Hotel Sacher Salzburg

This elegant spot is the Salzburg stalwart, also known as Österreichischer Hof (OH Hof)—and with good reason. The staff's 19th- century uniforms are matched by old-school service fit for royalty. The 112 classic rooms on offer are opulent, with antique furniture and paintings, marble bathrooms and views over the river or the old fortress—traditional elegance is the name of the game here. The location is also superb—on the banks of the Salzach River, and just a few minutes' walk from the Festival Halls. If the view's not enough, relax in the spa, before heading to one of three restaurants, the piano bar or café. Chocolate and nut lovers like myself will go crazy over the Sacher Confiserie—the hotel is owned by the Gürtler family, makers of the world-famous Sacher-Torte, an unbelievably delicious chocolate cake with apricot filling. Don't forget to bring me back a piece! Believe the Hype.

Room rates from €170.