Lake Hallstatt East Bank Trail
A postcard-perfect Austrian village nestled beside a serene lake, surrounded by majestic Alps. Explore charming streets and breathtaking vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Lake Hallstatt East Bank Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A postcard-perfect Austrian village nestled beside a serene lake, surrounded by majestic Alps. Explore charming streets and breathtaking vistas.
"Hallstatt is an absolute gem, a fairytale town that truly lives up to the hype, despite the crowds."
Beat the Crowds
Arrive early or stay late to avoid peak tour bus times.
Wear Comfy Shoes
The trails can be rocky; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hallstatt Skywalk "Welterbeblick"
Above Hallstatt
Panoramic views of the village, lake, and surrounding Alps. A truly breathtaking vista.

Hallstätter Wasserfall
Near the village center
A beautiful waterfall cascading down the mountainside, adding a magical touch to the town.

Lake Hallstatt East Bank Trail
East side of Lake Hallstatt
A scenic walk offering serene lake views and charming glimpses of traditional Austrian architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Postcard View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beat the Crowds
Arrive early or stay late to avoid peak tour bus times.
Wear Comfy Shoes
The trails can be rocky; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring.
Hallstatt Austria Hiking
Explore Beyond the Main View
Wander off the beaten path for more authentic experiences and fewer people.
Check Skywalk Tickets
Book Skywalk tickets in advance, especially during busy periods, as they can sell out.
The beautiful town of Hallstatt, Austria
Tips
from all over the internet
Beat the Crowds
Arrive early or stay late to avoid peak tour bus times.
Wear Comfy Shoes
The trails can be rocky; sturdy footwear is a must for exploring.
Explore Beyond the Main View
Wander off the beaten path for more authentic experiences and fewer people.
Check Skywalk Tickets
Book Skywalk tickets in advance, especially during busy periods, as they can sell out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hallstatt is widely praised for its breathtaking beauty and fairytale charm, with visitors loving the picturesque lake, charming village, and stunning mountain backdrops. However, many find the experience can be marred by overwhelming crowds, leading some to suggest exploring alternative viewpoints or visiting during off-peak times to truly appreciate its magic.
"Depending on everyone's expectations, the experience can be different. To me, attraction is to walk alone the way of varieties of small wooden houses, balconies, yards with flowers along the road, the fall itself is plain."
Zemin Hu (old skool boy)
"Good but compared to other things and viewpoint, it's not that Wow. But adds an awesome soothing water aound to the great views of hallstat"
KUMAR MAYANK
"Hallstätter Wasserfall is an absolute gem in the stunning town of Hallstatt. The breathtaking views of the waterfall and surrounding landscape make for incredible photographs and a truly unforgettable experience. Accessible by a short hike, this natural wonder is a must-see for nature lovers and anyone visiting Hallstatt. Don't forget to wear sturdy footwear, as the path can be a bit rocky. Overall, a magical spot that adds to the enchanting atmosphere of this fairytale-like town.
Note- Many just stop near the car park one, it's much higher and more beautiful, so explore bit more ;)"
Sumeet Dimri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by train from Vienna to Hallstatt station, followed by a short ferry ride across the lake to the village. Alternatively, you can take a train to Obertraun and then a bus or walk. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, Hallstatt is well-connected by public transport. Trains run regularly from major cities like Vienna and Salzburg, and a ferry service connects the train station to the village.
Yes, Hallstatt is a popular day trip destination from Salzburg. The journey by train takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way, often involving a change.
Hallstatt village is very walkable. Most attractions are within easy reach on foot. For the East Bank Trail, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Yes, bus routes connect Hallstatt to nearby towns and transport hubs, including Obertraun and Bad Ischl. The ferry is the primary connection from the train station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the village and walking around the lake is generally free. However, attractions like the Hallstatt Skywalk and the salt mines require separate tickets.
Ticket prices for the Hallstatt Skywalk can vary, but typically range from €10-€15 for adults. It's advisable to check the official website for current pricing and to book in advance.
The Hallstätter Wasserfall is accessible as part of exploring the village and its surroundings. There isn't a separate entrance fee to view the waterfall from the designated paths.
While some tickets might be available on arrival, it's highly recommended to book tickets for popular attractions like the Skywalk in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out.
Opening hours vary by attraction and season. The Hallstatt Skywalk typically operates from spring to autumn. Always check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. The 'golden hour' before sunset can create magical shots of the lake and village.
The classic postcard view is from the viewpoint near the ferry dock. The East Bank Trail also provides stunning perspectives of the lake and village. The Skywalk offers a unique aerial perspective.
Yes, the Hallstätter Wasserfall is a picturesque spot for photos. Be mindful that some views might be partially obstructed by mesh, but the overall beauty is still capture-able.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Hallstatt due to its popularity and the need to preserve the tranquil atmosphere. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details in the village or distant peaks. A tripod can help with low-light shots.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Hallstatt is undeniably beautiful, offering a fairytale-like atmosphere. However, its popularity means it can be very crowded. Visiting off-season or during less busy hours can enhance the experience.
The East Bank Trail offers a peaceful walk with stunning views of Lake Hallstatt and the village. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty.
With its picturesque setting and charming atmosphere, Hallstatt can be romantic, especially outside of peak hours. Consider staying overnight to experience its quieter side.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Layers are recommended as the weather can change. Bring rain gear, especially outside of summer.
A half-day is often sufficient for a quick visit to see the main sights. However, to truly soak in the atmosphere and explore more, an overnight stay is recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶 Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Hallstatt's Crowds
Beyond timing, exploring the less-trodden paths can also help. While the iconic viewpoint is a must-see, venturing onto the East Bank Trail provides a more tranquil perspective of the lake and village, allowing for a more personal connection with the scenery. Some visitors suggest that while the waterfall is beautiful, it's worth exploring further up for more impressive views, rather than just stopping at the easily accessible lower points.
The Allure of the East Bank Trail
Walking this trail allows for a different perspective of the iconic Hallstatt landscape. You'll encounter charming wooden houses, well-maintained gardens, and the serene waters of the lake. It’s a perfect opportunity for leisurely strolls, photography, and simply soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as the path, while generally well-maintained, can have some uneven sections.
Hallstätter Wasserfall: A Natural Gem
While the waterfall itself is beautiful, some visitors note that parts of the view might be partially obscured by mesh, which can be a slight disappointment. However, the advice from seasoned visitors is to explore beyond the initial viewpoints near the parking area. Ascending higher can reveal more dramatic and impressive sections of the falls, making the effort worthwhile. The path to the waterfall is generally accessible, but sturdy footwear is recommended due to potentially rocky terrain.
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