Graz

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Graz, Austria's second-largest city known for its vibrant cultural scene and historical architecture, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months.

Spring: This season brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions, such as the Schlossberg Hill and the Eggenberg Palace gardens. The city begins to come alive with outdoor events and cafes opening their terraces.

Autumn: Autumn offers comfortable weather and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of the city. The changing colors of the trees add a picturesque charm to Graz's parks and gardens. This time also hosts various cultural events, reflecting the city's rich arts scene.

While summer (July and August) provides warm weather and more extended daylight hours for sightseeing, it can also be the busiest and hottest period. If you don't mind cooler temperatures and potentially some snow, visiting in winter (December to February) can be magical, especially with Graz's Christmas markets and festive decorations.

Getting to Graz and Getting Around Graz

Getting to Graz:

By Air:

• Graz has its own international airport, Graz Airport (Flughafen Graz), located about 10 km south of the city center. It offers flights to and from several major cities in Europe.

• Alternatively, travelers can fly into Vienna International Airport and take a train or bus to Graz, which is about 2.5 hours away.

By Train:

• Graz is well-connected by the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) network, with regular train services from Vienna, Salzburg, and other Austrian cities, as well as international connections from neighboring countries.

By Bus:

• Long-distance buses also serve Graz, providing an affordable option for reaching the city from various parts of Austria and Europe.

By Car:

• Graz is accessible by major highways and well-maintained roads. If you're driving, be aware of parking regulations in the city center.

Getting Around Graz:

Public Transport:

• Graz has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses, managed by Holding Graz Linien. A single ticket allows you to use both trams and buses, making it convenient to explore the city.

Bicycles:

• Graz is a bike-friendly city with numerous dedicated bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike through the city's bike-sharing program or from local rental shops.

On Foot:

• The city center of Graz is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore the main attractions, shops, and restaurants on foot.

Schlossberg Funicular and Lift:

• For a unique experience and great views of the city, use the Schlossberg funicular or the glass lift to reach the top of Schlossberg Hill.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing:

• Taxis and ride-sharing services are available for more direct and private transportation within Graz and to surrounding areas.

Graz's manageable size and efficient transportation options make it easy for visitors to navigate and enjoy all that the city has to offer.

Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Graz

Top 28 Attractions and Activities

Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is rich in history, culture, and unique architecture. Here are some of the top attractions in Graz:

1. Schlossberg: The iconic hill in the heart of Graz, offering panoramic views of the city. At its summit, you'll find the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), one of Graz's most recognizable symbols.

2. Kunsthaus Graz: Also known as the "Graz Art Museum," this contemporary art museum is notable for its futuristic architecture, resembling a giant, blue bubble. It hosts various modern art exhibitions.

3. Grazer Altstadt: Graz's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance buildings. Strolling through its narrow streets is like walking through history.

4. Eggenberg Palace: A stunning Baroque palace with beautifully landscaped gardens. The palace's interior, particularly the Planetary Room, is a highlight, adorned with elaborate frescoes.

5. Schloss Eggenberg Gardens: The expansive and meticulously maintained gardens surrounding Eggenberg Palace, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

6. Murinsel: An artificial floating "island" in the middle of the Mur River, designed by artist Vito Acconci for Graz's year as the European Capital of Culture in 2003. It serves as a café and a venue for events.

7. Landeszeughaus (Styrian Armory): Home to the world's largest historic armory, displaying over 30,000 pieces of weaponry, armor, and tools from the 15th to the 18th centuries.

8. Graz Cathedral: A stunning Gothic cathedral known for its beautiful frescoes, including the "Landplagenbild" (Plague Picture), which depicts Graz in the 15th century.

9. Joanneumsviertel: A cultural complex that includes the Natural History Museum, Neue Galerie Graz, and the Styrian State Library. The complex is notable for its blend of historic and modern architecture.

10. Herrengasse: Graz's main shopping street, lined with historic buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants, leading from the main square (Hauptplatz) to Jakominiplatz.

