Stunning Hallstatt, Austria: An Amazing Travel Guide

If a beautiful lakefront view is what you’re after, look no further than Hallstatt, Austria. 

This picturesque village nestled between the Salzkammergut Mountains and the Hallstätter See offers one of the most stunning views in the world.

Hallstatt has many photogenic views, and UNESCO has recognized it as a World Heritage Site.  The total population of this town is about 800, and many more tourists are there throughout the year.

Everyone tends to fall in love with the natural beauty of this town. Continue reading to know more about Magical Hallstatt.

If you’re planning to visit Austria, check out this guide to Hallstatt for an unforgettable experience!

How To Reach Hallstatt, Austria?

Wondering how to get to Hallstatt, Austria? Getting there requires a bit of planning. 

From Salzburg, Vienna, or Český Krumlov (CK town), you’ll need to take multiple forms of public transportation, including buses and trains. 

However, we’ve included a one-glance overview with specific transportation details so you can make the most of your trip!

Getting To Hallstatt From Salzburg by Train

Salzburg is the closest place to reach Hallstatt by two main public transportation options: PostBus and train from ÖBB or Westbahn.

The ideal travelling time is 2.5 hours, together with the waiting time; depending on the frequency, the journey can take up to 3 hours.

Start from Salzburg Hbf, then board the train to Attnang-Puchheim. Finally, disembark at Hallstatt Bahnhst, and you’ll be there!

Tickets can easily be bought on the Austrian Federal Railways (OBB) website. Search for timings and purchase your tickets online – it’s fast and easy! 

Getting To Hallstatt By Ferry

When coming to Hallstatt by train, remember that the town is on the opposite side of Lake Hallstatt from the station.

You’ll need to take a ferry to get there, and fortunately, the ferry’s schedule is synchronized with the train timetable. To board the ferry, buy a roundtrip ticket from an attendant at the dock where it departs from located near the station.

For more detailed information about schedules and routes, visit the website.

Getting To Hallstatt By Car

Taking a car is the perfect way to explore amazing landscapes on a journey from Salzburg to Hallstatt, Austria. 

The trip from Salzburg to Hallstatt takes about 80 minutes and gives travellers an unforgettable experience as they view the fantastic mountain scenery. 

If you are driving from Vienna, it will take you about 3 hours.

A car rental allows you the comfort of travelling between destinations without changing the mode of transport, making your way to this picturesque alpine village located in the Salzkammergut Lake District.

Getting To Hallstatt From Salzburg By Bus 

The PostBus provides convenient transportation from the nearby cities of Bad Goisern and St. Wolfgang im Salzkammergut. 

The breathtaking journey goes through 4 kilometres of winding mountain passes and down 6km along Lake Traunsee’s beautiful coastlines.

Check out PostBus for more information about timetables, stops, rates, etcetera, as they particularly cover Salzkammergut-area bus routes! 

Getting To Hallstatt By Air 

If you’re looking for the quickest way to get to Hallstatt, Austria, take a plane ride! 

The Salzburg airport lies merely 75 km from Hallstatt. Once you land, you can rent a car and drive all the way up to your destination. 

You can also take public transport such as buses, trains or shuttles if that suits you better.  For more information on flights and travel connections, click here. 

How To Get Around Hallstatt, Austria?

Exploring the stunning historic town of Hallstatt on foot is easy and the best way to get a first-hand experience of its picturesque landscape. 

But for other areas further out, buses and taxis are also available. Bus 543 runs up and down the banks of Lake Hallstatt from Obertraun to Bad Goisern. 

If you fancy something more adventurous, you can rent boats like rowing boats, swan pedal boats or electric boats to travel around the lake in style. Alternatively, catch the ferry, which will take you to your destination across the lake in a jiffy!

Exploring Hallstatt: Things to Do

There are so many things you can do in Hallstatt, Austria. Many tourist attractions are available in this town, which has beautiful scenery. Let’s have a look.

