16th-century Alpine houses, ancient salt mine, unique Bone House and stunning lake views from the Skywalk.
Welcome to Hallstatt, a small Austrian town that has gained popularity for its well-preserved 16th-century Alpine houses and scenic location on the banks of the Hallstätter See.
Hallstatt's beauty is evident in its natural setting. Sat between a mountain and a lake, the town offers breathtaking views. But Hallstatt is not only a pretty face, it has quite a history too. Salt production here dates back to prehistoric times, and the town was once the site of a significant Iron Age culture. The town's Salt Mine, one of the oldest in the world, gives you an opportunity to learn about this history first-hand. The funicular railway will take you there, offering beautiful views on the way.
Hallstatt is also known for its unique Bone House in the Catholic Church's charnel house, housing over 600 painted skulls. It's a peculiar sight, but it tells us about how the village dealt with a lack of burial space.
The town itself is small and you might walk through the main square in less than five minutes. Don't miss Parish of the Assumption with its tall spire easily visible from around the town. To see the town from above, visit the Skywalk Hallstatt, a viewing platform giving a panoramic view of the whole town and lake.
There's no need to worry about hunger in Hallstatt. Traditional Austrian cuisine is hearty and filling, with dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, sausages and strudel. You can find these in local restaurants, alongside fish dishes featuring catches from the lake.
If you're visiting in winter, bring warm clothes. It can get quite cold, but the sight of snow-capped mountains and roofs is worth it. In summer, Hallstatt sees the most visitors, so be prepared for crowds. Despite this, the town retains its calm and quiet charm.
The town is relatively isolated, but Salzburg and Vienna are only a few hours away by train or car, making it possible to visit as a day trip. However, the charm of Hallstatt is best experienced with an overnight stay, when the day-trippers leave and the town goes back to its peaceful routine.
