Exploring Salzburg: Best Areas For Accommodation

Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming city located between Austria and Germany. With its picturesque Old Town, stunning natural scenery, and rich history, it offers something for everyone. Here is an introduction to the best places to stay in Salzburg to help you plan your trip.

Altstadt (Old Town)

The Altstadt, or Old Town, is the heart of Salzburg and a perfect choice for first-time visitors. It is located on the left bank of the Salzach River and boasts beautiful baroque architecture, charming narrow streets, and historic squares. Here, you will find many of the city's main attractions, such as Mozart's Birthplace, Salzburg Cathedral, and the Hohensalzburg Fortress. The area offers a mix of tourist sites and local charm, with a variety of accommodation options, including hostels, apartments, and hotels.

Neustadt (New Town)

Neustadt, or New Town, is located across the Salzach River from the Old Town. It is an excellent choice for families, offering a quieter atmosphere while still being close to the city's main attractions. Neustadt has a rich history of its own, with centuries-old streets and historic buildings. Here, you can visit the Mozart Residence, the beautiful Schloss Mirabell palace, and the Mirabell Gardens. The area also offers a variety of dining and shopping options.

Elisabeth-Vorstadt

Elisabeth-Vorstadt is a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Located just a 15-minute walk from the historic Altstadt, this residential area provides a unique perspective of the city. It is well-connected to the main train station and offers cheaper accommodation options. While there are fewer tourist-centric activities, you can enjoy live music at Rockhouse Salzburg and explore the Tauernradweg Cycle Path.

Maxglan

Maxglan is a quaint district known for its convenience, located between the airport and the city centre. It is ideal for those who want a quiet and safe stay, offering a more local experience. While there are limited dining and entertainment options, you can explore local shops and cafes along Maxglaner Hauptstraße and visit the famous Stiegl-Brauwelt brewery.

Mülln

Mülln is a picturesque and peaceful district located along the banks of the Salzach River. It is perfect for travelers seeking relaxation and a more authentic experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Enjoy strolls along the river, discover local breweries, and explore the small, quaint cafes. Mülln offers a blend of history and nature, with easy access to the city's highlights.

Hellbrunn

Hellbrunn, located south of the city, is best known for the stunning Schloss Hellbrunn palace and its surrounding gardens. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a tranquil retreat, surrounded by greenery and scenic views. Hellbrunn is also home to Salzburg Zoo and the Volkskundemuseum, a fascinating folk art museum.

Old Town (Altstadt)

Salzburg's Old Town, known as Altstadt, is the perfect choice for first-time visitors to Salzburg. This area, located on the Salzach River's left bank, is rich in history and culture, making it a top area for tourists.

Who is Salzburg Old Town ideal for?

• Fans of Mozart and classical music
• Travellers who enjoy exploring on foot
• Visitors looking for a mix of tourist sites and local charm

• See all the major tourist attractions in Salzburg in one day
• Charming, narrow streets and historic squares
• A variety of accommodation options, including top hotels, hostels, and apartments

• Can be crowded with tourists
• Limited modern amenities in some areas

Staying in Old Town is ideal for those keen to dive into Salzburg's rich history and culture, especially Mozart's legacy. With its picturesque streets and historical ambiance, it offers an authentic Salzburg experience.

Including the best places to stay in Salzburg for first-timers and diverse accommodation, Altstadt caters to a wide range of preferences and interests.

Whether you're a history buff, a classical music fan, or simply love exploring beautiful cities, Salzburg Old Town offers a memorable stay.

Things to do in Salzburg Old Town:

• Visit Salzburg Cathedral, a striking 17th-century Baroque structure
• Explore Mozart's Birthplace and delve into the composer's early years
• Stroll and shop along Getreidegasse, featuring artisanal stores and local homeware
• Discover unique attractions like the Salzburger Weihnachtsmuseum and Salzburger Glockenspiel

Places to stay in Salzburg Old Town:

• Stadtalm Naturfreundehaus – Best Hostel in Salzburg Old Town
• Leonardo Hotel Salzburg City Center – Best Budget Hotel in Salzburg Old Town
• Hotel Elefant – Best Mid-Range hotel in Old Town Salzburg
• Hotel Elefant Family Business – Best Family Hotel in Old Town Salzburg
• Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse – Luxury Hotel in Salzburg Old Town

Nonnberg

• Proximity to Top Attractions:
• Scenic Surroundings and Walkability:

The neighbourhood is dotted with medieval homes and modern villas, creating a charming backdrop for exploring Salzburg on foot. The area is divided into an inner historic district, part of the UNESCO-protected Altstadt, and an outer, more modern district. The walkable nature of Nonnberg makes it easy to access nearby attractions and the Altstadt while also offering a peaceful retreat.