1. Visit the Medieval Village

The charming village of Hallstatt is a must-see attraction with its quaint old houses, cobblestone streets, and gothic church standing proudly at the centre of it all. 

Take a stroll through the streets to get a feel for the local heritage and explore the many shops selling souvenirs and traditional items.

2. Visit Hallstatt Skywalk 

One of the best attractions for thrill seekers is the Hallstatt Skywalk. 

It is about a 350-meter-long platform above the town with some of the most unforgettable panoramic views of your life. With its ground-to-ceiling glass panels, visitors can observe all directions of the breathtaking landscape from high above.

The Skywalk continues with a triangular viewing platform overlooking the lake, known as the World Heritage View. You can also stop by Restaurant Rudolfsturm to rest and enjoy yourself while eating.

3. Explore Salt Mines 

The Salzwelten Hallstatt, aka the Hallstatt Salt Mine, is a considerable attraction you won’t miss seeing. 

Take an underground tour of one of Europe’s oldest salt mines located beneath Hallstatt, which was used from prehistoric times until the start of mineral excavation mid-19th century! 

During these tours, you will learn about mining techniques used throughout history while taking part in exciting slides descending up to 800 meters below sea level!

To reach the top of the mines, rent a cable car or go by funicular through the mountains. It might take an hour to arrive, so leaving for Salt Mine early is a great choice. 

4. Enjoy The Ice Cave

The Ice Cave, an underground wonderland, was again discovered in 1910. Tribal people once occupied it during the Ice Age.

 You will find outstanding ice sculptures and formations here. There is also a show of light and sound created by Ben and Boris. You can enjoy the show while looking at the natural beauty of this cave.

5. Visit the Catholic Church On The Hill

Sitting high above the lake in Hallstatt is a tranquil Catholic Church and cemetery that offers stunning views. 

Beside this church is a cemetery, and both offer an idyllic spot to sit and reflect or admire the serenity of the lake below.

6. Hidden gem – Waldbachstrub Waterfall

Take a short journey from Hallstatt to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall, one of Hallstatt’s hidden gems.

Located an hour’s drive from town, the place can be easily accessed by making your way to the Hallstatt Parking P2. After that, head down a short walking trail through the valley. 

As you approach the waterfall, get ready to be amazed by its majestic sight and roar! 

Keep in mind, though, that there is no direct access to the waterfall itself – so a hike is necessary to experience it!

7. Soak in the vibes – Sunset walks

A night in Hallstatt is a unique experience. When the day-tripper goes home, the whole city is at his disposal. Evenings are magical, and you can roam the streets and lakes peacefully.

Hallstatt A picturesque view of the famous mountain town of Hallstatt with Lake Hallstatt is fogged as autumn begins. Location: Hallstatt resort village, Salzkammergut region, Austria, Alps. Europe.

8. Enjoy Lake Hallstatt

Make sure to have some fun as you explore Hallstatt by renting a boat or kayak to take in the gorgeous views of this alpine lakefront town and enjoy activities such as swimming, sailing, fishing and more! 

Where To Stay In Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a small yet charming town in Austria, but with limited lodging options. Finding suitable accommodation can be difficult, as the few places to stay within the old town are not always budget-friendly.

Top Three Locations in Hallstatt

• Hallstatt Old Town: the best place to stay is in the historic old town. There are plenty of hotels and inns offering breathtaking views of Hallstatt Lake.
• Staying nearby ATO Hallstatt Lahn: Perfect for those wishing to be in Hallstatt’s old town but away from the hustle and bustle of tourists.
• Obertraun – it’s across the lake and offers more affordable accommodation but is still a short 7-minute bus ride away from the town.

Below are some of the options curated for you:

Hallstatt Hideaway

One of the most luxurious accommodation options is Hallstatt Hideaway. It is a historic hotel dating back to the 1740s. After its renovation in 2014, this hotel has both a historic and modern interior. 

