Rick Steves Recommends This European Town For A Romantic Escape

Out of the many destinations across Europe for people who hate crowds, travel expert Rick Steves recommends one Austrian getaway for travelers seeking a romantic escape. In his article, "Romantic Europe: Places in the Heart," Steves calls the alpine village of Hallstatt "the perfect place to commune with nature (and one another), Austrian-style." Set against a backdrop of impressive mountains and mirrored in the glassy waters of Lake Hallstatt, this small village offers the kind of storybook scenery that travelers dream about.

The town became part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 thanks to its historic salt mines and dramatic natural setting. Early inhabitants of the region began mining salt some 7,000 years ago — and history buffs can visit the oldest salt mine in the world via a cable car right in the center of the village. Another interesting site to put on your itinerary is the "Bone House" in St. Michael's Chapel, which is home to a collection of more than 600 painted human skulls created in a regional 19th century cultural tradition.

With such a long and storied history, Hallstatt's romantic charm is in the details: centuries-old homes with wooden balconies and cobbled streets leading to lakeside cafés. It's easy to see why couples wanting a quiet European escape would be drawn here. "When I think of my favorite small-town places in Europe, they are where nature and culture mix, where each balcony has a lovingly watered, one-of-a-kind flowerbox, and where swans know just the right time to paddle by for scraps from diners at lakeside tables," Steves writes in another article. "Places like Hallstatt."

Hallstatt draws plenty of day-trippers, but one point Rick Steves makes is the appeal of the village in the early morning hours. "It's rare that a town's charm will get me out of bed early. The postcard-pretty, lake-cuddling town of Hallstatt ... is one of those places," he writes. So, if you're able to stay a night or more, you won't regret it.

Staying overnight not only offers a more relaxing experience, but also supports the small businesses that give Hallstatt its character. Plus, staying in the village gives you easy access to early morning strolls before the crowds arrive and romantic evenings when you'll feel like you have the place to yourself. Many small inns and guesthouses in town offer lakeside views and cozy settings perfect for a couple's retreat. Pricing varies, but a room at the four-star Heritage Hotel runs on average between $250 to $450 a night, depending on the season and room type.

Check out local restaurants, such as Restaurant Rudolfsturm and Zum Bader, for the unbeatable views and traditional Austrian food. After dinner, why not wander hand-in-hand along the water's edge as the sun dips behind the mountains? Whether you're exploring in the market square or watching swans glide past, Hallstatt is the perfect destination for romantic experiences that stay on your mind long after you leave.

Hallstatt is just around two hours from Salzburg, another one of Europe's most walkable cities. However, it's also easy to access from the larger city of Vienna — a train will get you there in just over three hours, making it an excellent day trip if you are short on time. Traveling by train from Salzburg starts at $11, and the fare from Vienna is around $21. Most international flights will arrive via Vienna International Airport, but Salzburg has an airport as well.

Rick Steves' Europe writes: "The big draws of Hallstatt are its village and its lakeside setting. Come here to relax, nibble, wander, and paddle." While many visitors come to Hallstatt for the views alone, there's more to do here than admire the scenery — especially for couples looking to blend relaxation with a bit of adventure. That's exactly what this destination delivers.

For couples looking to make the most of the ski season, Krippenstein-Obretraun and Hallstatt are popular ski areas nearby. The best time of year for skiers to visit Austria's Hallstatt in January for good powder. However, Hallstatt is equally idyllic in warmer seasons. Summer offers fun activities like paragliding for amazing views, canyoning, cycling, and climbing. September and October are the best time of year to hike in Austria, when Hallstatt's foliage is on full display and the crowds are thinner.  Whatever you do, be sure to take the funicular up to the Hallstatt Skywalk while you're in town. The view is stunning and makes for an unforgettable photo op. The Skywalk and salt mine are closed for repairs between September 2025 and June 2026, so make sure you plan your itinerary accordingly.