Salzburg to Hallstatt

There are two routes from Salzburg to Hallstatt:

1: Salzburg to Attnang-Puchheim (express train), Attnang-Puchheim to Hallstatt (local train).
2: Salzburg to Bad Ischl (bus #150), Bad Ischl to Hallstatt (local train).

The travel time is about the same for both options. Option 2 is more scenic than option 1. If you choose option 2 and have enough time, I recommend a short visit of Bad Ischl. Walk to the famous "Zauner" café and pastry store and buy the unique "Zauner-Stollen".

The ferry from Hallstatt train station to Hallstatt town runs according to the arrival/departure times of all trains.

To see most of the scenery take route 2 to Hallstatt and route 1 back to Salzburg (or vice versa).

You want to take the train that requires one change taking 2h 15m.

I took wmt1's advice and went to Bad Ischl and the famous "Zauner" café and pastry store.

I know why he recommended. If you are doing one of those long lazy slow cross country tours, it's a good stop.