...and 10 free things to do
Hallstatt may be famous for its picture-perfect lake views, but there are plenty of things to do in Hallstatt beyond taking photographs from the waterfront. The best way to experience this beautiful Austrian village is to slow down, wander its narrow streets, look beyond the postcard views and give yourself time to enjoy the lake, mountains and little corners that are easy to miss.
Slow your pace for a moment in Hallstatt. Let the calm of the lake and mountains settle in. Stay a night or two and soak up the early mornings and late evenings, before day-trippers arrive and the village gets busy. Let’s start by shopping for a souvenir:
You won’t see flashy shopping streets lined with big brands here — instead, look closer and you’ll spot small local shops, often family-run, with a warm, personal feel. Look for handmade ceramics, traditional salt products, and small souvenirs you simply won’t get anywhere else. It’s worth taking the time to browse.
You might find something unique you never expected…
The big question is: Should you stay over for a few nights, or just do a day-trip? Read more…
One of the most disappointing parts of our visit was discovering that not all shops in Hallstatt accept cards. We started picking out souvenirs in a charming little curio shop, only to hear “sorry, no card.” With no time to go back later, we left Hallstatt empty-handed. Don’t let the same thing happen to you — carry some cash. There is an ATM in town, but it’s best to be prepared so you don’t miss out on bringing home something special.
There are plenty of things to do in Hallstatt for a first visit, from exploring the historic centre and visiting the famous Bone House to taking a boat onto Hallstätter See and discovering beautiful viewpoints. I’ve also included a few free things to do, because you don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy one of Austria’s most beautiful villages.
Many of these are often overlooked by tourists only interested in ticking of their list of things to do:
The Bone House (Beinhaus)
Inside the small St. Michael’s Chapel, you’ll find over 600 artistically painted skulls stacked in neat rows. Locals used to reuse graves, and this is how they honored their dead. A little eerie, a lot fascinating if you’re into that kind of thing.
Try Kaiserschmarrn at Rudolfsturm
This alpine lookout café serves fluffy, caramelized pancake shreds with plum jam. Sit outside for a view straight over the lake and valley. Much quieter than the main town square. It’s spectacular – the views unbeatable – and one of the best photo opportunities of Hallstatt.
Walk down from the Salt Mine on the Panorama Trail
Instead of taking the funicular down, hike the wooded trail with scenic spots overlooking the rooftops. It’s peaceful, especially early in the morning.
Row a Traditional Wooden Boat at Sunrise
Rent a flat-bottomed boat from the lakefront. The water is like glass before 9am, and you’ll have the town’s reflection to yourself.
Explore the Hidden Staircase Behind the Church
Go around the back of the Evangelical Church. There’s a narrow, steep stone staircase that locals use to reach the upper paths. It’s atmospheric and almost always empty.
Browse a Curiosity Shop
These tiny shops sells everything from hand-bound books to old maps, pressed alpine flowers, fridge magnets, toys and many more items like, art made by local craftsmen. Support local while you’re there.
Visit the Market in Bad Goisern (10 mins drive)
If you’re staying overnight, visit this authentic nearby town on market day (usually Fridays). No tourist traps—just local cheeses, sausages, and mountain honey.
Take the Ferry From Obertraun at Golden Hour
Catch the ferry across the lake from the quieter side (Obertraun). The ride is short, but the late afternoon light on Hallstatt’s colorful houses is magic.
Go Paddleboarding or Swimming From Obertraun Beach
Most people never think to swim here. But across the lake is a little lakeside “beach” with SUP rentals and calm water in summer. Great for a relaxed afternoon.
Eat fresh fish for dinner
At a local guesthouse or lakeside tavern, ask for the local whitefish from Lake Hallstatt, usually grilled simply with herbs. This is how locals eat. Doing a sunset dinner with lake views, is truly special.
Some of the best things to do in Hallstatt cost absolutely nothing. Take a walk along the lake, explore the narrow streets, admire the colourful houses and gardens, find a quiet bench with a view and simply enjoy the atmosphere. These are the little experiences that can make your visit feel much more relaxed, especially if you arrive early or stay overnight.
"When you stay overnight in Hallstatt, you give yourself more time to enjoy everything this beautiful place offers. There’s no need to rush — you can wander along the lake, enjoy a peaceful dinner next to the water with local food, or explore quiet side streets that day-trippers often miss."
One of the best tips I can give for enjoying the things to do in Hallstatt is to stay overnight if your budget allows. The village feels very different once the day-trippers have gone home. Early morning and evening are wonderful times to walk beside the lake, when the streets are quieter and the mountains are beautifully reflected in the water. For me, one of the most memorable views was simply looking across the lake as the sun was going down. Read more >>>
With so many things to do in Hallstatt, you could easily fill a day or two here. But don’t try to tick everything off your list. Leave some time to wander, stop for a drink, enjoy the lake and look up at the mountains. Hallstatt is one of those destinations where some of the best memories come from the moments you didn’t plan.