Additional Coverage:
- We planned to spend a full day in Hallstatt — but we only lasted 4 hours in the famous fairy-tale town (businessinsider.com)
Hallstatt, Austria: A Picture-Perfect Town Overrun by Tourists
Hallstatt, Austria, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its stunning beauty. Nestled beside a pristine alpine lake with a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, it’s a popular destination for tourists worldwide.
However, this popularity has come at a cost. Overtourism has become a significant issue, impacting both residents and visitors’ experiences.
My husband and I recently experienced this firsthand during a day trip to Hallstatt. Despite arriving early in the morning, by 9 a.m., the town was flooded with tourists. Busloads of visitors poured into the streets, transforming the once-tranquil village into a crowded scene reminiscent of a theme park.
The sheer number of people wasn’t the only issue. Many tourists displayed inconsiderate behavior, ignoring signs asking for quiet and respect for residents.
We witnessed people driving down pedestrian-only streets, shouting loudly, and even climbing onto private property for photo opportunities. The constant jostling and photo shoots made it difficult to navigate the narrow streets and appreciate the town’s charm.
The famed Aussichtspunkt viewpoint, known for its panoramic views, was no exception. The platform was packed with tourists, making it challenging to enjoy the scenery. We managed a quick photo before escaping the crowds.
Seeking refuge, we rented a motorized boat and ventured onto the lake. This provided a welcome respite from the throngs of people and offered breathtaking views of Hallstatt and the surrounding area. This peaceful hour on the lake was the highlight of our visit.
Back on land, we grabbed an overpriced pizza in the town square, a stark contrast to the affordable meals we enjoyed elsewhere in Austria. While the high prices seemed exploitative, perhaps it’s understandable given the strain tourism places on the town.
Originally planning to spend the entire day in Hallstatt, four hours proved more than enough. We departed for a hike around the serene Lake Gosausee, a refreshing escape with stunning mountain vistas and far fewer crowds.
Hallstatt is undeniably beautiful and worth seeing. However, the overtourism significantly detracts from the experience. For those planning a visit, I recommend arriving early, renting a boat for the best views, and then exploring the quieter, lesser-known alpine towns and hiking trails nearby.