The Hallstatt and Salzkammergut region offers an extraordinary range of activities for every type of traveler. Whether you're drawn to cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in stunning scenery, you'll find plenty to fill your days. Here's our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in this remarkable corner of Austria.

Historic & Cultural Attractions

Hallstatt Salt Mine (Salzwelten)

The world's oldest salt mine has been in operation for over 7,000 years, and today visitors can explore its fascinating underground world. The tour includes a funicular railway ride up the mountain, two miners' slides (including the longest wooden slide in Europe at 64 meters), and an underground salt lake illuminated with stunning light displays.

Hallstatt Salt Mine entrance
The historic entrance to Salzwelten Hallstatt, the world's oldest salt mine

The mine also features the "Bronze Age Cinema," an immersive experience that brings to life the prehistoric miners who first extracted salt from these mountains. Allow at least 2-3 hours for the complete experience, including the funicular ride and time at the Skywalk viewing platform.

Hallstatt Skywalk

Located near the salt mine entrance, the Skywalk is a viewing platform that extends 350 meters above the village. On clear days, you can see the entire Dachstein mountain range reflected in the lake below. The platform is accessible via the salt mine funicular, making it easy to combine both attractions in a single visit.

Beinhaus (Bone House)

One of Hallstatt's most unusual attractions, the Bone House in St. Michael's Chapel contains over 1,200 skulls, many painted with decorative designs and the names and dates of the deceased. This tradition arose from the limited cemetery space in the village and continues to fascinate visitors today.

Hallstatt Museum

The World Heritage Museum tells the story of 7,000 years of human settlement in the region. Highlights include archaeological finds from the Bronze and Iron Ages, including tools, textiles, and ornaments that were remarkably preserved in the salt deposits.

Outdoor Adventures

Dachstein Ice Cave

One of the most spectacular natural wonders in Austria, the Dachstein Ice Cave features massive ice formations created over thousands of years. Guided tours lead visitors through cavernous halls filled with ice sculptures, frozen waterfalls, and otherworldly formations. The cave maintains a temperature of 0C year-round, so warm clothing is essential even in summer.

Dachstein mountain view
The Dachstein massif as seen from Hallstatt, home to ice caves and Alpine adventures

Hiking Trails

The region offers hiking for all abilities, from gentle lakeside walks to challenging mountain ascents. Popular routes include:

  • Echern Valley Trail: A moderate 3-hour hike to the Waldbachstrub waterfall and glacier mill
  • World Heritage Trail: A 6-hour circuit through forest and meadows with panoramic lake views
  • 5 Fingers Hike: A cable car-assisted route to the famous viewing platform on Krippenstein
  • Schafberg Summit: A challenging full-day hike, or take the historic cog railway

Hiking Safety

Mountain weather can change rapidly. Always check conditions before setting out, bring appropriate clothing and footwear, and let someone know your planned route. Many trails are well-marked, but a good map or GPS is recommended for longer routes.

Water Activities

The region's many lakes offer excellent opportunities for water sports and relaxation:

  • Swimming: Wolfgangsee and Attersee are particularly popular for their warm waters
  • Boat Tours: Regular ferries and private tours operate on most major lakes
  • Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddling: Equipment rental available at several locations
  • Fishing: Permits required, available locally for lake and river fishing

Cycling

Well-maintained cycling paths connect many villages around the lakes. The relatively flat terrain around most lakes makes cycling accessible for families, while mountain bikers can find challenging trails in the surrounding hills. E-bike rentals are increasingly available, making it easier to cover longer distances.

Scenic Experiences

Schafberg Railway

This historic cog railway has been carrying passengers up the Schafberg mountain since 1893. The 35-minute journey climbs from Wolfgangsee to the summit at 1,783 meters, where a panoramic restaurant offers views across the entire Salzkammergut. On clear days, you can see as far as the Bavarian Alps.

Lake Cruises

Ferry services operate on all major lakes, providing both practical transport and scenic cruising. The Hallstatt ferry crossing is particularly memorable, while Wolfgangsee offers longer cruises with stops at various lakeside villages. Some boats feature traditional paddle-wheel designs dating back over a century.

5 Fingers Viewing Platform

Perhaps the most dramatic viewpoint in the region, the 5 Fingers platform consists of five steel walkways extending over a 400-meter drop on Krippenstein mountain. Each "finger" offers a different perspective on the mountains and lakes below. Accessible via the Dachstein cable car, it can be combined with visits to the ice caves.

Year-Round Activities

Winter Sports

When snow blankets the region, the focus shifts to winter activities. The Dachstein glacier offers skiing from October through May, while the Krippenstein area has excellent freeride terrain. Cross-country skiing trails wind through valleys, and ice skating is possible on frozen lakes during particularly cold winters.

Christmas Markets

During advent season, Hallstatt and surrounding towns host traditional Christmas markets. The Hallstatt market, set against the illuminated village reflected in the lake, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, traditional crafts, and festive music in one of Europe's most picturesque settings.

Day Trips from Hallstatt

Salzburg

Mozart's birthplace is approximately 75 kilometers from Hallstatt. The baroque old town, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and The Sound of Music locations make it worth a full day's visit. Regular bus services connect Bad Ischl with Salzburg.

Gosausee

This glacial lake offers some of the best views of the Dachstein glacier and is excellent for hiking. The reflection of the mountains in the still lake waters creates perfect photography opportunities.

Planning Your Activities

With so much to see and do, prioritizing your activities based on your interests and the time available is essential. For a first visit of 2-3 days, we recommend:

  • Day 1: Explore Hallstatt village, salt mine, and Skywalk
  • Day 2: Dachstein ice caves and 5 Fingers platform
  • Day 3: Lake cruise and visit to St. Wolfgang or Bad Ischl

For longer stays, add hiking in the Echern Valley, a trip to Gosausee, and time to simply relax by the lakes. Many visitors find themselves wanting to return, so consider this first trip as an introduction to a region that rewards repeated exploration.

Check our guide on when to visit for seasonal activity availability, or browse accommodation options to plan your stay.