hallstatt full day tour from salzburg

Travel Tyrol

Austria travel blog, salzburg to hallstatt – how to get there for an unforgettable day trip, best train, bus, and other options.

A day trip from Salzburg to Hallstatt is a highlight in any Austrian itinerary. Knowing how to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg is the first step toward a successful excursion. This detailed guide provides you with all the information to take the frustration out of planning a day trip to Hallstatt.

Salzburg to Hallstatt by Train and Bus

The distance from Salzburg to Hallstatt is only 71,7 km. This doesn’t mean you can travel there in under and hour. Public transport mostly requires at least one change and sometimes a combination of bus and train travel.

If you prefer to drive, the scenic road route via the Wolfgangsee and Bad Ischl also takes well over an hour.

Although not the fastest way to get to Hallstatt from Salzburg, the train is the easiest if you depend on public transport. However, the beautiful scenery passing by the train window makes it more than worthwhile.

The ÖBB (Austrian Railway) trains are clean and punctual, making it easy to plan your time in Hallstatt. To find the best connection from Salzburg to Hallstatt on the day and time you are planning to travel, you have the following options:

• Go to tickets.oebb.at
• Use an international ticket shop like Rail Europe or Trainline
• Download the ÖBB app which also allows you to buy the tickets at the same time.

Insider Tip

If your dates are set and you book in advance, you can secure the special saver price (called Sparschiene). You are then bound to the specific train and time on your ticket. If you want more flexibility, the standard ticket at €29 is a better option. A group discount, starting at 5% for two people, is also available. And if you stick to the local trains, there is a special ticket called Einfach Raus for 2 to 5 people. Starting at €36 for 2 people, plus €4 for every additional person, you can travel on as many local trains as you like on a specific calendar day (starting from 09:00 on weekdays).

By Bus AND Train

Taking Bus 150 from Salzburg to Bad Ischl and the train to Hallstatt from there, is actually a little quicker than taking the train via Attnang-Puchheim.

Get the complete Bus 150 timetable here .

The 1,5-hour bus journey takes a scenic route via Lake Wolfgang. Try and get to the bus early to increase your chance of getting the front right seats from where you have panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Once you arrive in Bad Ischl by bus, there is a connecting local train to Hallstatt. The total journey time from Salzburg to Hallstatt is just over two hours.

The Hallstatt Ferry

If you think the Hallstatt train stops in the centre of the village, you are wrong. Instead, it drops you on the other side of the lake from the village. This turns out to be a huge advantage.

Why? Because it forces you to take the boat or ferry from the station to the town. And this gives you the opportunity to take in all the pretty views of the town that you saw in the pictures that inspired you to visit in the first place.

When you step off the train, just follow the footpath leading to a small lakeside building where the Hallstatt ferry awaits. Someone will sell you a ticket at €3,50 before you get on board.

The Hallstatt ferry timetable is conveniently set up to coincide with the arrival and departure of trains. The crossing takes about 15 minutes. The Hallstatt Market docking station, where you disembark, is a 5-minute walk from the Market Square with its colourful houses against a green mountain backdrop.

TIP – Don’t waste time to get to the ferry after leaving the train. Get on the boat as quickly as you can to secure a spot on the open front deck for the best position to take pictures of the idyllic setting.

Bus Only to Hallstatt from Salzburg

Of course, it’s also possible to travel all the way from Salzburg to Hallstatt by bus. In this case you have the follow options:

Salzburg to Hallstatt by Car

Getting to Hallstatt by car from Salzburg is possible via 2 main routes.

As you can see there’s not much difference in distance and driving time. The first route is probably the more scenic one, passing through the beautiful Salzkammergut lake district.

The second one takes the A10 highway for which you need the Austrian vignette (toll sticker) before turning off onto the B166 where you will soon travel over the Gschütt mountain pass. Get the full directions with maps for both routes here .

Hallstatt Parking

The Hallstatt historic centre and waterfront is traffic free during normal daytime hours. However, there are three big parking areas on the outskirts of town to accommodate visitors arriving by car. They are well marked and even have big electronic information boards indicating the number of free spots available. Car Park P2 is the most convenient for day visitors. Find more information here .

Salzburg to Hallstatt Tours

A shuttle service or tour is a good option for a Hallstatt day trip if your time is very limited, you are travelling in a group or you just don’t want to be bothered with public transport or renting a car.

Did you know?

The Chinese like Hallstatt so much that they built an exact replica in China.

Top Things to Do on a Hallstatt Day Trip

The name Hallstatt means salt settlement. Salt has been mined here since the 2nd millennium BC. Today, visitors are simply in awe of the beautiful lakeside and mountain setting of the village where, for some part, time stood still. The remarkable Hallstatt-Dachstein Alpine landscape of which it is part has a well-deserved spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The Hallstatt Skywalk

To visit Hallstatt and not enjoy the UNESCO World Heritage view from the skywalk 360 m above the historic centre would be a travesty. The panorama of Lake Hallstatt, its lakeside villages, and the surrounding Alps will be forever etched in your memory.

The Hallstatt skywalk is in front of the Rudolfsturm (Rudolf’s Tower) on the Salzberg (Salt Mountain), home to the oldest salt mine in the world. The tower dates to the late 13 th century and was used as living quarters of the mine manager until 1954. Today it is a restaurant.

There are two ways to get to the top of the mountain – walking or taking a cable car. On a day trip, I will suggest taking the Salzberg cable car. The bottom station is not even a 10-minute walk from the Hallstatt tourist information office.

