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Hallstatt is a very small village, so there aren’t a huge number of things to do in Hallstatt. That makes it easy to see all the main highlights in just one day. I visited on a day trip and still got a great feel for the village and its top attractions — all of which I’ll be sharing in this guide.
That said, Hallstatt is incredibly popular, so it gets extremely busy during the day. If you can, I’d highly recommend staying overnight so you can experience it once the crowds leave and everything feels calmer and more magical.
Located just a couple of hours from major cities like Salzburg and Vienna, Hallstatt makes a perfect addition to any Austria itinerary. Keep reading to discover the 13 best things to do in Hallstatt, plus all the tips you’ll need to plan the perfect visit.
Where Exactly Is Hallstatt?
Hallstatt is a beautiful small village in Upper Austria, just about a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from Salzburg. Nestled between the sparkling Hallstätter See and the surrounding Salzkammergut mountains, its scenery is nothing short of breathtaking.
With a population of just around 800 people, Hallstatt may be tiny, but it’s packed with history — part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the world’s oldest salt mine. Quite impressive for such a small village!
Over the years, Hallstatt has become a hugely popular travel destination — so much so that China even built a full-scale replica of the village! Today, it attracts around 1 million visitors every year, and it’s easy to see why.
How to Get from Salzburg to Hallstatt: Tips for First-Time Visitors
By Car: Salzburg to Hallstatt
Driving from Salzburg to Hallstatt takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a perfect day trip or start to a longer Austrian adventure. The route is straightforward and scenic, passing through the beautiful Upper Austrian countryside.
By Train: Salzburg to Hallstatt
The train journey takes 2 to 2.5 hours, usually with a change in Attnang-Puchheim or Bad Ischl. If you book your train ticket in advance, you can pay as little as £9 for a single adult.
From Hallstatt Bahnhof, you’ll need to take a short ferry across Hallstätter See to reach the village.
By Group Tour: Salzburg to Hallstatt
If you’d rather skip the stress of booking trains, ferries, or figuring out what to do, a group tour from Salzburg to Hallstatt is a fantastic option.
If you’re coming from Vienna, you can also book a full-day Hallstatt tour, which combines scenic travel through the Austrian countryside with a guided visit to the village.
Group tours are perfect if you’re short on time or prefer a stress-free way to see Hallstatt, and they often include insider tips from local guides about the best viewpoints, history, and hidden corners of the village. Booking in advance is recommended, especially in the busy summer months, as these tours can tend to sell out.
Parking in Hallstatt: Where to Go and What to Know
If you’re driving to Hallstatt, there are two main car parks to choose from: Parking P1 Hallstatt and Parking P2 Hallstatt.
Both are located at the southern tip of the village, just a short walk from the historic centre. Cars aren’t allowed in the heart of Hallstatt, which is why the car parks are set a little distance away.
Both P1 and P2 are fully automated, so all you need to do is take a ticket when you arrive, park your car, and pay at the machine with cash or card when you leave — it’s that simple! The first 15 minutes are free, an hour costs €4, and two hours are €7, while 3–4 hours come to €9.50. A full-day ticket (13–24 hours) is €16.
✨ Top tip: Make sure to arrive before 9am, especially in peak season, to secure a spot, as the car parks fill up quickly.
9 Incredible Things to Do in Hallstatt You Can’t Miss
Stroll Around Hallstatt Old Town
Wander through the charming streets of Hallstatt’s historic Old Town and soak up the village atmosphere. With no cars allowed, it’s peaceful and perfect for taking photographs, enjoying a leisurely stroll, or discovering local shops and cafés.
At the heart of the Old Town is the Market Square, surrounded by colourful Austrian houses covered with flowers and the Holy Trinity statue in the centre. It’s the perfect spot to sit with an ice cream and relax for a bit.
Wander up to the Catholic Church of Hallstatt
Perched on a small hill in the Old Town, the Catholic Church of Hallstatt features a Mountain Cemetery and the Ossuary Chapel (Bone House), which contains over 1,200 painted skulls — the largest collection of its kind in Europe.
Visiting the church is free, while a small maintenance fee applies for entry to the Ossuary.
Visit the Evangelical Church of Hallstatt
The Evangelical Church, also known as the Hallstatt Lutheran Church, takes centre stage in nearly every iconic Hallstatt photo, thanks to its recognisable tall spire rising above the lake. It sits right on the shores of Hallstätter See, beside the Market Square.
Built in 1785, it’s remarkable that this Protestant church exists in a primarily Catholic region, a result of Emperor Joseph II’s decree. The church’s simple interior contrasts with its grand exterior. It’s definitely worth a visit, especially as it has free entry.
Learn About the History of Hallstatt at the World Heritage Museum
The World Heritage Museum offers a deep dive into Hallstatt’s 7,000-year history as a salt-mining town.
