Salzburg is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Austria. Located right on the border with Germany in the mountains, it is famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and the set of the film The Sound Of Music.
However, finding the right accommodation in Salzburg can be complicated. It gets crowded during the high season and prices can become very high.
This is the reason why I have decided to create this guide on where to stay in Salzburg.
After reading it, YOU will be the expert on where to stay in Salzburg and will be able to choose the right accommodation for your taste and budget.
Without further ado, let’s begin. This is my guide on where to stay in Salzburg.
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Best Airbnb in Salzburg – Modern Apartment in the Heart of Altstadt
Located in the middle of the historic old town in Salzburg, this newly built and furnished apartment is ideal for first time visitors to Salzburg. It consists of a bedroom, a small fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom and a dining area. Walk around and explore the city of Mozart, and come home to this comfortable place to rest from the weary day of sightseeing.
Best Hostel in Salzburg – Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg
The Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg is located in Salzburg’s Neustadt, near the main train station. The hostel offers private double rooms with an ensuite or a shared bathroom, as well as single beds in mixed or female-only dormitory rooms. A free Wifi connection is available everywhere in the hostel.
Need to spend some quality time with fellow backpackers? Get your fix by staying at one of these amazing hostels in Salzburg!
Best Budget Hotel in Salzburg – Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Salzburg
The Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Salzburg offers budget accommodation in the Neustadt neighbourhood. It offers rooms fitted with a private bathroom, a work desk and a flat-screen TV with international channels. In the morning, guests can choose between a continental or a buffet breakfast. Pets are welcome to stay at the hotel.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Salzburg – ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen
The ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen is a nice hotel located in the Elisabeth Vorstadt neighbourhood. The rooms are comfortable and fitted with traditional wooden furniture, air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom and a minibar. The hotel features a spa area with a sauna, a steam bath and a fitness centre.
ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen is one of our favourites in Salzburg but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Altstadt
The Altstadt is Salzburg’s old town. It is the historic and oldest part of the city. This is also where many of the main sights to explore while in Salzburg are located.
Elisabeth Vorstadt
The Elisabeth Vorstadt neighbourhood is centrally located in between the Neustadt area, the central station, and the river Salzach. Historically, it is an immigrant and working-class neighbourhood.
Neustadt
Neustadt is the new town of Salzburg and is located across the river from the old town. In spite of its name, new town is not actually so new, as it was built in the 19th century over the old fortifications of the city.
Mülln
Mülln is a small neighbourhood located just north of the Altstadt and is thought to be the oldest suburb of the old fortress of Salzburg. The area got its name from the former presence of mills which have unfortunately all disappeared today.
Nonnberg
Nonnberg is the area located south of the Altstadt in Salzburg. It is really attractive for tourists thanks to the presence of the Hohensalzburg Castle and the Nonnberg nunnery on its territory.
Located in Austria right on the border with Germany, Salzburg is a charming town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is most famous for being the set of the movie The Sound Of Music, as well as the birthplace of Mozart.
The Altstadt, the old town, is the main centre of attraction in Salzburg. It is blooming with hotels and restaurants and is the most convenient place to stay in Salzburg if it is your first visit. Walking around Salzburg’s Altstadt feels like a fairytale. It is filled with Baroque buildings, spiked towers and old churches. This is where you will find Mozart’s home and birthplace.
On the other side of the Salzach river, Neustadt is the new town. It was created in the 19th century in replacement of the old fortifications. There, you can visit the Schloss Mirabell Palace, which was rebuilt after the great fire of 1818. The gardens are also worth seeing.
Located on top of a hill overlooking the old town, Nonnberg is a nice area to stay. It is a bit quieter and thus provides a good environment for families with kids. Do not miss the Hohensalzburg Castle, dominating the old town from the top of the hill.
Around the main train station, the Elisabeth Vorstadt area is a mixed neighbourhood. Recently, a redevelopment of the area has been initiated to make the area more modern and safer. One of the highlights of the neighbourhood is the Jazzit venue, a Jazz club located in the former headquarters of the city’s communist party.
At this point, you may still feel confused about where to stay in Salzburg. No need to worry though, as we will now take a look at each of the 5 best neighbourhoods to stay in Salzburg individually.
