Zillertal begins at Jenbach and extends south through several resort areas to Mayrhofen and onward bus routes. No single village provides equally easy access to every lift, side valley and glacier area.
Choose a base around the main activity, then use the railway and buses for a small number of other areas. Repeated end-to-end trips consume a large part of the day.
Choose a village
Mayrhofen has broad services, Zell am Ziller sits centrally, and northern towns shorten the connection from Jenbach. Accommodation near rail or bus helps.
Valley railway and buses
The local train forms the main spine, with buses continuing beyond Mayrhofen and into side valleys. Confirm the last link.
Mountain sectors
Hintertux, Mayrhofen and other ski or hiking areas use different lift systems and operating calendars.
A practical itinerary
- Day 1: arrive and understand the chosen village and transport stops.
- Days 2 to 3: use the closest mountain area in suitable conditions.
- Day 4: take the valley railway to one contrasting town.
- Days 5 to 6: add a side valley or slower local day.
Getting there
Change from main-line trains at Jenbach to the Zillertal railway. Buses continue from Mayrhofen towards the upper valley and Hintertux.
Getting around
Use the valley train, regional buses and seasonal lift connections. A car helps with some trailheads but meets parking controls and traffic.
Food to look for
Tyrolean inns, dairy products, dumplings and mountain-hut meals are common. Huts open according to local walking and lift seasons.
When to visit
Winter serves multiple ski areas, summer hiking and cycling. Shoulder seasons can leave large gaps in lifts and hospitality.
Accessibility
Valley trains and selected lifts provide accessible routes, but village gradients, snow and high paths vary. Ask the local operator.
Practical limits
Hintertux weather and altitude can differ sharply from the valley. Do not assume a regional pass covers every operator or attraction.
Nearby places
Innsbruck is the main city gateway. Kitzbühel and Ötztal are separate valleys and should not be combined as casual local trips.
Places to add to your map
- Jenbach: Main-line interchange for Zillertal.
- Zell am Ziller: Central valley town.
- Mayrhofen: Major southern rail terminus and resort base.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Austria trip.
Continue planning
Questions about Zillertal
Where should I stay in Zillertal?
Choose Mayrhofen for broad services, Zell am Ziller for a central position, or a village closest to the main lift area.
Can I visit without a car?
Yes. A valley railway and buses connect the main towns and many lift areas.
Is Hintertux close to the railway?
No. The railway ends at Mayrhofen, followed by an onward bus or road transfer.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- Austrian rail timetable and service updates, ÖBB
- Official Zillertal visitor information, Zillertal Tourism
- Official Tyrol visitor information, Tyrol Tourist Board