Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and possessing one of the best preserved baroque city centres north of the Mediterranean, Salzburg is a must for anyone interested in European history, or in the great outdoors, or spectacular cavernous beer halls, or… OK, OK, it’s a must for just about everyone, really.
Its name literally means “Salt Castle”, referencing how its fortunes were built on the white mineral. Not directly, mind you, but rather by taxing the salt barges that wended their way down the city river, The Salzach. There are still remnants of this mercenary streak for charging travellers high rates in the town’s hotel industry. Fortunately, TravelMag’s at hand to help you navigate the waters with tips for five budget stays, which will allow you get the most from this beguiling town.
From €90/ night
Offering the complete Austrian experience – regardless of whether you prefer that to be traditional or contemporary – this hotel, housed within a building that dates from 1900, is ideally located just a few steps from the town’s main train station, and a leisurely 15 minute stroll from the Old Town. Everything you could want from a base to explore the surrounds is included in the price, from satellite TV to WiFi, to old fashioned wooden furniture (if that’s your thing).
From €94/ night
A centrally located hotel that, courtesy of its bar, smokers lounge, and extraordinarily friendly staff, at times can feel more like your very own private members club rather than a place you’re just passing through. The rooms are sumptuous, with a dedication to comfort above and beyond anything you might expect for the price. A splendid place to spend a stay, just make sure you book early to avoid disappointment.
From €59/ night
Some hotels you just have to glimpse at to know you want to stay in them. The Hotel Turnerwirt, built in 1437 in beautifully iconic traditional style, is just such a place. Despite its heritage everything here is run and designed to exacting modern standards; there’s nothing missing from 21st Century life, here, meaning you can enjoy this family run hotel’s history in style, whether that means browsing on the WiFi on the terrace, or relaxing in the in-house beauty parlour. It’s a couple of kilometres from the centre of Salzburg, making it a good choice for those who want to explore the stunning surrounds as well as the town itself.
From €78/ night
Four-star luxury at budget prices, this towering hotel in the centre of Salzburg pulls off the impressive feat of offering spectacular views of the surrounding hills and at the same time keeping you planted right in the centre of things, being only a short walk from many of the town’s key sites, such as the Mozart’s birthplace and the Mirabell Gardens. On top of the usual array of four star amenities, there’s also an on-site restaurant, serving both Austrian and international cuisine, plus a beer garden, which opens in the summer months.
From €59/ night
A place for people wanting to get a taste of the old Austria. Basically, think wood, and lots of it: wooden beds, wooden furniture, wooden floors, wooden TVs, wooden WiFi… OK, maybe not the last two (think more flat screen and free access for them), but you get the idea. It’s a twenty minute walk from the Old Town, and is absolutely worth its salt.