A visit costs around €12 and takes roughly 30–60 minutes. Inside, you’ll find artefacts from ancient burial grounds and learn about the Great Fire of 1750, which shaped the postcard-perfect village you see today. Opening hours vary by season, so it’s worth checking the website in advance.
Relax on Hallstätter See
Hallstatt is situated on Hallstätter See, which only adds to its beauty. This serene lake has plenty of activities you can do:
- Bathing Island – Just a short walk from the village, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and has a playground for kids.
- Lakefront Walk and Swans – Spot the swans introduced by Empress Sisi in the 1860s.
- Dining by the Lake – Numerous lakeside restaurants for lunch, dinner, or drinks.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) – Rent a board or bring your own.
- Boat Rides – Rowing boats, electric boats, or swan pedal boats for a peaceful lake adventure.
✨ Top tip: Rent SUP boards or boats later in the day to catch the sunset over the mountains and Hallstatt village. Plus, since the iconic Hallstatt viewpoint has been boarded up, this is one of the best ways to get a great photo of the village.
Walk the Hallstatt Skywalk
For a breathtaking panoramic view of Hallstatt, Hallstätter See, and the surrounding Salzkammergut mountains, the Skywalk observation platform is unmissable.
This free-floating deck stands 360 meters above the village, offering some of the best photo opportunities in Hallstatt.
You have two options to reach the Skywalk: hike up, which takes about 1 hour, or take the salt mine funicular, which is a quick 5-minute ride. A round-trip adult ticket costs €29.
If you’re planning to visit the salt mines as well, consider the €49 combined ticket. This includes the funicular, a tour of an old grave burial site, and a 90-minute salt mine tour — all in one convenient package.
Delve into the Hallstatt Salt Mine
Hallstatt’s salt-mining history spans an incredible 7,000 years, and the village is home to the world’s oldest salt mine. The 90-minute interactive tour features an underground slide and a salt-lake boat ride, making it a fun experience for all ages.
The Salt Mine is right next to the Skywalk, so you can easily combine the two. You can either hike up (around 1 hour) or take the funicular (5 minutes).
- Salt mine only ticket (hike up): €33 adult
- Salt mine + funicular: €49 adult
Hike to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall
For a more active adventure, hike to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall. The trail starts just outside Parking P2 Hallstatt and takes around 2–2.5 hours (roughly 6 km) on foot.
Along the way, you’ll pass through peaceful woodland paths and scenic alpine landscapes, with plenty of rewarding views before reaching the powerful waterfall cascading down the mountainside.
It’s a great option if you want to escape the crowds and see a quieter, more natural side of Hallstatt.
Explore Dachstein Krippenstein
On my own trip to Hallstatt, I visited Dachstein Krippenstein — and honestly, it was incredible. There’s so much to do, from standing on the 5fingers viewing platform to exploring the Giant Ice Cave and Mammut Cave. Given this, it can take several hours or a whole day to visit.
- 5fingers viewing platform: Juts out over a 400-meter drop, giving dramatic views of Hallstätter See. To reach 5fingers, take the Dachstein Krippenstein Cable Car (Sections 1 & 2).
- Giant Ice Cave: Go on a 50-minute guided tour to see amazing ice formations and learn about their creation. Actually, much more interesting than it might seem!
- Mammut Cave: Take a 50-minute guided tour through 1 km of passageways in a cave system that extends over 70 km.
These are only open from May to early November. There are plenty of ticket options to choose from, including passes that cover the cable car and 5fingers, as well as ones that include the caves.
The Best Restaurants in Hallstatt for Every Taste
- Burgerman The Station (£): A casual fast-food joint serving up satisfying burgers, with a small outdoor seating area. It’s the perfect stop if you’re hungry, short on time, and don’t want to spend a fortune.
- Seecafé Hallstatt (£): Sitting right on the water, this charming café is ideal for a slow breakfast or relaxed lunch. With both indoor and outdoor seating, you can sip your coffee while soaking up those iconic Hallstatt views.
- Muk’s Schmankerl (£): A cosy little spot known for its delicious pizzas and creamy gelato. There are only a few tables inside, so you might have to wait – but it’s absolutely worth it.
- Rudolfsturm (££): Come for the food, stay for the view. This restaurant offers traditional Austrian dishes paired with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Hallstatt. A total must-visit.
- Restaurant am See (££): A beautiful lakeside restaurant serving everything from meat and fish dishes to classic Austrian favourites and pasta. If the weather allows, try to sit on the balcony – it’s right over the water, and the views are simply stunning.
Accommodation in Hallstatt: Best Places to Stay
Budget Accommodation in Hallstatt (£0–£100 per Night)
Accommodation in Hallstatt within this price range is hard to come by — the closest options I found are all at least a couple of miles from the village:
- Perched on the slopes of the Dachstein mountains, Gjaid Alm offers a peaceful escape surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. This charming mountain lodge is ideal for those who want to be immersed in nature, with easy access to hiking trails, cable cars, and panoramic viewpoints. Rooms are cosy and traditional, giving you that authentic Austrian mountain vibe. If you want a tranquil retreat away from the village crowds, this spot is hard to beat.
