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A tip: Salzburg is world-famous for its festivals and “Sound of Music” history—the best rooms disappear quickly, so book as early as possible!
If you are coming from my guide on where to stay in Linz, you will find that Salzburg has a completely different, more classical rhythm. To help you find the best neighborhood and my top hotel picks, read on.
My Favorite Hotels in Salzburg
Here is a quick summary of my favorite hotels to stay in Salzburg if you are in a hurry. Just click on the hotel name to view pricing:
- Where to stay in Salzburg for the first time: Boutiquehotel am Dom – In the heart of the Old Town, next to the Cathedral.
- Best 5-star “Grand” hotel: Hotel Sacher Salzburg – Pure imperial luxury right on the riverbank.
- Best hotel for “Sound of Music” fans: Schloss Leopoldskron – Stay in the actual palace used in the movie!
- Best “Adults Only” boutique hotel: Hotel Stein – Incredible rooftop views of the fortress.
- Best budget hotel in Salzburg: Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt – Great value just off the Linzer Gasse.
- Best for families: JUFA Hotel Salzburg City – Spacious rooms with a view of the fortress.
In the Altstadt (The Old Town)
The Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks like something out of a storybook. This is the historic left bank of the river, where you’ll find the narrowest alleys, the most famous squares, and the birthplace of Mozart.
I recommend this neighborhood for your stay:
- If it’s your first time in Salzburg and you want the full “fairytale” experience.
- If you want to be steps away from the Fortress and the Cathedral.
- If you don’t mind the crowds in exchange for an unbeatable atmosphere.
The neighborhood is the perfect spot to discover:
- Hohensalzburg Fortress: The massive castle overlooking the city.
- Getreidegasse: The world-famous shopping street with wrought-iron signs.
- Mozart’s Birthplace: One of the most visited museums in Austria.
My selection of the best hotels in the Old Town:
Boutiquehotel am Dom – from 160€ Located in an 800-year-old building, this hotel blends historic stone walls with ultra-modern Italian design. It is situated right in the pedestrian zone, just seconds from the Cathedral. It’s my top tip for staying in the heart of history with modern comfort.
Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt – from 190€ This hotel dates back to 1377! It’s a labyrinth of historic charm with dark wood beams and uneven floors, but with all the 5-star amenities you expect. Many rooms offer a direct view of the river. Perfect for those who want to feel the medieval history of Salzburg.
Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse – from 210€ A tiny, high-end boutique hotel with only 16 rooms. Each room is uniquely decorated with a “Salzburg Festival” theme. It’s located on a quiet side street but is still right in the middle of everything. The best choice for a romantic or artistic getaway.
In the Neustadt (New Town) & Mirabell District
If the Altstadt is Salzburg’s historical heart, Neustadt is its vibrant, elegant, and slightly more modern counterpart on the right bank of the Salzach River.
This area is famous for the Mirabell Gardens and the Linzer Gasse, a beautiful pedestrian shopping street that winds up toward the Kapuzinerberg hill. It feels a bit more “local” than the Old Town, but it is just as stunning and significantly more convenient if you are arriving by train or looking for a rooftop view of the city’s skyline.
I recommend this neighborhood for your stay in Salzburg:
- If you want to be close to the Mirabell Gardens (a must for Sound of Music fans).
- If you prefer to be within walking distance of the Main Station (Hauptbahnhof).
- If you want a great selection of traditional Austrian breweries and trendy rooftop bars.
Must-see places in the neighborhood:
- Mirabell Palace and Gardens: Where “Do-Re-Mi” was filmed.
- The Mozart Residence: Where the Mozart family lived (different from his birthplace across the river).
- Kapuzinerberg: A hill offering the most iconic “postcard” view of the Salzburg fortress and Old Town.
Where to Stay in Salzburg’s Neustadt District?
Hotel Stein – Adults Only – Starting at 149€ The highlight of this hotel is the Steinterrasse, one of the best rooftop terraces in the world. Located right at the bridge crossing into the Old Town, this hotel features a chic, blue-themed interior with Venetian glass art. It’s the ultimate choice for a romantic stay or a stylish getaway with a view.
Hotel Imlauer & Bräu – Starting at 121€ This is a classic Salzburg experience. It’s a traditional 4-star hotel that houses its own authentic brewery restaurant (Braurestaurant IMLAUER). The rooms are quiet, comfortable, and recently updated with a mix of modern and traditional styles. A perfect choice for those who want a central location and a taste of Austrian hospitality.
Hotel am Mirabellplatz – Starting at 135€ Housed in the former residence of Archbishop Paris Lodron, this hotel is literally across the street from the Mirabell Gardens. It manages to feel like a grand boutique hotel while remaining quite affordable. Ideal for travelers who want to be steps away from the gardens and the city’s best photo spots.
