Exploring Hallstatt, Austria: Quick Tips, Hidden Gems & Must See Spots
Hallstatt, Austria is a popular tourist destination with a very famous Instagram spot. There is no question whether you should stop in Hallstatt while you are in Austria, it's a must! But before you go, I want to make sure you have all the info for the best visit.
Although the picturesque scenery is what often brings tourists to this town, it should not be forgotten that an entire historic age was named after this area due to its very rich history. (800-450BC) So, let's get into it!
See below logistics tips, my top spots to see, some hidden gems and a brief history along the way.
LOGISTICS
How to get there:
There are two ways to get to this small town, however I suggest taking the train into Hallstatt. Not only is the train journey beautiful, but when you choose to arrive by train you get to take the ferry across the lake and that view is unbeatable. Depending on where you are coming from the train will cost you anywhere from $6- $40 (USD) one way.
Est Prices from nearby Cities: (prices may vary)
Salzburg Hbf - Hallstatt: $15
Bad Ischl Bahnhof - Hallstatt: $6
Vienna Central - Hallstatt: $40
Upon arriving by train, head down to the water for the next ferry. This ferry will be around $3.50 (USD) for a one way. I suggest purchasing a round trip ticket since you are coming back to the train anyway- be sure to bring cash.
The other option is to travel by bus into Hallstatt, note that if you have a rental car you will not be able to drive into the city. Only permitted cars can enter into the city - this is to keep traffic and chaos down on the small streets of Hallstatt.
How long should I plan for a visit to Hallstatt?
Prepare to spend at least 4 hours in Hallstatt, if not more. this does not include travel time. If you choose to go on the full tour of the salt mine, which I would suggest, that will take you about 2 hours total so 4 hours will give you enough time to see the rest of the gems through the town as well.
When is the best time to Visit Hallstatt?
Hallstatt is a great spot to visit year round, however, depending on your interest in “the picture” you may want to plan for a snowy day for the winter wonder land feel or a summer day when the green really pops. Apart from that, you will just have to assess your interest. I chose to go in the off season, early spring, so there were barely any people there. Spring had not quite “sprung” yet but I still had a wonderful time.
TOP 5 SPOTS to see in Hallstatt
1. Salzwelten - Salt Mine
The world’s oldest salt mine, 7000 years of history, an entire age of human history named & the oldest staircase in the world… I would say this is definitely a place you have to visit. This excursion will take you about 2 hours if you take your time, which you should. You can reach the base of the Funicular Lift from right in town. It will cost you about $36 for the trip up, and the tour. It is totally worth the views at the top and the tour in the mine.
2. Catholic Church
Nestled into the side of the mountain, this church is a site to see. And if you can believe it, the inside is even more spectacular. This Gothic style church was completed in 1505 with the original altar still in place built by craftsman Leonard Astl. The Presbyterian Church is often mistaken as the popular one because of its large steeple but don't be fooled! Make sure to go to the Catholic Church.
3. Hallstatt Charnel House
The Charnel house or Bone house in St. Michaels Chapel is one of the most interesting sites in Hallstatt. In this Chappel dating back to the 12th century, you will find over 600 artistically painted Skulls. In Austria, they don't embalm bodies when they are put into graves so the bodies almost entirely discingrate besides the skull and the femur. When an existing grave was reused for a new burial the skull/bones were transferred from the grave into the charnel house. The identity of the deceased family member was preserved by decorative painting and inscriptions known as skull painting. Cool right? Worth the Visit to see for yourself!
4. World Famous Post- Card View
Not much to say here besides, You can’t visit Hallstatt without getting a picture at this spot. Easy Directions… If you are facing the city, walk to your right and you will come upon a green railing protecting you from the edge of the cliff. Stop anywhere along here for your idyllic view of Hallstatt.
5. City Square/ Doner Kebab Lunch
When you get off the ferry you will see a brown hut with some food options. Depending on when you arrive and when you are hungry for lunch this would be my suggested spot. Grab a Doner Kebab and take it to the City Square to eat. (I prefer the wrap to the bread) In the square you will see a yellow building which is a bakery that actually burnt down that whole surrounding area in 1750. So all of those buildings you see in that area are relatively new. (Still pretty old if you are from the US and your oldest buildings are from the 1800’s haha)
5 HIDDEN GEMS you dont want to miss
Along the way, don’t miss these 5 hidden gems in the city.
1. Resting platform for the women of the salt mine
This may be a hard find, since I don’t have very good directions for you, but once you find it, its pretty neat. Women way way back used to take at least 2 trips a day up to the salt mine and carry up to 80ibs of salt down the mountain. At this spot you will see a platform that was a resting spot for the ladies of Hallstatt during this painstaking Journey. YEAH WOMEN. If you find it - send me a picture.
2. Covered Staircase
After exiting the church and heading down towards Main Street take the route via the covered staircase. This was built as a covered walkway for the town folks to get to church in all weather. Over the years, It is said to have become a repentance walk as well, since its pretty steep it is a good journey to sweat out your sins on the way up to church. Also note: The doors you see on this staircase are apartments. Best not to disturb them.
3. Old Main Street
If I’ve got my directions right, you should come out on old Mainstreet. This is a small street maybe 2 horses wide, but hey that’s all you needed back in the day. Somewhere along this walk on the right you may be able to see one of the old wooden pipes that used to run for 30km out of the salt mine. These were so well preserved by the salt that they lasted for 100s of years and technically they could still be used today.
4. The cat ladder at the postcard view
When you are at the Postcard “IG” View be sure to take a look at the house behind you. There is a little cat ladder up to a cat door and it's so cute.
5. Traditional Wooden Boats built by the Wood school Students and craftsmen
Take some time to sit and just watch the lake. Hopefully you will see the swans living their best life as well as a man rowing by on a traditional Wooden boat, these are made locally in Hallstatt at the wood school.
Hallstatt is a beautiful spot, with a rich history. But don’t forget it is also home to about 800 people and it is very special to them so be respectful when visiting. It’s super easy when in a place like this to think it’s just a staged site for tourists. Don’t go into anyone's home, don’t be overly loud or obnoxious, and always remember to throw away your trash in bins.
