When planning what to see in Austria, Hallstatt almost pushes itself forward as a destination. Tucked away in the stunning Salzkammergut region, this picturesque Alpine village has jumped right out of a storybook. If you’ve ever seen photos, you’re probably wondering: Is it really that beautiful? The answer is: yes.
With its narrow streets, colourful houses, crystal-clear lake, and mountain vistas, it is a photographer’s dream, and it truly lives up to the images you see on Pinterest and Instagram.
About Hallstatt
Boasting a 7,000 years+ of history Hallstatt sits in the Salzkammergut region, known for its salt mines, mountains, and picturesque villages. The town primarily rose to fame due to its salt mines, Salzminen, which are among the oldest in the world.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997, Hallstatt went viral after being featured in a 2006 South Korean drama, even inspiring a replica in China.
A victim of its own success, the village faces significant challenges with over-tourism, attracting over 3 million visitors annually—around 10,000 per day during peak seasons—despite having just 750 residents.
This is primarily because the town’s 16th-century Alpine houses and charming alleyways make it feel like something out of another time. It is also home to some lovely hikes, scenic viewpoints, and a variety of outdoor activities, from boating on Lake to exploring hidden caves. It is a place where the natural beauty and historical significance go hand in hand.
In 2023, locals protested against the crowds, erecting a wooden fence to block views at a popular selfie spot, calling for limits on daily visitors and a ban on tour buses after 5 PM. This issue reflects a broader trend, as 80% of travellers flock to just 10% of the world's tourist destinations, leading to overcrowding and local frustration.
The Main City Square (Marktplatz)
The small, triangular-shaped square is surrounded by historic Austrian buildings with traditional Alpine architecture featuring colorful façades and ornate window decorations. At the center of the square stands a historic fountain. You will find small shops, cafés, and restaurants there. Like almost everywhere in the village, the square offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Hallstatt
Skywalk Hallstatt
For an impressive panoramic view of this place and the surrounding mountains, head up to the Hallstatt Skywalk Lift. This funicular will whisk you up to a viewpoint where you can see the village, the lake, and the Alps stretching out in the distance. It’s one of the most popular spots for photos.
- Address
- Salzbergstraße 21, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
The Classic Viewpoint
This is the iconic postcard photo that everyone wants to capture. Located just a short walk from the town center, it offers a stunning view, with its colourful buildings and the church overlooking the tranquil lake.
- Address
- Gosaumühlstraße 67, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
- Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday: 9 am - 6 pm
Hallstatt Salzwelten (Salt Mine)
Hallstatt is home to the world’s oldest working salt mine, dating back over 7,000 years. Situated high in the mountains above the village, Salzwelten Hallstatt offers a glimpse into the ancient practice of salt mining that helped shape the region’s history. A funicular ride from the village will take you up to the mine, where you can learn about its history and explore the underground tunnels. If you’re pressed for time, note that this salt mine can be a bit pricier than other nearby mines, such as those in Hallein or Berchtesgaden, but it’s worth the experience due to its heritage and unique location. To integrate a visit more easily into your itinerary consider an all-in private tour from Vienna that covers the salt mines.
- Address
- Salzbergstraße 21, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria
Charnel House (Ossuary)
Located next to the local cemetery, The Charnel House (Beinhaus), is an unusual attraction. Due to limited burial space in the mountainous town, local tradition involved exhuming bones after about 10-15 years to make room for new burials. These bones were then carefully cleaned, painted, and artfully arranged in the Charnel House.
The ossuary contains approximately 1,200 skulls, with about 610 painted and decorated. Many skulls are painted with names, dates, and intricate floral designs. The practice of bone painting was a way to honor and remember the deceased. Local families could identify and preserve their ancestors' remains in this limited space.
- Address
- Friedhof 164, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
- Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday: 11:30 am - 3:30 pm
World Heritage Museum
To get to the bottom of what makes Hallstatt a UNESCO World Heritage Site the World Heritage Museum offers the answers. Primarily, it provides comprehensive insights into Hallstatt's 7,000-year history, especially its significance as a prehistoric salt mining site. In fact, Hallstatt gave its name to an entire archeological period: the Iron Age Hallstatt culture. For such a small village, the interactive features in the museum impress.
- Address
- Seestraße 56, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria
- Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday: 11 am - 4 pm
Boat Tour In a Historical Plätte
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, consider a boat tour across the lake. While the usual larger ships are regularly criss crossing the waters my favourite are the traditional Plätte or Fuhr boats. Historically, these wooden boats used for transporting salt, agricultural goods, and other cargo across Lake Hallstatt. These flat-bottomed boats were essential for local commerce and transportation in the mountainous region before modern infrastructure developed. Skilled local boatmen would manually row or sail these boats, navigating the challenging Alpine lake conditions to move goods between lakeside communities. These boats were a crucial economic lifeline for Hallstatt and surrounding settlements. Find out where to rent one of those boats.
- Lake Hallstatt
- Size: 13.5 km²
- Depth: 125 m
- Width: 2.3 km
- Length: 5.9 km
- Address
- Salzkammergut / in the south of Upper Austria.
