Salzburg: Where to stay in the city of music and magic

Salzburg, the birthplace of the great composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is one of the most popular destinations in Austria and indeed across Europe. The city is renowned for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, which is pervasive throughout its historic centre and has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Walking through the narrow alleyways of the old town, you will discover architectural gems such as Salzburg Cathedral, impressive palaces, and imposing fortresses, most notably the emblematic Hohensalzburg which dominates the city.

Beyond its historical attractions, Salzburg is a vibrant cultural hub, with numerous museums, galleries, and of course, the famous events held annually in honour of Mozart. Music lovers will be thrilled by the Mozart Museum and the Pan Pots Museum, while the Salzburg Festival attracts visitors from all over the world.

For those wishing to combine their trip with a visit to other well-known destinations, Vienna is just two hours away by train or car, offering the opportunity to explore Austria's impressive capital. Vienna, with its regal architecture and imperial palaces, is the perfect complement to enchanting Salzburg.

Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or simply a trip steeped in history and art, Salzburg offers many accommodation areas to suit every preference and budget. Below, you will discover the five best areas to stay in Salzburg, along with recommendations for both luxury and budget-friendly hotels. Each area has its own unique characteristics, and we will help you find the ideal location depending on the type of trip you prefer.

Altstadt (Historic Centre) – For history and sightseeing enthusiasts

The Altstadt, Salzburg’s old town, is the ultimate destination for lovers of history and architecture. This area is the ideal place to stay if you want to be at the heart of the most important sights. With its narrow cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and the impressive Hohensalzburg fortress towering above, the Altstadt offers the authentic atmosphere of Salzburg.

Advantages:

• Direct access to the city’s main attractions, such as the Cathedral and Mirabell Palace.
• Ideal for leisurely strolls through picturesque streets, local shops, and traditional cafes.
• Central location that makes getting around easy without the need for public transport.

Disadvantages:

• Accommodation prices tend to be higher due to the central location.
• The area can be quite busy, especially during peak tourist season.

Recommended hotels:

Hotel Goldener Hirsch, a Luxury Collection Hotel

This hotel is located in the heart of the Altstadt and offers luxurious facilities that combine traditional Austrian aesthetics with modern comforts. The rooms are decorated with antique furniture and handmade carpets, while the hotel's restaurant serves exquisite local cuisine.

• Average cost: €400 per night

Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt

An excellent 5-star hotel, housed in a historic building dating back to 1377. It offers elegant rooms with unique decor and views of the Salzach River. Ideal for those who wish to enjoy the luxury and charm of the historic city.

• Average cost: €320 per night

Hotel Elefant

Centrally located, just a few steps from Salzburg Cathedral, Hotel Elefant offers modern comfort in a historic setting. It is a family-run hotel with a warm atmosphere and excellent service.

• Average cost: €200 per night

Hotel Stein

A modern and elegant hotel with a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city and Hohensalzburg fortress. Hotel Stein combines contemporary design with traditional elements, and is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway.

• Average cost: €280 per night

Hotel Wolf

A small, traditional hotel at affordable prices located on a quiet street in the Altstadt. Ideal for those seeking an authentic Salzburg accommodation experience without exceeding their budget.

• Average cost: €150 per night

Neustadt (New Town) – For families and those seeking a tranquil atmosphere

Neustadt, Salzburg’s New Town, is a serene area that combines traditional Austrian atmosphere with more modern elements. This district is ideal for families and travellers who want to enjoy a quieter holiday, away from the hustle and bustle of the historic centre. With parks, playgrounds, and more open spaces, Neustadt offers comfort and relaxation. It is also close to the Mirabell Gardens, making a stroll with children even more enjoyable.

Advantages:

• Ideal for families, with several parks and recreational areas.
• Quite close to the city centre, without the crowds of the Altstadt.
• A calmer and more peaceful area, with less noise and more comfort.

Disadvantages:

• Fewer options for nightlife and entertainment compared to other areas.
• May require a short commute to visit some of the most popular attractions.

Recommended hotels:

Hotel Villa Carlton – adults only

An elegant boutique hotel offering spacious rooms and located just a few minutes’ walk from Mirabell Gardens and the city centre. The decor is modern, with bold colours and original artworks.

• Average cost: €210 per night

Hotel & Villa Auersperg

This family-run hotel combines modern comfort with traditional architecture. It features a beautiful garden and a spa, while the rooms are decorated with natural materials and comfortable furnishings. Its location is quiet, yet close to the centre.

• Average cost: €260 per night

IMLAUER Hotel Pitter Salzburg

A 4-star hotel offering high-quality services and conveniently located near the main train station. Ideal for families who want to combine comfort and luxury with easy access to attractions.

• Average cost: €230 per night

Holiday Inn Salzburg City

An exceptionally affordable hotel with modern rooms and amenities for families. It offers comfortable rooms and is located near the centre, without exceeding the budget.

• Average cost: €120 per night

Mercure Salzburg City

Another affordable hotel, ideal for families and travellers seeking quality accommodation without major expenses. The hotel offers comfortable spaces and is within easy reach of the main attractions.