- Located in the heart of Bad Goisern, just a short drive from Hallstatt, Hostel Bad Goisern is a budget-friendly option for travellers who want convenience without sacrificing comfort. The hostel offers simple yet clean rooms, shared kitchen facilities, and communal spaces perfect for meeting fellow travellers. Its central location means you’re close to local shops, restaurants, and transport links, making it easy to explore Hallstatt and the surrounding Salzkammergut region.
- Nestled in a quiet corner near Hallstatt, Metzgerwirt Vieh Heli combines affordability with charm. This family-run guesthouse features cosy rooms, hearty Austrian breakfasts, and warm, attentive service that’ll make you feel right at home. Its location provides easy access to local attractions, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints, while still offering a peaceful retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Mid-Range Hotels in Hallstatt (£100–£200 per Night)
- Situated right on the edge of Hallstatt’s stunning lake is Apartment am Hallstätter See. The apartment is bright, modern, and fully equipped with a kitchen, making it the ideal self-catering option. Wake up to panoramic lake and mountain views, and it’s only a short walk to the village centre, shops, and cafes. Whether you want a quiet morning by the water or easy access to Hallstatt’s attractions, this apartment combines convenience, comfort, and unbeatable scenery.
- For those who want to be right in the heart of the action, Hallstatt Lakeside Top 4 is perfectly located along the lakefront, just steps from the main streets, restaurants, and ferry services. The apartment is stylish, clean, and comes with a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable living space, and spectacular views of the lake and mountains. It’s an ideal choice for those who want both convenience and the iconic Hallstatt scenery right at their doorstep.
- Appartment Emilia Hallstatt offers a cosy, budget-friendly stay just minutes from Hallstatt’s village centre. Its location allows easy access to the lake, restaurants, shops, and walking trails, making it a practical base for exploring the village and the surrounding area.
Luxury Stays in Hallstatt (£200+ per Night)
- Tucked away in a quiet corner of Hallstatt, Hallstatt Hideaway is perfect for travellers seeking peace without sacrificing convenience. The modern apartments are stylish, bright, and come with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and balconies offering stunning views of the village or surrounding mountains. Just a short stroll brings you to Hallstatt’s lakeside promenade, shops, and restaurants, making it easy to explore the village by day and retreat to tranquillity by night.
- Situated in the heart of the village, Living History is part of the local museum, giving guests an immersive cultural experience alongside modern comforts. The apartment is well-appointed, with a kitchen, spacious living areas, and cosy bedrooms. Its unbeatable central location means you’re just steps from the lake, cafés, and main attractions.
- I da Mitt offers a sleek, contemporary stay right in Hallstatt’s charming centre. With modern design, fully equipped kitchens, and stylish living spaces, it’s perfect for couples or small groups wanting comfort and convenience. The location is unbeatable – just minutes from the lake, restaurants, and main sights – so you can explore Hallstatt on foot.
How Many Days to Spend in Hallstatt for the Perfect Trip
You can technically see Hallstatt in just one day – the village is tiny, so it doesn’t take long to wander around. However, if you want to explore attractions further afield, like the Salt Mines or Dachstein Krippenstein, you’ll need to choose one, as both take a couple of hours to visit and would be too much to do in one day.
Hallstatt also becomes incredibly busy, especially during peak seasons – and that’s exactly why staying overnight makes it even more special.
Once the day-trippers leave and the streets quieten down, Hallstatt feels completely different: calmer, more magical, and far more enjoyable. I’d recommend staying for 1–2 nights so you can experience it at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Best Time to Visit Hallstatt: Seasonal Guide and Tips
Hallstatt is beautiful in every season, but it’s worth noting that during the winter months, the funicular and salt mines are closed. The best times to visit are March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are lighter.
If you’re visiting during the summer, be prepared – it gets extremely busy. Try to arrive as early as possible, especially if you’re driving and need to find parking. An early start also means you can explore most of the village before the crowds roll in, making your experience far more enjoyable.
Is Hallstatt Worth Visiting? What You Need to Know
Absolutely – Hallstatt is worth a visit, even if you only have a single day to explore. This tiny village is picture-perfect, with its lakeside location, historic streets, and stunning alpine backdrop making it truly unforgettable.
To make the most of your visit, try to arrive early to beat the crowds and plan your day so you can see the key attractions without feeling rushed. And don’t forget to leave a little time just to relax – wander the streets, sit by the lake, and soak in the breathtaking views.
Hallstatt isn’t just about ticking sights off a list; it’s about experiencing the calm, magic, and charm of one of Austria’s most iconic villages.
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