Hotels in Salzburg: Location, Season and Booking

Salzburg is known for its Baroque old town, the Hohensalzburg Fortress and as the birthplace of Mozart. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you would like to stay here, you can choose between places in the old town, by the river and in the outer districts. This guide helps you find the right location and facilities. We deliberately do not name individual hotels here, since the selection, facilities and ratings change.

Choosing the Right Location

In the Old Town

If you stay in the old town, you can reach the Getreidegasse, the cathedral, the Residenzplatz and the fortress on foot. The prices are often higher, though, and some hotels have no access for cars. When you book, ask about arriving by car and about parking.

On the Right Bank of the Salzach

On the other side of the Salzach lie the Mirabellgarten and the Mozarteum, among other sights. From here you can reach the old town on foot in a short time via one of the bridges.

Outside the Centre

If you want more peace or arrive by car, you will often find cheaper rooms in the outer districts. Check the bus connections and the routes into the centre.

💡 Tip: Book as early as possible for the festival season in July and August. Demand is high at this time, and prices rise.

Hotel Categories and Facilities

In Austria, hotels are classified by stars. Three to five stars stand for different facilities and different levels of service. Look on the hotel's website to see what is included in the price.

• Breakfast: is it included, and is there a buffet?
• Wellness: a sauna, pool or spa are not available everywhere.
• Parking: garage spaces in the old town are limited and cost extra.
• Accessibility: historic buildings sometimes lack a lift.
• Noise: rooms facing the street can be loud in the old town.

Depending on the Purpose of Your Trip

Culture Travellers

If you want to attend concerts and festival performances, it is best to stay within walking distance of the venues. Ask the hotel whether you can reserve tickets in advance, and check dates and availability on the organisers' websites.

Families

Families should look for family rooms, cots and space for pushchairs. For outings, the Mirabellgarten, the fortress and the Hellbrunn Zoo are good options.

Business Travellers

Connections to the railway station and airport, Wi-Fi, a desk in the room and flexible check-in times are important. Hotels near the station are often practical if you are on the move a lot.

Eating and Drinking

Specialities such as Salzburger Nockerl (a sweet soufflé dessert), Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake) and Mozartkugeln are part of Salzburg. Many hotels have their own restaurant, and there are also plenty of cafés and inns in the city. You will find an overview from our list of the best at Best Pastry Shops in Salzburg.

Season and Booking

Hotels in the city are in particularly high demand in summer, during the festival season and in Advent. In the off-season, rooms are usually easier and cheaper to get. Compare cancellation terms and check whether a local tax or parking charges are extra. You will find current prices on the hotels' websites.

📍 Discover more: Explore further recommendations for Salzburg on our city page.

Conclusion

Choose your hotel in Salzburg by location, facilities and time of year. Book early for the festival and Advent, clarify parking and arrival beforehand, and check prices and classification directly with the hotel.