15 Best Things to Do in Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful villages in Europe, with its fairytale-like setting on the shores of Lake Hallstatt. Surrounded by towering mountains and colorful alpine houses, this charming Austrian town is a dream destination, whether you’re visiting for a day or staying overnight.

Despite its small size, there are plenty of incredible things to do in Hallstatt, from exploring its historic Old Town and scenic viewpoints to taking a boat ride on the lake or visiting the world’s oldest salt mine.

Since everything is within walking distance, you can easily experience the best of Hallstatt in just one day while still having time to soak in the incredible scenery. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do in Hallstatt to help you plan your trip!

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Best Things to Do in Hallstatt

1. Explore the Old Town and Market Square

Hallstatt’s Old Town looks like something straight out of a postcard, with its colorful alpine houses, narrow streets, and lakeside setting. The best way to experience it is simply by wandering – there’s no specific route to follow, just take your time exploring the charming alleys and hidden corners.

At the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find the Market Square, one of the most picturesque spots in Hallstatt. Surrounded by historic buildings with traditional wooden balconies, the square is a great place to soak in the town’s charm.

There are a few cafes and restaurants where you can sit down for a coffee or meal, as well as small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.

Since Hallstatt is a popular tourist destination, the streets can get crowded, especially in peak season. If you want to enjoy a quieter atmosphere, early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to walk around.

2. Visit the Classic Postcard Viewpoint

One of the most iconic views of Hallstatt is from the Classic Postcard Viewpoint, located just a short walk north of the Market Square.

This is the spot where most of the famous photos of Hallstatt are taken, with the Evangelical Church, colorful lakeside houses, and towering mountains creating a picture-perfect scene.

The viewpoint is free to visit and easily accessible on foot. It’s best to come early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially if you want to take photos without too many people in the frame.

3. Enjoy the view from the Müllerstiege Stairs

For another incredible viewpoint in Hallstatt, head to the Müllerstiege stairs. This spot overlooks the rooftops of the Old Town, with the iconic church steeple and lake framed by the surrounding mountains.

It’s a quieter alternative to the classic postcard viewpoint, offering a different angle of the village. The steps are steep, but the view at the top is well worth the effort! Since it’s a public staircase, you can stop for photos anytime, making it a great quick stop while exploring Hallstatt.

4. Stay in a hotel or apartment with a view

Spending the night in Hallstatt is a great way to enjoy the town without the crowds and wake up to incredible lake and mountain views. If you’re staying overnight, choosing a place with a balcony or terrace makes all the difference.

A great option is Apartment Müllerstiege, which is located right next to the famous Müllerstiege stairs viewpoint. The two-floor apartment has a kitchen, a cozy living space, and a balcony that overlooks the lake and village.

I especially loved having breakfast out there in the morning – the views were absolutely epic! The only thing to note is that it’s up a long staircase (about 100 steps), so packing light is a good idea.

This particular apartment has a 3-night minimum stay so if you’re staying for a shorter amount of time or you’re looking for something else, these are also great alternatives:

• Historic Lakeview Apartments Hallstatt
• Hallstatt Hideaway
• Seehaus am Hallstätter See

5. Walk along the Lakeside Promenade

Hallstatt’s lakeside promenade is a great place for a relaxed walk with some of the best views in town. The path runs right along the water, passing wooden boathouses and offering incredible views of the lake and mountains. It’s an easy stroll, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a few swans along the way.

I loved walking here in the morning when the lake was perfectly still, reflecting the town like a mirror. There are also a few benches where you can sit and take it all in. It doesn’t take long to walk the whole promenade, but it’s worth slowing down and enjoying the views.

6. Take a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt

Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to experience Hallstatt. The lake is stunning from every angle, and seeing the village from a boat gives you a whole new perspective.

You can rent a small electric boat and explore at your own pace or hop on one of the sightseeing boat tours that cruise around the lake. If you want something more unique, there’s also the option to take a traditional wooden boat ride, which makes the experience feel even more special.

7. Visit the Evangelical Church

Hallstatt’s Evangelical Church is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks, standing right by the lake with its pointed steeple. It’s the centerpiece of almost every classic Hallstatt photo, and you’ll likely pass by it as you explore the Old Town.

The church itself is small and simple inside, but it’s worth stepping in for a quick look. What makes it special is the location – right on the water with some of the best views of the town. If you’re walking along the lakeside promenade or heading to the postcard viewpoint, it’s an easy stop along the way.

8. See the Bone House at St. Michael’s Chapel

One of the most unusual things to do in Hallstatt is visiting the Bone House, located inside St. Michael’s Chapel. This small, hidden chapel holds a collection of over 600 human skulls, many of which are painted with names, dates, and decorative symbols.

The tradition of skull painting started centuries ago due to limited burial space in Hallstatt. After a few decades, older graves were dug up, and the skulls were carefully cleaned, decorated, and placed in the chapel. It’s a bit eerie but also a fascinating look into local history and customs.

