Day Trip to Hallstatt: The town that started becoming popular in 2006 as the shooting location of a Korean Drama named Spring Waltz, is now said to be the most Instagrammable town in the world. It’s not possible for you to have a perfect day unless you are on a day trip to this town- enjoying one perfect day in Hallstatt, the most memorable day of your life!
Hallstatt’s popularity has been primarily focused on its beautiful nature in the past few decades. This incredible tiny town, snuggled between a reservoir and mountains, quickly became a popular tourist attraction and, therefore, a World Heritage Site.
Most tourists to Hallstatt usually spend one day as a separate day trip from Salzburg, Vienna or Munich, which leaves little time to see everything.
You may explore many things to do in Hallstatt with just a little preparation and an early jump through your day. Nevertheless, let’s look forward to some extraordinary places that will be worth your One Perfect Day in Hallstatt, Austria trip.
When you say Hallstatt, I hear perfect. And you will also know how perfect Hallstatt is after you have spent one perfect day in Hallstatt, in other words, the most dreamy day of your life.
Vienna to Hallstatt is a long day trip as it takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours each way by car or train.
Popular Paid Day Trip to Hallstatt
Day trip to hallstatt from vienna
Day trip to hallstatt from salzburg
Hallstatt Travel Guide: 5 Places You Can’t Miss
1. Exploring the Beauty of The Lake Hallstatt
A stroll down Hallstatt’s central lakeshore avenue is gorgeous, soothing, and fresh out of such an Alpine fairy tale. Though this trek from the south to the north through the tranquil city is almost a kilometre long, it will be imprinted in your mind for a long time of your life.
With a maximum depth of 125 metres, Lake Hallstatt is a popular destination for scuba divers. But it doesn’t mean that only the scuba divers get to enjoy the beauty of the lake. You can explore the surroundings on land by renting a bicycle or water by taking a boat ride. The dark green shimmering lake lined by wooded mountains, lush meadows, and a hiking and bicycle path on the lake’s east shore makes it a scenic adventurous destination.
You won’t want the trip to stop, with also during views, thousands of stunning ducks on the edge of the lake, and thousands of years old half-timber buildings densely populated along the lakeshore. Give it your best shot, enjoy everything, as well as fall madly in love with Hallstatt. Even if it is just for one night, you’ll hardly forget hiking throughout Hallstatt.
2. Exploring the Spectacular Cave System Behind The Hallstatt Salt Mine
The salt mine at Hallstatt is primarily considered the world’s oldest, dating back roughly 7,000 years. These salt mines assisted an early-day Hallstatt to develop when there was the Romans. Salt, commonly known as white gold, had been so expensive at the times that it has been named Hallstatt Time initially for an entire segment in the early Medieval Era (800-400 BC).
Archaeologists at the existing mine, which begun in 1719, reportedly discovered some astonishing items, varying from a fully intact salt man recovered in 1734 to marble from 1500 BC and Iron Age equipment. The nicest finding appeared in 1838 when laborers recovered an Ancient tool made of honey locust bringing the salt mine approximately 5,000 BC.
If you ever head to Hallstatt and come back without hanging out in the salt mine, it would be way much unfortunate for you, and I don’t think you can regret more than this.
Address: Salzbergstraße 21, 4830 Hallstatt
Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 am to 4:30 pm but the time may change during winter.
Entry Fee: Adults € 36.00 full list of tickets and reservation
3. Breathtaking Photos From the Skywalk of Hallstatt
The Hallstatt Skywalk is indeed great to visit as it hovers 350 meters above the roofs of Hallstatt. From there, you can get a unique picturesque view of Lake Hallstatt and the impressive mountain scenery.
It requires around 1 and a half hours of hiking to reach that height. Hiking to that point is easy and possible, but you can get on a funicular if you don’t have the energy to hike.
The historical Rudolf’s Tower, known as Rudolfsturm to the local people, offers much more fantastic panoramas. This medieval castle, which was built between 1282 to 1284, could only be accessible using footbridges. It was designed as a defence tower to protect the salt mines from intruders and used as a bar and watchtower. But today Rudolf’s Tower houses a restaurant/cafe (more on that below) which serves local delicacies.
