Hallstatt is renowned as one of Europe’s most captivating villages. Its breathtaking location by a picturesque lake and nestled amidst steep slopes adds to its allure, making it a truly Instagram-worthy destination. Chinese even replicated that village in China!!
During our recent trip to Austria, Hallstatt naturally found its place in our itinerary. In the video below, you can witness our firsthand experience and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hallstatt.
In this post, let me explain about my thoughts on visiting Hallstatt.
Where is Hallstatt?
Hallstatt is situated in the heart of Austria, offering a central location for travellers. Here are the distances from some major towns:
- Vienna: Approximately 300 km away from Hallstatt.
- Salzburg: Located about 70 km from Hallstatt.
- Innsbruck: Positioned around 250 km from Hallstatt.
What are the transportation options in Hallstatt?
Self-driving offers the utmost convenience and flexibility for travel. Many tourists also arrive in tourist buses. While there is a train option, it stops a little distance away from Hallstatt.
Is it possible to drive into Hallstatt?
Unfortunately, you cannot drive your car into Hallstatt itself. Instead, you’ll need to park your car in one of the designated parking lots and make your way into the village on foot. It’s worth noting that parking can be expensive, typically costing around 3 Euros per hour. However, the price per hour decreases for longer durations of parking.
During our visit, we parked in the P2 parking area located near the village. As we travelled during April, which is considered the shoulder season, we didn’t encounter any issues finding parking at 11 in the morning. However, by 1 PM, P2 was already full, as parking spaces closer to the village tend to fill up quickly. In the summer, parking can be a major challenge in Hallstatt.
How many days should you spend in Hallstatt?
The duration of your stay in Hallstatt depends on your preferences. We personally did it as a day trip while driving from Vienna to Innsbruck. During our visit, we had enough time to explore the skywalk, leisurely walk around the village, and spend some time there.
If you wish to enjoy the evening views, take a salt mine tour, and visit nearby areas, it is recommended to stay overnight in Hallstatt. Keep in mind that prices for everything in Hallstatt are generally on the expensive side.
What activities can you do in Hallstatt?
In Hallstatt, there are several enjoyable activities to partake in:
- Take pleasure in the picturesque village, as each building exudes beauty reminiscent of a scene from a fairy tale.
- Embark on a leisurely ride on the lake situated next to the village.
- Explore the skywalk and consider taking a salt mine tour.
- Visit the museums in Hallstatt to delve into the local history and culture.
- Venture into the Dachstein Mountains for the stunning “5 Fingers” viewpoint and various hiking opportunities.
When is the best time to visit?
Hallstatt experiences an influx of visitors during the summer months of June, July, and August, resulting in high levels of crowding. The shoulder months of April-May and September-October strike a better balance between crowd sizes and favourable weather conditions. For those seeking a snowy experience, winter months are ideal. Hallstatt possesses its unique charm in every season.
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