Where to Stay in Salzburg, Austria: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

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Wondering where to stay in Salzburg? You’re in the right place.

Salzburg is a compact, postcard-perfect city, but choosing the right area to stay can really shape your trip. Some neighborhoods put you right in the historic Old Town, while others are better for shopping, easy train connections, or a quieter local feel. And with the Salzach River dividing the city and hotels spread across both sides, it can feel a little confusing at first!

To make things easier, we’ve rounded up the four best areas to stay in Salzburg, plus hotel picks for different budgets. Keep reading to find the perfect base for your trip.

Where to Stay in Salzburg Map

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Salzburg 

Salzburg is a compact city that’s split in two by the river Salzach. The best side to stay on really depends on how close you want to be to Old Town (Altstadt), which is where the main sights are. We stayed close to the historic center and were able to explore a lot on foot! 

That said, some of the best-value hotels sit a little farther out, near the main train station or in quieter residential pockets. This can be a great option if you’re on a budget or want a quieter and more local stay.

Wherever you decide, you’ll be able to get around via a mix of walking, buses (and trolleybuses), and the S-Bahn or regional trains. And of course, you’ve always got taxis and Uber as a backup option! However, they can be slower to secure at peak times, so we’d suggest building in a bit of buffer time if you’re using them for a dinner reservation or a timed activity.

Salzburg is very walkable in the core, but buses are an affordable and reliable way of getting between neighborhoods and for anything outside the immediate centre. If you’re planning day trips to places like the lakes, Berchtesgaden, or Hallstatt, it’s handy to be able to reach Salzburg Hauptbahnhof easily, since this is the main hub for trains and onward connections.

• Altstadt (Old Town) – Best for first-time visitors – We stayed here, and we think this is the best area for first-time visitors because Salzburg’s main sights, cafés, and historic streets are all right on your doorstep. We loved staying at Hotel Elefant and would happily choose it again.

• Neustadt (New Town) – Best for shopping and dining – If you love browsing shops and trying great restaurants, the New Town has plenty to offer, plus easy access to Mirabell Gardens. Hotel am Mirabellplatz is a top-rated place to stay in this area.

• Elisabeth-Vorstadt (Train Station Area) – Best for transport links – Staying here means you’ll enjoy excellent transport connections, so it’s a smart choice if you’re planning on taking day trips by train. Arte Hotel Salzburg is a convenient and stylish choice just a few minutes’ walk from the station.

• Nonntal – Best for a quiet stay – This area is ideal if you want somewhere peaceful, as it sits just south of the Old Town and offers a more local feel. JUFA Hotel Salzburg is a solid pick, with comfortable rooms, good value for money, and easy access to the city by foot or bypublic transport.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Altstadt (Old Town)  

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

• Home to Salzburg’s main sights, cafés, and historic squares
• Beautiful, atmospheric streets and classic architecture

Cons

• Higher hotel prices compared to other areas
• Can be busy, especially in peak season
  

Altstadt is the historic heart of Salzburg and the best place to stay if it’s your first time in the city! We stayed here, and we loved being just steps away from the city’s most iconic sights, like Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, Residenzplatz, and the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress. We also had tons of cafés, bakeries, and traditional Austrian restaurants right on our doorstep.

The Old Town is UNESCO-listed, and once you get here, you’ll immediately understand why. It’s packed with baroque buildings and picturesque cobbled lanes. We fell in love with it straight away, and the fact that it’s so walkable means you get your bearings pretty quickly.

This area is especially great for short stays, since you won’t need to rely much on public transport. The Salzach River runs along the edge of the Old Town, and you can easily cross over one of the pedestrian bridges to Neustadt for shopping or to stroll around the famed Mirabell Gardens.

That said, Altstadt is one of the most popular areas in the city, so hotels book up quickly and prices are higher than in other neighborhoods. But if you want history, atmosphere, and sightseeing on your doorstep, it’s hard to beat staying in the Old Town.

Hotel Goldener Hirsch – $$$ 

Hotel Goldener Hirsch is one of the most iconic hotels in Salzburg, and staying here feels like stepping into the city’s history. This luxury hotel sits right on Getreidegasse, so you’re in the absolute heart of the Old Town, with shops, cafés, and sights just outside the door. The interiors are traditional and elegant, with antique furniture and classic Austrian details that really suit the setting.

There are also two restaurants on site, and the hotel is pet-friendly, so your furry companions are welcome to come along! If you’re looking for a five-star stay, you really can’t go wrong here. Rooms here typically start at around €400 per night during the summer months.

