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Austria's most beautiful lakeside town

Video about Hallstatt

Hallstatt's historical village lines a corner of the lake of the same name. Part of the Hallstatt-Dachstein Salzkammergut UNESCO World Heritage listing, this is a place with some serious history to go along with the outstanding beauty of its surroundings. This small Austrian village has deep roots. It is one of the most beautiful and authentic spots in the country. Due to its salt mines, this settlement dates back to the 8th century BC, and salt remains its most valuable resource. Throughout the ages Hallstatt flourished and grew, but thanks to its position, it was mostly protected from foreign armies and wars.

The first road to the village was made in the 19th century, and until then the only way to reach it was with a boat. Therefore, the village is preserved as it has always been, sitting on the shore of a lake beneath a mountain. Beautiful nature, great views, fresh Alpine air, and a rich history make this a perfect day or two-day stop. Some lakeside R&R is the perfect tonic for busy Vienna and Salzburg. Besides renting a rowboat, the most popular activities in the area are visiting the salt mine and taking the cable car up to the World Heritage Skywalk.

Popular Tour Itineraries Featuring Hallstatt

Spend some time in Hallstatt on a tour that takes in other cities in Austria and neighboring countries. Our vacation packages including Hallstatt and other destinations throughout Austria and Europe hassle-free. We take care of getting you from place to place, accommodation, excursions and activities.

All Around Austria Custom Itinerary

All Around Austria

Vienna, Durnstein, Hallstatt, Salzburg, Kufstein, Innsbruck, Graz, Vie...

from$7,650 pp^*

The UNESCO Highlights of Switzerland, Germany, and Austria Custom Itinerary

The UNESCO Highlights of Switzerland, Germany, and Austria

Geneva, Bern, Interlaken, Lugano, Zurich, Munich, Salzburg, Hallstatt,...

from$11,450 pp^*

* Starting price is per person, based on double occupancy in 3 star accommodation, in the most affordable month an itinerary is offered. Airfare to Europe is not included.

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What I love about Hallstatt

Trip Planner

Hallstatt is a real-life fairytale. However nice it looks from pictures you've seen, the reality is ten times better. I wanted to spend hours just staring at the beautiful lake reflecting the majestic mountains in the background, as well as the charming cobbled streets lined with cute little houses. And so will you.

Where to stay in Hallstatt

As a small village pressed between a mountain and a lake, Hallstatt has little in the way of accommodations. Fortunately, we are well-connected, and can often get rooms in its hotels, including a boutique that has often served as a film set, when not hosting luminaries from empresses to Agatha Christie.

Elegant Boutique Hotel in Hallstatt

Elegant Boutique Hotel

Beautiful hotel with an impressive history dating back to at least 1700.

Traditional Central Hotel in Hallstatt

Traditional Central Hotel

On the market square, offering lake and mountain views.

Charming Lakeside Apartments in Hallstatt

Charming Lakeside Apartments

Elegant and spacious suites offering lake and mountain views.

Things to do in Hallstatt

Bordering a lake, mountains, and an ancient mine, Hallstatt offers plenty of opportunities in every direction. With the help of our local staff and guides, we'll make sure you can make the most of its sublime splendor, whether peering down on the lake from an observation deck or sailing on its waters. To best get to know this 7,000-year old village, we recommend a private walking tour. No stay is complete without visiting the salt mine responsible for the town's prosperity, which can be enjoyed on a fun group tour.

Hallstatt Salt Mine Group Tour

Hallstatt Salt Mine Group Tour

Hallstatt Private Walking Tour

Hallstatt Private Walking Tour

Frequently Asked Questions about travel to Hallstatt

Can I pay by card?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Hallstatt, but we still recommend having 20 EUR/person/day in cash. You can take out Euros from the ATMs in the entrances to banks, or exchange other currencies at exchange offices.

How can I get around Hallstatt?

Hallstatt is so small that all you need to get around are your own two feet. However, this picturesque village looks especially beautiful from the lake, and above. Therefore, we recommend spending at least one night there, to rent a boat and row out into the lake, hike up the neighboring mountains, or ascend to the World Heritage Skywalk via cable car.

When are the local shops and cultural hotspots open?

Museums close on Mondays and holidays, but otherwise generally have long hours. Shops are open from early morning to around 8 PM, but close Sundays (souvenir shops close earlier in the day). Some restaurants close Mondays. Hallstatt's salt mine and funicular close in January, and in winter, the village's history museum is closed Mondays and Tuesdays.

Is Hallstatt safe?

Tiny Hallstatt is especially safe, even for a country like Austria.

How long should I spend in Hallstatt?

Hallstatt is worth adding a night to your trip, from its picturesque lake, mountains, and vistas, to the 7,000-year old salt mine, to say nothing of its local dishes and clean air.