Where to Stay in Salzburg, Austria 🇦🇹: Best Areas and Amazing Hotels for Your Dream Getaway

Updated on July 9, 2024
by Alex Miller

Salzburg, a picturesque city nestled in the heart of Austria, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Salzburg is a city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Salzburg is a place that will leave you enchanted. As you plan your trip to Salzburg, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its 5 best areas to choose from, each offering a unique experience, finding the perfect place to rest your head can be a daunting task.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels

In this guide to the best neighborhoods in Salzburg, we’ll help you navigate the city’s top hotels, best restaurants, and most comfortable stays, whether you’re looking to stay on a budget or indulge in luxury. From the historic charm of the Old Town to the modern amenities of the New Town, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Austria’s fourth-largest city. Whether you’re interested in exploring Salzburg’s main attractions like the Salzburg Museum, taking day trips from Salzburg, or simply enjoying a relaxing stay in the heart of the city, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your Salzburg getaway. So, let’s dive into the best neighborhoods in Salzburg and find the perfect home away from home for your next adventure.

The Best Places to Stay in Salzburg: Quick Guide

  • 🏰 For first-time visitors: Altstadt (Old Town)
  • 🌟 For those who enjoy a trendy atmosphere Neustadt
  • 💸 For budget travelers Elisabeth Vorstadt
  • 🌳 For nature lovers Nonntal
  • 👪 For families Hellbrunn

1. Altstadt (Old Town): Fairy tale 🏰

🏰 Historic Charm: Altstadt, or the Old Town, is the heart of Salzburg, brimming with history and charm. Its narrow, cobblestone streets and baroque architecture make it feel like stepping into a fairy tale. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, preserving its rich cultural heritage.

🎶 Cultural Hub: This area is a cultural treasure trove, home to Mozart’s birthplace and numerous museums and galleries. The Salzburg Festival, held annually, attracts music lovers from around the world, adding to the vibrant cultural scene.

🛍️ Shopping and Dining: Altstadt is a shopper’s paradise with its bustling pedestrian streets like Getreidegasse, lined with charming boutiques and historic shops. The area also boasts a variety of dining options, from traditional Austrian cuisine to cozy cafes.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Hohensalzburg Fortress: Perched high above the city, this fortress offers stunning views and a fascinating history. It’s one of the largest medieval castles in Europe.
  • Mozart’s Birthplace: Located on Getreidegasse, this museum is dedicated to the life and works of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. It’s a must-visit for music enthusiasts.
  • Salzburg Cathedral: This stunning baroque cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture. The interior is breathtaking, with its ornate altars and beautiful frescoes.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat

  • Stiftskeller St. Peter: One of the oldest restaurants in Europe, offering traditional Austrian cuisine in a historic setting. Don’t miss their famous Salzburger Nockerl dessert.
  • Café Tomaselli: A historic café dating back to 1703, perfect for enjoying a coffee and a slice of cake while soaking in the ambiance.
  • Gasthof Goldgasse: A cozy restaurant offering a mix of traditional and modern Austrian dishes. The atmosphere is warm and inviting.

🚶 Getting Around

  • Walkable: Altstadt is incredibly walkable, with most attractions within easy walking distance. The narrow streets and pedestrian zones make it a pleasure to explore on foot.
  • Public Transport: The area is well-served by buses, making it easy to get to other parts of Salzburg. The public transportation system is efficient and user-friendly.

Where to Stay in Altstadt

Expensive Hotels

  • Hotel Sacher Salzburg: A grand, historic hotel offering luxurious rooms and stunning views of the Salzach River.
  • Hotel Schloss Mönchstein: Located on a hill, this 5-star hotel offers panoramic city views and an outdoor infinity pool.
  • Hotel Bristol Salzburg: A historic hotel with elegantly decorated rooms, located close to Mirabell Palace.

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

  • City-Center Apartments: Budget-friendly apartments located in the city center, offering convenient access to local attractions.
  • Getreidegassen Appartements: Affordable apartments situated in a prime location, perfect for exploring the city.
  • Next2Mozart-Apartment: Budget apartments located near Mozart’s birthplace, offering a comfortable stay with easy access to historical sites.

