10 BEST Things to Do in Hallstatt: My Honest Guide After Visiting in 2025

Hallstatt is one of those places that actually looks like the photos, probably better if I’m being honest. It’s a gorgeous little village squished between the lake and the mountains, with the cutest little pastel houses that truly make you feel like you’re in a storybook. It’s tiny, it’s charming, and it’s the kind of spot where you’ll find yourself pulling out your phone for a picture every five seconds.

When Oliver and I went, I swear we couldn’t walk ten steps without stopping to just stare at how pretty it all was. But it’s really not the biggest place, so you only need a couple of hours to walk around and hit all the highlights. 

After visiting I decided to put together this list of the best things to do in Hallstatt to make the most out of your day in this little dream of a village and not waste a second.

Things To Do in Hallstatt in One Day – My Experience

While I was living in Salzburg, Oliver and I decided to do a day trip to Hallstatt, and it was such a dream. We left early in the morning and arrived before the crowds, and we immediately headed to the famous photo spot of the lake with the chapel and town in the background to get a picture before the tour buses rolled in. I always like to get the shot I want first so I can just relax and enjoy the rest of the destination.

Once that was out of the way, we wandered through the village, visited the bone house, took an electric boat out onto the lake, and stopped for the most delicious chocolate pastry. After ticking off the highlights in town, we headed up the funicular to the salt mines for even more incredible views. All in all, we only needed 2–3 hours to see the town itself, which was perfect. If you add the salt mine tour, it’ll stretch into more of a half-day adventure.

So if you’re planning your own trip, here’s a list of the best things to do when visiting Hallstatt to help you make the most of it.

10 Best Things to Do in Hallstatt Austria

Hallstatt might be small, but there’s plenty to keep you busy for a day trip in Hallstatt or even a longer stay. From dreamy photo spots to lake adventures and a peek into the world’s oldest salt mine, here are the absolute best things to do while you’re there.

1. Hallstatts Famous Photo Spot

Google Map Location: Panoramic View Point

If you’ve seen a picture of Hallstatt before, it was probably taken right here. It’s that iconic view with the lake, the mountains, and the little chapel steeple popping up above the rooftops and it’s a Hallstatt must see.

Oliver and I went straight here first thing in the morning before the crowds arrived, and it was so worth it. By the time the tour buses rolled in, the spot was jammed, but we already had our photos and could just wander around stress-free.

2. Visit the Hallstatt Ossuary (The Bone House)

Google Maps Location: The Bone House

Hallstatt Ossuary, or also called the Charnel House, was honestly one of the most unique things I saw in Austria. You do have to pay a small entry fee (make sure you’ve got some cash on you), but it’s worth popping in.

The walls are stacked with painted skulls, which sounds kind of eerie, but it actually reminded me of the ofrendas during Día de los Muertos in Mexico, more of a tribute than something scary. We didn’t spend too long here, but it’s such an interesting little stop that feels very Hallstatt.

3. Rent an Electric Boat on Lake Hallstatt

If you only do one thing in Hallstatt, make it this. In the afternoon, the wait to snag a boat can be over an hour, but Oliver and I lucked out and were one of the first in line. 

Once we motored out onto the lake, we got the most insane view of the whole UNESCO World Heritage Site, the pastel houses, the mountains, the church spire, all of it from a totally different angle. 

It was quiet, peaceful, and honestly kind of romantic. Easily one of our favorite things to do in Hallstatt in summer.

4. Take the Funicular Up to the Skywalk

Operating Hours: 9am – 6pm
Roundtrip Price: € 24
Website
Google Maps Location: Cable Car

After we’d wandered through town and checked off everything we wanted to see before the tour buses rolled in, Oliver and I headed up the mountain. The funicular (aka cable car) is the only way up, and you’ll need it for both the Skywalk and the salt mines. Honestly, the ride itself is half the fun; it climbs 360 meters above Hallstatt, and the views get more dramatic with every second.

We lucked out with a clear day, so standing out on the viewing platform with the lake and mountains of the Salzkammergut region spread out below was worth every bit of the 22 euro round-trip ticket. If it’s cloudy, though, I’d hold off as long as you can as the view completely disappears, and you definitely don’t want to pay for a ride into the fog.

5. Take a Tour of the Salt Mines 

Operating Hours: 9:30am – 4pm
Roundtrip Price: € 43 (includes Funicular & Salt Tour)
Website
Google Maps Location: Cable Car

Oliver and I actually skipped the salt mine tour because we were being budget-conscious and didn’t want to spend another 20 euros each. Looking back, that was definitely a mistake, these are the oldest salt mines in the world, and it’s one of the most unique things you can do in Hallstatt.

The tour takes you deep into the tunnels, where you learn about Hallstatt’s 7,000-year history of salt mining. There are also at least 2 different slides for you to race down, making this an awesome thing to do in Hallstatt for kids! 

If you have the time and budget, I’d say don’t skip it like we did; it’s one of those “only in Hallstatt” experiences.

6. Wander Through the Old Town

Getting lost in Hallstatt is a bit dramatic because the village is tiny, but just wandering around was one of my favorite parts of the day. Oliver and I strolled through the little lanes, stopped in the main square for a coffee and pastry right out of the oven, and just soaked it all in.

Every house is covered in flowers spilling out of window boxes, and honestly, it felt like we were walking through a real-life postcard.

