Hallstatt is a small town in Austria that’s known for its picturesque setting and rich history. In 1997 most of the historic, cultural landscape was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s situated in the Salzkammergut region, about 2 hours away from Salzburg. During our trip to Salzburg, we decided to head to Hallstatt to see if the pictures we had seen lived up to the reality (spoiler: they did). We visited on a pleasant summer’s day in September and couldn’t have asked for nicer weather which allowed us to submerge ourselves in the scenery and talk a leisurely walk through the charming town. We had an amazing afternoon in Hallstatt, we just wish we had had longer!
Getting to Hallstatt from Salzburg
The easiest way to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg is by car. The drive takes about 2 hours and is a relatively straightforward and picturesque journey through the Alps. As with any city in Europe, hiring a car is pretty straight forward.
You can also take a bus/coach from Salzburg to Hallstatt, which takes a bit longer but is cheaper than driving. Take the number 150 bus from the main station and don’t forget to check the return schedule in advance if you visiting just for a short time.
Another option is to take a train from Salzburg which usually takes approximately 2 hours and involves 1 change.
If you’re looking for a leisurely trip, you can take a boat ride from Salzburg to Hallstatt. The boat ride takes about three hours, and it’s a great way to see the scenery.
And if you want ease as we did, there is the option to take an organised afternoon in Hallstatt tour. This included return coach transfers, a guide, a couple of stops along the way to experience the scenery and an optional visit to the Hallstatt Skywalk “Welterbeblick” (which we highly recommend – the views are simply stunning).
Hallstatt Highlights
There are a ton of things to see and do, but here are a few of our favourite highlights we managed to cover during our afternoon in Hallstatt:
The Hallstatt Museum
The Hallstatt Museum is a small but mighty museum located in the town. The museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Hallstatt region, and it does a great job of showcasing the rich history of this area. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, from prehistoric artefacts to beautiful paintings and sculptures.
There is also a section on the history of salt mining in Hallstatt, which is a big part of the town’s history. The museum is small but it packs a lot of information into its exhibits, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
The museum is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and admission is just 13 euros for adults.
Hallstatt Old Town
Hallstatt Old Town is a well-preserved example of a typical Central European town. The old town is located on a lakeside promontory and is surrounded by mountains. It is a popular tourist destination for its beauty and history.
The town has a long history, dating back to the Bronze Age. It was first settled by the Celts and later became a Roman town. In the Middle Ages, it was ruled by the Bavarians and the Austrians. The town has been home to many famous people, including the composer Mozart and the writer Goethe.
Today, the town is a popular tourist destination for its beauty and history. Visitors can explore the old town, visit the museums, and take a boat ride on the lake.
Lake Hallstatt
This gorgeous lake is located in the heart of the Austrian Alps and is surrounded by beautiful mountains, forests, and villages. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay, from hiking and biking to swimming and kayaking. And of course, you’ll want to take some time to explore the charming villages that surround the lake.
If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy nature, Lake Hallstatt is the perfect destination. So pack your bags and add this gem to your travel list.
Off The Beaten Path In Hallstatt
If you’re visiting Hallstatt, you’ve probably already seen the picturesque lakeside village with the quaint houses and pretty mountain backdrop. But if you’re looking to get off the beaten path in Hallstatt, you won’t have to look far. And while it may be a bit of a challenge to find these hidden treasures, that’s all part of the fun.
So where should you start your search? Here are a few of our favourite off-the-beaten-path spots in Hallstatt.
Eisriesenwelt Cave
The first place to start is the Eisriesenwelt Cave, located just outside of the town which is definitely worth a visit. This hidden gem is one of the largest ice caves in the world and is only open during the winter months. To get there, you’ll have to take a steep and winding road up the mountain. But the views from the top are definitely worth it.
Hallstatt Bone House
Another stop on your journey should be the Hallstatt Bone House. This may sound like a spooky place, but it’s actually a fascinating museum that houses the skeletal remains of over 600 people. The bones are arranged in a beautiful pattern on the walls and ceiling, and it’s definitely a sight to see.
Hallstatt Cemetery
Another off-the-beaten-path destination to visit in Hallstatt is the Hallstatt Cemetery. This is one of the oldest cemeteries in Europe, and it’s full of history. It is also considered to be among the most important archaeological sites in the world.
Tips For Your Visit
If you’re planning an afternoon in Hallstatt, or longer, here are a few tips to make your visit go smoothly.
First, remember that Hallstatt is a small town, so there aren’t a lot of hotels. If you’re coming in the peak season (June-August), make sure to book your hotel well in advance. More about accommodation is below.
Second, Hallstatt is located in a beautiful but remote valley. There is no public transportation to the town, so you’ll need to either drive or take a taxi from the nearest train station or take a public bus or organised bus tour. More about transport above.
Third, there are a lot of steps in the town, so be prepared for some uphill walking. Wear comfortable shoes and pack a light jacket, even if the weather is warm when you leave your home.
Finally, take some time to explore the town and its surroundings. It is a beautiful town which is extremely picturesque so take your time and submerge yourselves in your surroundings.
Also, if you have time, be sure to take a boat ride on the lake. It is the best way to take in the scenery and get a good feel for the size of the town.
Where To Stay In Hallstatt
If you are planning on longer than an afternoon in Hallstatt there is a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from camping and hostels to hotels and apartments. And if you’re looking for something a little bit special, there is also a selection of luxury accommodation options.
So whatever your budget or needs, we’re sure there is something that’s just right for you.
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