2. Neustadt: Modern Area 🌃

🏛️ Modern Vibe: Neustadt, or the New Town, is a vibrant area that blends contemporary architecture with historic charm. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and is home to many of Salzburg’s cultural institutions and music schools. The area is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of old and new.

🌸 Green Spaces: One of the highlights of Neustadt is the beautiful Mirabell Palace and Gardens. This baroque palace is surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The gardens are a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

🎶 Cultural Hub: Neustadt is rich in cultural attractions, including the Mozart Residence and the Salzburger Marionettentheater. The area is also known for its vibrant music scene, with various music schools and institutions fostering a diverse musical community.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Mirabell Palace and Gardens: A stunning baroque palace with beautifully manicured gardens. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and offers great views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress.
  • Mozart Residence: Visit the house where Mozart lived with his family from 1772 to 1780. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of the world’s greatest composers.
  • Salzburger Marionettentheater: This historic theater offers enchanting marionette performances, a unique cultural experience in Salzburg.
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens
Mirabell Palace and Gardens

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat

  • Café Tomaselli: A historic café dating back to 1703, perfect for enjoying a coffee and a slice of cake while soaking in the ambiance.
  • Augustiner Bräu: A historic brewery offering traditional Austrian food and a lively beer garden. It’s a great place to sample local beers and enjoy the atmosphere.
  • Bärenwirt: Known for its traditional Austrian cuisine, this restaurant offers hearty meals in a cozy setting. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

🚶 Well-connected: Neustadt is conveniently located next to Altstadt, making it easy to explore both areas on foot. The pedestrian bridges connecting the two areas are a great way to get around and enjoy the views.

Where to Stay in Neustadt

Expensive Hotels

  • Текст кнопки: A charming hotel located in the heart of Salzburg, offering individually decorated rooms and a wellness area with an indoor pool and sauna.
  • numa l Mozart: A stylish hotel with modern amenities, located close to the city center. Offers comfortable rooms, a breakfast buffet, and easy access to local attractions.
  • Hotel Markus Sittikus Salzburg: A family-run hotel with a cozy atmosphere, located near the Mirabell Palace. Features a garden, comfortable rooms, and a friendly staff.

Budget Hotels

  • master Linzergasse: Budget-friendly accommodation located on Linzergasse street, offering basic amenities and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
  • master Mirabell: Affordable hotel near Mirabell Palace, providing comfortable rooms and essential amenities for a pleasant stay.
  • My Wonderland: Budget apartments offering a convenient location and comfortable accommodations, perfect for exploring Salzburg on a budget.

3. Elisabeth Vorstadt: Vibrant Suburb 🚋

🚉 Transport Hub: Elisabeth Vorstadt is centrally located near Salzburg’s main train station, making it incredibly convenient for travelers. This area is perfect for those planning day trips to nearby regions or needing easy access to public transportation.

🎷 Cultural Scene: The neighborhood is home to Jazzit, a popular jazz club that hosts live music events. It’s a vibrant spot for music lovers and offers a taste of Salzburg’s contemporary cultural scene.

🛍️ Shopping and Dining: Elisabeth Vorstadt offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with plenty of shopping centers and dining options. From local bakeries to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Jazzit: An iconic jazz music venue located in a former government building. It’s a great place to enjoy live music and experience Salzburg’s vibrant nightlife.
  • Salzach River: Take a leisurely bike ride or walk along the Salzach River, which offers scenic views and a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
  • Messezentrum Salzburg: This event center hosts various exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a hub of activity in the neighborhood.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat

  • City Bräu: Known for its incredible schnitzel, this restaurant offers hearty Austrian cuisine in a cozy setting.
  • Bäckerei-Café Resch&Frisch: A local bakery and café where you can grab fresh pastries and enjoy a traditional Viennese coffee experience.
  • Johann: A traditional Viennese café perfect for unwinding with a cup of coffee and a slice of cake.

