Hallstatt, Austria: A Fairytale Day Trip From Vienna

When planning what-to-see in Austria, the fairytale, picturesque, alpine village of Hallstatt was at the top of my bucket list. The breathtaking photos of the town are found all over Pinterest and Instagram, and for good reason. Hallstatt is just as beautiful as the pictures seem and should absolutely be added to your itinerary. With colorful buildings, blue lakes, mountain views, a waterfall, and flowers everywhere, it is a magical experience to walk through Hallstatt.

An overnight stay will allow you to experience the charm of Hallstatt without the crowds. However, if you’re short on time, a day trip might be the better option for you. I was one of those touristy day-trippers who hopped off a bus and walked around Hallstatt for a few hours. While I normally prefer exploring on my own time, I thoroughly enjoyed my guided tour! A day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt, Austria is a pretty long journey, but very doable and a worthwhile experience.

A Little About Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is located in Austria’s mountainous Salzkammergut region within the district of Gmunden. The town showcases 16th-century alpine houses, charming alleyways, aerial viewing platforms, ancient salt mines, peaceful lakes, hiking, shopping and more. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see day trip destination for many people visiting Salzburg, Vienna, and other major Austrian cities. Hallstatt is famous for Salzwelten, the UNESCO-recognized salt mines, which date to prehistoric times.

How to Get to Hallstatt

There are many scenic ways to get to Hallstatt from Vienna. You can apply these overall guidelines if you’re traveling from another major city, such as Salzburg.

Vienna to Hallstatt by TRAIN

If you’re not driving or taking a tour, the best way to get from Vienna to Hallstatt is via train.

Depending on the season, ticket prices are usually around 40-75€ one-way. The train ride takes 3.5-4.5 hours (including the potential transfers), depending on which route you select. I highly suggest searching & booking train tickets through the Austrian Railways ÖBB website.

Because Hallstatt is nestled within the mountains, the train will drop you off just across the lake on the opposite side. From here, you’ll need to take a scenic ferry to Hallstatt. The ferry departs every 30 minutes and usually timed to coincide with the train. Hallstatt Boat Station is just a few steps from the Hallstatt Train Station. You can purchase the ferry ticket when you arrive (cash only, but only a few euros). If you’re traveling during peak summer season, plan to get in line at least 20 minutes before your return ferry departs.

A day trip via train from Vienna to Hallstatt might be exhausting given the journey length, along with ferry departures and other logistics. Consider staying overnight to break up the train travel. But if you’re short on time and cannot stay overnight, a tour might be your best option…

Vienna to Hallstatt by GUIDED TOUR

There are many tour bus options & routes to Hallstatt. The exact tour I booked is below…

The pro of booking a tour is you sit back and relax as an expert brings you to/from your destination. Of course, the downside is that you are not on your own time (the same could be said for train travel as well). I would have loved a few more hours in Hallstatt, but my visit was just enough to make me fall in love with the city and hope to return! I loved that this tour stopped at other sites, such as the picturesque Schloss Ort, that otherwise I would have missed. The purchase of this tour also included a ticket to the Skywalk Lift.

Vienna to Hallstatt by CAR

Hallstatt from Vienna is a scenic 3.5 hours car ride. You can’t drive into the main village center, so you will have to leave the car in a parking lot right outside the old town. Parking shouldn’t be an issue if you arrive early in the morning, or plan your trip during the off-season. Parking signs that will direct you to the parking lot (P1) as you’re arriving closer to Hallstatt.

Things to See & Do in Hallstatt

Hallstatt, Austria has no shortage of scenery and activities to keep you busy. From a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets to a bird’s-eye-view over the lush mountaintops, there is something for everyone. My personal favorite activity was simply walking around, finding new angles to capture breathtaking photographs. If you’re visiting during the peak summer season and crowds bother you, give yourself plenty of time to wait in lines for activities like the Skywalk and Salt Mines. Or, consider venturing to the lesser-known areas nearby.

Explore the Main City Square

Hallstatt’s main city center, also known as Markplatz, is a must-see. I visited Hallstatt towards the end of August and it just so happened to be rainy/gloomy. The crowds seemed to disappear because of the weather, which created this beautifully empty square! All that to say, don’t let crowds stop you from visiting this part of Hallstatt. It is arguably one of the prettiest places in town to stop for a bite to eat and take in the views.

Visit the Skywalk Lift for Aerial Views

The views from the Skywalk Lift in Hallstatt cannot be missed. On a clear day, you can see for miles into the alps and across the lake. Unfortunately, the gloomy weather on my day in Hallstatt took away the views from the Skywalk Lift. All I saw were clouds…but luckily, the funicular whisks you right up and down the mountain in no time. The World Heritage overlook point is one of the most popular Hallstatt tourist attractions and should be added to your list of must-sees.

Capture the “Hallstatt Postcard View”

Ahhhh, the iconic postcard photo that seems to draw everyone to Hallstatt! This viewpoint is easily accessible and free, which means that you too can capture an unforgettable photo like this. Head past the main city square to THIS Google Maps location (also called the “Classic Village Viewpoint“). You’ll be standing on the side of a quiet road, looking across the lake towards the main little church. It took only 10 minutes to walk here from the city center and I even walked all the way back an hour later when I saw the clouds clearing up even more.

Tour the Salt Mine (Salzwelten)

I would have loved to check out the famous salt mines in Hallstatt. If you plan to visit the Hallstatt Salt Mines, book tickets in advance since you can only visit on a tour. Be sure to dress appropriately by having on sneakers with good grip and layers, as the cave is quite cold. Tours last 70 minutes and start near the Skywalk. Information can be found on their official website.

Peek Into the Churches & Ossuary

Hallstatt has a few charming churches as well as an unusual ossuary, also called Charnel House or the Bone House. In this small cave-like room, about 2000 skulls and other various human bones are perfectly stacked along the walls. The ossuary here is a great testament to the cultural heritage of this community.

Be sure to also stop by the Parish Church in Hallstatt, which dates back to the 12th century, and its cemetery (gorgeous views).

Meander the Fairytale Streets + Waterfront

It’s easy to feel as if you are in a storybook when walking around Hallstatt, Austria. Some of the favorite images came from exploring the adorable side streets. Walk up some of the public stairways for unique vantage points over the village.

While you’re at it, grab a snack and meander along the waterfront. The peaceful swans swimming around the lake add to the magic of Hallstatt.

Enjoy Lake Activities

Renting a swan boat to take onto the lake is quite expensive but provides a lovely view from a unique perspective. Lake Hallstatt Explorer rents out boats from the dock near the Markt Zentrum boat landing. Along with the swan paddle boats, feel free to also rent electric boats, row boats, and paddle boards.

If you’re visiting Hallstatt on a budget, you’ll want to skip this activity. Beautiful views can also be found at no charge along the waterfront sidewalks and outdoor cafe seating.

Is Hallstatt considered “touristy?” Yes, but I find it to be charming. Are there crowds? Yes, but there will always be crowds at jaw-dropping sites like this. If you are seeking a peaceful time, plan to travel in the off-season and start each day bright & early. No matter the time of year, this Hallstatt, Austria is spectacular.

Enjoy your visit!

Traveling to the U.S.? If you love the charm of Hallstatt, Austria, then you should absolutely visit Leavenworth, Washington!