Salzburg is small enough that any central stay works. The choice is left-bank UNESCO Altstadt (Mozart-and-fortress) or right-bank Neustadt (Mirabell-and-station). Connected by 4 short bridges.
Altstadt — for first-timers and festival
Altstadt is the left-bank UNESCO core — Mozart's birthplace, Cathedral, Hohensalzburg fortress base. Premium pricing (€170-€350, double during festival). Best for: 1-2 night first visits, festival stays, sights-focused trips.
Neustadt — for budget and Sound of Music
Neustadt is the right bank — Mirabell Palace and Gardens (Do-Re-Mi steps), the Mozarteum, the train station. Best for: longer stays, Sound of Music tours, train-heavy itineraries, budget-conscious travelers.
Festival timing (late July to August)
Festival nearly doubles prices on both sides. Festival venues (Festspielhaus, Felsenreitschule) are on the Altstadt side. If festival-going, Altstadt saves walking; otherwise Neustadt is fine — bridges are 5 min.
What to avoid
- Anywhere outside Altstadt or Neustadt marketed as "central": You'll bus or drive.
- Hotels in Liefering or Maxglan: Suburban, far from anything.
- Anywhere advertised as "10-min walk to Mozart": Verify — sometimes 25-30 min.
Quick pick
First-time short, festival, sights focus: Altstadt. Longer stay, budget, Sound of Music tours: Neustadt.
Compare: Altstadt vs Neustadt.