zillertal Alps.
Interactive stations, a walk-in kaleidoscope and Bergkino exciting short films make a visit to the Ginzling Nature Park House an unforgettable experience for the whole family. Right outside the door, theNatural garden with a play and bouldering area for exploration and relaxation. The [unclear text] provides a comfortable break. Café “Rast” with small snacks and refreshments.
Granatkapelle at Penkenjoch: A place of retreat
High above at 2,087 meters, the Granatkapelle (Garnet Chapel) sits enthroned on the Penkenjoch, a quiet, architectural masterpiece by the Swiss star architect. Mario Botta the chapel is dedicated to the Franciscans of the Zillertal. Engelbert Kolland dedicated to him, who suffered martyrdom in Syria in 1860.
Clad on the outside in rust-colored Corten steel, the chapel's shape is reminiscent of a polished, rough garnet stone. Inside, warm larch wood and the interplay of light from above create an almost serene atmosphere. Meditative atmosphere two cross-shaped windows gently refract the light, creating a quiet, spiritual space amidst the mountains.
Zillertal Museum: Experience Tradition
In the heart of Zell am Ziller, the Zillertal Regional Museum takes you on a journey back in time to rural life of past centuries. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a faithfully reconstructed farmhouse.„Ental“ from the year 1713.
The ensemble includes a small chapel with a fresco (1889), a bakehouse, a distillery, a well, a herb garden, and the "Löber stable" from the Tux Valley. In the authentically furnished rooms, one can sense how simple yet artful everyday life once was, while old tools and equipment in the "workshop" bring the crafts of yesteryear to life.
Arena Coaster in Zell am Ziller: The adrenaline rush in the mountains
The Arena Coaster in Zell am Ziller is the first Alpine roller coaster in the Zillertal and an unparalleled experience for young and old. It starts directly at the valley station of the Rosenalm cable car. The 1,450 meter long track, which ascends 140 meters in 7 minutes meanders.
Waves, banked curves, jumps, and a 360° and 540° loop guarantee thrills. Whether as a family outing or a rainy-day activity, the Arena Coaster is a highlight in the Zillertal all year round.
Spannagel Cave: The hidden world in the mountain
Deep beneath the Hintertux Glacier lies the Spannagel Cave.The only marble cave in the Central Alps formed by millennia of glacial erosion, the cave system extends over approximately 13 Kilometer approximately 500 meters of this are accessible to visitors in the entrance area.
The entrance was discovered in 1919 by the mountain hut owner Alois Hotter. Today, the glacier cable car runs to the Tuxer Fernerhaus, from where the cave can be reached in about 10 minutes on foot. Guided tours visitors can experience bizarre rock formations, glittering layers of marble and fascinating stalactites.
Fichtenschloss and Fichtensee: A family adventure in nature
The Spruce Castle on the Rosenalm is an adventure land for children: Four imaginative towers (climbing, sliding, crane, and observation towers) invite them to play, climb, and marvel. The experience is complemented by a treetop walkway, a wooden ball track, water and sand areas, and the Spruce Gnome Construction Hut.
Just a few minutes away lies the idyllic Fichtensee, which is ideal for cooling off after playing. The Fichtenschloss (Spruce Castle) and the Fichtensee (Spruce Lake) are connected by the approximately three-kilometer-long Fichtenweg (Spruce Path).
Every Wednesday from July 9th to August 20th, 2025, the following event takes place during the summer: Children's party instead. From 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the Elf Grill is ready, where visitors can prepare their own barbecue food.
FeuerWerk Fügen: A power plant of the senses
The FireworksIn Fügen, modern technology is combined with wood, sustainability and culture, creating an experience for all the senses. The focus is on the...Biomass power plant during a guided tour lasting approximately one hour, visitors gain fascinating insights into the green electricity and pellet production, the history of wood and current topics such as climate change and resource use.
High above the factory, visible at a height of 16 meters, guests can enjoy coffee, regional specialties, and views of the Zillertal Alps. Right next to it is the...Garden of the Air, a greened wooden roof garden with a 360° panoramic view. As a cultural meeting place, FeuerWerk also regularly offers Concerts, readings and exhibitions.
Tratzberg Castle: A castle full of stories
Tratzberg Castle is one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles in Europe. To protect its original rooms, it is accessible only as part of guided tours.
The tours offer fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and courtly life of past centuries. One highlight is the special guided tour about Emperor Maximilian I., during which guests can discover private rooms for the first time. This special tour takes place only on Saturdays at 2:00 pm and is strictly limited. To protect the historical structure and ensure the comfort of visitors, Tratzberg Castle remains closed.itClosed during the cold seasons.
The Zillertal: One valley, endless experiences
The Zillertal Valley offers an impressive variety of sights and activities for every taste and age. From the icy wonderlands of the Nature Ice Palace and the spectacular views of the Zillertal High Alpine Road to cultural treasures like Tratzberg Castle, there are countless highlights to discover.
Whether you are looking for an adventure, want to enjoy the peace and quiet of nature or immerse yourself in the history and culture of the region, the Zillertal has something to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to travel to the Zillertal?
The best time of year to visit the Zillertal depends on your preferences: If you enjoy winter sports, the colder months are ideal. In summer, on the other hand, you can enjoy wonderful hiking and cycling.
Can the Olpererhütte be visited in winter?
Generally not, as access to the Schlegeis reservoir is closed in winter. The Olpererhütte is easily accessible, especially during the summer months.
Are the guided tours at Tratzberg Castle child-friendly?
Yes! For children, Tratzberg Castle offers an interactive tour with a castle ghost and his mouse friend, who playfully guide them through the castle and convey the history of the castle in a child-friendly way.
How long does the tour at the BrauKunstHaus last?
The multimedia tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and ends with a tasting of Zillertal beer specialties.
Is it easy to reach tourist attractions using public transport?
Yes, many sights in the Zillertal valley can be easily reached by the Zillertalbahn railway or the regional bus lines.