Where to Stay in Salzburg Austria: My First Timers Guide with the Best Hotels & Areas (2025)

After spending 6 weeks living in Salzburg on a summer house sit (with the cutest cat, I might add), I got to know this little Austrian gem way better than I ever expected. From lazy mornings walking along the river to spontaneous beer garden nights and too many strudels to count, I had enough time to explore every corner and test out a few different areas to stay in the process.

And since then, everyone’s always asking me where to stay in Salzburg, so I figured it was time to put all my experience into one ultimate guide. I’ve rounded up the best areas and hotel picks to help you figure out where to base yourself. Honestly, there’s no bad area to stay in Salzburg (it’s tiny and charming pretty much everywhere), but some neighborhoods are definitely better suited depending on what kind of trip you’re after.

Whether you want to wake up to church bells echoing through the Old Town, or you’d rather stay somewhere quieter with mountain views and free parking, this guide has you covered. Let’s get into it! 

Where to Stay in Salzburg: My Quick Overview

Before I book any hotel, the first thing I always figure out is where I actually want to stay. Because even the cutest hotel isn’t going to help much if it’s in the wrong spot, whether it’s too far from the things I want to see, too noisy at night, or just kind of… meh.

When I first visited Salzburg, I stayed right in the Old Town during Christmas. I wanted the full storybook experience: cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, Glühwein in hand, and the Christmas markets just steps away. It was also my first time in the city, so being in the middle of it all felt like the obvious choice.

But after spending six weeks in Salzburg, I quickly realized the whole city is super compact. Even if you don’t stay in the exact center, almost everything is in walking distance of each other, or just a quick hop away by public transportation. So don’t stress too much, there’s no bad place to stay here. Just better fits for different types of trips.

Quick Overview of Salzburg Neighborhoods

Altstadt (Old Town Salzburg) – If it’s your first time in Salzburg, this is where the magic happens. You’ve got cobblestone streets, Mozart history, and all the tourist hotspots literally on your doorstep. It’s super walkable and ridiculously charming.

Neustadt (New Town / Right Bank) – Just across the river from the Old Town, but way more chill. This side has Mirabell Gardens, cute cafes, and a quieter local vibe.

Elisabeth-Vorstadt (Near the Train Station) – This area’s super practical, especially if you’re coming in by train or only staying a night or two. It’s not the prettiest part of Salzburg, but it’s well-connected and surprisingly modern in parts. Ideal if you’re on a budget or just want a comfy, easy base.

Nonntal & South Salzburg – Tucked just behind the fortress, this area feels way more local and peaceful. I stayed down here for the 6 weeks I lived here and it was perfect with morning walks, cozy cafés, and less of the tourist energy. 

Leopoldskron & Surroundings – If you’re chasing Sound of Music vibes, this is the one. You’ll have lakeside views, mountain backdrops, and big open skies. It’s a bit outside the main city center, so you’ll want to use buses or have a car, but it’s perfect for a relaxed, nature-filled stay.

My Experience on the Best Areas to Stay in Salzburg and Where I’d Stay Again

Like I mentioned, the first time I visited Salzburg was in December, and I stayed right in the Old Town. It was truly magical, waking up and walking straight to the Christmas markets, sipping Glühwein in the streets, and being steps away from everything. We only had two nights, and staying central made it super easy to fit everything in without stress. But… it was expensive. Christmas definitely drove the prices up, and I waited a little too long to book, so all the budget-friendly spots were already taken.

If I’d booked earlier and snagged a good deal, I’d absolutely stay in the Old Town again. But knowing what I know now, I probably would’ve picked the New Town across the river. It’s still super central, you get beautiful views of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Salzach River, and it’s usually a bit more affordable.

When I was there in the summer for 6 weeks, I stayed in the south of Salzburg, and I loved it. It felt way more relaxed. I biked into the Old Town when I wanted to explore, but also had easy access to the lakes, nature trails, and all the stunning Alpine scenery that makes Austria so special. The only downside was once you get out of the city center, English isn’t as widely spoken. It wasn’t a big issue for me (Oliver speaks German and I’m no stranger to Google Translate), but it’s something to keep in mind.

The Best Areas to Stay in Salzburg Austria + Hotels I’d Recommend

Alright, now that you have a little background, let’s dive a little bit deeper into what Salzburg offers in it’s neighborhoods and see which one fits your trip best! 

1. Altstadt (Old Town Salzburg)

This is where I stayed on my first visit, and honestly, it made the trip. We only had two days, and being based in the Old Town meant we were steps from everything: Mozart’s birthplace, the Christmas markets, the fortress, and charming cafés that are cozy in the winter and spill out onto sun-drenched terraces in summer. 

We could pop back to the hotel to warm up or drop things off, which made sightseeing so much easier. Hotels here are often boutique, historic, and just plain iconic but you need to expect to pay a bit more, but if you want that fairytale Salzburg experience, this is the place to splurge.

