Hallstatt is more than just a postcard-perfect village; it boasts a rich history rooted in salt mining. With its quaint, otherworldly charm, there’s plenty to explore beyond the stunning views. This list of 20 activities will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Hallstatt.

Take a Scenic Walk Around the Lake

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a short walk around Hallstatt Lake. This scenic stroll is less than 1 kilometer and offers breathtaking views that you won’t want to miss. Plus, it’s a perfect way to work up an appetite for some delicious apple strudel later!

Visit St. Michael’s Church in Hallstatt

Don’t miss St. Michael’s Church during your visit to Hallstatt. While it is small, its charm is undeniable, and it has stood the test of time. The graveyard surrounding the church offers stunning views of the village and lake.

If you’re intrigued by the macabre, be sure to visit the Bonehouse (Beinhaus) nearby, where you can see beautifully arranged human bones. Keep in mind that the Bonehouse is completely dark, illuminated only by candlelight, and has no window

Explore the Lutheran Church in Hallstatt

Located in the village centre, the Lutheran Church was built in 1785 for the Protestant community. A front panel provides insights into the church’s history in both German and English, making it accessible for all visitors.

In addition to its historical significance, the church hosts various events during the summer. Be sure to check out the nearby square, which also features seasonal activities and gatherings.

Visit the Main Square Near the Lutheran Church

Adjacent to the Lutheran Church is the charming main square of Hallstatt. Here, you can grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing drink. Don’t forget to capture the village’s beauty—like I did—by taking photos of the picturesque homes while the residents are still asleep. These snapshots will be perfect for sharing with friends and family back home, showcasing just how stunning Hallstatt truly is.

Rent Traditional Fuhre Boats in Hallstatt

In Hallstatt, you can rent both electric and traditional wooden boats known as Fuhre, originally designed for salt transportation. Rental signs are prominently displayed throughout the area. Prices vary based on the type of boat and rental duration, with the lowest starting at €12 for a 30-minute ride on an electric boat. For more information, visit the Dachstein Salzkammergut website.

If I had the chance to take a boat trip, I would have chosen Navia, a tour operator that offers Fuhre boat experiences. I love trying traditional activities when traveling, as they create unique and memorable experiences. Navia operates daily 30-minute trips from May through late September from Hallstatt. With only two boats available, it’s advisable to book in advance if possible. You can also reach out to Navia via phone or email, with their contact information available on the homepage.

Visit the Salt Mine

Hallstatt, a historic salt mining town, invites you to explore its rich heritage. Take a tour of the famous salt mines, which contributed to the village’s prosperity. Tickets for the mine tour, including a funicular ride, cost €30. You can book your ticket online and check the varying opening times on the official Salzwelten website.

Explore the Dachstein Ice Cave

Discovered in 1910, the Dachstein Ice Cave features stunning ice formations. Be sure to wear a jacket and sturdy shoes, as the cave maintains a chilly average temperature of -2°C (26.6°F) year-round. Access to the cave is guided, with tours lasting 50 minutes. You’ll learn about its fascinating geology and enjoy vantage points showcasing Hallstatt. For more details and visuals, visit the Dachstein Krippenstein website.

Visit the 5 Fingers Lookout Point

While at the Dachstein mountain, don’t miss the 5 Fingers lookout point. Perched 5,000 feet above Hallstatt, this platform features a glass floor and unique “finger-like” extensions. For more information, check out Dachstein Salzkammergut.

Go Hiking

Hallstatt offers several hiking trails, including a family-friendly route to the Dachstein mountain. I didn’t have the chance to hike these trails during my visit, but I hope to explore them next time. For trail details, visit Hiking in Hallstatt.

Berghaus Krippenstein

At the summit of Dachstein, visit the chapel built to honour 13 students and teachers who perished at the site. From the upper station, Berghaus Krippenstein, it’s a 15-minute climb. The Welterbespirale viewing platform offers 360-degree scenic views—an ideal spot for photos.

