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| Skywalk view |
Before You Go: Essential Tips
- Respect the privacy of local people: they are very tired of many visitors. If there is no necessity, please choose another destination.
- Bring Cash: you'll need cash for the ferry ticket, which is mandatory to reach Hallstatt from the train station.
- Check the Weather: Hallstatt is in the mountains, so pack a raincoat just in case.
- Snacks and Water: The train ride is long, so bring some snacks and water to stay comfortable.
- Advance Booking: book salt mine tour and funicular tickets in advance to save time.
- Comfortable Shoes: you will be moving around a lot.
- Time Management: keep a close eye on the time to ensure you don’t miss your return train.
Tips for Buying Train Tickets
- Website: www.oebb.at (better with app)
- Duration and Cost: Try to find the shortest and cheapest option. Tickets are pricey, ranging from €50 to €60 one way (up to €120 round trip). Check out this guide on how to get up to 50% off train tickets in Austria: Affordable Train Travel Options in Austria: A Complete Guide
- Seat Reservation: Highly recommended due to the long journey time.
Recommended Train Options
For a direct train from Vienna to Hallstatt, take the Intercity IC 1018, which departs at 8:40 AM and arrives at 11:54 AM, with a total travel time of 3 hours and 14 minutes. (stand 06.09.24, please recheck if this option is still available later)
Alternatively, if you want to start your day early, you can take the train departing at 5:55 AM and arriving at 9:24 AM with a connection at Attnang-Puchheim.
Arriving in Hallstatt
Upon arrival at the train station, you'll find yourself across the lake from Hallstatt. Don’t worry—you just need to hop on a ferry to cross Hallstatt Lake. Enjoy the scenic ride, which is short but stunning. Check the ferry schedule here; ferries run approximately every 30 minutes and usually sync with train arrivals.
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| ferry ride |
By 10 AM, you'll be in Hallstatt!
Things to Do in Hallstatt
Open this map I’ve saved with must-see spots and hikes in Hallstatt. You can navigate directly to each location from the list. Don’t miss the iconic photo spot everyone loves, which you can find here.
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| famous viewpoint |
Returning to Vienna
If you want to catch the direct train back to Vienna (InterCity 1019), which departs at 18:04, make sure to take the ferry at 17:15. (stand 06.09.2024, recheck is still available)
Arrive at the ferry station by 18:00 (6 PM) to ensure you don’t miss the last boat. You'll be back in Vienna by 22:00 (10 PM)
Approximate Day Plan:
1. Exploring the Village and the Lake (1.5 - 2 hours)
- Walking Around: Start with a leisurely stroll through the village. Hallstatt is small and picturesque, with charming streets, beautiful houses, and shops to explore.
- Lakeside: Spend some time by the lake, take photos, and soak in the views. The village itself is very photogenic, especially the central square and the waterfront.
2. Hallstatt Skywalk "Welterbeblick" (1 hour)
- Getting There: The Skywalk is accessible via a funicular railway. The funicular station is located near the village center.
- Visit Duration: Allocate about an hour for the Skywalk. This includes the funicular ride up, time to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views, and the ride back down.
3. Salt Mine Visit (2.5 - 3 hours), or hike to waterfalls (pinned on the map)
- Tour Duration: The salt mine tour takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s advisable to check the schedule in advance and book tickets online if possible.
- Time Buffer: Account for the time needed to get to the salt mine entrance from the funicular station, as well as any waiting time for tours.
4. Lunch (1 hour)
- Dining Options: There are several restaurants in Hallstatt where you can enjoy a meal. Choose one that fits into your schedule and preferences. It might be wise to make a reservation if you have a particular place in mind, as Hallstatt can get quite busy.
Example Itinerary
- 10:00 AM: Arrive in Hallstatt
- 10:00 - 11:30 AM: Walk around the village and along the lake
- 11:30 - 12:30 AM: Visit the Hallstatt Skywalk
- 12:30 - 01:30 PM: Lunch in the village
- 01:30 - 4:00 PM: Salt Mine tour or hikes to waterfalls
- 5:00 PM: Depart from Hallstatt
Enjoy your trip!