Hallstatt Cable Car Prices Roundtrip

When you exit the cable car, you can walk the remaining (short, but steep) distance to the Hallstatt skywalk or take the Panorama Lift to the top. Use of the lift is included in the cable car price. Have your camera ready when exiting the lift, because you will cross a little bridge spanning a deep gorge from where you will get a taste of the views awaiting you on the skywalk.

Standing on the Hallstatt skywalk is not for the fainthearted. It helps to look into the distance instead of straight down. Plus, if you’ve made it this far, you might as well go right to the front to take the compulsory picture.

Tip: Consider visiting the salt mine if you have an extra 2 hours to spare on your Hallstatt day trip. This is where it all started 7,000 years ago. The tour through the mine is fun, interactive and informative. The oldest wooden staircase in Europe, one of the more recent discoveries in the prehistoric section of the mine, has been incorporated into a Bronze Age Cinema 400 metres below ground.

The Hallstatt Market Square

From salt miners, fishermen and food merchants to 500,000 tourists per year – the market square is the heart of Hallstatt and witness to an unfathomable era of ancient and modern history.

Most of the colourful houses surrounding the Holy Trinity statue on the market square were built after a devastating fire in 1750. This is where the residents celebrate age-old traditions such as the annual Corpus Christi procession. If you are lucky, you will hear the Saline band perform.

Even if nothing officially is happening, there is something happening on the Hallstatt market square. Find lunch or something to drink in one of the cafés or restaurants, buy a souvenir to remind you of your visit, or watch your fellow tourists from a quiet spot on one of the benches while licking on an ice-cream.

Hallstatt Waterfront

A highlight of a day trip to Hallstatt is a walk along the waterfront. The walk is compulsory if you want to get from the market square to the Salzberg cable car or vice versa. However, this is one compulsory walk you will even take voluntarily. Simply follow the signs to the tourist information centre ( where you will turn away to the cable car station). Or you can continue a little bit further to Hallstatt Lahn, another ship docking station, from where you have another beautiful photo angle.

Keep your eyes open for the tightly stacked timber houses on the water’s edge. The architectural masterpieces were built for the former residents to have direct access to the lake.

The photo opportunities are endless, especially if you are lucky enough to find some swan close to the water’s edge. If you don’t see a real, live swan you may see some bigger ones with people in. These are popular pedal boats that are for rent together with a few other options.

Hallstatt Bone House and Catholic Church

You simply must make time to walk to the Catholic church and adjacent St Michael’s chapel on your day trip from Salzburg to Hallstatt. It’s easy to find to the right of the market square (facing the mountain). The short five to ten-minute walk weaves between the homes of the locals and is well sign-posted.

Many people skip the parish church (dating to 1505) and head straight to the Gothic chapel. Why? Because of its unique, if somewhat gory, contents – the exhumed bones of more than 1,200 people, including over 600 painted skulls.

The reason for all the human bones isn’t a mass murder or some kind of plague but rather a lack of space in the cemetery around the church. To make room for the “ new dead” the “old dead” were dug up and their bones moved to St Micheal’s from as early as the 1100s.

Flowers were originally painted on the exhumed skulls to symbolize wreaths. The paintings later became more elaborate when the names and dates of birth and death of the deceased were added. Check out this link for a 360° view of the bones inside the chapel .

An entrance fee of €1,50 to the bone house is charged. The opening hours are daily from 10:00 to 18:00 from May to October and 11:30 to 15:30 (closed Mondays and Thursdays) from November to April.

Where to Eat and Drink in Hallstatt

Rudolfsturm.

The Rudolfsturm Restaurant is an excellent spot for lunch after you’ve plucked up the courage to stand on the Hallstatt skywalk. And for a restaurant with a World Heritage view its prices compare well to that of the average Austrian restaurant.

We shared a typical Austrian Jausenplatte (snack plate) consisting of bread, cheeses, cold meats, hardboiled eggs, and bread spreads. It was more than enough for two. Other traditional Austrian dishes on the menu include schnitzel, knödel (dumplings) and Apfelstrudel (apple strudel).

Braügasthof

The Braügasthof has been brewing and serving beer since 1504 when it first got its license from Emperor Maximilian I. Today, it is a small hotel with a guest garden/restaurant on the water’s edge opposite the road. You can’t miss it on the way between the market square and the tourist information centre . Try the fresh fish from the lake!

You can’t miss Café Derbl in the big yellow building on one corner of the market square. They literally serve everything – from cakes and pizza to schnitzel and salads. They also brew and serve their own craft beer called Hallstatt. Das Bier.

Read more: Visit the Eisriesenwelt in Werfen on another day trip from Salzburg

Practical Tips for Your Hallstatt Day Trip

• Keep your €0,50 coins for the public toilets in the historic centre . They are on your right on a little side street off the main pedestrian road just after the market square (direction tourist information office).
• There is a wi-fi hotspot on the market square.
• Make sure you have enough cash on you because many restaurants and shops don’t accept credit or debit cards. Alternatively, ask about card facilities before you order or buy.
• If you visit Hallstatt in June you may have the chance to witness one of the age-old traditions when the locals celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi or Fronleichnam on the Market Square and beautifully decorated boats on the lake.

*Disclosure*

Dear Reader,

Pin it for later!

Recent Posts

Related Articles

Salzburg Card review and proposed itineraries

Salzburg has a lot more to offer than a few Sound of Music filming locations. The Salzburg Card provides the proof with free access to 24 world class attractions including the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Hellbrunn Palace […]

Werfen Ice Caves – How to See the Eisriesenwelt in Austria

Visiting the Werfen ice caves near Salzburg in Austria is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all lovers of natural wonders. Getting to the mouth of the cave via cable car and hiking trails before entering the Eisriesenwelt is part of what makes this a must-visit attraction for anyone who is able and fit. […]

The Sound of Music in Salzburg – What’s Left 50 Years Later?

