Salzburg is one of Austria's most stunning federal states, renowned as the birthplace of Mozart and home to the UNESCO-listed historic city of Salzburg. The state encompasses alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, and some of the best ski resorts in the Alps.
Accommodation overview
Hotels by budget
Find accommodation that fits your travel budget.
Budget-friendly (under $50/night)
Junges Hotel Salzburg (Youth Hostel)
The official Hostelling International youth hostel in Salzburg, located 20 minutes from the Old Town by bus. Clean dorms and private rooms, excellent facilities including a cafeteria, bike rental, and common rooms. Popular with school groups and backpackers.
Check rates on Booking.comPension Katarina
A cosy family-run pension on the lively Linzer Gasse, just across the river from the Old Town. Clean, simple rooms with breakfast included. The family owners provide excellent local tips and a warm welcome. Walking distance to major attractions via the Staatsbrücke bridge.
Check rates on Booking.comHaus Arenberg
A charming guesthouse in a converted historic villa in the Arenberg district. Surrounded by a garden with mountain views, this peaceful retreat is 15 minutes' walk from the Old Town or accessible by bus. Good breakfast and very friendly hosts make this a popular choice for value travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Zur Goldenen Ente
A small hotel in the Old Town's Goldgasse, one of Salzburg's prettiest alleys. Simple but comfortable rooms in a historic building. The ground-floor restaurant serves classic Austrian cuisine at reasonable prices. Unbeatable location in the heart of the Old Town.
Check rates on Booking.comMEININGER Hotel Salzburg
A modern hybrid hostel/hotel with both dorms and private rooms, located near Salzburg's main stadium. Well-equipped with a communal kitchen, game room, bar, and terrace. Free-roam bikes available. Young, social atmosphere popular with budget travelers from around the world.
Check rates on Booking.comPension Wolf
A long-established budget pension in the Old Town, steps from the Cathedral and St. Peter's. Simple, clean rooms in a historic building. The friendly reception team provides excellent local knowledge. One of the most affordable options with an authentic Old Town location.
Check rates on Booking.comA-VITA Hostel Salzburg
A no-frills budget hostel north of the city center, popular with backpackers seeking the lowest prices in Salzburg. Basic dorms and simple private rooms. Communal facilities include a kitchen and lounge. Bus connections to the Old Town take about 20 minutes.
Check rates on Booking.comMid-range ($50-150/night)
Hotel Amadeus
A charming 4-star hotel on the lively Linzer Gasse in the New Town, across the river from the Old Town. Family-run with warm, personal service. Comfortable rooms decorated in warm colours, some with fortress views. Excellent buffet breakfast included.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Heffterhof
A refined 4-star hotel in a quiet residential area 15 minutes from the Old Town. Set in lovely gardens with an outdoor terrace and swimming pool. Popular with visiting artists during Salzburg Festival. The hotel has a peaceful, unhurried atmosphere that contrasts with the busy city center.
Check rates on Booking.comBoutique Hotel am Dom
An intimate boutique hotel in a 14th-century building steps from the Cathedral. Just 15 individually styled rooms blend historic architecture with modern comforts. The cobblestone alley location provides an authentic Old Town experience. Breakfast served in a vaulted room.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Auersperg
A welcoming 4-star family hotel in a beautiful Art Nouveau villa near Mirabell Palace. Features a lovely garden, wellness area, and the popular Mirabell Café. Well-established with a loyal return clientele and friendly staff. Close to the main train station.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Schwarzes Rössl
A historic guesthouse with a long tradition in Salzburg's Old Town, steps from the Cathedral and Stiftskeller. The building dates back centuries and retains authentic character. Simple but comfortable rooms, excellent location, and friendly service make this a popular choice.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Castellani
A smart 4-star hotel south of the Old Town, close to Hellbrunn Palace and with views toward the Untersberg. Features a pleasant terrace garden, free parking, and comfortable modern rooms. Easy bus access to the city center. Popular with conference travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comStarlight Suiten Hotel Salzburg
An apartment-hotel offering spacious suites with kitchenettes—ideal for longer stays and families. Located in the quieter Schallmoos district, 20 minutes' walk from the Old Town. Modern design, fully equipped suites, and excellent value for groups needing extra space.
Check rates on Booking.comLuxury ($150+/night)
Hotel Sacher Salzburg
One of Austria's most iconic luxury hotels, the Sacher Salzburg occupies a prime position opposite the State Theatre. Sister hotel to the famous Vienna Sacher, it combines imperial grandeur with modern comfort. The legendary Café Sacher serves the original Sachertorte chocolate cake.
