Hallstatt is a top spot on Austria’s map, and it’s well worth a visit. Here’s the most up-to-date information on how to get from Vienna to Hallstatt by bus, train, or car in 2024.
Visiting this village, which is tucked between a lake and mountains, is like jumping into a fairy tale. Hallstatt might be smaller than the capital city of Vienna, but here you’ll find a different kind of experience.
I’ve visited Hallstatt many times, each visit showing me a new side of this charming place. Whether you’re visiting in the quieter months or during the peak season, Hallstatt has a way of making an impression.
Based on my experiences and recent travel data, this guide will help you get from Vienna to Hallstatt.
This guide is designed to give you the most current and comprehensive information for your trip from Vienna to Hallstatt. Whether you’re focused on time, scenery, or budget, you’ll find all the options you need here.
Vienna to Hallstatt Basics
Hallstatt is located 288 kilometers (179 miles) west of Vienna.
It can take anywhere from 2.5 to 4 hours to travel from Hallstatt to Vienna depending on traffic, weather conditions, and the type of vehicle you use.
The average travel time is 3-3.5 hours. The fastest way to get to Hallstatt from Vienna is by car which takes 3 hours on average (without stops).
Traveling by train, it takes a minimum of 3.5-4 hours to reach Hallstatt.
Vienna to Hallstatt by Train
Traveling from Vienna to Hallstatt by train is the cheapest and the most convenient option, in my opinion.
The trains are modern with WIFI, bathrooms, and everything you need for a comfy ride. One-way tickets range from 45€ to 75€, varying with the season and booking time.
Head over to Wien Hauptbahnhof or Wien Meidling in Vienna to start your trip. While there’s no direct train, you’ll make at least one stop, but it’s straightforward. About 15 trains run daily between roughly 10:10 AM and 18:00 PM.
The trip typically lasts between 3.5 to 4.5 hours. Once you get to Hallstatt’s train station, you’re not quite done yet. It’s located on the opposite side of the lake from the village, but a quick ferry ride will get you there.
The ferry service is well-timed with train arrivals, departing every 30 minutes. The boat station is a short walk from where the train drops you off, and tickets are 3.5€ one-way – cash only, so be prepared.
Kids under 4 ride free, and those under 14 get a discount when they’re with an adult.
Vienna to Hallstatt by Car
If you’re the type who likes the freedom of driving, renting a car and heading to Hallstatt is a solid option. The drive is about 3 to 3.5 hours via the A1 and A10 highways. It’s a scenic route, so the drive itself is part of the experience.
Once you arrive, you’ll need to park in one of the designated parking lots outside the village, as Hallstatt is mostly car-free.
There’s a large parking area just a short 5-minute walk from Hallstatt. Parking rates range from 4.50 Euro for 1 hour to 18 Euro for a full day.
When you’re ready to head back, just go to the ticket machine to pay. They accept cash, MasterCard, Visa, or Maestro.
Even if you’re staying in a hotel in Hallstatt, you can’t drive directly to it. If you’ve booked accommodation in the center, a shuttle bus will take you and your luggage from the parking area to where you’re staying.
On the drive from Vienna to Hallstatt, there’s plenty to see that’ll make you want to pull over and explore.
As you set off, consider stopping by Melk Abbey, an impressive baroque monastery with stunning views over the Danube.
Dürnstein is also a lovely spot in the Wachau Valley, known for its wine and the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned.
The entire Wachau Valley is worth a leisurely drive through, with its beautiful vineyards and charming villages.
Gmunden, further along the route by the Traunsee Lake, is known for its ceramics and the picturesque Seeschloss Ort.
As you get closer to Hallstatt, you’ll pass through Bad Ischl, which is my favorite place on this route.
It’s a town with a rich history, and honestly, there’s much more to do here than in Hallstatt. If you’re hesitating between Hallstatt and Bad Ischl, I’d suggest an overnight stay in Bad Ischl.
Here, you can enjoy the thermal spas at the Royal Hotel, open till midnight. Don’t forget to explore the Kaiservilla and take a riverside walk. For some late-night fun, there’s a place across from the opera, usually with live music, open till 4 am.
The drive will also take you past stunning lakes like Traunsee and Attersee, each offering beautiful views and a chance to stretch your legs by the water. And if you’re up for a slight detour, the Gosau area provides some of the best views of the Dachstein mountain.
Vienna to Hallstatt by Bus
While there’s no direct bus from Vienna to Hallstatt, you can find bus services that go to Bad Ischl, and from there, you can transfer to a train or another bus to Hallstatt.
This option might take a bit longer and require more coordination and I would not recommend it.
Day Trip From Vienna to Hallstatt With Guided Tour
For a stress-free experience, booking a guided tour from Vienna to Hallstatt might be the way to go.
Several one-day trips take care of all the details for you. “Vienna to Hallstatt and Alps One-Day Tour” is a comprehensive day trip that includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes even meals.
Another option to see all the highlights of Hallstatt without worrying about logistics is the “Full-Day Hallstatt Tour from Vienna”.
These tours usually include stops along the way and give you enough time to explore Hallstatt.
Shuttle Service From Vienna to Hallstatt
Daytrip shuttle service we’ll pick you up and drop you off right where you need to be. Right now, it costs about 67 euros, which isn’t too bad for the convenience.
You can use this service to get from Vienna Airport to Hallstatt too.
Vienna to Hallstatt: Final Thoughts
Hallstatt is an easy trip from Vienna and it’s a must-see if you’re visiting Austria. While you can make it a day trip, I’d recommend staying overnight.
The village has a special charm in the evening when the day-trippers have left, and you get to experience the peacefulness of the lake and mountains.
For getting there, the train is the best option, especially with the ferry ride across the lake to cap it off.
If you’re looking for a more direct route, a shuttle service like Daytrip costs about 67 euros and takes you right to your destination without any fuss.
And if you’re up for driving, you’ll some of the most beautiful lakes on the way.
No matter how you decide to travel, try to give yourself some time in Hallstatt. If you’ve got tips or experiences from your trip to share, leave a comment to help out other travelers!