Address: Salzbergstraße 21, 4830 Hallstatt
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am to 4:30 pm but the time may change during winter
Entry Fee: Adults € 25.00 full list of tickets and reservation
4. Exploring Austria’s Historic Hallstatt Museum
The Hallstatt Museum is a must-visit for those wishing to learn about the proud culture of Hallstatt and its surrounding area. From its history as a salt mine, to gaining UNESCO World Heritage Site accreditation, the museum has remarkable exhibitions from the last seven decades. Make sure to plan a visit if you want to learn more about Hallstatt’s fascinating past!
Other museums emphasize succeeding migrants like the Romans. In contrast, the Studio of Epochs demonstrates crafts and objects from Hallstatt’s origin.
Address: Seestraße 56, 4830 Hallstatt
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 am to 6:00 pm but the time may change during winter
Entry Fee: Adults € 10.00 full list of tickets and reservation
5. Journey On “Treppe ins Nichts”: A Magical Adventure
Journey On “Treppe ins Nichts“: A Magical Adventure, On the Dachstein, a true highlight awaits you – 14 narrow steps descend to a dizzyingly high glass platform. Whoever ascends these stairs stands directly in front of the rock face 400m above the wall’s base.
Completed in July 2013, the “Stairway to Nowhere” is directly connected to the suspension bridge. The stairs weigh a total of 5 tonnes.
To enable the construction of the suspension bridge and the “stairs to nowhere,” 58 mm thick steel cables and 63 tonnes of steel and concrete were used, which were transported via snow groomers.
If you brave the “stairs to nowhere,” you will be rewarded with an incredible 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. It has a maximum capacity of 4 people.
Address: Schildlehen 79, 8972 Obertraun (Take a train or bus no.543 to reach there)
Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 am to 6:00 pm but the time may change during winter
Entry Fee: Adults € 45.00 full list of tickets and reservation
Other things to do in Hallstatt.
Explore the Hallstatt Ossuary: The Hallstatt Ossuary is a small chapel that contains over 1,200 skulls that have been painted and decorated with flowers. It is a unique and eerie site that offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history and customs.
Explore the old town of Hallstatt: The old town of Hallstatt is a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and plenty of shops and restaurants. It is a great place to wander around and soak up the local atmosphere.
Hallstatt where to stay.
When you arrive in Hallstatt, you’ll notice that it’s a small village, with almost every hotel within a five- to ten-minute walk of the main town. Where you stay in Hallstatt is less about location and more about expenses, as the area has few budget-friendly accommodations.
Here are some hotels according to their price range:
Heritage Hotel Hallstatt: This hotel is located in the heart of the village and offers stunning views of Lake Hallstatt. It is a historic building that has been beautifully restored and features modern amenities.
Seehotel Gruner Baum: This hotel is located on the shores of Lake Hallstatt and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. It is known for its excellent cuisine and spa facilities.
Pension Sarstein: This family-run guesthouse is located just a short walk from the center of Hallstatt. It offers cozy rooms and a peaceful setting, with views of the mountains and lake.
Gasthof Zauner: This traditional Austrian inn is located in the center of Hallstatt and offers comfortable rooms and delicious local cuisine. It is a great option for travelers looking for a more authentic experience.
Hallstatt Hideaway: This boutique hotel is located just outside the village and offers a secluded and peaceful setting. It features luxurious rooms, a spa, and stunning views of the mountains.
These are just a few of the options available in Hallstatt. Depending on your budget, preferences, and travel plans, there are many other hotels, guesthouses, and apartments to choose from.
How to Plan Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip
Here are some steps to help you plan your Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip:
Determine your transportation method: You can either take a train, a bus or a combination of both. The train is the easiest and quickest option. You can take the train from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station) to Attnang-Puchheim, then change to a train heading to Hallstatt. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Salzburg to Hallstatt.
