Hallstatt feels like it’s been lifted straight out of a fairytale: rugged mountains mirror in the deep blue lake, while pastel-colored houses cling to steep slopes. It’s a postcard-perfect idyll, so stunning it was even recreated in China. Here, history comes alive, spanning millennia — from the world’s oldest salt mine and painted skulls in the ossuary to the small marketplace, glowing enchantingly under the lantern lights. Amid sweet alleyways, breathtaking views from the Skywalk, and the serene, unspoiled nature, you’ll find a piece of Austria that nestles into your heart and never lets go.
Top Highlights of Hallstatt
The world’s oldest salt mine
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Salzwelten Hallstatt
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
Some places are older than you can imagine. Perched high above Lake Hallstatt, the cool, dark tunnels of the world’s oldest salt mine transport you back more than 7,000 years. Here, prehistoric miners used rudimentary tools to extract the "white gold" that brought prosperity to Hallstatt during the early Iron Age. This fascinating excursion appeals to visitors of all ages. It’s no surprise that the salt mine is one of the most popular attractions in Upper Austria.
A Juwel of the Salzkammergut
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Hallstätter See
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
Nestled between the towering peaks of the Dachstein massif and the idyllic landscape of the Salzkammergut lies Hallstätter See, a place of extraordinary significance. Salt has been mined here since the Neolithic era, earning the region worldwide fame as the cradle of the Hallstatt Culture of the Early Iron Age. Today, the lake, part of the Hallstatt–Dachstein/Salzkammergut cultural landscape, is a popular tourist destination.
A World Heritage Site Like No Other
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Hallstatt Old Town
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
Nestled between the shimmering Hallstätter See and the steep cliffs of the Dachstein Massif lies Hallstatt, a small town of extraordinary significance. For over 7,000 years, salt has been mined here, earning Hallstatt the title of the world's oldest salt mine. The prehistoric Hallstatt Culture of the Early Iron Age even takes its name from this town. Today, Hallstatt attracts thousands of visitors from around the world with its historic houses, the market square, and the Skywalk observation platform, while the Bone House in the Michael's Chapel—featuring over 1,200 skulls (many beautifully painted)—offers a glimpse into ancient burial customs.
Enjoy the magnificent panoramic view
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Hallstatt Skywalk - Panoramic Viewpoint
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
High above the picturesque Hallstatt stands the Skywalk, a 12-meter-long viewing platform extending over the abyss, offering one of the best panoramic views in the Salzkammergut. Perched 360 meters above the UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides stunning vistas of the Hallstätter See and the majestic mountain landscape.
Hallstatt Museum
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
In the second oldest museum in Upper Austria, you can embark on a fascinating journey through 7,000 years of salt mining history and the culture of Hallstatt. Founded in 1844 and housed in a protected former parish office, the museum showcases archaeological finds from the world's oldest salt mine.
Christuskirche
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
The Protestant Christuskirche in Hallstatt has been overlooking the picturesque town in Salzburg since 1863 and can accommodate 550 visitors. Built according to the plans of Munich architect Ludwig Lange, this sacred building replaced the original prayer house from 1785 and marks an important era in the history of Protestantism in Austria.
Catholic parish church Hallstatt
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
High above the picturesque Hallstatt stands the Catholic Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary, also known as "Maria am Berg," with a history dating back to the 12th century. The late Gothic church, completed in 1505, impresses with its grand southern portal from 1519 featuring two frescoes from the Danube School, as well as its distinctive Baroque tower, which took on its current form after a fire in 1750.
Hallstätter waterfall
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
Eissee
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
In the Dachstein Alps of Upper Austria, at an altitude of 1,909 meters, you will find the Eissee, a fascinating glacier lake with no surface inflows or outflows. It was formed as a witness to glacial melting due to the retreat of the Hallstätter Glacier, which extended down to 1,800 meters until the mid-19th century.
Dachstein Chapel
Hallstatt, Upper Austria, Austria
At an altitude of 2,206 meters, the Dachsteinkapelle awaits you - the highest church in the northern limestone Alps, located near the Simonyhütte in the municipality of Hallstatt. Built in 1913 under the direction of construction manager Matthäus Schlager using local Dachstein limestone, the chapel was initiated by Father Franz Stadler and Bishop Rudolf Hittmair.
Location
Best Activities
The Highlights
A visit to Michael’s Chapel and its quirky ossuary is also worthwhile — here, painted skulls tell the stories of traditions from centuries past. And, of course, you can’t miss the market square:
Take a Boat Trip
Travel Info
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit are May through September.
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures between 10°C and 20°C
- Pros: Fewer tourists compared to summer; ideal for hiking and sightseeing
- Note: May is the rainiest month
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Warm temperatures up to 25°C; longest days of the year
- Pros: Perfect for outdoor activities like boating and hiking
- Note: Peak tourist season — early bookings are essential
Autumn (September to November)
- Weather: Pleasant temperatures between 10°C and 20°C
- Pros: Calmer, more relaxed atmosphere
- Note: October offers the lowest hotel rates, making it a great time to save money
Winter (December to February)
- Weather: Cold, often below 0°C; snow transforms Hallstatt into a winter wonderland
- Pros: Fewer tourists; skiing opportunities in the surrounding areas
- Note: Some attractions may be closed
Getting There
By Plane
The nearest airports are Salzburg (80 km) and Linz (120 km). From there, you can continue your journey by train or rental car. It takes a bit of planning, but the effort is well worth it.
By Train
By Car
The roads leading to Hallstatt wind through the spectacular scenery of the Salzkammergut region. Whether coming from Salzburg or Vienna, you’ll travel on well-maintained roads before the final stretch through narrow valleys and alongside alpine lakes.
- From Vienna: Take the Westautobahn A1 to the Regau exit, then continue through Gmunden and Bad Ischl to Hallstatt.
- From Salzburg: Follow the B158 toward Bad Ischl, then take the B145 and B166 to Hallstatt.
- Note: Austrian highways require a vignette (toll sticker).
- Important: Parking is limited, and the village center is car-free. No worries, though—shuttle buses conveniently take you from the parking areas to the center.
By Bus
Buses from Salzburg or Bad Ischl bring you almost to Hallstatt’s doorstep. It’s a great option if you want to relax and enjoy the ride.
Tips
- Arrive Early: Hallstatt attracts visitors from around the globe, so it’s worth arriving early—or staying until evening when the day-trippers have left.
- Stay Overnight: From traditional inns to modern boutique hotels, there’s a range of accommodations, but booking ahead is a must!
