Hallstatt Day Trip from Vienna?

John,

I suppose whether that trip is "worth it" is a matter of opinion. That's not something I'd suggest for a day trip, as travel time is going to be about four hours each way which isn't going to leave much time for actually seeing anything in Hallstatt. In addition to the train time, you'll have to add at least half an hour or so each way for the trip across the lake in Stefanie.

If possible I'd suggest spending at least one night in Hallstatt, as that will provide time to see the Salt Mine and enjoy the ambience of the town.

Hallstatt deserves at least a full day and night. Hallstatt is gorgeous and the fairy tale town and its water and mountains are like walking into a dream. You won't want to leave! You'll want to see the Altausee Salt Mine. You'll take a scenic ride on the panoramic funicular railway and be amazed by the mine, first due out by hand 3,000 years ago. Don't miss the subterranean salt lake in the middle.

Then you'll want to see the Museum Hallstatt which has amazing exhibits covering both Austrian and Hallstatt history. Enter through the "Door of History" to explore thousands of years in the area. There is everything from fossils and statues to old money, jewelry and animal sculptures. It is free to seniors and if you are staying in Hallstatt, you get a discount.

You'll want to stroll around the Central Square Markplatz, sit on a bench, admire the architecture, look at the mountains, shop, eat, and more. You can take a ride on the ferry for more amazing views. Later, visit the very unique cemetery. Ride up to the Hallstatt Viewing Platform for the gorgeous views. This town and its surroundings are a photographer's dream.

Hallstatt has a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation that is well-deserved.

Spend the night at the See Hotel Gruener Baum and enjoy their restaurant for a meal or two.

I personally would not do it as a day trip. I am not a masochist.

I think we provide a good service for the OP when the OP is advised (as did the 3 above) that sometimes a day trip isn't recommended, because it would not be enjoyable because of the number of travel hours involved in a proposed day trip.
Even if it isn't what the OP wants to hear.
When someone wants to strain to "find" a way to tell the OP what they want to hear--when the honest answer would be "it's probably not a good idea"--it doesn't really help the OP who doesn't have experience with that itinerary or geographical area.
Just my opinion, some may think we should always tell the OP what he/she wants to hear.

Thanks for the feedback, y'all!

And, yes, Kent……you are right! Don't tell what I think I want to hear…..I need the bottom line. Although I was kinda hoping someone would hop in and say they had done it/it was doable…….and not being a masochist :-)

These forums are really useful. I always learn more than I had originally planned.

Sooooo……I'm either going to spend the night or wait for a future european itinerary.

Discretion is the better part of valor…..