• Average cost: €130 per night

Elisabeth-Vorstadt – Ideal for budget travellers

Elisabeth-Vorstadt is one of the best choices for those travelling on a budget, without wanting to sacrifice quality. This area, close to the main train station, offers easy access to the city centre as well as affordable accommodation options. Although it lacks the historic charm of the Altstadt, its proximity to public transport makes it extremely convenient.

Advantages:

• Ideal for budget travellers.
• Close to the main train station and major transport lines.
• Easy access to all the city's main attractions.

Disadvantages:

• Does not have the same charm or traditional architecture as the Altstadt.
• Limited options for evening entertainment and shopping.

Recommended hotels:

Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre

An excellent hotel offering high-quality amenities at affordable prices. Ideal for travellers seeking comfort near the station, without having to spend a lot.

• Average cost: €180 per night

H+ Hotel Salzburg

Located right next to the main train station and ideal for those who want to combine travel convenience with affordable prices. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and breakfast is generous and included in the price.

• Average cost: €130 per night

Austria Trend Hotel Europa Salzburg

A 4-star hotel with modern rooms and panoramic views of Salzburg. Although located near the station, it offers peace and luxury at reasonable prices.

• Average cost: €150 per night

Der Salzburger Hof

Modern rooms with elegant decor, close to the station and with easy access to attractions. The hotel offers excellent amenities at reasonable prices, and the staff are friendly and helpful.

• Average cost: €140 per night

Hotel Der Salzburger Hof

Ideal for those seeking comfort without overspending. This hotel offers good services and is very close to public transport stops.

• Average cost: €120 per night

Mülln – Ideal for couples and nature lovers

The Mülln area is known for its picturesque location, next to the river and with direct access to the green hills and parks of the region. This charming suburb is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway, with amazing walks along the river and enchanting views of Salzburg. Furthermore, the area has several breweries and traditional restaurants, offering a delicious experience of local cuisine.

Advantages:

• Quiet and romantic area, ideal for couples who want to relax.
• Easy access to natural landscapes and parks, suitable for hiking and walks.
• Very close to the historic centre and its attractions.

Disadvantages:

• Fewer options for shops and shopping compared to the Altstadt.
• Accommodation options may be limited due to the small size of the area.

Recommended hotels:

Hotel Schloss Mönchstein

A luxurious 5-star hotel located on Mönchsberg hill, offering impressive city views. It is a romantic retreat for couples, with high-quality services, a spa, and elegantly decorated rooms.

• Average cost: €600 per night

Haus Wartenberg

A traditional Austrian chalet-style hotel, ideal for those seeking a more authentic experience. The hotel offers cosy rooms with wooden decor and a friendly atmosphere, in a quiet neighbourhood near the centre.

• Average cost: €140 per night

Villa Turnerwirt

An elegant boutique hotel that combines old-world charm with modern amenities. It is located near the river, making it ideal for romantic walks, while the rooms are comfortable and offer beautiful garden views.

• Average cost: €180 per night

Jufa Hotel Salzburg

This affordable hotel is excellent for couples who want to enjoy comfortable and economical accommodation. It offers a warm atmosphere and is very close to the Altstadt, making it convenient for sightseeing.

• Average cost: €110 per night

Am Neutor Hotel Salzburg Zentrum

A modern hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms, ideal for couples seeking a quiet and romantic stay near Salzburg city centre.

• Average cost: €130 per night

Maxglan – For travellers seeking authenticity and tranquility

Maxglan is a quieter and more traditional neighbourhood, ideal for those who want to experience the authentic atmosphere of Austria, away from the tourist rush. This area, located near Salzburg Airport, is perfect for travellers who prefer peace and quiet, while still wanting easy access to the city centre and its attractions. Additionally, Maxglan offers more affordable accommodation options, making it suitable for mid-budget travellers.

Advantages:

• Quiet area, away from the city centre noise, ideal for relaxation.
• Authentic accommodation experience in traditional Austrian residences.
• Close to the airport, making it ideal for those seeking easy access for travel.

Disadvantages:

• Fewer options for shopping and restaurants compared to the city centre.
• Requires more travel to reach the city’s main attractions.

Recommended hotels:

Villa Ceconi by Das Grüne Hotel zur Post

A beautiful boutique hotel offering authentic Austrian hospitality, with elegant decor and comfortable rooms. Ideal for those who want to experience Salzburg at a more relaxed pace.

• Average cost: €120 per night

Das Grüne Hotel zur Post

This eco-friendly hotel is ideal for those who love peace and nature. It is located just outside the centre, offering a quiet stay, and features beautiful gardens and comfortable spaces.

• Average cost: €160 per night

Airporthotel Salzburg

Ideal for those travelling by air, the Airporthotel Salzburg offers comfort and airport access, while being just a few minutes from the city centre by car.

• Average cost: €140 per night

Astoria Hotel Salzburg

An affordable and comfortable hotel close to the city centre and public transport, Astoria offers clean rooms and a friendly environment, ideal for couples and families.