Over the last half-century, the Austrian city of Salzburg has become synonymous with The Sound Of Music. Who could have guessed that more than 50 years after its release in March 1965, there would still […]

Thank you for detailing the travel arrangements; I always find that to be the most stressful part of a trip! Hallstatt looks stunning- what a warm and inviting village!

I did not know they build a copy in China haha. It’s really a great guide of Hallstat, looks like there are a lot of things to see and do. We made it to Innsbruck and the Alps last summer, maybe next year we can go to the Salzburg area.

I’ve never been to Austria but villages like these make me remember I really want to go! I always look out for places with both water and mountains and that have plenty of greenery as well as picturesque buildings. These spots with their flower covered buildings, glassy water in and mountain ranges in the distance look just perfect for an alps active getaway.

This is a really great guide! Hallstatt is that fairy tale town that I can’t wait to visit one day. Thanks for detailing exactly how to get there because I’ve found pretty vague instructions on that previously!

A) Your photography is beautiful B) Thank you for so thoroughly laying out the transportation pieces. That’s always the most stressful part for me, and I really enjoyed seeing the comparison between driving routes and bus/train routes. Wonderful, in-depth writeup! I had never really heard of Hallstatt before, but that scenery and all those lovely things to do mean I won’t forget it 🙂

I had no idea there was a replica of Hallstatt in China. That’s amazing! I was actually in Hallstatt earlier this summer and there were bus loads of Chinese tourist. I was wondering why there were so many there but now it all makes sense! We drove from Salzburg to Hallstatt and the drive was lovely, but unfortunately it started raining when we arrived so we didn’t wind up taking the ferry or the cable car. Based on your pictures they both look like they provide great vantage points of Hallstatt and the surroundings. One word of warning – if …  Read more »

I love UNESCO world heritage sites and Hallstatt must be the most beautiful site among all. Mere fact Salt mining started here 2 millennium BC, makes this place special for me. Being a road tripper I would love to reach here via road enjoying the alpine landscapes of Wolfgangsee and Bad Ischl. Would plan to reach early morning to enjoy the sunrise from skywalk.

That is such a well written, a detailed post on how to reach, what to see and the tips to take care of in Hallstatt. The streets with those flower decorated houses are just amazing and so instagrammable. Skywalk is simply breathtaking. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful post. I am adding Hallstatt to my bucket list.

I love this detailed ‘how to’ article on how to best visit Hallstatt. It looks like a stunning place for a day trip! I’d totally be up for a visit to the salt mines – I love those types of tours and history of a place.

I’ve always wanted to go to Hallstatt, but I had absolutely no idea that it was so close to Salzburg or I would’ve gone when I was there for a quick day trip instead! Also, that’s too funny that there’s a replica of the city in China! That’s insane! The bone chapel sounds really unique!

Thanks for this great guide. I love the picturesque town of Hallstatt and I think I have to go back and experience the skywalk once.

Hallstatt seems so picturesque and I fell in love with is from your pictures! That Hallstatt skywalk seems like an ultimate experience!

Thank you so much for your EXTREMELY well detailed information about how to get from Salzburg to Hallstatt. Not only did you give such important detail, but gave us so much more confidence in tackling this trip. We are planning on coming to Salzburg in August and so looking forward to it.

Great article …I got to know all that I needed to know after browsing for hours …all information in one place . Loved it thanks a ton !!!

This is such an amazing guide! I am totally in love with your gorgeous photos. So much so i am looking at buying a plane ticket just now 🙂

Loved this complete guide! Made me nostalgic also. Have recently returned from Austria and Salzburg too. 🙂 Kept reading it.

That water is so clear!! And I always appreciate specifics like prices. Thanks!

Thank you for this detailed and very clear post. I figured out more about Hallstatt from your post than by reading many others!

wow… am planning my trip in may 2019 n this will really help… so can i travel from salzburg to hallstat n do local sight seeing plus salt mine plus ice cave n return back to salzburg the same day?

Hi, i am visiting Hallstatt this winter. Are the ferry available during the winter? And also it is worth it for me to stay a night in Hallstatt or just have a one day trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg?

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes

Privacy Preference Center

Consent management, advertising.

• Private Tours

Hallstatt Private Full-Day Tour: UNESCO Charm from Salzburg

• Hallstatt Full-Day Tour: Alpine Beauty and Cultural Discoveries
• Discover the Charm of Hallstatt: Full-Day Tour from Salzburg

Experience the timeless beauty of Austria with our Hallstatt full-day tour from Salzburg. This enchanting UNESCO village, nestled amidst the Austrian Alps, promises a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural treasures.

As you journey through picturesque landscapes, our expert guide will share fascinating insights into Hallstatt’s rich history, making your visit both informative and captivating. Explore charming streets, visit iconic landmarks, and soak in the breathtaking views of emerald lakes and majestic mountains.

This customizable full-day tour allows you to tailor your experience, ensuring you see the sights that interest you most. Whether you’re drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or cultural gems, Hallstatt has something for every traveler.