11. The Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II: An impressive example of Mannerist architecture, this mausoleum houses the tomb of Ferdinand II and is known for its intricate interiors and adjoining St. Catherine's Church.

12. Botanical Garden of the University of Graz: Home to thousands of plant species from around the world, divided into different thematic greenhouses and outdoor gardens, it's a peaceful retreat in the city.

13. Stadtpark Graz (City Park): The largest public park in Graz, featuring statues of famous Austrians, beautiful flower beds, and ample green space for relaxation.

14. Kaiser-Josef-Platz Market: A bustling outdoor market where locals and visitors alike can find fresh produce, flowers, regional specialties, and more. It's a great place to experience the local lifestyle.

15. Landhaushof: A Renaissance courtyard in the heart of Graz, known for its arcades and picturesque setting. It's often used for concerts and events.

16. The Franciscan Church: A beautiful church with a mix of Gothic and Baroque architectural elements, known for its peaceful cloister and impressive altar.

17. Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum: Located in Thal, near Graz, this museum is dedicated to the life and career of Arnold Schwarzenegger, who was born in the area. It's housed in his childhood home.

18. Schlossbergbahn: A funicular railway that provides a scenic and convenient way to reach the top of Schlossberg Hill, offering fantastic views of Graz and the surrounding area.

19. Kastner & Öhler Rooftop: The top floor of the Kastner & Öhler department store features a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of Graz's Old Town and the Schlossberg. It's a great spot for a coffee break or photos.

20. Tramway Museum Graz: This museum is dedicated to the history of trams in Graz, showcasing a collection of historical tram cars and exhibits on the development of public transport in the city.

21. The Glockenspiel: Located in the Glockenspielplatz square, this charming feature has figurines that dance to music three times a day (11 am, 3 pm, and 6 pm) as the bells chime, offering a quaint spectacle.

22. Hilmteich: A serene lake located near the Leechwald forest, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and paddle boating. The area around Hilmteich is also great for nature lovers and those looking for a quiet escape within the city.

23. Culinary Tasting Tours: Explore Graz's rich culinary scene with a guided tasting tour, sampling local delicacies like pumpkin seed oil, Styrian wine, and traditional Austrian pastries.

24. Attend a Performance at the Opera House: Experience the cultural vibrancy of Graz by attending a performance at the Opera House, which hosts a variety of operas, ballets, and concerts.

25. Join a Guided City Walk: Discover Graz's rich history and architectural gems with a guided walking tour through the Old Town, including hidden courtyards and historic landmarks.

26. Take a Cooking Class: Immerse yourself in Austrian cuisine by taking a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Styrian dishes and desserts.

27. Nightlife in Lendviertel: Explore the vibrant nightlife of the Lendviertel district, known for its trendy bars, clubs, and live music venues, offering a lively atmosphere after dark.

28. Hike to the Bärenschützklamm: For nature enthusiasts, a day trip to the Bärenschützklamm gorge near Graz offers an adventurous hike with stunning waterfalls, wooden bridges, and breathtaking natural scenery.

    
    

Best Shopping

Graz offers a diverse shopping experience that blends traditional Austrian craftsmanship with contemporary design and fashion. Here's where you can find the best shopping in Graz:

• Herrengasse: This is the main shopping street in Graz, lined with a mix of international brands, local boutiques, and traditional Austrian shops. It's the perfect place to find everything from the latest fashion trends to souvenirs and local delicacies.

• Kastner & Öhler: One of Austria's oldest and largest department stores, located on Herrengasse, Kastner & Öhler offers a wide range of products over several floors, from designer clothing and beauty products to home goods and gourmet foods. Don't miss the rooftop terrace for stunning city views.

• Lendviertel: The creative and trendy district of Graz, known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, and design shops. It's the place to go for one-of-a-kind items, handmade crafts, and avant-garde fashion from local designers.