Read the glowing reviews and book your stay here!

If Goldener Hirsch is fully booked, Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt is another excellent luxury option right by the river with spacious rooms and a prime location. We also think that Boutiquehotel am Dom is a lovely boutique alternative with stylish rooms and a quieter feel, just steps from Salzburg Cathedral.

Hotel Elefant – $$

Hotel Elefant is where we stayed in Salzburg, and we loved it! The location is hard to beat, just a short walk from Mozart’s Birthplace and right in the heart of the Old Town, so we could step outside and start exploring straight away.

The rooms are modern and comfortable, and it felt relaxed and welcoming after long days of sightseeing. We think it’s a fantastic base that doesn’t cost the Earth, and we would definitely stay here again! Rooms at Hotel Elefant usually start at around €180 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book our favorite Salzburg hotel here!

If Hotel Elefant is all booked up, Altstadthotel Kasererbräu is another solid mid-range option in the Old Town with plenty of traditional charm. Leonardo Hotel Salzburg City Center is also worth a look if you want a reliable, modern stay close to the historic centre.

Cityhotel Trumer Stube – $

If you’re traveling on a budget, Cityhotel Trumer Stube is a great hotel in the Old Town that allows you to stay central without spending a fortune. It’s located just off the main streets, so you’re close to everything but slightly removed from the busiest crowds.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and there’s an on-site restaurant where you can try local Austrian dishes. And despite its affordable price tag, it still feels modern, comfortable, and well-maintained. Rooms here typically start at around €120 per night during peak season.

Book your budget-friendly Old Town stay here!

If Trumer Stube is fully booked, we also love Leonardo Boutique Hotel Salzburg because it’s a good-value option with stylish rooms and a convenient central location.

Neustadt (New Town) 

BEST FOR SHOPPING & DINING

Pros

• Home to Mirabell Palace and the beautiful Mirabell Gardens
• Excellent shopping, cafés, and restaurants along Linzer Gasse

Cons

• Fewer major historic sights than the Old Town
• Less atmospheric at night compared to Altstadt

Neustadt sits on the right bank of the Salzach River. It’s a great place to stay if you love shopping and trendy restaurants. We loved the views at IMLAUER Sky, as well as the food and cocktails.

A big pro of staying in this area is the fact that it’s home to Mirabell Palace and the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, which are some of the most famous spots in Salzburg. If you want your Instagram feed to look good, be sure to stop by and snap some photos! And you’ll also find lots of cute boutiques and bakeries along Linzer Gasse, which is one of the city’s main shopping streets.

We think Neustadt is a great option for travellers who want a slightly more local, lived-in feel but still want to be close to the action. It’s easy to walk across one of the pedestrian bridges into the Old Town, so you can explore all the historic sights during the day and come back to a calmer area in the evening.

Overall, Neustadt suits couples, foodies, and anyone who wants to shop ‘til they drop! It offers great access to both sides of the city, but it’s not as busy as Altstadt so it’s a happy medium if you prefer to stay away from the crowds.

Boutique & Design Hotel AUERSPERG – $$$

Boutique & Design Hotel AUERSPERG is a gorgeous boutique hotel in Neustadt, and it’s perfect if you want a stylish stay with lots of character. The rooms are modern and individually designed, and the whole place feels friendly and welcoming, rather than corporate. There’s also a lovely spa and garden area, which is a nice bonus after a day of sightseeing.

This would be our top choice for a romantic stay in Salzburg, and it’s a great pick if you love boutique hotels. Plus, you’re still within walking distance of the Old Town, so exploring is a breeze when you stay here! Rooms here typically start at around €350 per night during peak season.

Book your stay at this boutique hotel here!

If AuerSperg is fully booked, Sheraton Grand Salzburg is a polished luxury option right by Mirabell Gardens with spacious rooms and fantastic amenities. IMLAUER HOTEL PITTER Salzburg is another excellent high-end choice, known for its rooftop restaurant that we mentioned above. 

Hotel am Mirabellplatz – $$

Hotel am Mirabellplatz is a fantastic mid-range option in Neustadt, right next to Mirabell Palace and its famous gardens. The location is super convenient, as you can easily walk into the Old Town or to the wide range of shops and restaurants nearby. 

The rooms are modern and comfortable, and many have views of the gardens or the fortress in the distance. The breakfast here has amazing reviews, and you can opt to include it with your stay for extra ease.

