Hallstatt What to Do: 9 Best Things to See

Planning a trip to Hallstatt and wondering what to do? This guide covers 9 must-see places and experiences you’ll love as a first-time visitor – with personal tips and photos!

💙 Why Hallstatt Stole My Heart

The first time I stepped off the ferry in Hallstatt, I felt like I had walked into a postcard. Surrounded by mountains, reflected in the calm lake, this tiny village in the Austrian Alps is simply unforgettable.

But Hallstatt is more than just a pretty view. From salt mines to waterfalls, hikes to hidden chapels – there’s plenty to explore. If you’re visiting for the first time, here are the 9 best things to do in Hallstatt (plus a few insider tips).

🏞 1. Walk the Old Town and Market Square

The heart of Hallstatt is its charming old town. Walk through narrow streets lined with colorful houses and blooming balconies. The market square is lively, with cafes and little shops.

Don’t miss:

• The Hallstatt Museum with its ancient salt mining history
• Photo spot at Gosaumühlstraße – the most iconic view of Hallstatt!

👉 Viewpoints in Hallstatt – full guide

👉 If you want to structure your day more efficiently, take a look at this Hallstatt itinerary for a full plan from morning to evening.

⛰ 2. Take the Funicular to the Skywalk

Ready for a breathtaking view? Hop on the Salzbergbahn funicular. In just a few minutes, you’ll reach the Skywalk, a platform hanging 360 meters above the lake.

It’s a perfect way to see the entire village and beyond. Right next to it, you’ll find Rudolfsturm, a historic tower with a restaurant and terrace.

👉👉 All you need to know about the Hallstatt Skywalk, or how to hike up to the Skywalk on foot – both options offer stunning views!

🧂 3. Visit the Salt Mine – Salzwelten Hallstatt

Hallstatt’s wealth came from salt – and the world’s oldest salt mine is still here. A visit includes a miner’s train, wooden slides, a salt lake, and a light show deep underground.

Fun fact: They found a prehistoric man here, perfectly preserved in salt!

📸 Photo tip: Take a photo in miner gear before entering the tunnel.

🌐 Official site: Salzwelten Hallstatt

🚤 4. Take a Boat Ride on Lake Hallstatt

One of the best ways to admire Hallstatt is from the water. You can rent a pedal boat or a swan boat, or hop on the traditional Ferry Hallstatt–Steeg for a scenic ride.

It’s peaceful and lets you see the whole village with the mountains rising behind it.

👉 Explore boat rides and rentals

📸 Photo tip: Best light is in the afternoon – golden hour is magical!

⛪️ 5. Visit the Church and Bone House (Beinhaus)

Just a few minutes above the square, St. Michael’s Chapel hides something unusual: the Beinhaus. Inside are hundreds of hand-painted skulls, part of a local burial tradition.

It may sound spooky, but it’s a deeply respectful space – and very unique.

📸 Photo tip: Take a picture of the chapel with the lake in the background.

🥾 6. Hike the Echerntal Valley

Need a break from the crowds? Head into the Echerntal Valley, right behind the town. This forested trail leads you through art sculptures, waterfalls, and up to the Glacier Garden.

It’s peaceful, green, and full of surprises.

👉 Read more: Hiking Echerntal Valley

🌊 7. Find the Waldbachstrub Waterfall

At the end of the Echerntal trail lies Waldbachstrub, a roaring 90-meter waterfall. It’s one of the most beautiful natural spots near Hallstatt – and surprisingly quiet.

You’ll need good shoes and about an hour, but it’s worth every step.

📸 Photo tip: Take a photo from the wooden bridge in front of the falls.

👉 Hallstat waterfall hike details

🧘‍♀️ 8. Relax on the Badeinsel (Swimming Island)

Want to cool off or just enjoy the lake? Head to the Badeinsel – a small green island near the Hallstatt parking area. Locals love it for swimming, sunbathing, or just sitting by the water.

It’s free, peaceful, and surrounded by amazing views.

👉 Swimming in Hallstatt – where to go

📸 Photo tip: Swans often hang out nearby – perfect photo!

🍽 9. Savor Traditional Austrian Food and Sweet Treats

After exploring Hallstatt, treat yourself to delicious Austrian cuisine. I highly recommend starting with a visit to Gasthof Zauner for hearty fish dishes or crispy schnitzels with a side of stunning lake views.

But don’t stop there! You’ll find some amazing local treats. Schaumrollen, a delicious pastry filled with whipped cream, is a must-try – and you can grab one at Rührwerk Bakery. If you’re craving a more casual option, head to Maislinger Bakery & Konditorei for fresh pastries and cakes, or stop by Seecafé Hallstatt for coffee with a view of the lake. You can also enjoy a meal at Rudolfsturm Restaurant – perched high above Hallstatt, offering both beautiful views and great food.

For a special beer experience, make sure to try Zur Ruth, where you can taste local beer. Check out more dining options with views to enjoy Hallstatt’s amazing landscape while savoring local flavors.

💡 Bonus Tips for First-Time Visitors

🅿️ Getting there – Travel Tips

Hallstatt parking: If you’re driving, P1 and P2 are the closest lots to the village center. But don’t worry if they’re full – P3 and P4 offer plenty of space and include shuttle buses that drop you right into town.

Hallstatt train station: Coming by train? The station is actually across the lake! From there, a charming ferry ride takes you straight into the heart of the village.

Best time to visit: I personally love Hallstatt in spring, when everything starts to bloom (see spring magic here), and in the winter, when the town transforms into a snowy wonderland (Hallstatt in winter).

Want to avoid the crowds? Arrive early in the morning or even better, stay overnight to enjoy the peaceful charm of the village after the day-trippers leave. Stay in a luxury hotel in Hallstatt.

For more adventures beyond the town, see these places to visit near Hallstatt that will truly complete your experience.

For nature lovers, a day trip to Gosauseen lakes is a perfect escape just 25 minutes away.

✍️ Final Words

I hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip. Even after several visits, I always find something new to love here. Let the mountains slow you down, breathe in the lake air, and enjoy every step.

🌟 Want more tips? Explore my other Hallstatt blog posts!

If you’re planning more time in the region, don’t miss these helpful guides:

Gosausee in Winter – snow-covered trails and alpine beauty.

Obertraun: Swimming, Hiking, Skiing, Ice Cave – a hidden gem just across the lake.

Gosausee Stand Up Paddle – peaceful paddling with stunning mountain views.

Vorderer Gosausee – breathtaking alpine lake perfect for a scenic hike.

Hallstatt Taxi: Getting Around – find out the easiest ways to get around town.

Salzbergbahn Hallstatt – ride up to the Skywalk and Salt Mine.

UNESCO Hallstatt – discover why this town is a World Heritage site.

Welterbespirale on Krippenstein – panoramic views you won’t forget.

Hallstatt in Fall – experience the serenity of autumn colors.

Laserer Alpin Via Ferrata at Gosausee – adventure with a view.

Swimming in Lake Hallstatt – the best beaches to cool off.