The "Blue Goose" gets the prize for the best contemporary makeover of a Salzburger grand dame. At a prime location in the Old Town on Getreidegasse, this guesthouse, over 650 years old, was renovated in 2012 to resurface with many new talents. The art hotel's Stadtgasthof is a topnotch restaurant. There's also a wine bar, a well-equipped reading lounge, a herb garden, and a massage parlor. To reach the rooms, guests meander through tight hallways, ducking for the "watch your head" signs above the original archway moldings. Over 100 original contemporary art pieces are scattered throughout the property, with iPads inserted into the walls that explain the art. No room is like another, but each is decorated in contemporary chic style, with dark wood paneling and original art. Bathrooms are separate from toilets and not all have tubs, but each is fitted with two sinks on opposite sides, which give a lavishly spacious feel. The doubles are roomy, with beams protruding from the ceiling. The best suite is the City Flat, with antique doors opening up to a minimalist interior. There's a tempting "Wine Archive," where guests descend to a vaulted cellar with 1,600 wines (including a house vintage, Gaensehaut, or "Goosebumps") and tastefully modern bar furnishings. It's open to hotel guests on Fridays and Saturdays. Breakfast is included and ample and served until 11am, with table service for hot beverages and egg dishes.