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Visit the Old-World Charm of Hallstatt Market

Published by Vanessa Boiser

Country: Austria

The Experience

If you have visited the more popular European cities such as Paris, London, Venice and Lisbon, you might want to look for an alternative route in your next European tour.

Hailed as having the most beautiful lake in the world, Hallstatt is a city in the northern part of Austria encircled with stunning scenery of the lush alpine mountains. The name of the city is derived from the meaning “people of salt,” as it is known as the cradle of the world’s first ever salt mine. Aside from its world-renowned lake, Hallstatt is also famous for its ancient churches, wooden chalets, medieval castle and architecture that give the city an “old world” charm and ambiance.

The cityscape of Hallstatt is very far from the flickering light bulbs of the casinos in Vegas and the towering buildings in Tokyo. Unlike the crowded markets situated along the busy streets in Bangkok, Morocco or Hong Kong, the Hallstatt market maintains its medieval glamour. The market is a home to beautiful houses and stores with old-fashioned roofs and bricks. It has narrow yet clean roads with enough foliage to accentuate the outdoor setting. You can say that the Hallstatt market resembles an exact copy off a Disney story like Sleeping Beauty.

If you are after culture-soaking in Hallstatt, probably the best way to do this is to visit the Hallstatt market. The Hallstatt market is a long-standing witness of the Hallstatt’s evolving history. Dating back from the 14th century, the market saw the birth of the salt mining industry and its inevitable decline in the 17th century. Back then, salt traders were considered as one of the most distinctive and privileged kind of workers. Johann Ignaz Etzinger, an Imperial Roman salt trader and councilor, donated a statue of the Holy Trinity to be erected in the market. The statue is a reminder of Hallstatt’s glorious past, humble beginnings, and the industry that established the flourishing city. Now the statue has become one of the most popular attractions in Hallstatt.

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When to Go to Hallstatt Market

The best time to visit the Hallstatt market is during winter, especially Christmas time, which is perfect for family bonding. The Hallstatt market during Christmas time is very festive. The streets are adorned with flickering Christmas lights, poinsettias, mistletoe and other wonderful Christmas decorations. The Hallstatt market during Christmas will remind you of the warm and cozy feeling of your own home. This is the best way to get in touch with the locals as the people are very friendly and are truly living the spirit of giving, which is the essence of Christmas. Hallstatt also prepares something special for the festive holidays, and musicals usually take place at the centre of the market. A huge Christmas tree is also erected to complete the joyful season.

Odds n' Ends

Aside from the market, Hallstatt is perfect for any traveller who wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle. Should you visit Halstatt either during summer or winter, there are plenty of activities and tourist attractions available for you to do. During summer, the city is heaven for the adventurous mind, with trekking, hiking and camping.

The city is also a place for the calm-spirited any time of the year. Anyone can enjoy the culture and scenery by biking or strolling around the 7,000-year-old city. In fact, the quaint and idyllic city of Hallstatt can be explored on foot in about thirty minutes. If you favour museums over biking or strolling, a quick trip to the historical Hallstatt World Heritage Museum, or the world’s first ever salt mine in downtown Hallstatt, give you the basics of Hallstatt’s rich history. Hallstatt is well suited for couples looking for romantic evenings during summer, while the Hallstatt market can be enjoyed by the entire family any time of the year.

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Language Guides

French , Turkish are some of the languages spoken in Austria. If you know of a freely available phrase book or podcast for one of the missing languages, let us know!


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