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Salzwelten Hallstatt: Journey into the Heart of the World's Oldest Salt Mine

Explore the world's oldest salt mine in Hallstatt, Austria: a journey through history, adventure, and breathtaking subterranean landscapes.

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Descend into the depths of Salzwelten Hallstatt, the world's oldest salt mine, for a fascinating journey through thousands of years of history. Explore ancient tunnels, ride miner's slides, and uncover the secrets of Hallstatt's 'white gold,' all while surrounded by stunning subterranean landscapes.

A brief summary to Salzwelten Hallstatt

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, as tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis and waiting times can be long.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking and some uphill climbs.
  • Bring a light jacket, as the temperature inside the mine is cool.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide app to enhance your tour experience.
  • Check the Salzwelten Hallstatt website for current opening hours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Hallstatt train station, take the ferry across Lake Hallstatt to the Hallstatt Lahn stop. From Hallstatt Lahn, walk towards the lakefront and follow the signs to the Salzbergbahn funicular. Take the funicular up the mountain. From the top station, it's a short, uphill walk to the Salzwelten Hallstatt entrance. Ferry cost: Approximately €3-€5. Funicular round trip: Adults €24, Children (4-15 years) €12.

  • Walking

    From the Hallstatt Market Square, walk towards the lakefront. Follow the path along the lake until you reach the wooden boardwalk. Continue along the boardwalk, enjoying the view of the lake and the mountains. After about 10 minutes, you will come to the Salzbergstraße. Turn left onto Salzbergstraße. Salzwelten Hallstatt will be on your left after approximately 5 minutes of walking. The address is Salzbergstraße 21.

  • Driving

    Drive to Hallstatt and park in one of the designated parking areas. Parking lot P2 is located next to the Salzwelten visitor center. From the parking lot, walk to the Salzbergbahn valley station. Take the funicular up the mountain. From the top station, it's a short, uphill walk to the Salzwelten Hallstatt entrance. Parking costs vary, expect to pay around €10-€20 per day. Note: Parking spaces in Hallstatt are limited, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Salzwelten Hallstatt

Salzwelten Hallstatt, nestled in the scenic village of Hallstatt, Austria, offers a captivating blend of rich history and natural beauty. As the world's oldest salt mine, with mining activity dating back to the Neolithic era around 5000 BC, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides a unique glimpse into the ancient techniques of salt extraction that shaped the region's destiny. The adventure begins with a ride on the Salzbergbahn funicular, whisking you high above Hallstatt. From there, it's a short walk to the mine entrance, where you'll don traditional miner's gear and embark on a guided tour through the depths of the mountain. Inside, you'll discover a subterranean world of glistening salt formations, ancient tools, and fascinating exhibits that bring the history of Hallstatt's salt mining to life. Descend even further on thrilling miner's slides, glide across an underground salt lake, and marvel at the Bronze Age staircase, the oldest wooden staircase in Europe. The tour also features a Bronze Age cinema, which animates the arduous working life of Bronze Age salt miners. Don't miss the Skywalk Hallstatt, a free-floating viewing platform 360 meters above the village, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Hallstatt, the lake, and the surrounding Dachstein Salzkammergut region. Note that the Hallstatt Salt Mine will be undergoing extensive construction from September 1, 2025, until June 2026, and access to the Skywalk will also be affected. The cable car to the Salzberg will be out of operation during this period.

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