Check rates on Booking.comSchloss Leopoldskron
A breathtaking baroque palace on its own private lake, used as a filming location for 'The Sound of Music'. Now a luxury retreat operated by the Salzburg Global Seminar, with exquisitely furnished rooms in the historic palace. Guests have exclusive access to the lakeside terrace.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Bristol Salzburg
A grand 5-star hotel on Makartplatz, directly opposite Mozart's Residence. The Bristol has hosted royalty, artists, and world leaders since its opening. Classic Viennese grand hotel style with modern amenities, a gourmet restaurant, and exceptional service.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Goldener Hirsch
A legendary hotel embedded in Salzburg's most famous street since 1407. The Goldener Hirsch (Golden Stag) blends medieval character with contemporary luxury across three connected historic buildings. Famous guests include Maria Callas, Audrey Hepburn, and Herbert von Karajan.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Schloss Mönchstein
Salzburg's most exclusive address—a 14th-century castle perched atop the Mönchsberg cliff with sweeping views over the Old Town and Alps. Just 24 rooms and suites ensure ultimate privacy. The Paris-Lodron restaurant is among Salzburg's finest. A lift connects to the Old Town.
Check rates on Booking.comRadisson Blu Hotel Altstadt
A modern luxury hotel within Salzburg's medieval Old Town, incorporating historic 15th-century buildings. Located on the Salzach riverside with views of the Old Town. The rooftop breakfast room offers stunning fortress and river views. Well-suited for business and leisure travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Stein
A stylish design hotel on the right bank of the Salzach with Salzburg's most celebrated rooftop terrace—offering a 180-degree view over the Old Town, fortress, and river. The restaurant and bar are among Salzburg's trendiest venues. Modern interior contrasts beautifully with medieval views.
Check rates on Booking.comBest neighborhoods to stay
Choose your base based on your interests and travel style.
City Center
The heart of Salzburg with easy access to main attractions, restaurants, and transportation.
Best for: First-time visitors, short stays
Old Town
Traditional architecture and local character. Walking distance to historical sites and authentic dining.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers
Our top picks
Handpicked recommendations for every type of traveler.
Hotel Sacher Salzburg
One of Austria's most iconic luxury hotels, the Sacher Salzburg occupies a prime position opposite the State Theatre. Sister hotel to the famous Vienna Sacher, it combines imperial grandeur with modern comfort. The legendary Café Sacher serves the original Sachertorte chocolate cake.
Check rates on Booking.comSchloss Leopoldskron
A breathtaking baroque palace on its own private lake, used as a filming location for 'The Sound of Music'. Now a luxury retreat operated by the Salzburg Global Seminar, with exquisitely furnished rooms in the historic palace. Guests have exclusive access to the lakeside terrace.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Bristol Salzburg
A grand 5-star hotel on Makartplatz, directly opposite Mozart's Residence. The Bristol has hosted royalty, artists, and world leaders since its opening. Classic Viennese grand hotel style with modern amenities, a gourmet restaurant, and exceptional service.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Goldener Hirsch
A legendary hotel embedded in Salzburg's most famous street since 1407. The Goldener Hirsch (Golden Stag) blends medieval character with contemporary luxury across three connected historic buildings. Famous guests include Maria Callas, Audrey Hepburn, and Herbert von Karajan.
Check rates on Booking.comHotel Schloss Mönchstein
Salzburg's most exclusive address—a 14th-century castle perched atop the Mönchsberg cliff with sweeping views over the Old Town and Alps. Just 24 rooms and suites ensure ultimate privacy. The Paris-Lodron restaurant is among Salzburg's finest. A lift connects to the Old Town.
Check rates on Booking.comRadisson Blu Hotel Altstadt
A modern luxury hotel within Salzburg's medieval Old Town, incorporating historic 15th-century buildings. Located on the Salzach riverside with views of the Old Town. The rooftop breakfast room offers stunning fortress and river views. Well-suited for business and leisure travelers.
Check rates on Booking.comBooking tips
Get the best deals and avoid common mistakes.
Book 2-4 weeks in advance for better rates and availability, especially during peak tourist season.
Check multiple booking platforms — direct hotel bookings sometimes offer better rates or perks.
Read recent reviews carefully — conditions can change. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness and Wi-Fi.
Confirm your booking directly with the hotel before arrival, especially for smaller properties.
Ask about airport transfers — many hotels offer pickup services that can save hassle on arrival.
Alternative accommodations
Beyond traditional hotels, consider these options.
Guesthouses
Family-run guesthouses offer authentic local experiences and often include home-cooked meals. Great for cultural immersion.
Serviced apartments
Ideal for longer stays or families. Kitchen facilities help save money and provide flexibility.
Hostels
Budget-friendly option for solo travelers. Dorms and private rooms available with social common areas.