Book your Hallstatt full-day tour today and embark on a memorable adventure, discovering the allure of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Join us for an immersive experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

• From Salzburg, a thorough full-day trip with a private local guide
• Flexibility to adapt your itinerary to your personal interests
• Privileged drop-off right at old town of Hallstatt
• Discover one of Austria’s most well-known and stunning travel destinations
• Hallstatt Skywalk
• Option at checkout to book separate guide and chauffeur

Private Tour

• Private transportation
• Pick up and drop off in Salzburg
• Air-conditioned luxury minivan
• Funicular to Hallstatt Skywalk: € 20 p.p.
• Food and Drinks
• Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. If you cancel less than 48 hours before the tour’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Privacy Overview

Private Hallstatt highlights full-Day Tour from Salzburg

• Bottled water
• All Fees and Taxes
• (Entry is optional) Salt mine fee Adults €28 Children(4-15)14€
• (Entry is optional) Bone house fee Adults: € 2,00 Children: € 0,50
• (Entry is optional) Mozart House in St. Gilgen Adult 6 Euro & children 2,50 Euro
• Entry/Admission - St Gilgen Mozartplatz
• Entry/Admission - Salzwelten Hallstatt
• Entry/Admission - Hallstatt Skywalk
• Entry/Admission - Hallstätter See
• Entry/Admission - Hallstatt Ossuary
• We pickup you from any point in Salzburg city
• Salzburg, Austria
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Infant seats available
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Pfarre St. Wolfgang
• Salzwelten Hallstatt
• Hallstatt Ossuary
• St Gilgen Mozartplatz
• Hallstatt Skywalk

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 St Gilgen Stop: 45 minutes See details
• 2 St Gilgen Mozartplatz Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 3 Pfarre St. Wolfgang Stop: 15 minutes See details
• 4 St. Wolfgang Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 5 Salzwelten Hallstatt Stop: 90 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 6 Hallstatt Skywalk Stop: 30 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 7 Hallstatter See Stop: 45 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 8 Hallstatt City Stop: 2 hours See details
• 9 Hallstatt Ossuary Stop: 15 minutes - Admission excluded See details
• 10 Hallstatt Lutheran Church Stop: 10 minutes See details
• You'll return to the starting point

More to explore in Salzburg

Buy it with

Private Hallstatt highlights full-Day Tour from Salzburg provided by Relax Trip Salzburg

Home » Travel » Destinations » Ultimate Salzburg to Hallstatt Day Trip Itinerary

Ultimate Salzburg to Hallstatt Day Trip Itinerary

When it comes to fairytale towns, there’s no competing with Hallstatt. Nestled in the snow-capped mountains of central Austria, this lakefront village looks like something Walt Disney dreamed up. If you’re looking for a magical experience, my Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip itinerary has got you covered.

If you’re still planning your trip to Salzburg, check out my 2 days in Salzburg itinerary for inspiration!

Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip guide

The best time for a hallstatt day trip, getting to hallstatt from salzburg, salzburg to hallstatt day trip itinerary, is one day in hallstatt enough, overnight in hallstatt: where to stay.

• Map of Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip itinerary

From summer blooms to Christmas markets, there isn’t one best time to visit Hallstatt. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect for each season:

• We did our Hallstatt itinerary in late April over Easter weekend. While the crowds were fairly heavy, the weather was pleasant (unseasonably warm, actually), and there was a small Easter parade through the village.
• Summer has comfortable, warm weather, but the crowds are intense. August should be avoided, as it’s peak tourist season across Europe.
• Autumn brings beautiful golden foliage to the mountains, and crowds are typically lighter.
• Winter turns Hallstatt into a storybook wonderland, with a traditional Christmas market and lovely white snow decorating the village. It’s truly one of the best winter destinations in Europe ! Some parts of the village are closed, however, like the funicular and salt mine.

By train: Salzburg Hbf > Attnang-Puchheim > Hallstatt Bahnhst

If you don’t have a car, taking the train is the easiest option. While there is no direct train from Salzburg to Hallstatt, the single connection is very straightforward.

• Visit the ÖBB website to search for and purchase tickets. Be sure to print your tickets before departing!
• You can also download the ÖBB app to buy tickets and display them on your phone (no printing needed).
• If possible, book your tickets several days in advance. Ticket prices go up the closer you get to departure. Prices range from €9 to €25 depending on your departure time and how far in advance you purchase.
• The earliest train departs Salzburg Hbf around 5am, getting you to Hallstatt station around 7:30am.
• I strongly encourage you to leave Salzburg no later than 8:30am.  Hallstatt is a tiny village that fills up with tourists by the hour. The earlier you arrive, the more time you’ll have to explore without the crowds.

Seat Reservations: If you’re traveling to Hallstatt on a holiday weekend, I suggest paying for a seat reservation. The reservation will only be for the first leg of the trip (Salzburg to Attnang-Puchheim), but it will save you from having to stand or spend a long time looking for an open seat.

All of the train-only journeys will have a connection at Attnang-Puchheim. You won’t have much time to make the connection (about 5-10 minutes), but you shouldn’t have any trouble if you’re paying attention and exit the train promptly.

The conductor will often tell you what platform to go to when he/she checks your ticket on board. And there are electronic signs above and below the platforms that display the train destinations.

By bus: Salzburg Bus 150 > Bad Ischal Bus 542 > Gosaumühle Bus 543 > Hallstatt Lahn

You could take three buses to Hallstatt and get there 15 minutes faster than by train. But the extra transfer and seasonal/weekend timetable shifts make it more complicated.

If you do choose this option, use the route planner to find the best connection times. Note that the bus drops you off on the village’s south side. So, you’ll want to do this Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip itinerary in reverse, starting with Badeinsel Island.

If you already have a rental car, driving to Hallstatt from Salzburg is a great idea. The drive takes around 80 minutes, and you can enjoy scenic mountain views along the way.

There are two visitor car parks : P1 and P2. As you approach the village, electronic displays will show the number of spaces left in each lot. For a Hallstatt day trip, you’ll want to park in P2 if it’s not full.

When you’re ready to leave, simply take your parking ticket to the machine and pay with cash or credit card.

Organized Hallstatt tours from Salzburg

Taking public transit in a foreign country can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are multiple tour operators that can get you to and from the village, and even show you what to see in Hallstatt.

