Hotel Goldener Adler

The Goldener Adler, the Golden Eagle, has been welcoming travellers on Herzog-Friedrich-Straße for more than 600 years, and parts of its masonry date back to around 1390. It stands a few steps from the Golden Roof, in the very centre of the old town, and its guest book reads like a history of Europe: individual rooms are dedicated to famous guests, among them Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, the Tyrolean hero Andreas Hofer and King Ludwig I of Bavaria, with their stories told inside. Today the hotel is run by the Hackl family and belongs to Best Western’s Signature Collection. Its 43 non-smoking rooms have all been renovated and are air-conditioned, in three categories, Classic, Tradition and Deluxe, with family rooms linked by a connecting door and a wheelchair-accessible Deluxe room. The restaurant serves traditional Tyrolean and regional dishes every day from lunchtime until late, with the head chef from the family in charge, and the Goethe Wine Bar by the entrance is a cosy spot for a glass of Austrian wine.

Location and getting around: you could not be more central. The Golden Roof, the Hofburg and the Court Church are a couple of minutes on foot, the Hungerburgbahn to the Nordkette is a short walk, and the Inn bridge with its view of the colourful Mariahilf houses is around the corner. The main station is about fifteen minutes’ walk or a short taxi ride. The old town is largely pedestrianised, so drivers should ask the hotel about the nearest garage before arriving.

Rooms: the historic building means that rooms vary in size and shape, with thick walls, deep windows and a mix of traditional and modern furnishings. Deluxe rooms are the most spacious; the story rooms are worth asking for if history is part of the appeal. Every room has free Wi-Fi, coffee and tea facilities, a safe and air conditioning.

Who it suits: first-timers who want to step straight out into the old town, couples who like history and character, and families who can use the connecting rooms.

Good to know: guests receive a free Welcome Card with local perks, and a digital concierge helps with tips. The old town can be lively on Advent evenings when the Christmas market fills the lanes, so light sleepers may prefer a room away from the street. The restaurant is open daily, which is handy on cold evenings.