The Blaue Gans, the Blue Goose, has stood at the western end of the Getreidegasse since 1350, when it was founded as a hostel for travellers, and it is one of the oldest continuously used houses in Salzburg. Today it calls itself the city’s first art hotel, and more than 300 original artworks hang throughout, with medieval archways and wooden beams set against whitewashed walls and modern furniture. The address could not be better for culture: the Festival halls are directly opposite on Herbert-von-Karajan-Platz, Mozart’s Birthplace is a few minutes along the Getreidegasse, and the Mönchsberg lift is around the corner. The four-star hotel has around three dozen rooms and suites, each designed individually, with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Its restaurant, with historic vaulted dining rooms, a brasserie, a Campari bar and a Mediterranean garden, pairs alpine produce with southern flavours and is popular with locals as well as guests.
Location and getting around: step out of the door onto the Getreidegasse and you are in the old town, with the cathedral, Residenzplatz and the fortress funicular all within about ten minutes on foot. The Mönchsberg lift, a short walk away, carries you up to the clifftop walks and the Museum of Modern Art. City bikes are available for trips further afield.
Rooms: room sizes range from compact Small rooms, good value for solo travellers and short stays, to Medium rooms and suites. Each is uniquely designed around light, natural materials and craftsmanship, and the blue corridor and reading room add to the gallery feel. Reception is staffed around the clock.
Who it suits: art lovers, couples and concert-goers who want a characterful old town base with a good restaurant downstairs. Families with young children may prefer more space elsewhere.
Good to know: breakfast is charged separately and can be booked the evening before. The restaurant is open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner and closed on Sundays outside the Festival. Drivers park in the nearby Altstadtgarage at a discounted hotel rate, or use the valet service for a fee. Smoking is allowed only in the garden lounge.
Why stay here
- ✓More than 300 original artworks
- ✓Restaurant with vaulted dining rooms
- ✓Mediterranean garden and Campari bar
- ✓Air-conditioned rooms
- ✓City bikes for guests
- ✓24-hour reception
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Discounted Altstadtgarage parking and valet (fee)
Good questions
How old is the Blaue Gans building?+
The house has welcomed travellers since 1350 and is one of the oldest continuously used buildings in Salzburg. It became the city’s first art hotel much later.
Is breakfast included at the Blaue Gans?+
No, breakfast is charged per person and can be booked at reception until the evening before. It can also be served in your room for a service charge.
Where do I park at the Arthotel Blaue Gans?+
In the Altstadtgarage under the Mönchsberg, whose Getreidegasse exit is close to the hotel, at a discounted hotel rate. Valet parking is also available for a fee.
