How far is it Hallstatt from Salzburg? Is there train service available? Would you spend the night in Hallstatt, or just take a day trip from Salzburg?
Thanks,
Shannon

Been several years since I have been to Hallstatt. I wss with friends and we actually drove from Salzburg to Hallstatt. I can not recall how far it was, but was not all that far. I seem to recall a Train station located at the other side of the Lake near Hallstatt, but can not tell you for sure. I would imagine that you can take a train.
The last part of your question is eary to answer. Definately, I would recommend staying over night in Hallstatt. I have been to Europe many times. Have been to many places. Years later, I can still say, that staying in Hallstatt was one of the most remembered exeriences. Very cool little town.

Shannon

As to whether you spend the night depends in part on the time of year of your trip. We visited Hallstatt earlier this month (May 2004) and were quite satisfied with a day trip from Salzburg, especially since the weather was cool and damp. However, a day trip is probably only feasible if you are traveling by car as we were. There is train service but it is slow (at least 90 minutes with changes, each way) and you must also take a ferry ride (albeit a short and scenic one) across the lake to Hallstatt from the train station. If taking the train, consider spending the night. Bon voyage.

Absolutely take the train - it is not far from Salzburg. A ferry -a SCENIC- 10 minute ride across the lake takes you to the town. Be aware of the train stops - Hallstatt is more of a hut than a train station. I would recommend taking the train and spending the night. We enjoyed the salt mine tour while we were there. GO - it is a magical place!

sr,

Salzburg is about 30 miles from Hallstatt. The drive is an easy and scenic one, although parking in Hallstatt - at least during "high" season - can be problematic. As regards train travel, it is very doable, and you might want to obtain Rick Steves' 2004 guide to Germany, Austria & Switzerland for details. Steves offers a fine and nicely detailed chapter on Hallstatt and its environs.

Hallstatt's charms can be compromised by the hordes of tourists that descend on its few streets. Therefore, it's highly recommended that you stay for at least one overnight (two is preferable) to experience the village early and late in the day when many of its visitors are snug in their American-style hotels.

Regarding lodging, both the Gasthof Simony and Gasthof Zauner are worthy of your attention. The latter is very pretty, offering fine traditional dining that overlooks the town square. The Zauner is not inexpensive, however, and you'd be well advised to re-confirm your reservations a day before your arrival. I experienced a problem concerning reservations a year back.

Best of luck.

Just did this yesterday! It's about 45 minutes from Salzburg to Attnang-Puchheim where you change trains, then another hour or so to Hallstatt. If you arrive before 5pm or so at the Hallstatt train station, you can take the boat across the lake. If you arrive after the last boat (not sure exactly what time that is) get off at the Obertraun train station a few minutes farther and arrange for someone from your hotel to pick you up. Obertraun is only 3 miles from Hallstatt. We stayed at the Hotel Zauner and loved it!! If you like hiking, it's a great place to spend a few days!