Kitzbüheler Hornbahn (Horn Cable Car) - a red and white trolley car on a track
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Kitzbüheler Hornbahn (Horn Cable Car)

4.6
·1k reviews·Kitzbühel, Austria

Ascend the Kitzbühler Horn via cable car for stunning alpine vistas, accessible hiking, and a scenic mountain restaurant.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Avoid midday heat & crowds

CrowdLow
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Kitzbüheler Hornbahn (Horn Cable Car) - a red and white trolley car on a track

Kitzbüheler Hornbahn (Horn Cable Car)

Best Time

Summer mornings

Avoid midday heat & crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend the Kitzbühler Horn via cable car for stunning alpine vistas, accessible hiking, and a scenic mountain restaurant.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"The views all around are absolutely amazing."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Camera Lens Smudges

Windows can be scratched, impacting photos. Clean your lens beforehand for clearer shots!

🚶 Hike Up, Cable Car Down

Consider hiking up and taking the cable car down for a unique experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Kitzbühler Horn Peak

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of the Alps. Unforgettable scenery awaits!

Middle Station Hiking Trails

Middle Station Hiking Trails

Middle Station

Well-signposted trails for all levels, offering a chance to explore the alpine landscape.

Alpenhaus Restaurant

Alpenhaus Restaurant

Top Station

Enjoy local cuisine with incredible mountain backdrops. Perfect for a scenic lunch.

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Planning Your Visit

Summer vs. Winter Access

The Kitzbühler Hornbahn operates year-round, but activities differ. Summer offers hiking and scenic views, while winter is for skiing. Check operating times for your visit.

Ticket Options & Views

Non-skiers can enjoy round-trip rides for around 28 euros. Ski passes are more expensive. The cable car stops at a middle station, allowing for hikes or continuing to the peak for stunning panoramic views.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Skiing conditions are prime
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

My hike to the Kitzbüheler Horn (Austria) I took the cable car from St. Johann in Tirol, where I am staying, to 1600 meters above sea level. I went up to the top of the mountain at 1996 meters and did a 13 km hike. I really enjoyed the views there

📸 Camera Lens Smudges

Windows can be scratched, impacting photos. Clean your lens beforehand for clearer shots! Reddit

🚶 Hike Up, Cable Car Down

Consider hiking up and taking the cable car down for a unique experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Kitzbuhel advice

reddit.com

Kitzbuhle trip in Jan 2025

☀️ Beat the Summer Sun

If hiking in summer, start very early to avoid the intense midday heat. Reddit

🚡 Flexible Stops

The cable car stops at multiple points, allowing you to hop on/off for exploration. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Camera Lens Smudges

Windows can be scratched, impacting photos. Clean your lens beforehand for clearer shots! Reddit

🚶 Hike Up, Cable Car Down

Consider hiking up and taking the cable car down for a unique experience. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Summer Sun

If hiking in summer, start very early to avoid the intense midday heat. Reddit

🚡 Flexible Stops

The cable car stops at multiple points, allowing you to hop on/off for exploration. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from the Kitzbühler Hornbahn, making it a worthwhile trip even for non-skiers. The flexibility of the cable car with its middle station and the accessible hiking trails are highlights. Some note that the cable car windows can be scratched, potentially impacting photo quality.

"You can take the cable car up to the mountain from here. If you are not skiing it will only cost 28 euros per person for the up and down trip. Ski rates are available from 56 euros per person per day onwards. First the cable car will stop at the middle station. If you want you can get down here and walk around. Also there are hiking trails from here to the top of mountains. Also there's another cable car starting from here which goes to the peak of the kitzbuhler horn. Or else you can stay in the cable car and climb further upwards to the alphenhause. The views all around are absolutely amazing."

Ishanka Hasaranga

"Fantastic trail and all signposted and paths or can go onto further stretch of the hike, steep but manageable, I went in summer and it was very easy to navigate, the cable cars were great as can get on or off at a few points. I hiked up and took a cable car down, most people do it the opposite way around, but it worked well, if in summer then do it v early morning so that you don't catch midday heat."

Annmarie Bowron

"Great views, nice food and coffee. Is ok for a beginner."

Paul Wilson

What People Like

Amazing panoramic views
Flexible cable car stops
Scenic hiking trails

What People Dislike

Scratched cable car windows

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From NJ/NY, you'll likely fly into a major European hub like Frankfurt or Munich, then take a train to Kitzbühel. Renting a car is an option but not always necessary as Kitzbühel is well-connected by public transport. Reddit

Yes, the station is generally accessible within Kitzbühel. Public transport within the town is efficient, and taxis are also available. Reddit

Kitzbühel is very walkable, and there's a good bus system. For reaching the Hornbahn and other mountain bases, local buses or taxis are convenient. Reddit

Renting a car is optional. If you plan extensive day trips outside Kitzbühel, it might be useful. Otherwise, public transport and the cable cars are sufficient. Reddit

Information on specific parking at the Hornbahn station can vary. It's advisable to check the official Kitzbühler Hornbahn website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date parking details. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A round-trip ticket for non-skiers is approximately 28 euros. This allows you to enjoy the views and access hiking trails. Reddit

