Hallstatt: the Hidden Gem of Austria

Lake Hallstatt

Hallstatt is located in Austria’s Salzkammergut lake district, a scenic wonder that has enthralled nature lovers for centuries. Before  there was Rome, there is Hallstatt. One of Europe’s oldest town, Hallstatt originated as a salt mining center and it’s name means “Place of Salt”.

How to get there:

From Salzburg to Hallstatt

the fastest and cheapest option is to ride bus no. 150 10.60 euros > train 4.30 euros > ferry 2.50 euros

From Salzburg city center ride a bus no. 150 until Bad Ischl. If you wanted to visit this place for one day I suggest buying a “Tageskarte” (worth 21.20 Euros) from the bus driver. Bad Ischl is a small beautiful country side town of Salzburg, so we spent 1 hour getting around the town and we tried the carriage for 10 Euros.

In Bad Ischl board a train going to Hallstatt. The train station is actually not in Hallstatt, you’ll still have to make a trip across the lake on a ferry named Stefanie before you can set a foot on the old town. Crossing the lake on the Stefanie ship is perhaps the best part of the journey!

Accomodation:

We didn’t stayed in Hallstatt because we can go around the old town for a day trip but since I’m interested to know about hotels and cheap accommodation I asked the locals and some backpackers around the old town. They suggested that the nearest and cheapest accommodation that you can find in Hallstatt is W&S Executive Apartment  and Authentic Hallstatt. The room for two will cost between 40 to 50 Euros per night. It’s impossible to find cheap hostels near the old town so the only option is to find a hotel. The best website for room reservation is booking.com.

Top Things To Do:

1. Hallstatt Lahn Viewpoint – The main Hallstatt bus stop is the perfect place to start our free walking tour. This is also a great spot to get up close and personal with the swan’s of Hallstatt.
2. Visit Salt Mine
3. Panorama Funicular
4. Rudolph’s tower and skywalk
5. Lake Hallstatt Stroll
6. ride a boat
7. Eat in Bräugasthof Restaurant and Guesthouse
8. Archaeological Excavations
9. Hallstatt City Museum
10. Chill at the Market Square

Beautiful places in Hallstatt that you shouldn’t miss!