For a first visit, the Altstadt (Old Town) puts you steps from Salzburg's baroque core and the Hohensalzburg Fortress, ideal for first-timers and sightseers. Neustadt, just across the Salzach river, suits those who want cafés, walkable access to Mirabell Gardens and a slightly quieter base. Andräviertel and Riedenburg work well for budget-conscious travellers and families wanting more space, while Kaiviertel/Nonntal appeals to visitors who prefer a calmer, residential feel near the fortress hill.
The areas, by traveller
Altstadt (Old Town)
The UNESCO-listed baroque heart on the left bank of the Salzach, packed with landmarks, squares and the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress. Everything is walkable, though the narrow lanes get busy in peak season.
Explore Altstadt (Old Town) →Neustadt (New Town)
On the right bank across the river, home to Mirabell Palace and Gardens and plenty of restaurants and shops. It's central yet a touch less crowded than the Old Town, with bridges linking you straight into the historic core.
Explore Neustadt (New Town) →Andräviertel
A practical district near the main train station with good transport links and everyday shops and eateries. It's less scenic than the centre but convenient for onward travel and reaching the Old Town on foot or by bus.
Explore Andräviertel →Riedenburg
A leafy residential area west of the Old Town with a local, unhurried atmosphere. It suits travellers wanting more space and calm while staying within a manageable distance of the sights.
Explore Riedenburg →Nonntal / Kaiviertel
Set beneath and behind the fortress on the edge of the Old Town, this residential pocket feels peaceful yet close to the action. Good for those who want to walk into the centre while avoiding the busiest streets.
Explore Nonntal / Kaiviertel →Elisabeth-Vorstadt
Adjacent to the main station and well connected by bus and rail, this workaday quarter is handy for early departures or day trips. It trades charm for practicality but keeps the centre within easy reach.
Explore Elisabeth-Vorstadt →
Practical basics
- Getting in
- W. A. Mozart Airport (SZG) sits a short ride west of the centre, reachable by city bus or taxi in roughly 15–20 minutes.
- Best time to visit
- Late spring and early autumn offer mild weather and thinner crowds, while summer and the festival season are lively but busy.
- Getting around
- The compact centre is best explored on foot, with an efficient bus network for outlying districts and the funicular up to the fortress.
- Currency
- Austria uses the euro (EUR), and cards are widely accepted alongside cash.
Frequently asked
Is the Old Town the best place for a first visit?
Yes — the Altstadt keeps you within walking distance of Salzburg's main sights and the fortress, making it the most convenient base for first-timers.
Where should I stay if I'm on a budget?
Districts around the main train station, such as Andräviertel and Elisabeth-Vorstadt, tend to offer more value while still being well connected to the centre.
Is Salzburg walkable, or do I need transport?
The historic core is very walkable, but a base slightly outside the centre may mean short bus rides, so consider proximity when choosing your area.
Hand-picked hotel guides for Salzburg — real hotels, exact prices and distances — are on the way. This page will grow into the full recommendation set.
An independent guide to where to stay in Salzburg — hotel recommendations are on the way.