Daily ski passes start from around 56 euros per person. Prices can vary based on the season and any package deals. Reddit

It's often possible to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to save time. Check the official Kitzbühler Hornbahn website for booking options. Reddit

Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or groups. It's best to inquire directly with the Kitzbühler Hornbahn or check their website for current offers. Reddit

Operating hours vary by season. Summer hours typically differ from winter hours. Always check the official Kitzbühler Hornbahn website for the most accurate and up-to-date schedule. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Non-skiers can take the cable car up for stunning views, explore hiking trails from the middle station, and enjoy food at the Alpenhaus restaurant. Reddit

Yes, the middle station offers access to well-signposted hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. You can also hike from the top station. Reddit

The views from the cable car and the peak are described as absolutely amazing, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Alps. Reddit

Yes, the cable car makes a stop at the middle station, where you can disembark to walk around or start a hike. Reddit

The cable car ride itself is fine for beginners. Hiking trails vary in difficulty, with some being steep but manageable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The panoramic views are spectacular for photos. However, some reviewers note that the cable car windows can be scratched, potentially affecting image clarity. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and maximizing scenic beauty. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos from the cable car, but be aware that the windows might be scratched, which could impact the quality of your shots. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant peaks or wildlife. Reddit

The peak of the Kitzbühler Horn offers the most comprehensive panoramic views. The middle station also provides scenic spots for photos along the hiking trails. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Kitzbühler Hornbahn offers a fun outing for families. The cable car ride itself is an adventure for children, providing exciting views as you ascend. The middle station is a great place to disembark for a picnic or a short, easy walk suitable for little legs. Reddit

While the summit offers stunning views, ensure children are supervised, especially near edges. The Alpenhaus restaurant at the top provides a convenient spot for a family meal with a view. Consider the time of year; summer hiking can be more manageable for younger children than winter skiing activities. Reddit

🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers

For hikers, the Kitzbühler Hornbahn is an excellent starting point. The middle station provides access to a variety of trails, from gentle walks to more strenuous climbs. The option to hike up and take the cable car down (or vice versa) offers flexibility for planning your route. Reddit

Remember to check trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out. Early morning starts are highly recommended in summer to avoid heat and crowds. The well-signposted paths ensure you can navigate the area with confidence, enjoying the diverse alpine flora and fauna. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The panoramic vistas from the Kitzbühler Horn are a photographer's dream. Bring your best camera gear, perhaps a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes. Be mindful of potential scratches on the cable car windows, which might require some post-processing to correct. Reddit

Aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. The hiking trails also offer unique perspectives and opportunities for landscape and detail shots. Don't forget to capture the charming alpine architecture, like the Alpenhaus, against the mountain backdrop. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Kitzbühler Hornbahn

The Kitzbühler Hornbahn is a dual-purpose cable car, serving both summer hikers and winter skiers. It operates with a middle station, offering flexibility for visitors. You can choose to alight here to explore the alpine meadows and trails, or continue directly to the summit station. This tiered access makes it a versatile attraction for different interests and fitness levels. Reddit

For those not skiing, a round-trip ticket costs around 28 euros, providing access to the stunning mountain scenery. Skiers will face higher rates, starting from approximately 56 euros per day. The ability to get on and off at various points is a significant advantage, allowing for spontaneous exploration or a change of plans mid-journey. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider the season. Summer offers a chance to hike well-signposted trails, with options to hike up and take the cable car down, or vice versa. Winter transforms the mountain into a ski resort. Always check the official operating hours, as they vary significantly between seasons. Reddit

Summer Hiking Adventures

During the summer months, the Kitzbühler Hornbahn becomes a gateway to a network of beautiful hiking trails. The middle station is a popular starting point, offering access to paths that are generally well-signposted and manageable for most hikers. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging ascent, there are options to suit various abilities. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a unique experience by hiking up the mountain and then taking the cable car back down. This approach allows you to fully immerse yourself in the alpine environment during the ascent. However, it's crucial to be prepared for the weather and terrain. Starting your hike very early in the morning is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer months, to avoid the intense midday heat. Reddit

The views from these trails are consistently praised, offering breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding Austrian Alps. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, as conditions can vary. The flexibility of the cable car system means you can also choose to hike down from the summit station if you prefer. Reddit

Photography Tips from Visitors

Capturing the majestic scenery of the Kitzbühler Horn is a must for many visitors. The panoramic views from the summit are particularly spectacular, offering unparalleled photo opportunities. However, a common point raised by reviewers is the condition of the cable car windows. Some find them to be scratched, which can detract from the clarity of photos taken directly from the gondola. Reddit

To mitigate this, it's a good idea to clean your camera lens thoroughly before your trip. If possible, try to position yourself to minimize reflections and glare on the windows. For the best photographic results, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' – early morning or late afternoon. The softer light during these times can enhance the dramatic landscapes and create more atmospheric shots. Reddit

While the cable car offers convenience, don't forget that the hiking trails also present numerous scenic spots for photography. The middle station and various points along the paths provide different perspectives of the mountains and valleys. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the essence of your Kitzbühel experience. Reddit

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