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There are several reasons Hallstatt, a hamlet in Austria’s Salzkammergut region, is one of the most-visited destinations in the country. For many travelers, its storybook appearance is the primary draw. “This postcard-worthy destination… delights with its colorful houses, a historic market square, the country\’s largest bone house, and a 7,000-year-old salt mine that is still active today and fun to tour,” says Michaela Muhr, an Austrian guide with ToursByLocals.

Others are interested in its historical significance; in 1997, Hallstatt was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a distinction partially granted due to the village’s preserved architectural style, cultural practices, and ancient traditions, which can be traced back to the Iron Age (around 800 B.C.E.). No matter what inspires your trip, though, Dr. Silke Seemann of Hallstatt Hideaway encourages visitors to “feel the authenticity of this place and the breathtaking beauty of the nature.” “The history of this place is magic, and when you walk up the mountain or deep into Echerntal, you can feel it,” she says.

According to Muhr, it’s best to visit between September and May, although the wintertime is particularly special thanks to blankets of snow and festive events. If you time your trip right, you can even witness Hallstatt’s Christmas Market, a one-day event that takes place annually on Dec. 8.

TOP 5 CAN’T MISS

• Book a room at Heritage Hotel Hallstatt — and request to stay in the Stocker House, known as the village’s oldest secular building.
• Discover Hallstatt’s unique history and culture on a tour of the Salzwelten salt mine.
• Make your way to the World Heritage Skywalk, where you’ll get a panoramic view of Lake Hallstatt.
• Dine on homestyle Austrian cuisine made with local ingredients at Bräugasthof.
• Experience a winter wonderland, complete with traditional customs and delicacies, at the Hallstatt Christmas Market.

Best Things to Do

Take a boat tour of Lake Hallstatt.

“For a special view of Hallstatt and the surrounding region, visitors should take a boat trip on Lake Hallstatt. Going by private or public boat allows you to appreciate the scenic beauty from a unique vantage point and avoid the bustling crowds in the village streets,” explains Muhr. For more info on boat tours and rentals, head to the Hallstatt destination website.

Visit the famous salt mine.

For Dr. Seemann, visiting the salt mine, Salzwelten Hallstatt, helps visitors understand “why Hallstatt is famous” and the impact the past has on the present-day destination and its residents. The mine has a 7,000-year history, making it the oldest salt mine in the world. Visitors can tour the prehistoric tunnels, watch an animation of the miners’ work routine, and head down the 64-meter-long miners’ slide.

Discover the Hallstatt Charnel House.

Head inside St. Michael’s Chapel, a structure that dates back to the 12th century, to see the charnel house, or “bone house.” Here, you’ll find a collection of more than 600 painted skulls, a practice that originated in the early 1700s. The church itself is free to enter, but the bone house requires a small entrance fee.

Best Restaurants

Seehotel Grüner Baum

Many of Hallstatt’s best restaurants are associated with its most popular hotels. Case in point: Seehotel Grüner Baum. “Located right in the center of town, Seehotel Grüner Baum offers the perfect spot with its terrace overlooking the lake,” says Muhr. Given the location, guests can expect a menu with several fresh fish dishes.

Bräugasthof

Want to sample some wiener schnitzel or apple strudel? Grab a lakeside table at Bräugasthof Hallstatt, a traditional inn that describes its menu as “homestyle Austrian cuisine with innovative ideas.” Past guests applaud the “warm and friendly” staff as well as the “spectacular” and “breathtaking” views of the lake.

Day Trip to Hallstatt

Some travelers try to fit Hallstatt in as a day trip from Salzburg, although, according to Muhr, you’ll want to “plan on spending at least eight hours exploring Hallstatt, no matter where you\’re traveling from.” Dr. Seemann also notes that there are some sustainability concerns with just visiting for the day. Hallstatt continues to experience over-tourism, a problem that has been especially pertinent since it was given the UNESCO World Heritage distinction. If your schedule allows, aim to spend at least a night or two in the village.

How to Get Around

Bring your walking shoes to Hallstatt, as they’ll be your primary means of transportation. “Hallstatt is so small that there are no cars allowed. Walking through town or taking a boat ride around Hallstatt is the best way to explore the area,” suggests Muhr.