• Average cost: €110 per night

Hotel Max 70

A new and modern hotel with affordable prices and spacious rooms, Hotel Max 70 is ideal for families and travellers looking for a quiet area with easy access to the centre.

• Average cost: €130 per night

Anif (Suburb) – For nature lovers and luxury seekers

Anif, a suburb located south of Salzburg, is known for its luxurious accommodations and proximity to nature. Situated in a lush green area, near the Untersberg national park, it is ideal for those who want to enjoy hiking, nature explorations, and magnificent landscapes. Although it is a little further from the city centre, Anif offers a luxurious accommodation experience in a tranquil setting.

Advantages:

• Ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
• Luxury accommodation options with mountain views.
• Quiet area, away from the city centre crowds.

Disadvantages:

• Requires transport to visit the city centre.
• Food and entertainment options are limited in the area.

Recommended hotels:

Schlosswirt zu Anif

A historic hotel with luxurious facilities located in a beautiful setting with mountain views. Ideal for those seeking luxury and relaxation, combining nature with comfort.

• Average cost: €250 per night

Hotel Friesacher

An elegant 4-star hotel offering excellent services and located in one of Salzburg's most beautiful areas. It features a pool, spa, and a renowned restaurant serving local cuisine.

• Average cost: €280 per night

Momentum Hotel

A family-friendly hotel with modern amenities, ideal for those seeking a relaxing holiday at an affordable price. The hotel offers activities such as tennis and hiking, and is located near Untersberg park.

• Average cost: €180 per night

Hotel Hubertushof

A picturesque hotel combining traditional Austrian hospitality with modern amenities. It is located in a quiet area, away from the centre, offering a comfortable and relaxing experience.

• Average cost: €200 per night

Boutique Hotel & Apartments Am Essigmanngut

This beautiful boutique hotel offers elegantly decorated apartments and rooms, ideal for families and couples seeking more privacy. The hotel is surrounded by lush gardens and offers panoramic views.

• Average cost: €160 per night

How to get to Salzburg

Salzburg is an easily accessible destination, both by air and other means of transport. If you are starting from Greece, your main options are either direct flights or connecting flights through nearby cities, such as Vienna or Munich, which are directly linked to Salzburg.

By Air

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Salzburg is via direct flights from Athens or Thessaloniki. Various airlines offer flights to Salzburg International Airport (W. A. Mozart Airport), which is approximately 15 minutes from the city centre. The journey from the airport to the centre can be made by bus, taxi, or rental car, making your arrival exceptionally easy and quick.

Airfare prices vary depending on the season and availability, so it’s advisable to book early. You can find the best flights through the travelo.gr platform, which allows you to compare prices and book the most favourable option.

Via Vienna or Munich

If you wish to combine your visit to Salzburg with another European city, an excellent option is to first travel to Vienna or Munich, and from there continue by road or train to Salzburg.

• From Vienna, the distance to Salzburg is approximately 300 kilometres and can be covered in about 2 hours by the Railjet train of Austrian Railways, which offers comfortable conditions and frequent services. Alternatively, you can rent a car and enjoy a beautiful drive through the Austrian landscapes.
• From Munich, Salzburg is just 150 kilometres away and accessible within 1.5 hours either by car or by train. The train line from Munich to Salzburg is one of the most popular in Europe, with many daily services.

Additionally, if you are interested in exploring the surrounding areas of Salzburg, such as the Alpine landscapes and small villages, renting a car is the best option for flexibility and freedom of movement.

Salzburg is a city that offers an unparalleled experience, full of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a trip full of explorations, the areas and hotels we recommend will cater to every need and preference. From the historic charm of the Altstadt to the tranquility of Anif, Salzburg offers a variety of accommodation options, depending on the type of trip you desire.

Choose the right area for you, make your reservation via Booking, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to one of Austria’s most beautiful cities. Don't forget to combine your trip with a visit to Vienna, for a complete Austrian experience full of culture and magic.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which area is best for accommodation in the destination?

The ideal area depends on the type of trip. If you are looking for vibrancy, restaurants, and easy access to attractions, choose the historic centre. For a quieter stay at a good price, opt for neighbourhoods just outside the centre that are served by public transport. Families usually prefer accommodation with space and easy access to parks or beaches.

How many days do I need to visit the destination?

For a first introduction to the main attractions, 2 to 3 nights are sufficient. If you want to explore the surrounding area, enjoy gastronomy, and truly relax, allow 4 to 5 days. For a base trip with day excursions, a week is ideal.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) usually offer the best combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation prices. Summer is the busiest period, while winter suits those who want an authentic experience without crowds of tourists.

How can I book accommodation at the best price?

Booking through Booking.com offers flexible cancellation policies, real guest reviews, and often the best available prices. Book 2-3 months in advance for peak tourist season and compare prices between neighbourhoods, as a few minutes further from the centre often means significant savings.

Is the destination safe for tourists?

Yes, it is a visitor-friendly destination. As with any trip, caution is advised with personal belongings in busy areas and on public transport, and use reliable means of transport. Highly-rated accommodations are usually located in safe neighbourhoods.