Hallstatt Hideaway has 84 guest rooms, including five luxury rooms. Those luxury rooms provide a lakeside view from patios and have fireplaces and libraries too! Guests staying at this hotel can also access private gardens and spa centres. 

Seehotel Gruner Baum 

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, there’s no better place to stay in Hallstatt than the Seehotel Gruner Baum. This 17th-century hotel is situated in the heart of the old town, giving guests an incredible panoramic view of Lake Hallstatt from their spacious and luxurious rooms. 

Make your trip to Hallstatt even more memorable with the cosy atmosphere provided by this stunning lakeside retreat!

Gasthof Simony

One of the best budget hotels in Hallstatt Old Town is Gasthof Simony, ideally located in the Old Town of Hallstatt. The historic 15th-century building houses a lakeside restaurant with a beer garden serving Austrian cuisine and homemade cakes. Bright red antique homes with rustic wooden rooms and vintage details take you back in time.

Gasthof Hirlatz

Nestled in a charming residential area, Gasthof Hirlatz is a family-run guesthouse located just 10 minutes walk from town. 

Perfect for couples and families seeking a quiet and relaxing stay, this welcoming accommodation offers comfortable rooms, friendly staff and all the necessary amenities to make your stay enjoyable.

When looking for the best price and most extensive selection of hotels in Hallstatt, check Booking.com Or Skyscanner. 

Airbnb is an excellent option for long and short stays on various budgets. 

Discovering Savoury Meals in Hallstatt

A dish made primarily of meat, bread, and potatoes is the Austrian’s friend. 

Along with this, local meals include rich flavours that are hearty and comforting. If you’re in Hallstatt, try these dishes:

● Grosti

It is an Austrian comfort food made with potatoes, beef or pork, onions, and sometimes topped with fried eggs.

● Tafelspitz

Tafelspitz is one of Austria’s most traditional dinners, consisting of boiled veal, horseradish, and minced apples on a plate.

● Kasesatzle

This dish is similar to macaroni and cheese, made with soft egg noodles and often served with wine. Hence, relieve your tastebuds with a unique version of your favourite mac and cheese.

● Apfelstrudel

It is a traditional apple strudel pastry famous throughout Austria and Europe. Don’t forget to munch your teeth on this divine dessert.

● Wienerschnitzel

Another of Austria’s national dishes is a breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet served with lemon. Please don’t confuse it with the fast-food hot dog of the same name.

● Brettljause

Do you need a snack or something to share? Order this tray of cold meats, pickled veggies, bread slices, and spreads.

In the summertime in Germany, a café table with coffee cups and a glass plate of delectable Apfelstrudel with ice cream and whipped cream.

Best Time To Visit Hallstatt

When it comes to deciding the best time to visit Hallstatt, the summer months of June, July, and August tend to bring the most crowds and higher prices. 

However, suppose you wish to experience Hallstatt in all its snow-covered glory during Winter (December through February). In that case, this season is also popular with tourists – remember that some attractions, such as the salt mines and funicular, will be closed. 

To avoid large crowds, March, April, May, October and November are ideal times to visit Austria’s beautiful lakeside town.

Should You Stay Overnight In Hallstatt?

Yes. Hallstatt, Austria, deserves at least one night of exploration. 

To truly appreciate the beauty and atmosphere of this historical place, it’s recommended to visit in the evening and early morning when there are fewer crowds. This way, you can take your time to enjoy all that Hallstatt has to offer.

Day-Trip to Hallstatt 

If you’re short on time and taking a day-trip to Hallstatt, start your journey by arriving there at 9 am. Take some time to explore the old town and go on a guided tour of the salt mines before the area gets quite busy. 

After lunch, head out for a visit to the Dachstein mountain before returning to Hallstatt in the late afternoon. Spend an hour or two gliding around the lake on a boat before having dinner and heading back home!

Alternatively, as set out in the blog, you can choose any places you wish to visit. 

You can also plan your day trip via Get Your Guide.

That’s a wrap! 🙂

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