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Hallstatt is the dream destination for many world travelers

Beautiful Serenity

If you take the tourists out of Hallstatt it is an incredibly beautiful place.  So peaceful and quiet with birds singing and the soft sound of water somewhere off in the distance.  But, having said that, Hallstatt is a major tourist attraction and you will understand why people from all over the world love to flock here in summer time.  Picture perfect Hallstatt in Austria will take your breath away.

Residents might be torn between the income which the tourist industry brings and the peaceful lives they had before the “great invasion”.  Nevertheless, it is the bustle of tourists that gives this village a happy holiday feeling.

Beautiful and familiar sights

Situated in the Republic of Austria (Republik Osterreich), Hallstatt is a town you have to experience once in your lifetime if you love traveling around the world.  The beautiful mountains and lake with swans give it a very tranquil image.  Undoubtedly the beautiful architecture and decorative woodwork of the different buildings will make you want to take lots of photos.

Another familiar sight on the lake is the traditional Fuhr boats.  In addition travelers rent boats and go on guided kayak and canoe tours. Obviously this is the best opportunity to take in the magnificent views of Hallstatt from the water.  I think this is the most peaceful experience ever and you just have to try this.

Hallstatt by night

What is the best time to visit Hallstatt Austria

April and May would be the best time to visit Hallstatt and to experience the summer of beautiful Austria. 

Interesting facts and Salzwelten

Hallstatt means “The place of salt”.  Considered to be the oldest salt mines in the world, Salzwelten is definitely something you should put on your list of things to do in Hallstatt.  Salt played a vital role in the history of Hallstatt and here you can go on a salt mine tour.  Mysterious mine tunnels, the oldest wooden staircase in Europe as well as a free-floating Skywalk 360 meters above ground will keep you and the family entertained.

An unusual experience in Hallstatt

Although Hallstatt, like many other European countries, have one of the prettiest cemeteries, there is a limited amount of space available.  Therefore old sculls which they dug up, ended up in the ‘Bone Chapel’.  All of the sculls are named and dated with a few pretty painted decorations.  The chapel is open to tourists. Obviously only go if you don’t find this too bizarre to view.

Is Hallstatt worth visiting

Oh yes most definitely it is.  In my opinion Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful places in Austria and should you be lucky enough to experience a day on the lake, you will be spoiled with the beautiful nature and serenity.  There are pretty restaurants and one of the things you have to try is the fish caught in the clean mountain water lake.  Add to this the fact that it is a UNESCO site and was previously the place where royalty came on vacation, I would say it is definitely a must-see.

If you are lucky enough you will be able to see the Salt Miners Band in the town square.  I think this is a fabulous bit of tradition to experience during your visit.

Should you overnight in Hallstatt

Hallstatt is big enough to keep you busy for an afternoon or maybe a day trip.  You might want to overnight in Salzburg or just across the lake in beautiful Obertraun.  However there is a beautiful hotel should you wish to overnight and experience a fresh new morning in beautiful Hallstatt.

More things to do in Hallstatt

  • Attend a village tour of the historical sites along the picturesque lanes.
  • The town has many small shops which sell local produce like the salt that is mined here.
  • Go on a guided hike to the amazing Echerntal Valley and see the Waldbachstrub waterfall.
  • Market days are once a week and here you will find fresh local treasures.
  • Enjoy a unique panoramic view of Hallstatt! The new viewing platform (Hallstatt Skywalk Welterbeblick Viewpoint) extends 12 metres from the mountainside and 360 meters above the ground.

Christmas in Picture Perfect Hallstatt in Austria

Music, arts and crafts, home baked cookies, mulled wine and a beautiful Christmas nativity scene with Christmas tree awaits you at Hallstatt over December.  It is a true winter wonderland with a Christmas market.  Bratwurst sausages and Christmas punch is part of the traditional Hallstatt celebrations here at the Hallstatt Lake.

Book your ticket.  You will not be disappointed by the beauty of this village in Austria.

Multi-day Tours, Including Hallstatt and Salzburg

Guided Tours to Hallstatt and Salzburg

The world is waiting... Discover the pearls of Austria. Celebrate New Year's in Salzburg. Explore the Adriatic coast. All of these, and plenty more!

If you’re looking for a nice place to stay near Hallstatt, keep Obertraun in mind.

Visit Hallstatt Is it worth a visit Why you should go Where to stay Things to do

Things to do

Other beautiful places to visit:  Read our article on the most beautiful villages in France.