Top Mozart

Built in 1791 (the year Mozart died), the 32-room Hotel Mozart manages to retain some of the charms of that era—refreshing in a city full of low-ceilinged medieval hotels. The hotel, which sits on the Right Bank-Schallmoos border, offers large, atmospheric four-star rooms at surprisingly low rates—especially given its proximity to many Right Bank attractions.

The Mozart's best feature is its ornate rooms. With high ceilings, hardwood floors, gold picture frames and heavy brocade curtains hanging down to the floor, they have a rather regal air. The dark wooden furniture—chairs, couches ottomans—is upholstered with dusty pink and maroon silk. All rooms are equipped with a satellite TV, minibar and telephone.

Half of the large, white-tiled bathrooms have bathtubs. Rooms overlook the street, which isn't too crowded with tourists. All rooms are non-smoking, though guests may smoke in the lobby.

A big downside to the Mozart is that, besides parking, not much is gratis—not even breakfast (€10 per person—or €5 if you book online). Guests must also pay for parking and wireless Internet access. Wheelchair-accessible rooms are available.

Note: Party-prone types will feel less at home here than elsewhere. When we visited, the lounge area was populated with older folks chatting over a quiet game of cards.