5 Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In Salzburg
Let’s now take a detailed look at the 5 best neighbourhoods to stay in Salzburg.
#1 Altstadt – Where to stay in Salzburg your first time
The Altstadt is Salzburg’s old town. It is the historic and oldest part of the city. This is also where many of the main sights to explore while in Salzburg are located.
Most visitors will head to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s birthplace, which has now been turned into a museum. There, you will get the opportunity to learn more about the life of the musical prodigy and his music.
The Kollegienkirche masterfully displays beautiful Baroque architecture. Inside, four smaller chapels are integrated into the main church and visitors can admire a high altar and large organ. The church was built in 1707 and is still one of the most important places of worship in Austria.
For some shopping, head to Getreidegasse. Look at the shops and their iron guild signs hanging. If you look closely, you will also sport some passageways in between the buildings, leading to some hidden beautiful courtyards.
Best Airbnb in Alstadt – Modern Apartment in the Heart of Altstadt
Located in the middle of the historic old town in Salzburg, this newly built and furnished apartment is ideal for first time visitors to Salzburg. It consists of a bedroom, a small fully-equipped kitchen, a bathroom and a dining area. Walk around and explore the city of Mozart, and come home to this comfortable place to rest from the weary day of sightseeing.
Best Hostel in Altstadt – Stadtalm Naturfreundehaus
The Stadtalm Naturfreudhaus is a hostel located up on a hill overlooking the city in Altstadt. It offers single beds in simple dormitory rooms fitted with wooden furniture. The in-house serves Austrian specialities in the dining room or in the garden during the summer.
Best Budget Hotel in Altstadt – Star Inn Hotel Salzburg Zentrum by Comfort
The Star Inn Hotel Slazburg Zentrum is located in the heart of the city, close to the Mönchsberg, a hill overlooking the city. The rooms are modernly decorated and fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV with international channels. Some rooms also have a terrace.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Altstadt – Hotel Elefant Slazburg
The Hotel Elefant Slazburg is located in the heart of Salzburg’s old town. The comfortable rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom and a minibar. A free Wifi connection is available everywhere in the hotel. A buffet breakfast with a large choice is available in the morning.
Things to see and do in Altstadt
- Visit Mozart’s birthplace, now turned into a museum
- Go to the Old Market where you can see a pharmacy from the 13th century
- Wander to Kranzlmarkt to see the city hall surrounded by medieval houses
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Elisabeth Vorstadt – Where to stay in Salzburg on a budget
The Elisabeth Vorstadt neighbourhood is centrally located in between the Neustadt area, the central station, and the river Salzach. Historically, it is an immigrant and working-class neighbourhood. In the last 20 years, the municipality has launched a programme to redevelop the area, modernise it and make it safer.
As a result, new buildings were erected, and new cultural areas have popped up. Elisabeth Vorstadt is now considered to be an up and coming neighbourhood in Salzburg while still offering cheaper accommodation choices than the rest of the city. Some streets are still a bit dodgy and are better avoided at night, but they are now the minority.
While in Elisabeth Vorstadt, make sure to go check out the Jazzit, a jazz music club located in the former headquarters of the Salzburg Communist Party.
During the summer, it is really nice to go walk or cycle along the Salzach river. Dedicated lanes have been created for that, so it is safe to do it even if you have kids.
Best Hostel in Elisabeth Vorstadt – a&o Salzburg Hauptbahnhof
The a&o Salzburg Hauptbahnhof is a hostel located in the Elisabeth Vorstadt neighbourhood, next to the main train station. It offers modern and functional private rooms with an ensuite bathroom or single beds in mixed or female-only dormitories. Each dorm room has its own bathroom and a free Wifi connection is provided.
Best Budget Hotel in Elisabeth Vorstadt – Adlerhof Salzburg
The Adlerhof Salzburg is a hotel conveniently located near the main train station. It offers rooms fitted with an en-suite bathroom, a flat-screen TV with cable channels and soundproofing. Free Wifi access is provided everywhere in the hotel. In the morning, guests can enjoy a good breakfast.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Elisabeth Vorstadt – ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen
The ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen is a nice hotel located in the Elisabeth Vorstadt neighbourhood. The rooms are comfortable and fitted with traditional wooden furniture, air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom and a minibar. The hotel features a spa area with a sauna, a steam bath and a fitness centre.
ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen is one of our favourites in Salzburg but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to see and do in Elisabeth Vorstadt
- Spend an evening listening to some jazz at Jazzit
- Cycle along the Salzach river
#3 Neustadt – Best area to stay in Salzburg for nightlife
Neustadt is the new town of Salzburg and is located across the river from the old town. In spite of its name, new town is not actually so new, as it was built in the 19th century over the old fortifications of the city. As a result, Neustadt also boasts some quaint streets and historic buildings.
While the old town is where Mozart was born, Neustadt is where he lived as an adult after his family moved. The house has been transformed into a museum and displays information about the Mozart family and their day to day life. The original house was destroyed during World War II but was then rebuilt identically.
Another highlight of Salzburg’s Neustadt is the Mirabell Palace. It was built in 1606 and is still one of the finest palaces in Austria today. Inside the palace, pay extra attention to the beautiful marble hall. The gardens are also worth visiting.
Even if you are not a kid anymore, make sure to spend some time at the Toy Museum. It exhibits the history and toys and games and provides hands-on activities you will surely have fun doing!
Best Airbnb in Neustadt – Comfortable and Spacious House in Neudstadt
This well-appointed apartment is located in Neustadt, a short walk to the old town, river precincts and all the popular sightseeing spots and restaurants. It consists of a cosy bedroom with a double bed, a fully equipped kitchen with dining area, a small bathroom and a garden – and many extra touches.
Best Hostel in Neustadt – Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg
The Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg is located in Salzburg’s Neustadt, near the main train station. The hostel offers private double rooms with an ensuite or a shared bathroom, as well as single beds in mixed or female-only dormitory rooms. A free Wifi connection is available everywhere in the hostel.
Best Budget Hotel in Neustadt – Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Salzburg
The Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Salzburg offers budget accommodation in the Neustadt neighbourhood. It offers rooms fitted with a private bathroom, a work desk and a flat-screen TV with international channels. In the morning, guests can choose between a continental or a buffet breakfast. Pets are welcome to stay at the hotel.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Neustadt – Altstadt Hotel Stadtkrug
The Altstadt Hotel Stadtkrug is located in a 700 hundred-year-old building near Mozart’s house in Neustadt. It offers traditionally decorated rooms fitted with an ensuite bathroom and a flat-screen TV with international channels. The in-house restaurant serves organic meat dishes during the day and a very good breakfast in the morning.
Things to see and do in Neustadt
- Visit the Mirabell Palace and its gardens
- See the house where Mozart lived as an adult
- Spend an afternoon at the Toy Museum
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Mülln – Coolest place to stay in Salzburg
Mülln is a small neighbourhood located just north of the Altstadt and is thought to be the oldest suburb of the old fortress of Salzburg. The area got its name from the former presence of mills which have unfortunately all disappeared today.
The main attraction in Mülln is the Augustiner Braü Kloster, one of the oldest breweries in the city. Created in 1621, the brewery is now the largest beer tavern in Salzburg. Visitors can visit the brewing facilities and learn about how beer is made. After the tour, it is possible to head to the tavern and enjoy some regional dishes while drinking some of the local brews. Not to be missed if you love beer!
Mülln is sitting at the foot of the Mönchsberg, a hill separating it from the Altstadt. You can take the funicular or walk to the top to enjoy some of the best views over Salzburg. The walk is pleasant and goes through forests and meadows. It takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Best Hostel in Mülln – Summer Hostel Salzburg
The Summer Hostel Salzburg offers both private rooms with an ensuite bathroom and single beds in dormitory rooms. It is conveniently located in Mülln, near the Mülln-Altstadt train station. The hostel gives free city maps to guests and can offer a bike rental service. Wifi access is provided for free.