Check the train/bus schedules: You can check the train/bus schedules on the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) website or Flixbus website. Note that train schedules may vary depending on the season.
Purchase your tickets: You can purchase your train or bus tickets online or at the station. Make sure to buy your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Plan your itinerary: Once you arrive in Hallstatt, you can explore the village, visit the salt mine, take a boat tour, and hike to the nearby viewpoints. Make sure to plan your itinerary ahead of time to make the most of your day trip.
Return to Salzburg: Plan your return trip to Salzburg based on the train/bus schedule. If you are taking the train, make sure to check the connection times.
Overall, Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip is a great way to experience the beauty of the Austrian Alps and enjoy the charm of small Austrian villages.
How to Plan Vienna to Hallstatt day trip
A day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt is possible, but it will be a long day as it takes around 3-4 hours each way by car or train. Here are some steps to follow for a successful day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt:
Decide on the mode of transportation: You can either rent a car or take a train/bus from Vienna to Hallstatt. Taking a train or bus is the easiest option as you won’t have to worry about driving, parking or navigating unfamiliar roads. The train journey takes about 3-4 hours each way, with a change of trains at Attnang-Puchheim station. You can check train schedules and purchase tickets online in advance.
Plan your itinerary: Hallstatt is a small town, but there are several attractions that you may want to visit, such as the Hallstatt Salt Mine, Hallstatt Skywalk, Hallstatt Museum, and the Hallstatt Ossuary. Decide which ones you want to see and plan your time accordingly.
Leave early: To make the most of your day, plan to leave Vienna early in the morning, preferably by 7 am. This will give you enough time to explore Hallstatt and return to Vienna by evening.
Take a boat tour: One of the best ways to see Hallstatt is from the water. Take a boat tour around Lake Hallstatt and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the lake.
Eat local food: Hallstatt has several restaurants and cafes where you can try local Austrian cuisine. Be sure to try the Hallstatt salted fish, which is a local specialty.
Dress appropriately: Hallstatt can be cooler than Vienna, especially if you’re visiting in the fall or winter. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the town and its attractions.
Return to Vienna: Plan to leave Hallstatt by mid-afternoon to ensure that you have enough time to catch your train back to Vienna.
Overall, a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt can be a bit tiring, but it’s definitely worth it if you want to explore the beautiful town and its surroundings.
What to eat in Halstatt
What to eat during a day trip to hallstatt: Being home to numerous fishes like whitefish, pike, trout, eel, char, carp, and Zander, Lake Hallstatt demands tourists to have a fulfilling fish meal at nearby restaurants. From a wide variety of renowned fish speciality dishes like fish soup, smoked fillet or a whole fish meal, you can choose anything to satiate your hunger with the highest quality fish.
The iconic Sacher torte is a must-to-taste dessert when you are in Hallstatt. However, the region is not limited to one single dessert. Apple cakes, plum cakes, cream cakes, apple strudel, and pancakes served with traditional Austrian apricot jam make Hallstatt a place unsuitable for dieting.
Must-Visit Restaurants in Hallstatt
Here are some must-visit restaurants during in a Day Trip to Hallstatt:
Gasthof Zauner – This historic restaurant has been serving up traditional Austrian dishes since 1880. It’s a great place to try local delicacies like schnitzel, dumplings, and strudel.
Seehotel Gruner Baum – This lakeside hotel features a restaurant that offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The menu features a mix of Austrian and international dishes, and there’s also a great selection of wines and beers.
Gasthof Simony – Another traditional Austrian restaurant, Gasthof Simony is known for its cozy, rustic atmosphere and hearty portions. Try the venison stew or the trout fillet.
Cafe Derbl – This charming cafe is the perfect spot to relax with a cup of coffee or tea and a pastry. There’s also a small selection of sandwiches and salads if you’re looking for a light meal.
Rudolfstrum– Standing near the Hallstatt Skywalk, Rudolfstrum offers scenic views of the lake and mountains. You can enjoy the hearty local delicacies along with the picturesque view of Hallstatt.