Taking the Hallstatt Ferry

Riding the ferry was one of my favorite things to do in Hallstatt. If you arrive by train, this is how you’ll reach the village.

The ferry schedule coincides with the village’s train timetable, making it easy to come and go across the lake. Once you get off the train, walk down the ramp to the dock, where you can buy round trip tickets from the attendant.

Be sure to bring cash, as they do not take credit cards for the ferry. Although you don’t get a discount for round trip tickets, it will save you from having to stand in line on your way back.

If you want to take photos from the ferry, you need to be prepared. Getting a good spot on the deck was like a scene from the Hunger Games. Get ready to hop off the train, speed down the ramp, and walk straight to the left (port) railing for the best views.

Also, if you’re traveling during peak season, you should get in line at least 20 minutes before your return ferry departs. It would be a shame to miss your train, especially if it’s the last one of the day!

Walk around the northern village

From my experience, people tend not to explore Hallstatt beyond the iconic northern viewpoint. But there are some beautiful houses and lake views to be had along the Gosaumühlstraße.

Follow the street north out of the village. Here, you’ll see lovely wooden homes decorated with wind chimes, flower pots, and other seasonal trinkets.

RELATED: Vienna Itinerary: 2 Days of Highlights and Hidden Gems

Walk until you reach the underpass, and then turn back. As you come around the bend near the village center, you’ll get a gorgeous view of the church.

Take photos at the “postcard” view point

If a photograph inspired you to visit Hallstatt, it was probably taken at this “Classic Village Viewpoint”. Located a few minutes’ walk from the ferry dock, this panoramic view of Hallstatt is simply breathtaking.

The overlook area is fairly spacious, so you won’t have to wait long (or at all) to get a turn at the railing. Even if you don’t have a wide angle lens, you can still capture a beautiful scene with the houses, mountains, church, and lake.

If you’re using a smartphone with a panorama setting, now is the time to use it! One of my favorite shots from our Hallstatt itinerary was a panorama that included the entire lake and a lone swan.

Save me for later!

Explore the charming village center

Hallstatt’s central area is so beautiful, they constructed a replica of it in China. If that’s not an endorsement of the village’s charm, I don’t know what is!

With colorful buildings, flowering vines, a waterfall, and a mountain backdrop, it’s almost a surreal experience to walk through Hallstatt. Hopefully you took my advice and arrived early, because the crowds here can reach Disney World proportions.

RELATED: A Fairytale Day Trip to Castle Drachenburg and Konigswinter

Because the village is so compact, there’s no exact route you need to take. Just enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets, and check out a few highlights along the way.

At the northern end lies the Catholic Church and ossuary , a.k.a. the bone church. You can pay a couple euros to go inside, where hundreds of painted skulls are arranged in rows. The rear cemetery is free to enter and has lovely views over the lake and village.

Continuing south, you’ll find the famous Evangelist Church , whose steeple rises above the village. It’s worth poking your head in to see the 200-year-old interior.

Diagonal from the church sits the Marktplatz , lined with brightly painted restaurants and shops. There are a few benches here for resting, and a stone water fountain with fresh drinking water.

For a unique view over the village, head up the steps behind the Evangelisches Pfarramt on Oberer Marktplatz road. There are a couple landings where you can take photos over the rooftops.

As you walk down the Seestraße , you’ll see plenty of cute shops and cafes selling local treats and crafts. Be sure to turn down Am Hof  for excellent views towards the southern part of the village.

Grab lunch at Karmez

It might seem strange to recommend a kebap cart for lunch in Austria, but I promise you won’t be disappointed. Given that this is a Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip, I’m assuming you’ve had plenty of chances to eat the local cuisine.

In addition to delicious kepabs, Karmez serves up hot dogs, sausages, fries, and wraps at very reasonable prices. We ate here twice in one day. It’s that good.

Get a swan’s-eye view from the lake

If you’ve seen the swans drifting around Lake Hallstatt and felt a pang of jealousy, I have good news. You can get your very own swan’s-eye view of Hallstatt with the help of  Lake Hallstatt Explorer !

They rent boats by the half hour and hour from the dock near the Markt Zentrum boat landing. Aside from the swan paddle boats, they also rent out electric boats, row boats, and paddle boards.

Ride the funicular to the World Heritage overlook platform

The World Heritage overlook point is one of the most popular Hallstatt tourist attractions. But don’t let that dissuade you if you’re more of an “off the beaten path” type of person. The view is remarkable, and there’s a bit of optional hiking that will take you away from the crowds.

After your boating excursion, follow the main road south to the funicular platform. You’ll see signs directing you towards the Salt Mine/Skywalk as you approach the ticket office.

It’s not exactly cheap to take the funicular (€17 round trip in 2019). But for a Hallstatt day trip, you probably won’t have the time or energy to hike for two hours up the mountainside.

Once you reach the top, exit the platform and head right towards the Skywalk. This metal platform juts out over the mountainside and is a popular Hallstatt Instagram spot. From here, you can see across the lake to Obertraun, and you’ll have a bird’s-eye view over Hallstatt’s village center.

If you have time, I suggest walking up the trail towards the Salt Mine entrance. It’s a nice, peaceful respite from the crowds. There’s also a small cafe at the top of the mountain that sells snacks and bottled water if you need refreshment.

Wander through the southern village

After you ride the funicular back to the village, spend some time exploring southern Hallstatt. Tourists don’t typically roam around here, but there are lots of lovely houses and mountain views to enjoy.

The police station is particularly charming, and it’s not often you get to utter that sentence!