Best Budget Hotel in Mülln – Star Inn Hotel Salzburg Zentrum by Comfort
The Star Inn Hotel Slazburg Zentrum is located in the heart of the city, close to the Mönchsberg, a hill overlooking the city. The rooms are modernly decorated and fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, and a flat screen TV with international channels. Some rooms also have a terrace.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Mülln – Haus Wartenberg
Haus Wartenberg is a guest house located just outside the area of Mülln, at the foot of the Mönchsberg hill. It offers large rooms boasting wooden furniture and fitted with a private bathroom with a bathtub. In the morning, guests can enjoy a good buffet breakfast.
Best Airbnb in Mülln – Centrally Located Apartment in Mülln
Comfortable, clean and convienently located, this urban apartment is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or business travelers. It comes with a fully-equipped kitchen, an open living room with a TV, a leather chair and a stove, and a bathroom with all basic essentials. Coffee and eggs are provided for breakfast.
Centrally Located Apartment in Mülln is one of our favourites in Salzburg but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to see and do in Mülln
- Visit the Augustiner braü Kloster, one of the oldest breweries in the city
- Hike to the top of Mönchsberg, the hill overlooking Salzburg
#5 Nonnberg – Best neighbourhood to stay in Salzburg for families
Nonnberg is the area located south of the Altstadt in Salzburg. It is really attractive for tourists thanks to the presence of the Hohensalzburg Castle and the Nonnberg nunnery on its territory.
The Hohensalzburg Castle is the old medieval fortress of the city. Perched on top of the hill, you can spot it from afar, and it also boasts some of the best views over Salzburg. You can now access the castle via a funicular, which makes it easy for everyone! It is possible to visit the inside of the castle, where you will see many rooms with traditional decor.
Many artefacts are also exhibited and it will tell you more about how the rulers of Salzburg used to live.
The Nonnberg nunnery, located next to the castle, has been made world famous in the movie The Sound Of Music. While you cannot entire the nunnery itself, it is possible to visit the church and feel as if you really were on set.
Best Airbnb in Nonnberg – Spacious 2 Bedroom House in Nonnberg
Accommodating up to six guests, this 93m2 spacious urban apartment is ideal for a family visiting Salzburg. There’s a balcony overlooking the mountains, two bedrooms, a spacious living room with TV, a bathroom with an extra toilet, a fully equipped kitchen with a large dining area, and a washing machine, dryer, ironing board, iron on ground floor.
Best Budget Hotel in Nonnberg – Gasthaus Hinterbruhl
The Gasthaus Hinterbruhl is located in a quiet pedestrian street near the Nonnberg nunnery. It offers cosy rooms with either a shared or a private bathroom. Some of the rooms also have a balcony. The hotel boasts a private garden where guests can relax during the warmer months.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Nonnberg – Altstadt Hotel Kasererbrau
The Altstadt Hotel Kasererbrau is a nice hotel in Nonnberg. This family-run establishment has been in operation since 1342 and is located in a pedestrian street. It offers rooms fitted with a private bathroom and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. A buffet breakfast is served in the morning.
Best Hostel in Nonnberg – JUFA Salzburg City
JUFA Salzburg City is a newly renovated hostel in the Nonnberg area. It offers single beds in single-sex dormitory rooms sleeping eight people. The hostel shows The Sound Of Music movie every night, to set the tone for your visits on the next day. Each guest is provided with an individual locker upon arrival.
JUFA Salzburg City is one of our favourites in Salzburg but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to see and do in Nonnberg
- Visit the Hohensalzburg Castle, the old city fortress
- Enter the church of the Nonnberg nunnery, made famous by the Sound Of Music
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Salzburg
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Salzburg and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In Salzburg…
Salzburg is one of the most charming cities in Austria and is well worth a visit if you like historic buildings, lots of culture and a breathtaking scenery among the Alps.
My favourite area to stay in Salzburg is the Altstadt, the old town, as it keeps you close to all the main sights while fostering a relaxed and historic environment.
In Salzburg, my favourite hotel is the ACHAT Plaza Zum Hirschen, in the Elisabeth Vorstadt neighbourhood. It provides great value in a convenient area.
If you are traveling on a budget, check out the Yoho International Youth Hostel Salzburg in Neustadt. This hostel is clean, comfortable and will set you up for a great experience!
Have I forgotten your favourite spot in Salzburg? Let me know in the comments so I can add it!
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
