HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA – WHERE STUNNING SCENERY AND ENCHANTING ATMOSPHERE GREET YOU

Hallstatt is a small town located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, known for its picturesque setting, rich history, and unique culture. It’s situated on the western shore of Lake Hallstatt, surrounded by the Dachstein Mountains, and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town has a long history dating back to the Iron Age, and archaeological findings have revealed that the area was once a center for salt production, which was a valuable commodity in ancient times. Visitors to Hallstatt can learn about the town’s history at the Hallstatt Museum, which features exhibits on the local mining industry, the Celtic period, and the region’s natural history.
Hallstatt is also known for its beautiful Alpine scenery, which can be explored on foot, by bike, or by boat. The town’s narrow streets and alleys are lined with colorful, traditional Austrian houses and shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Other popular attractions in Hallstatt include the Salt Mine, where visitors can take a tour and learn about the history of salt mining in the area, and the Hallstatt Skywalk, a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the town and lake.
What Makes Hallstatt Special
- Natural beauty: Hallstatt is situated in a stunning natural setting, surrounded by the Dachstein Mountains and overlooking Lake Hallstatt. The town is often considered one of the most beautiful in Austria, with its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and Alpine charm.
- History: Hallstatt has a rich history dating back thousands of years, and the area is known for its salt production, which was a major industry in ancient times. Visitors can learn about the town’s history at the Hallstatt Museum and explore the Salt Mine, where miners have been extracting salt for over 7,000 years.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1997, Hallstatt was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its unique cultural and historical significance. The town is considered a “cultural landscape” that represents a harmonious relationship between humans and the natural environment.
- Authenticity: Hallstatt has managed to maintain its traditional Austrian charm, despite its growing popularity among tourists. Visitors can still see locals going about their daily lives, and the town has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
- Unique attractions: Hallstatt has several unique attractions, such as the Hallstatt Skywalk, which offers panoramic views of the town and lake, and the Beinhaus (Bone House), a small chapel decorated with the bones of Hallstatt’s former residents.
Things to Do
Here are some of the top things to do in Hallstatt, Austria:
- Explore the town: Hallstatt’s charming streets and alleys are lined with colorful, traditional Austrian houses and shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Take a stroll around town and soak up the atmosphere.
- Visit the Hallstatt Museum: Learn about the town’s history at the Hallstatt Museum, which features exhibits on the local mining industry, the Celtic period, and the region’s natural history.
- Take a boat tour: Explore Lake Hallstatt on a boat tour and admire the stunning Alpine scenery from the water.
- Visit the Salt Mine: Take a tour of the Salt Mine and learn about the history of salt mining in the area. You can even slide down a miner’s chute or take a ride on a salt lake ferry.
- Walk the Hallstatt Skywalk: Head up to the Hallstatt Skywalk for panoramic views of the town and lake. The viewing platform is located on the side of a cliff and offers breathtaking views.
- Visit the Beinhaus (Bone House): See the decorated skulls and bones of Hallstatt’s former residents at the Beinhaus, a small chapel located in the local cemetery.
- Hike or bike in the mountains: The Dachstein Mountains offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking, with trails of various difficulty levels.
- Visit nearby towns: Take a day trip to nearby towns such as Bad Ischl or St. Wolfgang and explore more of the Salzkammergut region.
Must See Places
Here are some of the must-see places in Hallstatt, Austria:
- Lake Hallstatt: Hallstatt is situated on the western shore of Lake Hallstatt, which is a breathtakingly beautiful lake surrounded by the Dachstein Mountains. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Hallstatt.
- Hallstatt Museum: The Hallstatt Museum is a great place to learn about the town’s history and culture, including the ancient salt-mining industry and the Celtic period.
- Salt Mine: The Salt Mine is a popular tourist attraction in Hallstatt, where you can learn about the history of salt mining in the area and take a tour of the mine.
- Hallstatt Skywalk: The Hallstatt Skywalk is a viewing platform that offers panoramic views of the town and lake, and is located on the side of a cliff.
- Beinhaus (Bone House): The Beinhaus is a small chapel located in the local cemetery, where the skulls and bones of Hallstatt’s former residents are decorated and on display.
- Parish Church of Hallstatt: The Parish Church of Hallstatt is a beautiful church that dates back to the 12th century, with an impressive Gothic altar and unique frescoes.
- Market Square: Hallstatt’s Market Square is a picturesque spot in the center of town, surrounded by traditional Austrian houses and shops.
- Dachstein Ice Cave: The Dachstein Ice Cave is a fascinating natural wonder located near Hallstatt, where you can see ice formations and underground lakes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Hallstatt, Austria is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with tourists. This is the peak season, and you can expect large crowds, especially on weekends. However, the summer months are also the best time for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and boating on Lake Hallstatt.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you can visit Hallstatt in the shoulder season, which is April to May and September to October. During this time, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and attractions without the crowds. Plus, you may be able to find lower prices on accommodation and activities.
Winter in Hallstatt can be very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and frequent snowfall. However, if you enjoy winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding, the nearby ski resort of Dachstein West offers great opportunities for winter activities.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Hallstatt depends on your preferences and interests. Whether you prefer warm weather, outdoor activities, or want to avoid the crowds, you can find the perfect time to visit Hallstatt that suits your needs.