Kaprun is known for its snow-sure glacier, beautiful mountain scenery and relaxed Austrian charm but the village also has an impressive selection of places to eat, drink and unwind.
Whether you’re spending your day on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, exploring the Maiskogel, or strolling through the village in the evening, these five hotspots are the places you absolutely shouldn’t skip this winter.
These locations have been selected based on popularity, visitor reviews, official tourism information, and their reputation among winter travellers. Together, they give you the perfect mix of high-alpine dining, cosy mountain huts and lively après-ski.
1. Gipfel Restaurant – Dining at 3,029 meters
If there’s one place that captures the magic of Kaprun, it’s the Gipfel Restaurant, the iconic mountaintop restaurant on the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier. Sitting at 3,029 meters, it is one of the highest accessible restaurants in all of Austria.
Here, you don’t just get a meal. You get a view that feels almost unreal: endless snowy peaks, bright blue skies and the feeling of being on top of the world.
The menu combines traditional Austrian dishes with modern alpine cuisine, and whether you choose a hearty soup, a classic schnitzel or something sweet, everything tastes better at this altitude. With a mix of self-service and table service, it’s a flexible spot for both quick lunches and long, relaxing breaks.
If you want a memorable dining experience that you will tell people about back home: this is it.
2. Gletschermühle – Alpine charm near the Alpincenter
A little lower on the glacier, at around 2,450 meters, you’ll find the Gletschermühle: a warm and inviting mountain restaurant with panoramic views and a cosy atmosphere.
This is the kind of place where you walk in with cold cheeks and walk out completely refreshed. Wooden details, a rustic interior and local dishes create the perfect Austrian mountain experience. Think Tiroler Gröstl, warm soups, fresh kaiserschmarrn or regional meat dishes prepared with local ingredients.
On sunny days, the terrace becomes one of the most beautiful spots on the glacier, you can sit outside, soak in the winter sun and take in the views of the surrounding high-alpine landscape.
- Alpincenter – Variety, comfort and quick lunch stops
For skiers who want choice and convenience, the Alpincenter is exactly the right place. It’s also located around 2,450 meters and works as the culinary hub of the glacier.
Inside, you’ll find several food stations serving everything from pasta and pizza to salads, burgers and traditional Austrian dishes. It’s perfect for:
- families looking for quick service
- groups who don’t all want the same thing
- skiers who want to maximise time on the slopes
The atmosphere is lively, modern and relaxed. Grab your meal, take a seat with a view and you’ll be back on your skis in no time.
4. Maisi Alm – The heart of Maiskogel’s mountain life
Down on the Maiskogel, close to the gondola base, you’ll find the beloved Maisi Alm. This hut is known for its authentic alpine atmosphere, friendly service and warm, hearty dishes.
It’s a family-friendly spot with all the Austrian classics you expect from a good mountain hut, schnitzel, kaiserschmarrn, soups, local meats and homemade desserts. Whether you’re taking a break after a morning of skiing or simply enjoying the sunshine on the terrace, the Maisi Alm gives you that classic “Alm feeling” that makes winter holidays so special.
It’s also an easy meeting point for mixed groups, as the Maiskogel is accessible to skiers and non-skiers alike.
5. Baumbar – Kaprun’s lively evening hotspot
When the lifts close and the ski boots come off, one place truly comes to life: the Baumbar. This restaurant-bar is one of the best-known spots in Kaprun for evening drinks, relaxed dining and après-ski with a stylish edge.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of modern alpine design, good music and a menu that combines Austrian classics with more international dishes. It’s lively without being chaotic—perfect for groups, couples, or anyone who enjoys a fun night out in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Baumbar is especially popular on weekends, so if you want a guaranteed table, booking ahead is recommended.
Why these hotspots belong on your winter bucket list
Each of these places offers something unique and together they paint a full picture of what makes Kaprun such a beloved winter destination.
At the Gipfel Restaurant and Gletschermühle, you get the breathtaking high-alpine atmosphere of the glacier itself. The Alpincenter gives you comfort and flexibility, ideal for long ski days. The Maisi Alm delivers the classic mountain-hut experience with great food and views. And in the evening, the Baumbar gives your day a perfect ending with good drinks, music and atmosphere right in the village.
These hotspots combine everything winter travellers love: good food, amazing views, warm hospitality and an authentic Austrian feel.
Whether you’re skiing on the glacier, exploring the Maiskogel or simply enjoying Kaprun’s lively village life, these five places will make your trip even more memorable.