Weather in Hallstatt and best time to go
You can expect rain in Hallstatt at any time of year. The town is nestled between a lake and high mountains, so the weather changes quickly and low-lying clouds can obscure the surrounding peaks in the blink of an eye.
Even summer is not a dry season. The heaviest rainfall occurs in July, when showers and thunderstorms are added to the usual rain. A sunny morning does not guarantee good weather for the whole day.
There is a significant difference between Hallstatt by the lake and the peaks of Krippenstein or Loser.
In the mountains, it can easily be 10 °C cooler, with stronger winds and zero visibility, whilst down in Hallstatt it isn’t raining. Always check the mountain forecast and the webcam before taking the cable car.
If you want to visit Hallstatt, Gosausee, Krippenstein and the Loser area in a single trip, we recommend staying for at least two nights. You can then adjust your itinerary depending on cloud cover and save your trip to the 5 Fingers for the clearest day.
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When does it rain the most in Hallstatt?
Rain is spread evenly throughout the year, but the highest totals occur in summer, particularly in July. Summer rain often takes the form of afternoon showers and thunderstorms, though sometimes the sky remains overcast all day.
Set off on longer mountain hikes in the morning. As well as avoiding the rain, you’ll avoid the peak heat and reduce the risk of being caught in a storm on an exposed ridge.
What is the weather like in summer?
From June to August, it’s pleasantly warm by the lake, and on sunny days temperatures can exceed 25 °C. Mornings, evenings and days after rain are significantly cooler.
On the Krippenstein or Loser, you’ll need a warmer layer even in the middle of summer. A waterproof jacket is a must in your rucksack.
When does it usually snow in Hallstatt?
Snow can appear in Hallstatt from December to early March, but a continuous snow cover in the centre is not guaranteed. You’re most likely to find Hallstatt covered in snow in January and February.
On the Krippenstein and at higher altitudes around Gosau, the snow lasts considerably longer than right by the lake. Mountain trails may remain impassable well into spring.
Can you go swimming in Lake Hallstatt?
The best conditions for swimming are in July and August.
Due to the strong flow of the River Traun, Lake Hallstatt warms up slowly and remains refreshing even in summer. During the hottest periods, the water temperature reaches 20 °C and can rise as high as 22 °C.
What should you pack?
Adapt your kit to your planned excursions, not just the forecast for the centre of Hallstatt.
- a waterproof jacket in every season
- sturdy boots with non-slip soles
- a warmer layer for Krippenstein and other mountain areas
- Sun protection, even on cooler days
- a small rucksack in which you can store layers as you go
When to go to Hallstatt
If you want to explore Hallstatt and the wider area in a single trip, visit between the second half of June and September.
The cable cars and mountain resorts are usually operating, most hiking trails are accessible, and the days are still long enough.
We consider the first half of September to be the best time to visit. The peak summer crowds are starting to thin out, it’s not usually too hot for mountain hikes, and there’s generally no snow at higher altitudes yet.
| What you want to do | When to go |
|---|---|
| Hallstatt, Gosausee, Krippenstein and Loser | June–September |
| Longer mountain hikes | July–September |
| 5 Fingers and the views from Krippenstein | June–September |
| Lush countryside and waterfalls with greater water flow | May and June |
| Swimming and activities on the lake | July and August |
| Autumn colours | October |
| Snow-covered countryside and winter sports | January and February |
| Tour of Hallstatt town centre only | All year round |
June or September?
June offers the longest days, green countryside and more powerful waterfalls fed by melting snow. However, snowfields may still remain at higher altitudes.
September has shorter days and cooler mornings, but the conditions for hiking tend to be more pleasant. If we had to choose just one month for a first visit, we’d choose September.
July and August
July and August offer the most open attractions, the best conditions for swimming and long days. At the same time, this is the busiest period with the highest accommodation prices.
Don’t automatically expect dry and sunny weather. July is the rainiest month, and afternoon thunderstorms are common during both months.
However, it is during this period, particularly at weekends, that Hallstatt tends to attract the largest crowds of tourists.
It’s worth booking hotels at least two months in advance.
May and October
Both months are ideal for walks around the lakes, visiting Hallstatt and shorter hikes at lower altitudes. In May, the countryside is greener, whilst October offers autumnal colours.
Before you travel, check the cable car timetables and the condition of the mountain trails. In May, there may still be snow at higher altitudes, and in October, the first signs of winter weather may appear.
Hallstatt in winter
The best time to experience the winter landscape is in January or February. Snow in the town centre itself is not guaranteed, but winter conditions are much more common at higher altitudes around Krippenstein and Gosau.
A winter visit is ideal for exploring Hallstatt, skiing and short walks. For a combination of all the places described in our guide, summer or early autumn is more practical.
When is Hallstatt least crowded?
The month isn’t as important as the time of day. The centre is quietest in the morning before the tour coaches arrive and in the evening after the day-trippers have left.
Staying at least one night in Hallstatt itself will therefore make the biggest difference. You’ll experience the streets, the waterfront and the main viewpoint in a completely different atmosphere to that during the day.
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