Viewpoint Hallstatt – Best Views Around the Village

Viewpoint Hallstatt

Viewpoint Hallstatt – it is so incredibly charming town it would be very difficult to get bad pictures there. Some viewpoints are so popular that it can be really hard to be there alone. On the other side you can find some unique spots for your photo shoot.

1. An iconic view of the beautiful town Hallstatt.

The most famous — and arguably the most beautiful — spot in all of Hallstatt is right in front of the Haus Cian. Why? Because it offers that iconic photo opportunity with a stunning view of the historic church framed perfectly against the sparkling lake. This is truly the picture Hallstatt is known for.

To capture this view at its best, it’s definitely worth coming early in the morning. Not only will the light be ideal for photos, but you’ll also avoid the crowds. Getting to this spot can be a challenge — especially the parking, which is notoriously demanding — so plan accordingly.

Discover more about this peaceful retreat and why Haus Cian is the perfect base for exploring Hallstatt’s tranquility in our article: Haus Cian – Discover Tranquility.

2. Skywalk view

A beautiful viewpoint located directly above the village, the Hallstatt Skywalk is easily accessible by a comfortable railway cable car. When purchasing your ticket at the base, you can also decide whether to include a visit to the historic Hallstatt salt mine — a fascinating experience not to be missed. Learn more about the salt mine and the cable car options such as the Salzbergbahn Hallstatt or check out Hallstatt funicular tickets, prices, and tips for a smooth journey up the mountain.

Upstairs, there’s a restaurant with a terrace offering stunning panoramic views and delicious meals. Timing your visit to avoid crowds will make the experience even more special. You can read more about enjoying a meal with a view in our article about Rudolfsturm – The Beauty of Hallstatt Lake with a Delicious Meal. In fact, some visitors say the view from the restaurant terrace is even more beautiful than the Skywalk itself. If you’re in the area, be sure to include it in your plans. Discover more about the Skywalk’s unique design and breathtaking views in our detailed Skywalk of Hallstatt – Lake and Village from Above article. If you prefer a more active approach, see how to reach the Skywalk by foot for an short, steep hike.

It would be interesting to know what percentage of visitors reach the Skywalk on foot just to take photos!

Want to fit this experience into a full day? Check out this comprehensive Hallstatt itinerary to make the most of your visit.


👉 Explore the 5 Fingers Platform for one of the most dramatic views in Austria

3. Marktplatz – towncenter Hallstatt viewpoint

A fabulous square in a fairy-tale town — the Marktplatz in Hallstatt is charming and cozy. Although it’s not very big, the square looks incredibly picturesque, with several shops, inviting cafés, and a monument right in the middle. If you’re staying at the Seehotel Grüner Baum, you’ll be treated to a wonderful view of this lively square right from your balcony — the perfect way to experience the heart of Hallstatt any time of day.

From the moment we step foot in the Marktplatz, we couldn’t stop gazing around. Truly it is really small, cozy and magical. It feels like inside a fairytale. Simply words can’t describe enough.

4. Bathisland Viewpoint Hallstatt – Panoramablick Hallstatt lake

I love this one — the Bathing Island (or Badeinsel) gives you a 360° view of Hallstatt’s lake and peaks. It’s the kind of spot where you can just sit on a bench, breathe, and watch the mountains reflect on the water.

🌅 Best times? Early morning or right before sunset. Bring a blanket. Watch the light change.

🎠 There’s a playground nearby if you’re with kids. My son once chased ducks here for 20 minutes straight while I took photos.
🔗 Swimming & Lakeside Tips

5. Hallstatt from Five fingers viewpoint

This place is not directly in Hallstatt, but if you’re in the area, you can’t miss it. The 5 Fingers platform on Mount Krippenstein offers one of the most dramatic alpine views in Austria — standing at 2,108 meters above sea level.You can compare it with the Skywalk viewpoint and decide which one captures your heart more. Some prefer the 5 Fingers for its thrill and panoramic range, while others favor the Skywalk for being directly above Hallstatt.Getting there is easy with the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car from Obertraun, and you can even combine the visit with Dachstein Ice Cave, Mammoth Cave, or a hike to the Dachstein Shark or Welterbespirale panoramic platform.



6. Viewpoint Hallstatt – waterfall / Waldbachstrub wasserfall

The Waldbachstrub Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction near Hallstatt, especially spectacular after rainfall when the power of the water is truly mesmerizing. This 90-meter-high waterfall cascades dramatically over three levels into a deep gorge, creating a breathtaking sight in the middle of the forest.

It’s a pleasant hike through beautiful nature, offering peace and scenery that feels worlds away from the tourist buzz. Adventurous hikers can extend the trail to form a circuit that climbs up toward the Salzberg and the Skywalk Welterbeblick before looping back down to Hallstatt. Be prepared, though — this route is more demanding.

The waterfall is part of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut and often regarded as one of its hidden gems. Learn more about the hike, access, and views in our full article on the Waldbachstrub Waterfall.

7. Pictures from lake / from electric boat, kayak or ferry

Pictures from the Lake – By Electric Boat, Kayak, or Ferry

The views of Hallstatt from the lake are absolutely breathtaking. Seeing the iconic village reflected in the still alpine water is something every visitor should experience.

You can rent an electric boat for a peaceful ride at your own pace, or simply hop on a ferry to enjoy a scenic crossing with panoramic views of the church spire, colorful houses, and surrounding mountains.

Whether you’re capturing the morning or golden evening light, viewing Hallstatt from the water offers an unforgettable perspective. Don’t forget your camera — you’ll want to relive this moment again and again.

8. Winter views of Hallstatt

During the winter months, Hallstatt can be extremely frigid — but the snow-covered scenery is absolutely magical. The village turns into a real-life fairytale, and it’s no wonder that the creators of Frozen were inspired by Hallstatt in winter.

If you’re visiting in December, don’t miss the chance to taste mulled wine at the Hallstatt Christmas market. It adds to the festive magic!

👉 Dive deeper into the magic of Hallstatt in winter here.

9. Hallstatt night views

Hallstatt completely transforms after the sun sets, and the atmosphere becomes incredibly tranquil. Spending multiple nights in this picturesque village is highly encouraged if you want to get the full experience. Capturing photographs at dusk or after dark can be particularly stunning, no matter if you’re in the middle of the main square, near the lake, or on the skywalk viewing platform. In other words if you like town during day time, you fall in love with Hallstatt at night.

The town of Hallstatt, Austria is a charming place. It’s the ideal spot to photograph in the northern Alp region and a great place to discover the beauty of Austria. From the salt mine, to the booming town center, to the world-famous lake, there are many different ways to enjoy this charming town. What’s more, you can also have a great time at several of this picturesque town’s best nightspots.

The beauty of Hallstatt is unforgettable. Hallstatt is a fantasy world. You can walk for hours and still not see the end. The town is so small that you constantly bump into the same people. Walk around by yourself and you will find yourself lost in this world. It’s a romantic and beautiful place, with a lot to do. The town center is always very crowded, so you can get lost in the hustle and bustle. If you are looking for some peace and quiet, head to the salt mine, where there is a chapel, an old part of the town, and a stunning lakeside view.

For up-to-date info on opening hours and events, check out the Hallstatt Tourist information center. Learn more about the stunning Dachstein region and its protected natural beauty at the Dachstein Nature Park site.

Bonus Hiking Viewpoints:


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