In the Leopoldskron & Nonntal District (The “Sound of Music” Experience)
If you are looking for that quintessential Salzburg “fairytale” feeling away from the tourist crowds, the areas of Nonntal and Leopoldskron are spectacular.
Located just south of the Fortress, these districts offer a more peaceful, residential atmosphere with wide-open green spaces and mountain views. This is the side of Salzburg that inspired the “Sound of Music”—it is green, aristocratic, and incredibly serene.
I recommend this neighborhood for your stay:
- If you are a fan of the Sound of Music and want to stay in a filming location.
- If you prefer peace and nature but still want to be a 15-minute walk from the Old Town.
- If you are looking for a luxury or romantic retreat.
Must-see places in the neighborhood:
- Schloss Leopoldskron: The palace that served as the Von Trapp family home in the movie.
- Nonnberg Abbey: The historic convent where the real Maria was a novice.
- Leopoldskroner Weiher: A beautiful lake perfect for a morning walk with views of the fortress reflected in the water.
My selection of the best hotels south of the center:
Schloss Leopoldskron – from 600€ This is perhaps the most iconic place to stay in all of Austria. It is an actual rococo palace situated on a private lake. While the main palace contains the grand breakfast rooms and suites, the “Meierhof” building next door offers high-end modern rooms. Guests have exclusive access to the palace’s private park and library. It’s the ultimate “bucket list” hotel for fans of the movie and history alike.
Hotel Schloss Mönchstein – from 450€ Technically perched on the hill above the city, this 5-star superior castle hotel offers total privacy. It features an infinity pool overlooking the rooftops of Salzburg and a Michelin-starred restaurant. You can reach the Old Town via a private elevator through the mountain. This is my recommendation for absolute luxury and the best views in the city.
JUFA Hotel Salzburg City – from 95€ Located in the Nonntal district, this is a fantastic option for families. It’s modern, has a huge indoor play area for kids, and offers an incredible view of the Hohensalzburg Fortress from its terrace. It’s only a 10-minute walk into the historic center. The best choice for families looking for space and value near the Old Town.
Around the Main Station (Elizabeth-Vorstadt)
The area around Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (the Main Station), known as Elizabeth-Vorstadt, is the city’s primary transit hub. While it doesn’t have the baroque charm of the Old Town, it is undeniably the most practical base if you are traveling by train or looking for modern, high-rise hotels with spectacular views.
The neighborhood has seen significant redevelopment, transforming it into a clean, safe, and ultra-convenient district. Best of all, it’s only a 15-minute walk (or a 5-minute bus ride) along the river to reach the Mirabell Gardens and the historic center.
I recommend this neighborhood for your stay:
- If you are using Salzburg as a “hub” for day trips to Hallstatt, Linz, or Berchtesgaden.
- If you want a modern hotel with features like high-speed Wi-Fi, gyms, and underground parking.
- If you are looking for the best price-to-quality ratio in the city.
The neighborhood is the perfect spot to discover:
- The Salzburg Main Station: A beautiful, modern terminal with plenty of shops and eateries open late.
- The Salzach Riverbank: A scenic path for walking or cycling directly into the heart of the city.
- Jazzit: One of the city’s best venues for live music and a local favorite for a late-night drink.
My selection of the best hotels near the Salzburg Main Station:
H+ Hotel Salzburg – from 147€ Located directly across from the station entrance, this is the ultimate choice for convenience. The rooms are surprisingly quiet thanks to excellent soundproofing and feature a modern, warm design. One of its best features is the 2nd-floor spa and sauna area—perfect for relaxing after a day of mountain air. It’s the ideal “insider tip” for business travelers and those arriving on late-night trains.
Arte Hotel Salzburg – from 190€ Just like its “sister” hotel in my guide to Linz, the Arte Hotel in Salzburg focuses on contemporary style and art. It’s a striking high-rise building, which means the upper floors offer some of the best panoramic views of the fortress and the Alps in the entire city. Don’t miss the rooftop bar for a sunset drink. The best choice for travelers looking for a trendy, urban vibe with a view.
Cocoon Salzburg – from 159€ Cocoon is a lifestyle hotel that feels more like a boutique sanctuary than a station hotel. The design is inspired by nature—think soft textures, hanging chairs, and lots of wood. It has a very social “Living Lobby” where you can enjoy a great breakfast or work on your laptop. Perfect for solo travelers or couples looking for a chic, high-design stay at a budget price.
Planning your Austrian Route?
If you are traveling through Upper Austria, don’t miss my other detailed guides to help you find the perfect room:
- Where to Stay in Linz: Read my guide to find the best hotels in Austria’s “Steel City,” from historic squares to the creative Harbour district.
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect place to sleep in Salzburg!