The Bone House is a short walk from the Market Square, and there’s a small entrance fee to visit. If you’re interested in history or looking for something unique to see in Hallstatt, this is definitely worth checking out.

9. Ride the funicular to the Hallstatt Skywalk

If you’re looking for one of the best panoramic views in town, the Hallstatt Skywalk is the place to go. Perched 360 meters above the village, this viewing platform offers an incredible bird’s-eye view of Hallstatt, the lake, and the surrounding mountains.

The easiest way to get there is by taking the funicular, which runs from the town up to the Skywalk in just a few minutes. If you’re up for a challenge, you can also hike up, but it’s a steep climb and takes around an hour. Either way, the view from the top makes the effort worth it.

This is definitely one of the top things to do in Hallstatt, especially on a clear day when you can see for miles. It’s also a great spot to take photos and get a different perspective of the town from above.

10. Dine at Restaurant Rudolfsturm

If you’re looking for a meal with a view, Restaurant Rudolfsturm is the perfect spot. Located near the Hallstatt Skywalk, this restaurant sits high above the town and offers incredible views over the lake and surrounding mountains.

The menu includes traditional Austrian dishes like schnitzel and goulash, both of which are absolutely worth trying. Their apple pie is out of this world, so make sure to save room for dessert!

Whether you stop for a full meal or just a coffee and cake, it’s a great place to take a break while enjoying the scenery.

If you’re visiting during the day, there might be a line, but it’s worth the wait. The terrace seating is the best spot, so if the weather is good, try to grab a table outside.

11. Explore the Hallstatt Salt Mine

Hallstatt is home to the world’s oldest salt mine, with a history dating back over 7,000 years. If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s past, taking a tour of the Hallstatt Salt Mine is a great experience.

The tour takes you deep underground, where you can see ancient tunnels, a salt lake, and even a wooden slide that miners once used. It’s a mix of history and adventure, making it a fun stop for both adults and kids.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes and starts near the Hallstatt Skywalk, so it’s easy to combine both activities.

One thing to keep in mind is that it’s really cold inside the mines, even in summer, so it’s best to bring a jacket or wear layers. Since this is one of the most popular attractions in town, tickets can sell out, especially in peak season. If it’s on your list, booking ahead is a good idea!

12. Discover the Small Island

Just a short walk from the center of Hallstatt, you’ll find a small island connected by a bridge, offering a unique perspective of the village. It’s a quiet spot away from the crowds, making it a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

The island gives you a different view of Hallstatt, with the Evangelical Church and traditional houses reflecting beautifully on the water. It’s also a nice place to snap some photos, especially early in the morning when the lake is calm.

Since it’s not a major tourist stop, most people miss it, but if you have time for a short detour, it’s worth checking out.

13. See the Hallstatt Waterfall

Hidden just behind the town, the Hallstatt Waterfall is a quick and easy stop that many visitors overlook. The waterfall cascades down the hillside and flows through the town, adding to Hallstatt’s fairytale-like setting.

You’ll likely come across it as you explore the streets, but if not, it’s worth taking a short detour to see it up close. The best viewpoint is from the small bridge near the upper part of the Old Town, where you can watch the water rushing down between the houses.

It’s not a major attraction, but it’s a nice little spot to check out, especially if you’re looking for a quieter part of town to escape the crowds for a moment.

14. Hike to Waldbachstrub Waterfall or the Glacier Garden

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, Hallstatt has some great hiking trails just outside the village. Two of the best options are the hike to Waldbachstrub Waterfall and the Glacier Garden, both offering stunning nature and a break from the busy town center.

The Waldbachstrub Waterfall trail takes you through a lush forest and leads to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall. It’s a peaceful hike with few crowds, making it a great way to experience the natural side of Hallstatt.

The Glacier Garden is another interesting spot, featuring rock formations shaped by ancient glaciers. The hike is a bit shorter but still offers great views and a chance to explore Hallstatt’s alpine surroundings.

Both hikes take about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, so if you have extra time and want to see more than just the village, they’re definitely worth considering.

15. Visit the Dachstein Ice Caves and Five Fingers Lookout

If you want to explore beyond Hallstatt, the Dachstein Ice Caves and Five Fingers lookout make for an unforgettable trip. Located in the nearby Dachstein mountain range, these attractions offer breathtaking views and a glimpse into Austria’s alpine wonders.

The Dachstein Ice Caves are filled with massive ice formations, frozen waterfalls, and impressive caverns. Even in summer, the inside stays freezing, so dressing warmly is a must. Guided tours take you through the caves, explaining their history and unique ice formations along the way.

After visiting the caves, you can take the cable car further up to the Five Fingers lookout. This dramatic viewing platform extends over the edge of a cliff, offering jaw-dropping views of the mountains and valleys below. It’s one of the best panoramic spots in the region, perfect for those who love scenic landscapes.

If you have extra time in Hallstatt and want to experience Austria’s alpine beauty, this is one of the best day trips you can take.