7. Visit The Hallstatt World Heritage Museum

Operating Hours: 10am – 6pm
Price: € 10
Google Maps Location: Hallstatt Museum

I was honestly shocked at how much history there is packed into such a tiny village. The museum is full of artifacts and stories that cover more than 7,000 years of Hallstatt’s past. When Oliver and I went, we were the only ones there, and I don’t think it ever really gets busy. To be honest, it wasn’t my favorite activity, but it did give me a new perspective on the village.

If you’re short on time or visiting on a day trip from Salzburg, this might be one to skip unless you’re really into history.

8. Chill in the Market Square

Market Square is the heart of Hallstatt, and no matter the season, it feels like the place where everything comes together. In winter, it becomes extra special.

Every year on December 8, the famous Christmas market pops up here, and it only happens on this one day. I’ve never been for it myself, but honestly, I can only imagine how magical it must feel with locals filling the square, twinkling lights, and that certain winter sparkle in the air.

When I visited Hallstatt in summer, it was more low-key but still full of life. It’s a spot where locals gather, and there are little cafés where you can grab a drink or a snack while soaking in the colorful houses that surround the square. It’s one of those places where you just want to linger a little longer.

9. Walk Along the Hallstatt Lake Promenade

Walking along the lake promenade was one of my favorite slower moments in Hallstatt. The path winds right along the water with swans gliding past and the mountains reflecting off the lake like glass. It’s the kind of place where you don’t really need a plan, just stroll, breathe in the fresh air, and take it all in.

Oliver and I followed the promenade all the way to the other side of the village, where you’ll find Badestrand Hallstatt, the little swimming area. I didn’t see anyone actually swimming (the water looked freezing), but this side definitely had fewer tourists. If you want a peaceful walk with big views and less crowding, this is it.

10. Go Hiking Around Hallstatt

If you’re staying one night or have more than a few hours, hiking is a great way to see Hallstatt beyond the tourist sites. Oliver and I didn’t have time (and honestly, I was in a dress), but the trails here looked amazing.

One of the easiest is the Panorama Trail, about a 45-minute walk with sweeping views of the lake and Dachstein mountains. There’s also the World Heritage Circular Trail, a 2.5-hour loop with forest paths, viewpoints, and info boards along the way.

I was shocked to see how many routes start right from Hallstatt Old Town. You can see all the options here on the official Hallstatt hiking page.

FAQ: What to do in Hallstatt

Things to do in Hallstatt in winter?

Honestly, I think winter in Hallstatt is even more magical than summer. The lake freezes over at the edges, the mountains are dusted in snow, and the whole town looks straight out of a snow globe. You can still do most of the same activities, but winter adds a few bonuses, like the one-day-only Christmas Market on December 8, or skiing at Dachstein Krippenstein, one of Austria’s most beautiful resorts. Just bundle up, it gets cold.

Is Hallstatt worth visiting?

Yes, but it really depends on what you’re after. It’s stunning, but also very busy and not the cheapest place in Austria. I put together a full guide breaking down the pros and cons so you can decide if it’s worth it for you: Is Hallstatt Worth Visiting?

When is the best time to visit Hallstatt?

It totally depends on your vibe. Summer gives you longer days, swimming, and boat rides. Winter turns it into a snowy fairytale. Spring and fall are quieter and cheaper, with fewer tourists around. Personally, I’d pick late spring or early fall to balance good weather and smaller crowds.

How to get to Hallstatt Austria?

The easiest way is from Salzburg, it’s just under 1 1/2 hours by car and 2 1/2 by bus and train, or you can book a guided day tour so you don’t have to worry about logistics. From Vienna, it’s more of a trek (about 3.5–4 hours by train), so most people either overnight or also join a day tour.

How many days do you need in Hallstatt?

A half day is enough to see the highlights, especially if you’re doing it as a side trip. If you stay overnight, though, you’ll get the bonus of seeing the village quiet down after the day-trippers leave, which feels way more special.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Hallstatt

Personally, I think Hallstatt is less about rushing through a list of sights and more about slowing down and soaking up the magic. Yes, there are plenty of things to do, but the real beauty is just wandering, sitting by the lake, and letting yourself enjoy one of the most beautiful little corners of Europe.

If you’re planning a whole Austria trip itinerary, I also wrote a full travel guide on things to do in Salzburg. Since most people visit Hallstatt as a day trip from there, it’s the perfect next stop on your itinerary.

Check Out My Other Salzburg Guides

Where to Stay in Salzburg Austria: My Top Hotels and Areas

Is Salzburg Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Best Time to Visit Salzburg: My Weather Guide to Salzburg Austria

2 Days in Salzburg Itinerary: How I Spent 48 Hours in Salzburg

Restaurants in Salzburg: My Top Places to Eat in Salzburg

Cafes in Salzburg: My Favorite Coffee Spots

How to Get from Vienna to Salzburg: My Personal Travel Tips

How Many Days in Salzburg: My Tips for Your Next Salzburg Trip

Is Hallstatt Worth Visiting? My Honest Review

Salzburg to Hallstatt Day Trip: 3 Ways to Visiting Hallstatt

Things to Do in Salzburg: My Top Activities in Salzburg

Things to Do in Hallstatt Austria: My Top Activities in Hallstatt

Where to Stay in Hallstatt: The Areas & Hotels in Hallstatt