Hotel Goldener Hirsch - Salzburg, Austria 

I have stayed at the Goldener Hirsche numerous times and won't come to Salzburg unless I can stay at this incredible combination of history and luxury. The Festival rooms are large with wonderfully comfortable beds and an incredible bathroom. The staff is always friendly and helpful, but the best part is the location. To step out through those huge old doors onto the Getriedegasse is awesome. I highly recommend this hotel.

We stayed at the Goldener Hirsch because Tom had stayed here 30 years ago and the wonderful reviews on TripAdvisor suggested that the hotel was as good as ever. It exceeded all my expectations starting with the professional, courteous, helpful reception staff, the friendly and even more helpful valet/parking/bellboy, wonderful room (upgraded to best class unexpectedly), and attention to detail in the furnishings, service etc. It is in a historic building, fantastic location, and has charm and warmth. Their recommendations for restaurants and performances were dead on accurate. I travel frequently and this has become one of my favorite hotels. The level of service from all their staff is unbelievable. Their restaurant is also excellent. It was such a pleasure returning to the hotel every day. My only objection is to the heavy smoking from the bar area and other rooms which we could detect despite being in a non-smoking room. Also one night the restaurant next door was hosting a private party with loud music which despite the excellent double paned windows, could be heard by us through ear plugs. This only occured one night, however, and the hotel staff was apologetic although it was not their fault. The parking can be very expensive (we used the valet service) but you could park your car yourself nearby. Also, the breakfast is $30/person so we always ate at cafes rather than the hotel although I understand it is very good. On the plus side are the amenities - free internet, free bottled water, excellent wide screen TV with many many channels, wonderful bathroom with deep and spacious tub, separate shower, separate toilet/bidet room, extensive toiletries. We love this hotel!