Grundlsee vs Traunsee – which lake to choose?

Both Grundlsee and Traunsee are stunning lakes in Austria surrounded by mountains, but they offer different experiences. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you choose:

Grundlsee

One of the most beautiful places in the world…

Known as: The Styrian Sea
Location: Styria, in the Salzkammergut region
Vibe: Quiet, peaceful, postcard-perfect

Why go to Grundlsee?

Much quieter and less touristy
Crystal-clear water ideal for swimming, kayaking, or just relaxing
Surrounded by traditional Alpine villages like Gössl and the “Heidi-like” scenes you’ll love.
Close to Altaussee and the Loser mountain – great for scenic drives or hikes
Amazing photo opportunities with wooden boathouses and glassy reflections. Let’s face it: Styria is beautifull !

Downsides:

Fewer restaurants and shops
Not much nightlife or action

Perfect if you want peace, nature, and a more “hidden gem” experience.

WHY WE RECOMMEND: Grundlsee is one of the most beautiful places in the world. If possible, staying here is a fabulous option. Read more…

It can be difficult choosing which one to visit, especially if you have limited time, but it is possible to do both: Grundlsee and Traunsee

Traunsee

Known as: Austria’s deepest lake
Location: Upper Austria, also in the Salzkammergut
Vibe: Elegant, slightly more active, still very scenic

Why go Traunsee?

The charming town of Gmunden on the north shore has cafés, boutiques, and a beautiful esplanade
Schloss Ort – a castle floating in the lake – is a major draw
You can take boat rides across the lake or even paddleboard
Surrounded by dramatic mountains like the Traunstein – great for hiking or climbing
Well-connected by train and road, easier to reach than Grundlsee

Downsides:

More popular, especially around Gmunden
Not as “untouched” as Grundlsee

Perfect if you like a mix of lakeside beauty and little town life.

Staying in Hallstatt - which is best Grundlsee or Traunsee?

Let’s try and help you with this difficult decision (although later on in the article we have the perfect solution)… If you’re staying in Hallstatt, you might want to think about the following:

So which to choose?

If you want…	Go to…
Secluded, peaceful landscapes	Grundlsee
A livelier lakeside town	Traunsee
Fewer tourists	Grundlsee
Easier access & transport	Traunsee
Fairytale castle on the lake	Traunsee
Hidden spots and Alpine charm	Grundlsee

🚗 Hallstatt to Grundlsee

Distance: About 40 km
Driving time: ±45 minutes
Route: Scenic drive via Bad Aussee
Bonus stops: You can swing by Altaussee or take a detour to the Loser Panoramastraße for Alpine views.

Driving tip: The roads are in good condition, and it’s a beautiful mountain route with very little traffic. Easy to park near the lake or in Gössl.

🚗 Hallstatt to Traunsee (Gmunden)

Distance: About 75 km
Driving time: ±1 hour 15 minutes
Route: Via Bad Ischl and along the Traun River
Bonus stops: You’ll pass by Bad Ischl, which has great cafés, and the lovely town of Ebensee at the south end of Traunsee.

Driving tip: Also an easy, scenic drive. Gmunden has more parking options but can be a bit busier in summer months.

If your time is tight:

Grundlsee is closer, quieter, and pairs nicely with a visit to Altaussee or a half-day hike. While Traunsee offers more variety if you want a castle visit, boat rides, or a lively promenade.

BUT if you’re heading to Vienna from Hallstatt and want to stop at a beautiful lake:

You can fit in both…!!!

Option 1: Via Gmunden / Traunsee

Hallstatt → Gmunden → Vienna
Total drive time: ±3.5 to 4 hours
You follow the A1 motorway after passing through Gmunden. It’s fast, smooth, and scenic in parts.
You can easily stop in Gmunden for coffee by the lake, a quick walk to Schloss Ort, or lunch by the promenade.

✅ Best if you want a quick but beautiful stop en route to Vienna.

Option 2: Via Grundlsee

Hallstatt → Grundlsee → Vienna
Total drive time: ±4.5 to 5 hours
You head into the Ausseerland region first, then cut across to reach the motorway.
More of a detour, but incredibly scenic with mountain roads and hidden lakes along the way.

✅ Best if you want a slower, off-the-beaten-track day and don’t mind taking the long road to Vienna.

Here’s a suggestion

Day 1: Visit the beautiful Grundlsee as a day trip from Hallstatt, and spend some time to enjoy the natural beauty. Then spend the evening taking in the natural beauty back in Hallstatt, and the fabulous Hallstättersee.

Day 2: Spend the morning in Hallstatt and enjoy the beauty of the town, then start your journey:

From Hallstatt, you drive through Bad Goisern and Bad Ischl
Then you pass Ebensee, which sits on the southern tip of Traunsee
Continue along the lake’s edge toward Gmunden, the main town on the northern shore of Traunsee
From Gmunden, you get onto the A1 motorway, which takes you straight to Vienna