A Magical Stay in Hallstatt: Your Ultimate Guide
Nestled between the serene waters of Lake Hallstatt and the majestic Dachstein mountains, Hallstatt is a fairytale town that captures the hearts of all who visit. With its charming pastel-colored houses, cobblestone streets, and rich history dating back thousands of years, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the town’s salt-mining history, take a scenic boat ride across the lake, or simply wander through its picturesque streets, Hallstatt is a must-see destination for anyone exploring Austria. This Hallstatt guide will help you make the most of your visit, from where to stay to the best viewpoints and hidden gems.
Arriving in Hallstatt
The best options for getting to Hallstatt are by driving yourself (which is what we did) or as part of of an organized tour group that is arranging bus transportation. There is no direct train travel available to this location. If you are driving to Hallstatt, the trip will take you just over an hour from Salzburg or three and a half hours from Vienna.
Hallstatt is small, and its narrow streets aren’t designed for heavy traffic. If you’re arriving by car, you’ll need to park in one of the designated lots outside the main village. The most popular and convenient parking is in P1, located just a short walk from the town center. This lot is ideal for visitors staying a night or two. P2 is also located within the town and close to the funicular station but is smaller and fills fast. Just outside of town you’ll find P3 which is ideal if you have a longer stay or if the other lots are full. P3 is also where you want to go if you have a bus or RV. There are shuttles available from these parking areas, and luggage transfer services can be arranged if needed.
Parking costs and services vary between lots – check out Hallstatt’s parking site for latest information. It’s important to note that these lots (especially P1 & P2) can fill up fast, so get there as early as possible. We arrived mid-morning after a stop at the Dachstein area. P1 was full but we told the attendant that we were staying in town that night and they let us wait in line until someone left the lost (which took less than 10 minutes). Once full the lots operate with a one-out, one-in policy. Look for signs to pay your parking fees prior to existing the lot.
Exploring the Old Town and Iconic Viewpoints
Hallstatt’s old town is a photographer’s paradise. Strolling along its cobblestone streets, you’ll pass traditional Austrian houses, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. The central Marktplatz is the heart of the village, where you can relax on a bench or enjoy a coffee while soaking in the views of the surrounding mountains and the sparkling lake. With each twist and turn, the town reveals hidden courtyards, centuries-old buildings, and glimpses of the iconic Hallstatt church spire.
The most famous viewpoint is located on the waterfront, where you can capture that postcard-perfect shot of Hallstatt against the backdrop of the lake and mountains. This location can get crowded as you’ll see groups of tourists searching for their perfect shots. Note that private properties surround this spot so please be mindful of those living here. To get to this viewpoint, make your way through Hallstatt’s old town location and continue on the bend of the lake. If using GPS, search for Aussichtspunkt Hallstatt for navigation.
Visit the Hallstatt Ossuary
While exploring the old town, there is one rather unique location you’ll come across. No visit to Hallstatt is complete without a stop at the Hallstatt Ossuary (Beinhaus). Located in St. Michael’s Chapel, this small yet fascinating site holds over 1,200 skulls, 610 of which are intricately painted. The ossuary became necessary due to the town’s limited burial space, and the tradition of decorating the skulls makes it a unique place of remembrance. It’s both haunting and beautiful, offering insight into the local customs.
Tour the Historic Salt Mine
Visiting the salt mine in Hallstatt is a must for anyone interested in the town’s rich history. The mine, which dates back over 7,000 years, offers a fascinating look into the world of salt mining. To get there, take the funicular up the mountain, where you’ll enjoy stunning views before beginning your underground adventure. The funicular station is located right in town and just a short walk from the main old town village.
Once inside, guided tours take you through a series of tunnels, where you’ll learn about ancient mining techniques and see the famous subterranean salt lake. You’ll also get to ride the miners’ slides and experience an underground salt lake. Tickets for the salt mine include the funicular ride, and it’s best to book them in advance, especially during the busy season. The tour lasts around 90 minutes, and ticket prices vary by season, with discounts available for children and families. Visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine website for more information and to purchase tickets.
World Heritage Skywalk
One of Hallstatt’s top attractions is the World Heritage Skywalk, offering sweeping views of the town and surrounding landscape. This attraction is also accessible by the town’s funicular and you’ll have the opportunity to stop at it if visiting the salt mine. Once at the top, the Skywalk juts out 350 meters above Hallstatt, providing an unforgettable panorama. We’d recommend taking a break at Restaurant Rudolfsturm located at the end of the skywalk to grab a bite of food or drink and take in the views.
The 5 Fingers Overlook & Dachstein Krippenstein
A short drive outside of Hallstatt, the Dachstein area offers breathtaking alpine scenery. Start your adventure by taking the cable car up to the Dachstein Krippenstein, where panoramic views of the surrounding mountains await. From the top station, it’s a moderate 30-minute hike to the famous 5 Fingers Overlook. This dramatic viewpoint extends over the edge of a 400-meter drop, offering sweeping views of Lake Hallstatt and the valleys below. The cable car tickets can be purchased at the base, and it’s wise to check the weather before heading up. On clear days, the views are absolutely stunning, making it one of the most unforgettable experiences in the area. We had a rather cloudy day when visiting, but luckily the views cleared up a few times for us.
If you’re looking for more adventure while visiting Dachstein Krippenstein, check out the caves. The area offers a giant ice cave and a mammoth cave that you can take guided tours on. These tours can be bundled into your ticket to the 5 Fingers Overlook or booked separately. Several hiking options are also available from the cable car stops up the mountain. Make sure to read the ticket options carefully so that you can access to what you’re looking to do based on the package you purchase. Check out the Dachstein Krippenstein site for more information on ticket packages and to plan your trip.
Why Stay Overnight in Hallstatt?
Our #1 Hallstatt guide tip is to stay overnight in the old town location. While Hallstatt is often visited as a day trip, staying a night (or more) allows you to truly immerse yourself in the town’s charm. By evening, the streets empty out, leaving you to explore the quiet town, savor a leisurely dinner, and relax by the lake. In the morning, you’ll have the town practically to yourself, making it the perfect time to visit the more popular sights, like the old town and the viewpoints, without the crowds.
We stayed at I da Mitt, a cozy and highly recommended hotel right in the heart of the town. Waking up to the peaceful lake view and the sound of church bells was magical. The friendly owner has live in town his whole life and took over running the hotel from his family. The small downstairs bar was lively and filled with locals making it a great place to end our day. This area doubled as a morning breakfast spot with a great spread!
Whether you’re hiking to the 5 Fingers overlook, touring the ancient salt mines, or simply wandering the charming streets, Hallstatt offers a serene escape into nature and history. With a little planning and this Hallstatt guide, your stay here can be both relaxing and filled with adventure. Don’t forget to take a moment to simply sit by the lake and soak in the beauty that surrounds you. Check out our International Travel posts for more trip inspiration.