Open water, steep mountains and a pretty little town with buildings that belong in a fairytale, it’s easy to see why hotel stays in Hallstatt, Austria are so sought after. The karst outcrops of Hoher Dachstein mountain provide one of the finest backdrops in the Alps and Hallstatt is believed to have seen human inhabitation since the Bronze Age. Understandably this has attracted the interest of UNESCO, who bequeathed World Heritage Status upon it in 1997, further increasing the small town’s popularity.
Please bear in mind that Hallstatt’s hotels can get booked up well in advance owing to the town’s enduring popularity. For this reason, as well as the overcrowding that prevails during the peak season, it’s well worth considering a visit during the shoulder seasons (Spring and Autumn outside of school holidays) if possible. Whenever you plan to arrive, it’s important to ensure you have the best base from which to explore, which is why we’ve compiled this list of the best five hotels in Hallstatt based on multiple factors such as location, value for money and amenities.
From €222/ night
Split across three old buildings in the town centre, Heritage Hotel Hallstatt has been carefully refurbished to contain all the amenities of a modern hotel in the heart of the old town. Although Haus Kainz is the main building where breakfast (included in the price) is served each morning, Haus Seethaler’s hillside location offers the best lake views. A handful of the rooms also offer views of the old town. Inquire in advance to select your preference, dependent on availability. All rooms are well equipped with safety deposit boxes, a minibar, and bathrobe and slippers. There is also a half-board option available.
From €274/ night
Seehotel Grüner Baum is the darling of the Hallstatt hotel scene. The building itself is believed to have first been mentioned in a missive from 1700, although parts of the building could well have predated that. In the centuries since, luminaries from around Europe have stayed within the walls, including Agatha Christie and Austrian royal, Empress Sisi. The hotel’s interiors have been thoroughly modernised. Rooms have pleasant little balconies when you can look over the town with a pot of tea, or for the pricier rooms, there’s an expansive lake view, thanks to the hotel’s siting right on the lake.
From €284/ night
Another way to experience historic Hallstatt’s heritage during your stay is to rent this plush apartment right in the town centre. Warm lighting, bar brick walls, wooden beam roofs and intricate stone relief carvings around the working fireplace exude comfort and charm. This deluxe apartment is located on the ground floor and contains a double bed and various interconnected rooms, including a lounge, private bathroom and a snack bar. This is one of the more unique stays in Austria and ideal for those who prefer living like a resident in the town, rather than in hotel surroundings. This option is for adults only.
From €234/ night
Another good apartment option a little way south along the lakeshore from Hallstatt is Haus Salzberg. The apartment is no more than 15 minutes’ walk from Hallstatt’s historic centre but the neighbourhood is far more peaceful, offering the ideal escape. This option is good value for small groups, with space for up to four adults in the two separate double rooms, although great for couples who want a little extra space to themselves too. This beautiful traditional Alpine home has wooden, flower-sprinkled upper floors atop a sturdy brick base. The apartment has a small kitchen, ample living space and impressive views of the imposing mountains nearby. The free ski bus stops just two minutes away for those visiting during the skiing season.
From €189/ night
This pretty boutique hotel offers rooms with a modern spin on rustic chic, with earth tone furnishings, wooden floors and colourful chairs. The location is ideal for those who want to avoid the bustle of the UNESCO listed region of Hallstatt but still able to access it in ten minutes on foot, with the lake just minutes away. Rooms are spacious, all are ensuite and contain bathrobes, toiletries and kettles, as well as a separate seating area. Breakfast is included with the price of each room.