All in all, we think this is a great base if you want to be central but would prefer to be in a slightly quieter area than Altstadt. Rooms here usually start at around €280 per night during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If Hotel am Mirabellplatz is full, NH Collection Salzburg City is another reputable option with contemporary rooms and a central location. Numa Salzburg Mozart is also worth a look if you like apartment-style stays.

Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten – $

Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten is a budget-friendly hotel with a great reputation. We think it’s an excellent choice if you want a simple, affordable stay close to the city centre. The rooms are compact but comfortable, with a warm, colorful design that will make you feel right at home. Plus, the hotel is just a short walk from Mirabell Gardens and the river, so you’re well placed for sightseeing.

The service here is really friendly, and you even get complimentary snacks in your room each day—how nice is that? Rooms here typically start at around €150 per night during peak season, which is really competitive for Salzburg.

Book your stay at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten here!

And if Vier Jahreszeiten is fully booked, HOTEL andrä is another budget-friendly option in the area with excellent reviews. Atel Hotel Lasserhof is also worth looking at if you want an affordable stay with easy access to the Old Town and the train station.

Elisabeth-Vorstadt

BEST FOR TRANSPORT LINKS

Pros

• Super convenient for trains and day trips from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof
• Generally better value for money than staying in the Old Town

Cons

• Less charming and historic than Altstadt or Neustadt
• Feels more functional and business-focused

Elisabeth-Vorstadt is the area around Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, aka the city’s main train and bus station. It’s the best place to stay if transport convenience is your top priority. This neighborhood is ideal if you’re planning lots of day trips to places like Hallstatt, Berchtesgaden, or the Salzkammergut lakes, since you can easily walk to the main train station and hop on a regional train.

We think this area is especially good for travellers who want easy logistics and better value hotels, without being too far from the city centre. It’s around a 15-20 minute walk to the Old Town, or just a short bus ride, so sightseeing is still very easy. You’ll also find plenty of cafés, bakeries, and casual restaurants around the station, which makes grabbing breakfast or dinner simple.

The trade-off is that Elisabeth-Vorstadt doesn’t have the fairy-tale feel of the Old Town. It has a more “everyday” feel to it, since this is a popular area with commuters and business travelers. But on the plus side, it’s practical and very well-connected. It also tends to be more affordable than other parts of the city, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre – $$$

Wyndham Grand Salzburg Conference Centre is one of the best luxury options near the main train station. It’s spacious and comfortable, with an indoor pool and a great gym. The whole property feels sleek and modern, and it’s a lovely place to rest your head after a long train journey.

BarRoque, the on-site bistro, offers both international and classic Austrian dishes, as well as an extensive cocktail menu, so you won’t need to look far to find a good meal! Rooms here typically start at around €220 per night during the busier months, and options range from doubles to executive suites.

Check your dates and secure your stay here!

If Wyndham Grand is sold out, Villa Elisa is a charming boutique alternative in the same area, with a quieter, more homey feel and individually decorated rooms.

arte Hotel Salzburg – $$

Arte Hotel Salzburg is a super convenient option right next to Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, and it’s ideal if you’re planning lots of train trips. But practicality isn’t the only upside to staying here, as we love the design of this sleek and modern property.

The rooms feel plush, and some even offer city or mountain views. There’s also a rooftop bar, which is a fun place to unwind in the evening without having to travel into the Old Town. Rooms here usually start at around €180 per night during the warmer months.

See availability and find the best prices over at Booking.com!

If arte Hotel is all booked up, Cocoon Salzburg is another stylish hotel right by the station, and we love its playful, modern design. Hotel Hohenstauffen is also worth a look if you prefer a more traditional, family-run type of stay. 

Austria Trend Hotel Europa – $

Austria Trend Hotel Europa is a solid budget-friendly option that sits directly opposite Salzburg Hauptbahnhof, making it incredibly convenient for transport. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and many have views over the city or towards the Alps.

This is a great pick for budget travellers, solo travellers, or anyone prioritising location and easy train access over luxury amenities. It’s also just a short walk or bus ride to the Old Town, so sightseeing is still straightforward. Rooms here typically start at around €110 per night.

Reserve this convenient and affordable stay here!

If Austria Trend Hotel Europa is fully booked, Mayburg Salzburg is a slightly design-forward option in the same area with a trendy vibe. Hotel Scherer is another affordable choice with a more traditional Austrian feel.