Dachstein Ice Caves
The Dachstein Eishöhlen (Ice Caves) are among the largest and most impressive ice caves in the world, offering visitors quite a geological experience. Massive underground ice formations create stunning, otherworldly landscapes with spectacular ice sculptures, columns, and intricate ice formations. The Ice Caves are accessible via a gondola cable car that takes you up through the breathtaking Dachstein Mountain. If you visit in the summer make sure you take warm clothing with you (I learned the hard way). The caves remain extremely cold (around 0°C).
- Address
- Krippenstein Peak of the Alps’ Dachstein Mountain Range
- Elevation: 4500 Feet
- Distance From Hallstatt: 3 Miles (direct by bus 543)
Kalvarienberg Church and Hiking Trails
For panoramic views of this place, the Kalvarienberg Church and the surrounding hiking trails are an excellent option. Located just outside the village, the KalvarienbergKirche (Calvary Church) is a beautiful Baroque structure perched high on the hill. From there, you can continue your hike along scenic trails that provide breathtaking views of the village and Lake. One of the most popular viewpoints, “Schöne Aussicht,” gives you a chance to capture the iconic views of this unique architecture and its mountainous backdrop.
- Address
- Kalvarienberg 3, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
- Opening Hours
- Monday - Sunday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna with Skywalk
This guided day trip offers a worry-free journey to Hallstatt, with round-trip transportation from Vienna included. A highlight of the tour is its Skywalk, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the village, the lake, and the surrounding Alps. Along the way, you’ll visit Seeschloss Ort, a stunning castle on Lake Traunsee, and get ample time to explore its scenic beauty. The tour includes hotel pickup from Vienna, an air-conditioned coach, and a lift ticket for the Skywalk. Learn more about this tour.
Hallstatt Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna
For a more intimate experience, this small-group day trip offers personalized attention and a comfortable journey to this place. Along the way, you will see scenic spots like Lake Attersee and Lake Mondsee, and stop in the charming village of St. Gilgen. This tour ensures a relaxed experience with round-trip transportation and a local guide. Find more details here.
Full-Day Private Trip from Vienna to Hallstatt
Begin your day excursion with a private hotel pickup, followed by a scenic drive through Lower Austria and the breathtaking Salzkammergut Alpine region. Your private driver will guide you through the Austrian Alps, offering panoramic views of the majestic mountains.
The first stop is Admont Abbey, one of Austria's oldest and most impressive Baroque abbeys. Explore its world-renowned library, one of the largest and most beautiful in the world. Next, you will visit Hallstatt. Continue your journey to Gmunden, where you’ll admire Ort Castle, seemingly floating on the waters of Lake Traunsee. During my stopovers in Gmunden I used to buy bags of Swan Eggs (Schwaneneier), cream filled crunchy chocolate eggs. The return trips after such full days always pass quickly because everyone leans and relaxes. Your private driver will take you back to your hotel in Vienna. Explore this private tour here.
Private Tour of Hallstatt and Salzburg Through Beautiful Alps
For a longer, more immersive journey, this private tour combines a visit to Hallstatt with a tour of Salzburg. Travel through the stunning Austrian Alps, stop in Hallstatt for a guided exploration, and then continue on to Salzburg to explore its historical and cultural landmarks. With private transportation and a personal driver, this tour offers flexibility and comfort throughout. Discover more here.
When To Visit Hallstatt?
- Best Times of Day:
- Early Morning (6-9 AM):
- Least crowded time
- Soft, golden morning light creates breathtaking photography opportunities
- Peaceful atmosphere before tour buses arrive
- Ideal for capturing the village's reflection on Lake Hallstatt
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening (4-7 PM):
- Beautiful golden hour lighting
- Reduced tourist crowds
- Magical sunset views over the mountains and lake
- Restaurants and cafes are less busy
Best Seasons to Visit Hallstatt
Summer (June-August)
- Peak tourist season
- Warmest temperatures (15-25°C)
- All attractions and boat tours are fully operational
- Vibrant landscape with lush greenery
- Numerous festivals and outdoor events
- Busiest and most expensive period
Shoulder Seasons
Spring (May) and Early Autumn (September-October)
- Mild temperatures
- Fewer tourists
- Beautiful wildflowers in spring
- Stunning fall foliage in autumn
- More affordable accommodation
- Peaceful hiking conditions
Winter (December-February)
- Magical snow-covered landscape
- Christmas market in December
- Lowest tourist numbers
- Cold temperatures (around 0-5°C)
- Some attractions may have limited hours
- Potential for stunning winter photography
Tips
- Avoid weekends and peak summer months if you prefer fewer crowds
- Midweek visits generally offer a more relaxed experience
- Book accommodations well in advance during summer and holiday periods
Getting to Hallstatt: Train, Car, or Tour?
There are several ways to reach, and each has its own charm:
1. By Train
Taking the train is the most scenic option. The journey from Vienna takes about 3.5 to 4.5 hours, with one transfer at Attnang-Puchheim. The train drops you off at a station across the lake, and from there, you can take a scenic ferry ride to the village. Train tickets range from 40-75€ one-way, depending on the season. If you’re not in a rush and want to enjoy some beautiful landscapes along the way, the train is a great choice.