Best Hotels in Old Town Salzburg Austria

$ Leonardo Hotel Salzburg City Center — A fantastic mid-range hotel just outside Old Town, with good-sized rooms (especially by European standards) and easy walking access to the fortress and city sights.

Book Here: Leonardo Hotel Salzburg City Center 

$$ Radisson Blu Altstadt — A lovely stay in the heart of Old Town, with charming wooden beam ceilings, big arched windows that open, and really comfortable beds. Personally, I think this is the best place to stay in Salzburg Old Town

Book Here: Radisson Blu Altstadt

$$$ Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse — If I had the budget, this is where I’d stay. It’s full of quirky charm that feels so Salzburg, with standout service, incredible views, and a breakfast that’s actually worth waking up for.

Book Here: Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse

$$$$ Hotel Schloss Mönchstein — If you’re after luxury at its absolute finest, this is one of the best hotels in Salzburg. The rooms here are absolutely amazing. Elegant, spacious, and so gorgeously designed it kind of ruins other hotels for you. In winter, when the grounds are blanketed in snow, it’s straight-up fairy tale vibes. Perched on a hilltop above the city, it feels totally private but still just minutes from the Old Town. 

Book Here: Hotel Schloss Mönchstein

2. Neustadt (New Town Salzburg / Right Bank)

I absolutely love this part of Salzburg. While Old Town is packed with history and iconic landmarks, New Town has this lowkey charm that just feels more lived-in. It has cute little alleyways, cozy restaurants hidden around corners, bars with sunny terraces, and views that are out of this world. It’s not exactly a hidden gem as Mirabell Gardens and a few museums keep it busy, but it has more of that local, everyday feel.

What I truly think makes the ares one of the best to stay in though is being right on the riverfront. The views are next level. You’ve got the Salzach flowing by, colorful buildings lining the streets, the fortress perched up on the hill, and snow topped mountains behind it. It just doesn’t get better. And even though you’re in this more local-feeling part of town, you can wander across a bridge and be back in the heart of Old Town in minutes.

Best Hotels in New Town Salzburg

$ HOTEL andrä — This is a great budget-friendly option with the added bonus of smooth self check-in and check-out. Great for when you’re just looking for a solid, easy staying point without compromising comfort.

Book Here: HOTEL andrä

$$ Hotel am Mirabellplatz — I’m obsessed with this boutique hotel. It’s housed in this gorgeous traditional building, and the decor is exactly what you want when staying in Austria with wood, old-world charm, and cozy comfort. Plus, it’s just steps from Mirabell Palace and 15 minute walk from the train station. 

Book Here: Hotel am Mirabellplatz

$$$ Hotel Sacher Salzburg — This is one of the best Salzburg hotels on the north side but it’s definitely a splurge. The hotel is full-on glamorous, with amazing views of the Old Town and fortress, the rooms are very elegant, and 5-star service goes above and beyond.

Book Here: Hotel Sacher Salzburg

3. Elisabeth-Vorstadt (Near the Train Station)

If you’re coming into Salzburg by train from Munich or Vienna (which most people do), the area around the station can actually be a pretty handy place to stay, especially if you’re just here for a night. It’s about a 25-minute walk to Old Town or a quick hop on the bus.

Now, it is a little cheaper to stay out this way, but to be honest, I don’t think it’s that much cheaper. Unless you find an absolute steal, you can usually get something similarly priced closer to town if you’re okay with a slightly lower rating or fewer bells and whistles.

That said, the train station area is great if you’re planning on including day trips, whether that’s the lakes, Hallstatt, or hopping over to Innsbruck. Super easy to connect from here without wasting time crossing the city.

Best Hotels near the Train Station

$ Villa Elisa — A cute, quiet spot that feels more like staying at someone’s lovely home than a hotel. Super clean, charming rooms and it’s literally right next to the train station. This hotel offers great value if you want peace, comfort, and convenience without any fuss.

Book Here: Villa Elisa

$$ Cocoon Salzburg — This is one of my favorite stays in the city. It’s cool, stylish, and a little playful in the design. It has hanging chairs, warm tones, and cute little details everywhere. Great for couples or solo travelers who want something fun but still affordable and comfy.

Book Here: Cocoon Salzburg

$$$ Design Hotel zum Hirschen Salzburg — This one is a little pricier but I’m obsessed. The design is super sleek but still warm and cozy. It’s minimalist but not boring. The rooms are spacious, beds are dreamy, and there’s a sauna and gym if you need to sweat out all the pints. 

Book Here: Design Hotel zum Hirschen Salzburg

4. Nonntal & South Salzburg

If you’re planning a longer trip or just want to escape the tourist buzz, the south side of Salzburg is the perfect base. It’s mostly residential, which means more space, more calm, and more of that local-life feel. 