Relax on the scenic Badeinsel Hallstatt island

As your Hallstatt day trip winds down, head to Badeinsel park’s island for one last beautiful view.

We arrived here as the sun was setting behind the mountain. Families were enjoying a picnic in the grass, dogs were romping about… It was the perfect way to end our visit.

Ah, the age old question! You can see and do a lot with one day in Hallstatt. But for the best possible experience, I suggest staying overnight.

First, you won’t feel the need to rush around, especially if you’re relying on the ferry. It’s hard to fully enjoy a Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip when you’re constantly checking your watch and stressing about time.

Second, you can wake up early, roam the empty streets, and watch a magnificent sunrise. The greatest travel experience of my life was watching the sun come up over the mountains and slowly illuminate the village.

Finally, if you want to explore the Salt Mines , you’ll want more than one day in Hallstatt. The tour itself is over an hour, and it’s a bit of a hike from the funicular to the mine entrance. Unless you arrive very early, it will be tough to fit this into your Hallstatt itinerary.

I am so happy that we spent the night in Hallstatt! It was a relief not having to worry about catching the ferry. And we had the whole village to ourselves the next morning, which was truly unforgettable.

After a lot of research, we chose the Heritage Hotel Hallstatt for accommodation. Our spacious room had lovely views of the lake and church. And it’s right across from the ferry, so no lugging bags through the narrow, crowded streets.

Accommodation in Hallstatt is limited, so I suggest booking as far in advance as possible.

Map of Salzburg to Hallstatt day trip itinerary

Click here to view the full interactive map!

I hope this guide helps you have a fantastic day in Hallstatt. For more travel tips and inspiration, join my newsletter below.

4 thoughts on “Ultimate Salzburg to Hallstatt Day Trip Itinerary”

You said it all in the first sentence…’fairytale town’! It looks more magical in every photo, and is now on my bucket list 😀

Thanks Rasha! Hallstatt is one of those places where you just keep pinching yourself to ensure it’s real and not just a dream 🙂

What a fabulous & insightful site. Thank you. I’m contemplating Salzburg for a few days, mainly to visit Hallstatt, before heading into Italy, and being a solo female traveller was wondering if I needed to do a preset 7-8 day guided tour of the Austrian Lakes just to see this fairytale town, and No I don’t! Definitely an overnight stay seems the way to go as well. Tx again

Glad I could help with the trip planning, Evana! Spending the night in Hallstatt is definitely the way to go. It’s amazing how different the village feels in the early morning hours before day trippers arrive.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

THE 10 BEST Hallstatt Tours & Excursions

Hallstatt tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna With Skywalk

2. Hallstatt Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna

3. Hallstatt and Salt Mines Small-Group Tour from Salzburg

4. Salzburg Super Saver: Hallstatt & Original Sound of Music Tour

5. Hallstatt Half-Day Tour from Salzburg

6. Full Day Tour from Vienna: Wachau, Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg

7. Private Day Tour of Salzburg, Hallstatt and Melk from Vienna

8. From Vienna: Grand Austria Tour day trip with transfer & guide

9. Sound of Music / Hallstatt Tour

10. Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna

11. Private Full-Day Tour of Hallstatt and Salzkammergut from Salzburg with Options

12. Full-Day Minivan Tour From Salzburg to Hallstatt with 5 Fingers,Lakes&Mountains

13. Private Day Tour of Hallstatt and Salzburg from Vienna

14. DAY TRIP Salzburg to Hallstatt Via St.Gilgen, Wolfgang See & Bad Ischl

15. Hallstatt and The Eagle's Nest

16. Private Full Day Trip to Hallstatt ,Salzburg and Melk from Vienna

17. Guided excursion to Hallstatt in the Salzkammergut from Vienna

18. Private Tour Hallstatt City, Skywalk, and Salt Mine from Munich

19. Private Hallstatt Round Day Trip and Picnic in Alps from Prague

20. Full Day Round Private Tour to Hallstatt from Vienna

21. Day trip from Vienna to Hallstatt, Admont Abbey and Gmunden

22. Private Salzkammergut and Hallstatt Tour from Salzburg

23. Self-Guided Private Tour of Hallstatt. Best photo-points, panoramic views, cafes

24. Private Tour: Salzburg Lake District and Hallstatt from Salzburg

25. Hallstatt from Salzburg - 6-hour private Tour

26. Private Day Trip to Hallstatt Austria from Vienna

27. Munich Austrian Alps, Hallstatt, and Salzburg Private Day Trip

28. Private tour of Melk, Hallstatt and Salzburg from Vienna

29. Private Day Trip to Hallstat & Salt Mine from Vienna with a local

30. Hallstatt and Saint Wolfgang Full Day Private Tour from Salzburg

What travelers are saying.

• Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna With Skywalk
• Hallstatt Half-Day Tour from Salzburg
• Hallstatt and Salt Mines Small-Group Tour from Salzburg
• Full Day Tour from Vienna: Wachau, Melk, Hallstatt & Salzburg
• Hallstatt Small-Group Day Trip from Vienna
• Lake Hallstatt Explorer
• Krumbock Bootsverleih
• Hallstäettersee-Schifffahrt

Luxury Hallstatt Private Tours from Salzburg

by MCM Tours and Travel

Hallstatt Private Tours with licensed local guide

Pick the ideal hallstatt private tour for you. take a full day to explore hallstatt, or combine it with a tour of salzburg, the sound of music, the oldest salt mine on earth, or the eagle’s nest. select the 6-hour tour from salzburg if you’re short on time. in just one day, travelers can enjoy luxury transportation throughout the region, and a series of activities around some of its most iconic places and attractions. join us for your very own private tour through this unesco world heritage site mcm private sightseeing service.