• Accommodation Options:
• Local Experience:

Staying in Nonnberg allows you to experience a more local side of Salzburg. The neighbourhood has a mix of residential and tourist areas, giving you a glimpse into daily life in the city. It is also home to cafes and restaurants, perfect for lunch breaks during your explorations.

Transportation and Accessibility:

New Town (Neustadt)

Salzburg's New Town (Neustadt) is located across the Salzach River from the Old Town (Altstadt). While it may be called the "New Town", it's not exactly new, having been built in the 19th century on top of the old city fortifications. The New Town is a great option for families, with a rich history, centuries-old streets, and historic buildings. It's also less crowded than the Old Town, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

The New Town is conveniently located near several attractions. One notable landmark is the Schloss Mirabell, also known as Mirabell Palace, which is one of the most magnificent palaces in all of Austria. The palace was constructed in 1606 and features a grandiose marble hall and lovely grounds, providing visitors with a glimpse into Austria's regal past. Another attraction in the New Town is the Toy Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and engaging activities suitable for the whole family.

For accommodation, the YoHo International Youth Hostel is a great budget option, offering both private rooms and dorm beds. The Altstadt Hotel Hofwirt Salzburg is another affordable choice, with clean and modern rooms, and an Austrian buffet breakfast included in the rate.

For mid-range options, the Hotel IMLAUER & Bräu is located just a few minutes away from Mirabell Palace. It offers single, double, twin, and family rooms with air conditioning, a desk, a bathtub, and soundproofing. The hotel also has a traditional Austrian restaurant that serves some international options.

For families, the Gästehaus im Priesterseminar is an excellent choice. It offers access to a shared kitchenette, a washing machine, and dryer, making it convenient for longer stays. The staff is also very accommodating and can prepare a packed breakfast if you need to check out early.

Finally, for a luxury option, the Hyperion Hotel Salzburg is located inside the Palais Faber building. The hotel offers suites and deluxe double rooms with executive lounge access. There is also a restaurant, bar, and terrace on-site. The hotel is also dog-friendly!

Elisabeth-Vorstadt

The neighbourhood offers a mix of urban and residential areas. The area closer to the central station, known as the Bahnhofsviertel, is characterised by high-rise buildings and the infrastructure associated with the train station. In contrast, the area towards the river, called Froschheim, features more green spaces and villas.

The neighbourhood is well-connected to other parts of the city via public transportation, including bus and O-bus lines. It is also within walking distance of the old town, making it a convenient base for exploring Salzburg's main attractions.

Some notable landmarks and institutions in Elisabeth-Vorstadt include the Salzburg Hauptbahnhof (central train station), the Kieselgebäude (a former printing and publishing house), the Heizkraftwerk Mitte (a power plant), and the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Elisabeth (a Catholic church).

Overall, Elisabeth-Vorstadt offers a mix of urban conveniences and cultural attractions, making it a good option for visitors seeking a balance of modernity and local charm during their stay in Salzburg.

Maxglan

The neighbourhood is known for its charming streets, lined with historic buildings, quaint cafes, and family-owned shops, providing a glimpse into authentic Austrian life. Maxglan is also home to architectural gems, including the stunning St. Maximilian Church, with its neo-Gothic design, and the Baroque Maxglan Church.

For those interested in local culture, Maxglan offers cultural centres and galleries showcasing Austrian art and history. The neighbourhood is also within walking distance of the scenic Salzach River, where you can take leisurely strolls and enjoy stunning views of Salzburg's skyline.

If you're looking for accommodation in Maxglan, here are some options:

• Hotel Max 70: Located 1.2 miles from Salzburg Festival Hall, it offers a garden, private parking, a shared lounge, and a terrace.
• Das Edlinger: A unique hotel with modern architecture and individual design.
• Das Grüne Hotel zur Post - 100% BIO: An eco-friendly, family-run hotel located a 5-minute bus ride from the city centre.
• Villa Ceconi by Das Grüne Hotel zur Post - 100% BIO: Built by the famous architect Jakob Ceconi, it's a 5-minute bus ride from the centre.
• Hotel Astoria: A 3-star hotel just a 15-minute walk from the Old Town and Mozart's birthplace.
• Großzügiges, charmantes Appartement in Salzburg by Fiorentino: A spacious and charming apartment located 1.1 miles from Salzburg Cathedral.
• Ferienwohnung Claudia: A fantastic, spotless, and comfortable apartment located 1.7 miles from Salzburg Festival Hall.
• The numa I Maximilian: Located 1.2 miles from Hohensalzburg Fortress, it offers a coffee house, a shared lounge, and a garden.
• Hotel Das Junior by MAX 70: A family-run hotel located halfway between the airport and the city centre.

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