🚌 Public Transport: The neighborhood is well-served by buses and trams, providing easy access to other parts of Salzburg. The main train station is a major transport hub, offering connections to regional and international destinations.

Where to Stay in Elisabeth Vorstadt

Expensive Hotels

  • Hotel Zum Hirschen Salzburg: Salzburg’s oldest family-run hotel, conveniently located in the city center, combining historic architecture with modern design. Features a spa, fitness area, and a colorful garden.
  • Mayburg Salzburg, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel: A 4-star hotel near the central railway station, offering air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center, a terrace, and a restaurant. Guests can enjoy a bar and private parking.
  • Cocoon Salzburg: A modern hotel with unique design elements, located close to the main train station. Offers comfortable rooms, a bar, and a cozy lounge area.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Levy's Rooms & Breakfast: A charming hotel offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast, located near the main train station.
  • H+ Hotel Salzburg: A modern hotel with a convenient location near the train station, featuring a fitness center, sauna, and comfortable rooms.

Budget Hotels

  • Hotel Hohenstauffen: A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the train station.
  • Appartements Kaserbacher: Affordable apartments with a convenient location, offering comfortable accommodations and easy access to local attractions.
  • Labis Room 2: Budget-friendly rooms offering basic amenities and a convenient location for exploring Salzburg.

4. Nonntal: Tranquil and Scenic Area 🌿

🏞️ Scenic views: Nonntal is a peaceful area known for its stunning views of the Alps and its serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.

🌳 Green Spaces: Nonntal is known for its lush green spaces and tranquil atmosphere. It’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city center, offering a peaceful retreat with plenty of parks and natural areas to explore.

🏰 Historic Landmarks: The area is home to Nonnberg Abbey, one of the oldest continuously operating convents in the world. This historic site adds a rich cultural layer to Nonntal, making it a fascinating place for history enthusiasts.

🎶 Cultural Vibe: Nonntal has a vibrant cultural scene with several theaters and art venues. It’s a great place to experience local arts and culture, away from the more tourist-heavy areas of Salzburg.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Nonnberg Abbey: This historic abbey is a must-visit for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. It’s also famous for its connection to “The Sound of Music.”
  • Hellbrunner Allee: A scenic tree-lined avenue perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. It connects Nonntal to Hellbrunn Palace and offers beautiful views along the way.
  • Petersbrunnhof: Home to the Schauspielhaus Salzburg, this venue hosts a variety of theatrical performances and cultural events.

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat

  • Fuxn: Known for its modern take on traditional Austrian cuisine, Fuxn offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. It’s a bit of a walk, but well worth it for the amazing pastrami sandwich.
  • 220 Grad: A specialty coffee roastery that also serves fantastic food. It’s a great spot for breakfast or brunch.
  • Gasthof Krimpelstätter: A traditional Austrian restaurant offering hearty meals and a great selection of beers. It’s a favorite among locals for its authentic atmosphere.

🚌 Ease of Transportation: Nonntal is within walking distance to Altstadt and other central areas. The scenic walk is a great way to start your day and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Where to Stay in Nonntal

Expensive Hotels

  • JUFA Hotel Salzburg: Only a 2-minute walk from the Old Town of Salzburg, this hotel offers views of Hohensalzburg Fortress, a bar, a lobby, a terrace, and free WiFi in public areas. Rooms feature a bathroom, a TV, and a safe.
  • Austria Classic Hotel Hölle: Located in a quiet area in the southern part of Salzburg, this hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a sauna, and a restaurant serving regional cuisine. Rooms come with spacious bathrooms and flat-screen TVs.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg: A stylish hotel with a blend of modern and traditional design, offering a garden, a chapel, and a fitness center. Located close to the city center.
  • Hotel Via Roma: A comfortable hotel located near the city center, featuring a garden, a terrace, and free parking. Rooms are spacious and well-equipped.

