Top 15 Things to Do in Hallstatt
Hallstatt is one of the most famous Alpine villages.
As someone who lives nearby and visits Hallstatt often, I’ve come to know this charming alpine village well—beyond the picture-perfect postcards and Instagram shots.
Nestled between the dramatic Dachstein mountains and the serene Hallstättersee, Hallstatt is more than just a day-trip destination; it’s a place rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.
While it’s no secret that Hallstatt has struggled with overtourism in recent years, much of this comes from bus tours and day trips that only scratch the surface. That’s why I always recommend spending at least one night here.
Not only will you get to enjoy the peaceful magic of the village in the early morning and evening (when the crowds have gone), but you’ll also have time to explore everything Hallstatt truly has to offer.
This guide shares my Top 15 things to do in Hallstatt—tried and tested over many visits. Whether you’re drawn by history, nature, or a bit of adventure, there’s so much more here than just photo ops.
Discover the magic of Hallstatt.
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What to see and do in Hallstatt
1. Stroll through the village visit the Market Square and walk along the lakeside promenade.
2. Take a photo at the famous Hallstatt photo point, just a short walk from the market square.
3. In summer, take a swim at one of the many beaches that are along the majestic, fjord-like Hallstättersee (Hallsatt Lake).
4. Take a boat trip on Lake Hallstatt from late May to mid-October. The Ship Stefanie takes passengers from the train station to the centre of Hallstatt 365 days per year. Note: No card payment is possible – cash only. Visit the Website HERE for more information.
Or take a boat ride in the traditional Zille, locally known as ‘Fuhren’ (punts). The Zille is a flat-bottom boat that was used to transport salt. Visit the Website HERE for more information.
5. Visit the 14th-century Pfarrkrche (Catholic Church) and its pristine cemetery, which overlooks the village.
6. Marvel at the Bone House (Beinhaus) in the 12th-century St Michael’s chapel.
7. Discover Celtic and ancient Roman ruins under Janu Sports Shop.
8. Visit the Hallstatt Museum to learn about Hallstatt Culture – one of the most important eras of prehistory.
9. Have lunch or dinner in a lakeside restaurant. Enjoy freshly caught lake fish or Austrian specialities with wine and local beers.
10. Take the funicular “Salzbergbahn” up the Salzberg Mountain, Enjoy tea/coffee or lunch at Rudolfsturm (Rudolf’s Tower) restaurant with breathtaking alpine views. Have a spectacular bird’s eye view of Hallstatt from the “Hallstatt Walk” platform that is 360 meters above the rooftops of Hallstatt
11. Visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine – the oldest salt mine in Austria.
12. Visit the Dachstein Krippenstein at Obertraun, and take the gondola up to visit the Dachstein Giant Ice Caves, Mammut Cave, the Five-Finger Lookout, and the World Heritage Spiral. You can also enjoy many hiking opportunities.
13. Go on a hike. There are many hikes to suit all levels. A popular tour with families is the Echern Valley (Echerntal) hike. The 2-3 hour tour starts from the P2 car park. The path is clearly marked and easy and suitable for strollers. Starting at the P2 car park, follow the Echerntalweg to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall, continue to the Glacier Garden (Gletschergarten), and then return via the lovely Malerweg, Brandbachweg and Grabfeldweg to the Kalvarienberg Church (car park P1).
14. Go shopping for traditional Austrian gifts. Find traditional Austria costumes (trachten) – Dirndl and lederhosen or decorative items at Das Dirndl aus Hallstatt. Or buy Hallstatt salt or traditional Hallstatt ceramics at Hallstatt Keramik
15. In winter, go skiing at The Dachstein West Ski resort (free ski bus from Hallstatt) or visit the Christmas market, which traditionally takes place on December 8.
Our Recommendations | Where we Stay in Hallstatt
♥ The first time we visited with our family we stayed at the fabulous Seehotel Grüner Baum, in a suite with a lakeside balcony.
♥ I also like Gasthof Simony, located next door to the Seehotel Grüner Baum. This is the most economical place to stay, lakeside, in the centre of Hallstatt. There are rooms with shared bathroom, but I stay in the Double Room with Balcony, Lake View and private bathroom.
Check out some other recommendations
Romantic Hotels | Family-Friendly Hotels | Guest Houses and Pensions
Hallstatt Guides
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How to get to Hallstatt
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Parking in Hallstatt
Hallstatt Tours
Top Reasons to
Visit Hallstatt
Top 15 Things to Do in Hallstatt
Visiting Dachstein-Krippenstein
Giant Ice Caves & 5Fingers Lookout
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Chief Wanderlust’er and Austria travel expert, I’m on a mission to help you uncover the magic of Austria — from fairytale cities and alpine villages to awe-inspiring landscapes and rich cultural traditions.
As the founder of Austria Wanderlust Travel Planning, the Austria Travel Planning Facebook Group, and director of Wanderlustria eU, I provide trusted tips, local insights, and curated resources to make your Austrian adventure seamless, authentic, and unforgettable.