2. By Car
If you prefer more flexibility, driving is a fantastic option. The drive takes about 3.5 hours from Vienna, offering beautiful views of the Austrian countryside. However, be aware that you cannot drive directly into Hallstatt’s town center; you’ll need to park at one of the nearby lots. Parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s best to arrive early. To rent a car, start by comparing various car rental deals.
3. By Guided Tour
For those who prefer a stress-free experience, booking a guided tour from Vienna is a fantastic way to go. A guided day trip allows you to sit back and relax while an expert guide takes care of all the details. You’ll also learn more about the history and culture of this place than you would on your own. While the schedule is more rigid, it can save you a lot of time and hassle.
What to Eat in Hallstatt?
No visit to Hallstatt is complete without indulging in its delicious local cuisine. From fresh fish caught in the crystal-clear waters of its Lake to iconic Austrian foods, the village offers a variety of culinary experiences that are sure to please your palate. Here are some best places to enjoy:
1. Fresh Fish
Being a lakeside village, Hallstatt is renowned for its fresh fish, especially from the Lake. You’ll find delicious fish dishes like Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a skewer), which is a local favourite, served at many lakeside restaurants. Be sure to try it for a true taste of the region.
2. Pork Roast with Dumplings
Loals of the Salzkammergut region love Schweinsbraten mit Semmelknödel, a classic Austrian roast pork dish with bread dumplings. The roast (Schweinsbraten) is typically a pork shoulder or neck, slow-roasted with a crispy, seasoned skin. It's often marinated with garlic, caraway seeds, and salt, then roasted until the meat is tender and the skin is golden and crackling. The Semmelknödel (bread dumplings) are made from stale bread rolls, mixed with milk, eggs, parsley, and sometimes onions. These are formed into round dumplings and boiled until fluffy and light.
The dish is usually served with Sauerkraut or roasted cabbage, a rich, dark gravy made from the roast's drippings, and sometimes potato salad or other side vegetables.
3. Apple or Plum Cake
The Salzkammergut region tempts with their apple and plum cakes. Imagine thinly sliced apples arranged in a decorative pattern on a buttery, slightly sweet base. The apple cakes are often topped with a light custard or sprinkled with cinnamon, sometimes with vanilla sauce or whipped cream. The plum cakes (Zwetschkenkuchen) host closely arranged plums on a yeasted or shortcrust pastry, with a light layer of powdered sugar.
Best Dining Spots in Hallstatt
1. Café Derbl
Situated in the main square near the fountain, Café Derbl offers a delightful lunch menu and is the perfect spot to rest after exploring the village. Don’t miss the chance to try their regional dishes while enjoying the charming atmosphere.
- Address
- Marktpl. 61, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
- Opening Hours
- Saturday- Wednesday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Closed on Thursday and Friday.
2. Gasthof, Restaurant & Bar Seewirt Zauner
Serving traditional dishes for over 150 years, Seewirt Zauner is a beloved local spot. Its rich history is reflected in the classic flavours of the food, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste authentic Austrian cuisine.
- Address
- 51, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
3. Simple 169
For something a bit different, head to Simple 169. This restaurant offers a variety of delicacies and homemade specialties, providing a great mix of traditional flavours with a modern twist.
- Address
- Seestraße 169, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
- Opening Hours
- Thursday- Tuesday: 11:15 am - 6:30 pm, Closed on Wednesday.
4. Zum Bader
A romantic restaurant, Zum Bader is a fantastic spot for couples. Whether you’re craving regional meats, hearty stews, or fresh fish, this charming eatery serves up authentic flavours such as Pork tenderloin in pepper cream sauce and Beef goulash of Obertraun highland beef with dumplings, all in a cosy, welcoming environment.
- Address
- Badergraben und, Wolfengasse 57, 4830 Hallstatt, Austria.
- Opening Hours
- Friday-Tuesday: 11:30 am - 5 pm, Closed on Wednesday & Thursday.
Hallstatt Weather
Hallstatt weather offers a unique charm, with its cool, moderate climate and frequent rainfall that helps keep the surrounding landscapes lush. Even during the driest month, you can expect some rainfall, which adds to the village's enchanting, misty beauty. The average temperature hovers around 4.6°C (40.3°F), so be prepared for cool weather, even in the warmer months. Summer overthere is short, lasting from late June to September, with the warmest months being June through August. On average, the area receives about 1,769 mm (69.6 inches) of rain annually, so a light raincoat or umbrella might come in handy.
The Best Way to Explore Hallstatt: A Day Trip or Overnight Stay?
Whether you choose to stay for a night or make a day trip from nearby cities like Vienna, it offers plenty to see and do. If you have the time, an overnight stay is highly recommended, as it lets you experience the village without the crowds.
On my visit, I stayed in Salzburg first and then drove 1 hour 15 min to Hallstatt on the way back to Vienna.
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