Budget Hotels

  • Hotel Pension Herbert: A cozy budget hotel offering comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere, located near the city center.
  • Junker's Apartments: Affordable apartments with modern amenities, located in a quiet area with easy access to public transportation.
  • Pension Katrin: A budget-friendly guesthouse offering comfortable rooms and a convenient location near the city center.

5. Hellbrunn: Palatial Charm 👑

🏰 Historic Charm: Hellbrunn is famous for its stunning Hellbrunn Palace, a Baroque masterpiece built in the early 17th century. The palace is renowned for its whimsical trick fountains and beautiful gardens, making it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

🎶 Cultural Significance: The area is steeped in cultural history, with connections to “The Sound of Music.” The famous gazebo from the movie is located in the palace gardens, attracting fans from around the world.

🌳 Natural Beauty: Hellbrunn is surrounded by lush green spaces and nature reserves, offering a peaceful retreat from the city. The extensive parklands and nearby Hellbrunn Mountain provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking.

🏛️ The Best Sights

  • Hellbrunn Palace and Trick Fountains: The main attraction, known for its playful water features and beautiful Baroque architecture. The trick fountains are a unique experience, designed to surprise and delight visitors.
  • Sound of Music Gazebo: Located in the palace gardens, this iconic filming location is a must-see for fans of the movie.
  • Salzburg Zoo: Adjacent to the palace, the zoo is home to over 150 species and offers a fun day out for families and animal lovers.
Salzburg Zoo
Salzburg Zoo
Salzburg Zoo
Salzburg Zoo
Salzburg Zoo
Salzburg Zoo

🍽️ The Best Places to Eat

  • Gasthaus zu Schloss Hellbrunn: Located right in the palace courtyard, this restaurant offers fine Austrian cuisine with a modern twist. It’s a popular spot for breakfast, weddings, and events.
  • Restaurant Hellbrunn: Known for its variety and quality, this restaurant provides a magical dining experience surrounded by the palace grounds.
  • Café Hellbrunn: A cozy spot for a coffee or light meal, perfect for relaxing after exploring the palace and gardens.

🚶 Getting Around: Hellbrunn is well-connected by bus, with the No. 25 bus providing direct access from the city center and main train station. The journey takes about 20 minutes, making it easy to reach.

Where to Stay in Hellbrunn

Expensive Hotels

  • Hotel Friesacher: A four-star hotel located in the center of Anif, just 5 km from Salzburg. Offers a cocktail bar, wellness center, and heated outdoor pool. The restaurant uses farm-fresh ingredients, and rooms are equipped with minibars and phones. The spa includes a steam bath, sauna, gym, and solarium.

Mid-Range Hotels

  • Momentum Hotel: Located in a large garden, just 10 minutes from Salzburg’s center. Offers a spa with various saunas, free WiFi, and rooms with mountain views. Features a children’s playground, climbing wall, and tennis courts.
  • Walters Appartment - Wohfühlurlaub für Mensch und Hund: A mid-range apartment offering a comfortable stay for both humans and pets, located in a serene environment with modern amenities.
  • Friesachers Aniferhof: A charming hotel located in Anif, offering comfortable rooms and a wellness area with a sauna and fitness center.

Budget Hotels

🤔 FAQ

What is the best area to stay in Salzburg for first-time visitors?

The Old Town (Altstadt) is the best area to stay in Salzburg for first-time visitors. This historic neighborhood offers a range of accommodation options, is close to all major attractions, and provides a unique and authentic Salzburg experience.

What is the most budget-friendly area to stay in Salzburg?

Elisabeth-Vorstadt is the most budget-friendly area to stay in Salzburg. This neighborhood offers a range of affordable accommodation options, including hostels and budget hotels, and is conveniently located near the train station.

What is the best area to stay in Salzburg for families?

Nonntal is the best area to stay in Salzburg for families. This charming neighborhood offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, is close to several parks and playgrounds, and provides a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere.

Can I stay outside of Salzburg city center?

Yes, you can stay outside of Salzburg city center. Hellbrunn is a popular area to stay, offering a range of accommodation options and a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature. The area is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient option for those who want to explore the city.