Hallstatt Private Tours

Hallstatt and the lake district.

Price: 8hrs €720,-

Leave bustling Salzburg behind and start your day of exploring, with your private guide. Your journey will take you on a country road to the village of Ebenau. Continue with a stunning drive through the countryside before you arrive at the first lake, where you can soak in the beauty of its crystal-clear water surrounded by mountains. Explore Wolfgang Lake and the villages of St Gilgen, St Wolfgang, and Bad Ischl. In Hallstatt, the highlight of this day tour, you will have time for lunch (at your own expense), visiting the bone house, renting a boat on the lake, or taking the funicular to the sky view platform.

Hallstatt and the Eagle’s Nest

Price: 9hrs €810,-

UNESCO–listed Hallstatt and the Eagles’ Nest are widely considered among the Bavarian Alps’ top attractions, but organizing admission fees and transportation to visit independently takes time. On this tour, begin with pickup at your Salzburg hotel and reach both sites in one day by private vehicle. Explore Charnel House, Fuschl Castle, St. Gilgen Mozartplatz, and more with your guide, and enjoy panoramic views over the Bavarian and Austrian Alps.

Hallstatt and St. Wolfgang

Hallstatt and Saint Wolfgang make ideal day trips from Salzburg, but organizing transportation to visit independently cuts into valuable sightseeing time. On this tour, begin with pickup at your Salzburg hotel and visit both spots in one day by private luxury minivan. Delve into 7,000 years of history in UNESCO–listed Hallstatt with your guide, discover top attractions including Bad Ischl and admire uninterrupted views over serene Lake Wolfgang.

Hallstatt and Salzburg City

On this full-day private tour, you will see two top attractions, the city of Salzburg and Hallstatt! Start with a minivan tour of the city, before you make your way through the beautiful countryside of Salzburg to the first lake (Fuschlsee). Back in the car, your journey continues with a stunning drive through the Salzkammergut (lake district) and the villages of St. Gilgen and Bad Ischl. The next highlight is the world heritage village of Hallstatt. There you will have about 2 hrs to explore the town and its 7000 years of history.

Hallstatt 6 hour Private Tour

Price: 6 hrs €570,-

It can take over 2 hours to get to the lakeside village of Hallstatt from Salzburg by train. Save yourself time and hassle, and get the most out of your day trip by booking a tour with a private guide. Your guide takes you to the mill village of Ebenau, the azure Wolfgang Lake, and shows you the best of Hallstatt. Come home with amazing photos of your day in the Lake District.

Hallstatt and the oldest Salt Mine of the World

Price: 9 hrs €810,-

This is the perfect tour for nature lovers. Spend a day discovering the beauty of Austria’s lake-district, and its picturesque towns and villages. Travel between dispersed sites in a comfortable vehicle, and see multiple sites in one day. Highlights include Schloss Fuschl with the beautiful Lake Fuschl, Wolfgang Lake, Hallstatt, and Hallstatt Salt Mine which is the oldest in the world.

The Hills are Alive and Hallstatt

Price: 8 hrs €720,-

This 8-hour Tour combines the original locations from the world-famous musical “The Sound of Music” with the World Heritage Village Hallstatt. On this comprehensive 8-hour tour, see many of the original locations featured in the “Sound of Music” movie in the city and Salzkammergut lake area and experience the World Heritage Site Hallstatt, one of the most beautiful lakeside villages of the World. 

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

Privacy Overview

• Private Tours

Hallstatt Half-Day Tour - Salzburg to Salzkammergut - Tour 6

• Also available as Private tour

Do you have special requirements? Make a request

5 1/2 Hours

daily at 8.15 am from June 1st till October 15th also at 12.00 pm

English, German (Tour may be guided multilingually)

Panorama Tours Bus Terminal , Mirabellplatz / Hubert-Sattler-Gasse 1, 5020 Salzburg Arrival information

Discover the most beautiful sights of Hallstatt!

This Hallstatt Tour from Salzburg takes you to the picturesque world-famous town between Lake Hallstatt and the steep slopes of the Dachstein Massif.

Located right on the shores of Lake Hallstatt, this small town is considered one of the most beautiful lake side villages in the world. Not only does it captivate with its fabulous idyllic & fairytale-like atmosphere, Hallstatt also has a rich history that dates back to the Neolithic Age. 

Panorama Tours will take you to the magical place in the Austrian Salzkammergut - this guided Hallstatt bus tour from Salzburg is a perfect daytrip all around the year.

​​​​​​​Tour itinerary

Our Hallstatt Tour from Salzburg takes the direct route to Hallstatt. The drive through picturesque towns such as Fuschl, St. Gilgen and Strobl takes around 1.5 hours . During our 2.5 hours stay in Hallstatt you can explore the town at your own leisure. The trip back to Salzburg takes us through Gosau, Russbach and Abtenau.

The picturesque town can be explored on foot during your stay, and the history and sights offer a glimpse into the culture of the Salzkammergut region between Salzburg and Upper Austria.

Hallstatt’s rich history

Numerous archeological finds prove that humans have settled here for over 7,000 years since the Neolithic Age. The area has been populated continually since then. As early as 2000 BC salt was mined in Hallstatt. Further expansion of the salt mining over the following centuries led to a first economic golden age around 800 BC. The large burial ground in the Hochtal attests to the wealth of this era. A few decades after its discovery the period between 800 and 400 BC was renamed “Hallstatt Period” .

In 1997 Hallstatt and its surrounding area the Salzkammergut was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO.

In 2012 Hallstatt again went through the media after it became known that a hair exact replica of the town of Hallstatt exists in southern China.

5 Tips for your Hallstatt Tour

Explore hallstatt on foot.

