Kaprun Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Kaprun with our informative travel guide that covers everything from where to stay, what to see, local customs, and transportation options.
- Introduction to Kaprun
- List of Places to Visit in Kaprun
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaprun
- Best Things to Do in Kaprun: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Kaprun
- Food and Drink Scene of Kaprun
- Where to Stay in Kaprun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Kaprun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Kaprun
- Best Time to Visit Kaprun
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Kaprun: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Kaprun
- Where to Go Next from Kaprun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Kaprun
Kaprun is a charming town located in the Salzburger Land region of Austria. It is known for its stunning Alpine scenery, outdoor adventures, and rich culture. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a history buff, or a foodie, Kaprun has something to offer to everyone.
List of Places to Visit in Kaprun
Kaprun is a relatively small town, but it has plenty of attractions that you won’t want to miss. The following are some of the top places to visit:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Kaprun Museum: This museum displays the town’s history and culture, including traditional clothing, crafts, and tools.
- Castle Kaprun: A fortress built in the 12th century, now used as a cultural center and event venue.
Natural Attractions of Kaprun: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Kitzsteinhorn: The highest peak in the Hohe Tauern range, and one of Austria’s most popular skiing and hiking destinations.
- Lake Zell: A crystal-clear lake located in the valley below Kaprun, perfect for swimming or boating on a sunny day.
- Sigmund-Thun Gorge: A spectacular gorge featuring waterfalls, rapids, and ancient rock formations that you can walk through on a wooden path.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Kaprun
Kaprun’s mountainous terrain offers a plethora of hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few of the best routes:
- Mooserboden Reservoir – A scenic trail that takes you along the Kaunertal Glacier Road and leads to the upper level of the Mooserboden Reservoir.
- Kitzsteinhorn Glacier Trail – A challenging hike to the top of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Maiskogel Summit Trail – A moderate hike to the top of Maiskogel mountain, with stunning views of the Zell and Kaprun valleys.
Best Things to Do in Kaprun: Activities and Tours
Kaprun offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to every interest. Here are some of the best things to do:
- Skiing and snowboarding at the Kitzsteinhorn glacier or Maiskogel mountain.
- Rafting and kayaking on the Salzach River.
- Paragliding over the beautiful Alpine landscapes.
- Horseback riding through the picturesque countryside.
- Wine-tasting tours to sample Austria’s finest wines.
Week-Long Itinerary for Kaprun
When planning your trip to Kaprun, it’s essential to have a well-organized itinerary to make the most of your stay. Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Kaprun Town, Visit Kaprun Museum, Castle Kaprun |
| 2 | Hike to Kitzsteinhorn Glacier |
| 3 | Tour Lake Zell and Sigmund-Thun Gorge |
| 4 | Bike the Maiskogel Summit Trail |
| 5 | Go Rafting or Kayaking on Salzach River |
| 6 | Visit the Mooserboden Reservoir and enjoy a wine-tasting tour |
| 7 | Paragliding over Alpine landscapes and enjoy the nightlife in Kaprun |
Food and Drink Scene of Kaprun
Austria is known for its delicious food and unique local beverages, and Kaprun is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Wiener Schnitzel: Thin slices of breaded and fried veal served with potato salad.
- Tafelspitz: Boiled beef with vegetables and traditional apple-horseradish sauce.
- Kaiserschmarrn: A fluffy pancake-like dessert served with apple sauce.
Local Beverages
- Stiegl: The most popular beer in the Salzburg region.
- Schnapps: A strong fruit-based alcoholic drink that comes in many flavors, such as apricot, apple, and pear.
Where to Stay in Kaprun: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Kaprun offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s budget and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:
- Hotel Tauern Spa Kaprun: A luxurious spa hotel with fantastic views of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier.
- Pension Alpenrose: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Kaprun town.
- Avenida Mountain Lodge Kaprun: A stylish and modern apartment-style hotel.
What to Buy in Kaprun: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Kaprun has a variety of unique and local products that make for great souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy:
- Trachten Clothing: Traditional Alpine clothing made from high-quality materials.
- Zirbenkissen: Pillows filled with natural pine shavings that are said to have health benefits.
- Mozartkugeln: Delicious chocolates filled with marzipan.
Local Culture and Customs of Kaprun
Austrian culture is a blend of Celtic, Roman, Germanic, and Slavic influences, making it unique and diverse. It’s essential to be aware of some of the local customs that might differ from what you’re used to.
- Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes; the general rule is to add 5-10% to the bill.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly and appropriately when visiting religious places or attending cultural events.
- Greetings: Shake hands when greeting someone for the first time; for friends and family members, it’s common to give two kisses on the cheeks.
Best Time to Visit Kaprun
The best time to visit Kaprun depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in winter sports and activities, the period from December to March is ideal. For those who prefer summertime activities, the months from June to September are perfect.
Do’s and Don’ts of Kaprun
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Kaprun:
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Learn a few German phrases to communicate better with locals
- Try the local cuisine
Don’t:
- Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and walking
- Don’t litter in public places
- Don’t forget to tip appropriately
Safety and Health
Kaprun is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s crucial to take general safety and health precautions, such as ensuring you have travel insurance and keeping up with regular vaccinations.
Safety in Kaprun
- Always carry identification and travel documents with you
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
- Stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings
Health in Kaprun
- Drink bottled or treated water to avoid stomach upsets
- Wear sunscreen and protective clothing when spending time outdoors
- Consult your doctor about the recommended vaccinations before traveling to Austria
Getting to Kaprun: Transportation Options and Logistics
Kaprun is well-connected to major cities in Austria and Europe and can easily be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are some options:
Airports Near Kaprun
- Salzburg Airport: The closest airport to Kaprun, located approximately 80 km away.
- Munich Airport: Another nearby airport, approximately 200 km from Kaprun.
Bus Stations Near Kaprun
- Zell am See Bus Station: The nearest bus station, located approximately 7 km away from Kaprun.
- Saalfelden Bus Station: Another nearby bus station, approximately 20 km from Kaprun.
Other Options
- Car Rental: Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
- Private Transfer: Many private transfer companies offer shuttle services from Salzburg or Munich airports, or nearby cities.
How to Get Around in Kaprun
Kaprun is a small town, and most of the attractions and amenities are within walking distance. However, if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, there are several other transportation options available:
- Buses: The local buses connect Kaprun to nearby towns and cities.
- Rental Cars: Several car rental companies have offices in Kaprun.
- Bicycles: Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the scenic trails and paths around Kaprun.
Where to Go Next from Kaprun: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Kaprun is the perfect base from which to explore other charming towns and cities in the Salzburger Land region of Austria. Here are a few nearby destinations and excursions:
- Zell am See: A charming lakeside town with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Salzburg: A beautiful city known for its music and history, and birthplace of the famous composer Mozart.
- Grossglockner Alpine Road: A scenic road that takes you to the highest mountain in Austria, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Conclusion
Kaprun is a beautiful town that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a foodie, or a history buff, Kaprun has something to offer for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip to Kaprun and get the most out of your stay in Austria.