Discover Rudolfsturm (Rudolf’s Tower)

Constructed in the 13th century, this defense tower played a crucial role in protecting Hallstatt’s salt resources. It’s named after King Rudolf I and served as the residence for the salt mine manager.

Experience the Hallstatt Skywalk

Located below Rudolf’s Tower, the Hallstatt Skywalk features a steel viewing platform accessible via the Salzbergbahn funicular and elevator. It’s a great spot for visitors of all ages to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Snow Sports

In winter, Hallstatt transforms into a snow sports paradise. Whether skiing or snowshoeing, there’s something for everyone. For gear rental, visit Ski Hire Obertraun, where you can also book online.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

Stop by Restaurant Bräugasthof, situated lakeside under a chestnut tree. It serves Reinanke (whitefish) and Saibling (lake trout). Don’t hesitate to explore other eateries and discover hidden culinary gems.

Attend Local Festivals

Hallstatt hosts various festivals throughout the year. In summer, experience the Corpus Christi Procession, which features beautifully decorated boats. You can hire a Fuhre to get an up-close view of the festivities. Additionally, check out the Krampus run and the Christmas Market, where villagers don elaborate masks to ward off winter’s darkness. For festival details, visit Salzkammergut Events.

Remember to check festival dates in advance, as some last only one day, and accommodations can fill up quickly during these times.

Discover Archaeological Finds

Visit the site below the Sport Janu store, where archaeological discoveries dating back to the Stone Age and Middle Ages were made in 1990. This free site offers a unique glimpse into Hallstatt’s ancient history.

Explore the World Heritage Museum

The World Heritage Museum (Welterbemuseum Hallstatt) features exhibits detailing the history of the salt mines and Hallstatt’s UNESCO World Heritage status. Built over an ancient burial site, the museum showcases traditional costumes and artifacts from the Hallstatt period (400-800 BC). If you’re a museum enthusiast, head to Seestraße 56, 4830 Hallstatt, for an enlightening experience.

Go shopping

When visiting Hallstatt, indulge in some shopping to take home a piece of this picturesque village. Start your spree with beautiful postcards that showcase Hallstatt’s stunning scenery, perfect keepsakes for friends and family. For outdoor enthusiasts, Sport Janu offers a wide range of sporting gear, while Salzkontor features local delicacies like pizza and pasta sauces, bruschetta, and bath salts. Don’t miss Geschenk’s Platzerl at Seestraße 141.nHallstatt is small and walkable, making it easy to explore shops throughout the village, so keep an eye out for unique finds and local treasures as you wander!

Go for a swim in Hallstatt

During summer you can swim in the Lake. There’s a small artificial island connected by a bridge to Hallstatt. It’s only a few minutes walk from the centre of the village.

Diving

The Dachstein-Salzkammergut Diving Club offers guided dives, showcasing incredible underwater sites and abundant fish. They provide classes for children and even offer unique underwater wedding ceremonies—just complete five days of diving training to get legally married by a priest or registrar beneath the waves.

More information

Tourist Office Hallstatt
Tourismusverband Inneres Salzkammergut
Seestraße 99
4830 Hallstatt
Austria
Phone: +43 (0) 5 95095 30
Fax: +43-6134-8352
E-Mail: hallstatt@dachstein-salzkammergut.at

Opening hours
Tourist Office Hallstatt
November to April: Mon – Fri 8.30 – 17:00 hrs.
Sat./Sun./Holiday 9.00 – 15.00 hrs
May to October: Mon. – Fri. 8.30 – 18.00 hrs.
Sat, Sun & Holidays 9.00 – 15.00 hrs.

Additionally, you can explore Hallstatt with a free audio guide available at this link.

A free audio guide for Hallstatt is available at http://www.hallstatt.net/about-hallstatt/weltkulturerbe-en-US/themed-trails-and-audio-guide-tour/audio-guide-tour-hallstatt/

Happy travels!