The charming little town of Hallstatt is best explored on a walking tour. The narrow streets and quaint houses exude their own flair and allow visitors to experience the magic of Alpine culture firsthand.

The best place to start your Hallstatt walking tour is at the Lahner Steg, a small lookout point, right next to the bus parking lot. From the footbridge you can enjoy a great view of the water, the town and often the swans of Hallstatt.

From the parking lot, follow Seestraße and walk between old, charming houses and lakeside promenade. On the Seestraße you will find, among other things, a boat rental and small stores with souvenirs and typical food. 

At the end of the Seestraße you will reach the market place, which offers the heart of Hallstatt, also the famous boat of the Hallstatt Schifffahrt docks here. From the market square, Gosaumühlstrasse leads past the cemetery & church to the famous lookout point, which offers a beautiful view of the whole town.

The famous “Bone House” in Hallstatt

Don’t miss out on the “Bone House” right next to the catholic church and make it the highlight of your Hallstatt Tour! It is the only one of its kind around the world. The small building dates back to the 16 th century and houses over 600 skulls and bones of Hallstatt citizens. The local cemetery is so small that the remains of deceased persons are exhumed after 20 to 30 years to make space. Their bones and skull are then bleached, painted and placed in the Bone House. During a visit to the Beinhaus you will learn exciting insights into the culture of the small town.

Ride with the Electric Boat on the Hallstatt Lake

Rent an electric boat and go on a boat tour on Lake Hallstatt to get a different view of the picturesque town from the lake’s surface.

Viewing Platform "World Heritage View"

If you prefer a bird’s eye perspective make sure to take the funicular up to the Skywalk – an observation deck 1,100 ft. above the roofs of Hallstatt. Enjoy the breath-taking views of Hallstatt and Lake Hallstatt.

Experience the History of Hallstatt

Those interested in history will enjoy a visit to the World Heritage Museum Hallstatt . It houses an impressive collection of archeological finds and historic artifacts from the long history of Hallstatt and its surroundings. Furthermore, the Hallstatt salt mine gives insights into the history of salt mining in die Salzkammergut region.

Please note those sights as listed are not part of our tour.

Therefore, any attraction to be arranged on spot also considering the opening time during off-season.

Find more information on Hallstatt her e .

Hallstatt is a destination of most unique historical and cultural significance –  be sure not to miss this hidden gem. Book your tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg!

FAQs Hallstatt Tour

Where is hallstatt located.

Hallstatt is located right next to Lake Hallstatt in the region Salzkammergut in the federal state Upper Austria, Austria. The distance from Salzburg is approximately 70 km, 290 km from Vienna.

Why is Hallstatt so famous?

Hallstatt is a small village located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. Overall, Hallstatt's combination of history, culture, and natural beauty has made it a famous and highly-regarded destination. It is famous for several reasons:

• Rich History: Hallstatt is known for its rich history, as it has been inhabited since the early Iron Age. The village is named after the Hallstatt culture, which was a prehistoric culture that flourished in Europe from about 800 BC to 500 BC.
• Salt Mine: Hallstatt is also famous for its salt mine, which has been in operation since prehistoric times. Salt was a valuable commodity in ancient times, and the salt mine in Hallstatt was one of the most important sources of salt in Europe.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1997, Hallstatt was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The village is recognized for its unique cultural heritage, which includes its well-preserved architecture and its role as a center of salt mining and metalworking.
• Scenic Beauty: Hallstatt is located on the shores of a beautiful lake and surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Its picturesque setting has made it a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

What to do in Hallstatt?

Hallstatt offers many sights and attractions, such as Lake Hallstatt, the famous "Bone House", the observation deck Skywalk, the Hallstatt museum, etc.

Where to park in Hallstatt?

Due to the high numbers of visitors to Salzburg, it is inconvenient to visit the village with your private vehicle. Avoid parking chaos, especially on the weekends and during school holidays, by booking your Hallstatt tour with Salzburg Panorama Tours. Enjoy a worry-free and comfortable journey to and from Hallstatt with our tour!

Where was Hallstatt recreated?

In 2012, an exact replica of the Austrian town Hallstatt was opened in the South China province Guangdong - more precisely in the city Luoyang in the district of Boluo. The construction of the replica cost over 900 million USD.

How much time is there in Hallstatt?

This tour allows for a stay of 2.5 hours in Hallstatt. Should you be interested in a longer stay, consider our private full-day tour to Hallstatt .

Is there a guided tour through Hallstatt?

Please note, that there is no guided tour through Hallstatt. However, your guide will be happy to arrange a visit to the Skywalk for you.

Please notice:

We are not able to offer a pick-up service from the hotel. Please make your own way to meeting point, 15 min. prior departure.

Only Salzburg Panorama Tours is responsible to schedule the tour vehicles.

Infants up to 4 years are not entitled to their own seat.

Pets are not allowed in the tour.

Stefan Herzl

Hello, my name is Stefan Herzl and I’m really looking forward to show you my beautiful hometown Salzburg. I am a native Salzburg offering since 1976 various sightseeing tours in Salzburg & surroundings.

You might also be interested in:

Sweet temptation

Come to Salzburg and get to know this beautiful city and its typical, sweet specialties. We will delight you with "Salzburger Nockerl" and "Mozartkugeln".

Mozart Dinner Concert

Attend this performens and be taken back to Mozart’s time! Enjoy an evening likely to have taken place in 1790 - in the baroquehall - lit by candles, having a dinner based on historical recipes, listening to a concert with musicians in authentic costumes and the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 

Lake District, Hallstatt & Bad Ischl - Private Full-Day Tour

Private tour to the beautiful Lake District, Hallstatt and Bad Ischl