This is actually where I lived for six weeks, and it was perfect. I’d spend the afternoons biking to Waldbad Anif, a stunning lakeside swimming spot and be back in the city for dinner and a cold beer by sunset. I honestly couldn’t dream up a better day..

You won’t find as many hotels down here, but if you’re open to apartments or guesthouses, it’s a great base, especially if you’re driving or biking. Plus, you’re still close enough to the center to pop in for a museum, a concert, or just a day wandering the streets.

Best Hotels in the South of Salzburg

$ Motel One Salzburg-Süd — Don’t let the name throw you off, yes, it says “motel,” but this place is nothing like the roadside spots you’re picturing in the US. It’s super modern, sleek, and surprisingly stylish for the price. Great if you want something dependable, well-designed, and a little out of the city center without feeling like you’re compromising. 

Book Here: Motel One Salzburg-Süd

$$ Numa Salzburg Ivy — This hotel is full of charm, and has some incredible views. The cozy balconies looking out toward the mountains, stylish interiors, and a peaceful vibe makes it feel like a proper escape.

Book Here: Numa Salzburg Ivy

5. Leopoldskron & Surroundings

Leopoldskron and the area around it totally surprised me. I only came out here for a few little day trips but instantly wished I’d stayed longer. It’s just stunning with its rolling fields, cute houses tucked into the hills, and lakes that are icy cold and surrounded by mountains. 

It feels like Salzburg’s peaceful backyard, and honestly, it’s perfect if you’re wanting more of that nature filled kind of trip. You can still head into the city super easily, but coming back out here at the end of the day feels like a total reset. It’s also perfect if you want to do a day trip to Hallstatt.

Best Hotels in the Surrounding Area of Salzburg

$$ Arabella Jagdhof Resort am Fuschlsee — About 20 minutes outside the city, this lakeside spot is such a find if you love big, green spaces. The rooms have that quietly charming, quaint feel, but honestly, the real draw here is the setting, it’s peaceful, scenic, and right by the water.

Book Here: Arabella Jagdhof Resort am Fuschlsee

$$ Pension Schierl — Located in a small village just outside Salzburg, this cozy stay feels like visiting an Austrian family friend. The hospitality is genuine, the surroundings are peaceful, and it’s a great way to experience the slower, countryside side of Austria, without straying too far from the city.

Book Here: Pension Schierl

$$$$ Rosewood Schloss Fuschl — Rosewood Schloss Fuschl is the kind of stay that redefines luxury with sweeping lake views, flawless service, and interiors that feel more like a private estate than a hotel. Everything is intentional, from the curated art to the stillness of the surroundings. It’s quiet, exclusive, and deeply elegant and perfect for travelers looking for ultra luxury.

Book Here: Rosewood Schloss Fuschl

FAQ: Best Places to Stay in Salzburg

What part of Salzburg is best to stay in?

After staying in a few different areas, New Town is my go-to. It’s close to everything, a little quieter than Old Town, and feels more local. I’ll definitely be basing myself here again next time I visit.

What is the main area of Salzburg?

The main area is definitely Old Town, that’s where all the historic buildings, museums, and tourist spots are. But personally, I found staying just across the river in New Town gave me the best mix of access and calm.

Are 2 days enough for Salzburg?

Absolutely, two days in Salzburg is the perfect amount. You’ll have time to hit the highlights like the fortress, Sound of Music spots, and maybe even squeeze in a day trip. You can check out exact itinerary for 2 days in Salzburg here!

Which side of the river to stay in Salzburg?

Both sides are great, but I lean toward the New Town side. It’s got beautiful views of Old Town, fewer crowds, and better bang for your buck. Plus, you’re still just a short walk from everything.

Where to stay in Salzburg for Christmas market?

If you’re visiting for the Christmas markets, I’d stay anywhere close to the river or in Old Town. I stayed nearby in December and walked to all the stalls, lights, and festivities. It was perfect for a few dreamy days in Salzburg, I stayed at the Radisson Blu!

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Salzburg

After two trips to Salzburg, one in summer and one in winter, I can honestly say there’s no bad area to stay. But if I had to pick the most well-rounded spot for views, location, vibe, and value, New Town is where I’ll stay next time. 

It’s central without being too busy, and in summer, it feels way less touristy than the Old Town side and is full of boutique hotels. If you’re still unsure where to stay over there, go all in at Hotel Sacher Salzburg the stunning views and friendly service are second to none!

I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your search, and make sure to check out my 2 day itinerary to not miss any of the hot spots or my hidden gems I found while living here! 

Check Out My Other Salzburg Guides

Where to Stay in Salzburg Austria: My Top Hotels and Areas

Is Salzburg Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Best Time to Visit Salzburg: My Weather Guide to Salzburg Austria

2 Days in Salzburg Itinerary: How I Spent 48 Hours in Salzburg

Restaurants in Salzburg: My Top Places to Eat in Salzburg