Nonntal

BEST FOR A QUIET STAY

Pros

• Peaceful, residential area just south of the Old Town
• Great value hotels and more space than central Salzburg

Cons

• Fewer restaurants and shops than Altstadt or Neustadt
• Slightly longer walk to the main sights (though still manageable)

Nonntal is one of the quietest and most relaxed areas to stay in Salzburg, and it’s a great option if you want a calmer base while still being close to the historic centre. This neighbourhood sits just south of Altstadt, near the foot of the Festungsberg, so you’re still within walking distance of the Old Town, but away from the busiest tourist streets.

We think Nonntal is ideal for families and really anyone who prefers a more local feel. You’ll find lots of green spaces and traditional Austrian restaurants here, and the pace of life is generally slower. It’s a lovely place to come back to after a busy day of sightseeing. 

Speaking of which, public transport connections are good from here, and it’s easy to catch a bus or trolleybus into the Old Town. In fact, it takes less than 5 minutes, or you’re looking at around a 15-minute walk if you’d prefer to go on foot.

Nonntal also offers some great value accommodation, especially for larger rooms or family-friendly hotels. If you like the idea of staying close to Salzburg’s main sights but want a quieter, more laid-back neighbourhood, we think that Nonntal is a fantastic choice!

 JUFA Hotel Salzburg – $$ 

JUFA Hotel Salzburg is a fantastic option in Nonntal, especially for families and groups. The hotel has modern, comfortable rooms and plenty of communal spaces, making it a great spot to unwind after exploring the city. It’s set near green spaces and the foot of the fortress hill, so it feels calm and slightly removed from the crowds.

We think this is a great pick if you want more space for your money and don’t mind a short walk or bus ride into the Old Town. It’s also very practical if you’re travelling with kids or in a group! Rooms here usually start at around €140 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

If JUFA is all booked up, ARCOTEL Castellani Salzburg is another great option in Nonntal with a stylish, Alpine feel and a peaceful setting. Hotel Via Roma is also worth a look if you’re on a budget and don’t mind a smaller hotel.

Related Read: Planning a quick visit? Don’t miss our 2-day Salzburg itinerary, packed with must-see attractions, great food stops, and easy day trips.

Top Activities to do in Salzburg

Now that you’ve chosen where to stay, it’s time to plan what to do in Salzburg! From iconic filming locations to fairytale villages and unforgettable cultural experiences, this city has so much to offer. These are our personal favorite tours and experiences that we loved and would happily book ourselves again.

• Follow in the footsteps of The Sound of Music – This iconic Sound of Music tour is an absolute must for fans of the film. We visited famous filming locations like Mirabell Gardens, Hellbrunn’s gazebo, Mondsee, and Austria’s Lake District, all while singing along with fellow fans.

• Visit fairytale Hallstatt on a half-day trip – If you’re limited on time, this half-day tour makes seeing Hallstatt easy. After a scenic drive through the mountains, we had free time to explore the village, walk the lakefront, or head up to the Skywalk for incredible views.

• Go underground at the Berchtesgaden Salt Mines – This unique half-day trip takes you beneath the Alps into historic salt mines just outside Salzburg. We rode underground trains, slid down miners’ slides, and floated across the surreal Mirror Lake. It’s fun, educational, and perfect for families or rainy days.

• Enjoy dinner and a Mozart concert at the Fortress – For a memorable evening in Salzburg, this dinner and concert experience at Hohensalzburg Fortress is hard to beat. After a funicular ride and a traditional Austrian meal, we listened to Mozart’s music performed in historic rooms overlooking the city.

• Discover Salzburg’s highlights – This private walking tour is the best way to really understand Salzburg. With a knowledgeable guide, we explored major sights like Mozart’s Birthplace and Salzburg Cathedral, plus lesser-known spots we’d never have found on our own. The flexible timing makes it perfect for both short visits and deeper dives.

Related Read: If you want a deeper breakdown, we cover these tours in more detail in our guide on the best things to do in Salzburg, including tips on what to expect and how to fit them into your Salzburg itinerary.

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

Salzburg may be small, but choosing the right area to stay can make a big difference to your trip. Whether you want to be right in the historic Old Town, close to shops and cafés, well connected for day trips, or tucked away in a quieter local neighborhood, there’s a great option for every travel style.

Before you go, be sure to check out our other Austria blogs for more tips, itineraries, and must-do experiences to help you plan an unforgettable trip. For more ideas and inspiration, have a look at some of our most popular blogs below!

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