Restaurant am see– Another restaurant with a lakeside terrace is Restaurant am See, which provides enchanting panoramic views while you eat. The menu consists of some familiar Austrian dishes, freshly caught fish, and a hearty mix of beers and wines.
There are many other restaurants and street food stalls in Hallstatt. But as Hallstatt is a place to enjoy the scenic beauty, you should always have your meal in terrace restaurants to enjoy the best of your trip.
1 day in Hallstatt itinerary
Arrive in Hallstatt: The easiest way to reach Hallstatt is by train from Salzburg or Vienna. You can also drive or take a bus. Once you arrive, take a moment to appreciate the stunning view of the lake and mountains.
Take a boat tour: To fully appreciate the beauty of the town and its surroundings, take a boat tour of Lake Hallstatt. You can choose from a variety of tour options, including a panoramic tour or a tour of the salt mines.
Visit the Salt Mine: Hallstatt is famous for its salt mines, which have been in operation for over 7,000 years. Take a guided tour of the mine to learn about its history and see the impressive underground chambers.
Explore the town: Walk around the charming streets of Hallstatt, which are lined with colorful houses and cafes. Visit the local museum to learn more about the town’s history and culture.
Visit the Hallstatt Skywalk: Take a cable car up to the Hallstatt Skywalk for a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding mountains. The Skywalk also features an observation deck and a glass-bottomed viewing platform.
Have lunch: There are plenty of restaurants in Hallstatt serving traditional Austrian cuisine. Try some local specialties, such as schnitzel or strudel, while enjoying the view of the lake.
Visit the Bone House: The Bone House is a small chapel in the town’s cemetery that is decorated with the bones of over 1,200 people. This unique attraction provides a fascinating insight into the town’s history and traditions.
Relax by the lake: Finish your day trip by relaxing by the lake and taking in the beautiful scenery. You can also go for a swim if the weather permits.
Best Time to Visit Hallstatt
Although Hallstatt is a year-round destination, the best time to plan your one perfect day trip to hallstatt depends on your personal preferences. The town is the most crowded and buzzing with tourists during July/August. It’s the summer season in Hallstatt during these months, and the temperature remains around 25°C.
The town experiences snow during the winter months, November-February. The temperature is most like to drop to 0°C making Hallstatt a perfect tourist destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
During the late spring and autumn months, temperatures remain around 15-19°C, and the town’s scenery is the most alive. So, I think that these months are the best option to plan a day trip to Hallstatt. During these months, you will also feel a lot more comfortable doing some hiking.
Have you ever taken a day trip to Hallstatt? If so, I would love to hear about your experience! This picturesque Austrian village is a popular destination for tourists, and many people choose to visit for just a day. If you’ve already been, please share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments. And if you’re planning a future trip, I hope you have a wonderful time exploring all that Hallstatt has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a day trip to Hallstatt worth it?
Absolutely! Hallstatt is a picturesque village nestled in the Austrian Alps, known for its stunning scenery, charming architecture, and rich history. While it’s possible to see the highlights in a day trip, it’s recommended to stay overnight to fully experience the beauty and tranquility of this magical place.
Can you do a day trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg. The best way to get there is by train and the journey takes about 2.5 hours each way. Once you arrive in Hallstatt, you can explore the picturesque village, take a boat ride on the lake, visit the salt mines, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
How much time needed in Hallstatt?
While Hallstatt is a small town, there is plenty to see and do. To fully experience the town and its surroundings, it is recommended to spend at least a full day there. This will give you enough time to explore the town, take a boat ride on the lake, visit the salt mines, and hike up to the Skywalk for stunning views.
Can you do a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt?
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt. It will require an early start and a long day of travel, but it is definitely doable. The best way to get there is by train and bus, and you can expect the journey to take around 3-4 hours each way.
Is Hallstatt closer to Vienna or Salzburg?
Hallstatt is closer to Salzburg, located about 75 km away, while Vienna is about 300 km away. However, both cities offer easy transportation options for a day trip to Hallstatt, including train and bus options.