FUN FACT – Hallstatt is home to less than 800 residents but has a footprint of nearly 1 million visitors every year

How to get there?

Travelling by Train

We caught an early morning train from Vienna Main station to Hallstatt Bahnhof. We always check train timetable in advance on OBB or Google Maps to get a better idea. Train journey was around 3.5 to 4 hours but views along the way were incredible which we enjoyed while having our morning coffee. Once we reached Hallstatt Bahnhof, there was a short ferry which took us to the main town. Ferry departs every 30 minutes and costs about 7 Euros. Don’t forget to carry cash as they accept only cash payments. We also checked ferry departure timetable in advance to plan our return in the evening.

Things to do?

Roaming around the town

We started by taking a stroll alongside the lake soaking in the beauty of sun kissed lake followed by small quaint nestled houses with backdrop of majestic mountains. Walking down the streets we reached the market square which is filled with restaurants, cafes and shops.

Intagrammable photo point with full landscape

Then we headed towards the Hallstatt Viewpoint which is the famous Instagram photo point to take some postcard worthy pictures. This lovely panorama captures the essence of this gorgeous alpine old town no matter what the season is.

St. Michael’s Chapel

On our way ahead, we climbed up the hill to visit St. Michael’s Chapel and a cemetery behind it having lot of painted skulls. From the top of the hill, we could see the entire village with breathtaking view of the emerald Hallstatt Lake.

Lunch

We took a break for lunch as we spotted some good restaurants just beside the lake. There are lot of options to choose from to grab a quick bite before we continue. After lunch we also did some souvenir shopping from the local stalls.

Salt Mine and Skywalk

Our next stop was Hallstatt salt mine which is the oldest salt mine dating back 7000 years. We purchased ticket to salt mine which was 40 Euros and it also includes funicular which takes you to the top. Please check Salzwelten Halstatt and Skywalk: Opening Times & Prices for details about opening hours and prices. We went up by the funicular and just 2 mins away from there was the magnificent skywalk viewing platform. We took our time to soak up the incredible 180 degree views of the Hallstatt lake surrounded by Alps. After that it was time to head to the salt mine museum. We took the tour around and learned about the history of salt production over the years which was fascinating to know. Overall, the tour was great because it also includes fun activities, slides along the way while getting to know depths of history.

Return journey back to Vienna

In the evening, we headed back home to Vienna after a fun filled day in Hallstatt. We managed to have a great time and left with a hope of coming back soon again as there are lot of activities still left to do.

More activities to explore

Dachstein 5 fingers: 5fingers viewing platform is an observation deck spread out like shape of a hand, which provides an adrenaline rush and spectacular views overlooking the Alps. A cable car takes us to the top from where 5 Fingers point is a 20 minutes walk. Please check tickets and details here Panorama ticket Dachstein Krippenstein

Visit Hallstatt waterfall: For all the adventure lovers, you can hike up to this small waterfall which passes through the Hallstatt village. You must climb up the stairs and then make your way to the waterfall which will also provide panoramic stunning views of the town. The climb will be worth the breathtaking views!

If you are already in Vienna or visiting Vienna and looking for places to visit nearby, Hallstatt is a great option.

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