• Farmer's Markets: Graz is home to several farmer's markets, including the Kaiser-Josef-Platz market and Lendplatz market, where you can browse fresh local produce, cheeses, meats, and other regional specialties. These markets are great for experiencing local life and finding authentic Styrian products.

• Murgasse and Sporgasse: These streets run perpendicular to Herrengasse and feature a variety of shops, from bookstores and music shops to jewelry and specialty food stores. The area is ideal for a leisurely shopping stroll, offering a mix of traditional and modern retail experiences.

• Sackstraße: Known for its antique shops and art dealers, Sackstraße is the place to find unique treasures, vintage items, and collectibles.

• Citypark and Shopping Nord: For those looking for a more conventional shopping mall experience, Graz has several shopping centers, including Citypark and Shopping Nord, which house a variety of international retail chains, electronics stores, and food courts.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Graz boasts a vibrant entertainment and nightlife scene that reflects its status as a cultural hub and university city. Here's a glimpse into the entertainment and nightlife options in Graz:

• Live Music and Concerts: Graz has a thriving music scene, ranging from classical performances at the Opera House and Musikverein to contemporary concerts at venues like PPC and Orpheum. The city's numerous bars and pubs often host live bands, offering everything from jazz and blues to rock and electronic music.

• Theater and Performances: The Schauspielhaus Graz and other smaller theaters throughout the city present a wide array of performances, including plays, modern dance, and experimental theater, showcasing both local and international talent.

• Cinema: Graz has several cinemas showing both mainstream and independent films. The KIZ Royal Cinema, for example, specializes in art-house films and documentaries, often in original language with subtitles.

• Bars and Pubs: The city's lively bar scene caters to all tastes, from traditional Austrian taverns serving local beers and wines to trendy cocktail bars with creative drink menus. Areas like Lendviertel and around Mehlplatz are particularly popular for a night out.

• Clubs and Discos: For those looking to dance the night away, Graz offers a range of clubs and discos playing a variety of music genres. Locations like Postgarage and Dom im Berg are known for their DJ nights and themed parties.

• Wine Taverns: Experience Styrian hospitality at its best in one of Graz's traditional wine taverns, where you can enjoy local wines along with regional delicacies in a cozy, rustic setting.

• Rooftop Bars: For a more laid-back evening, visit one of Graz's rooftop bars, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline along with your drinks. The Kastner & Öhler rooftop bar is a popular choice.

• Casino Graz: Try your luck at Casino Graz, which offers a variety of games including slots, roulette, blackjack, and poker, along with a bar and restaurant for a complete night out.

• Night Walks: Graz is beautifully illuminated at night, especially landmarks like the Schlossberg, Murinsel, and the historic buildings of the Old Town. A night walk through the city can be a magical experience.

Local Cuisine

Graz, recognized as a UNESCO City of Design, extends its creativity into a vibrant food scene that blends traditional Styrian flavors with modern culinary innovation. Here’s a taste of the local cuisine and food culture in Graz:

• Styrian Pumpkin Seed Oil: Often referred to as "green gold," this dark, nutty oil is a staple in Styrian cuisine, drizzled over salads, soups, and even desserts.

• Backhendl: A traditional Styrian dish, Backhendl is tender chicken coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust, typically served with a potato salad.

• Verhackertes: A savory spread made from minced bacon, seasoned with garlic and spices, usually served on rye bread as a hearty snack.

• Graz-style Pot Roast (Grazer Krautfleisch): A popular local dish featuring slow-cooked pork with sauerkraut, seasoned with paprika and caraway seeds, offering a comforting blend of flavors.

• Apple Strudel: While common throughout Austria, the apple strudel in Graz is particularly delightful, with thinly rolled pastry encasing a filling of tart apples, cinnamon, and raisins.

• Farmer's Markets: Graz hosts several vibrant farmers' markets, such as the Kaiser-Josef-Markt, where locals and visitors alike can sample and purchase fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and baked goods directly from regional producers.

• Heuriger and Buschenschank: These traditional wine taverns serve local wines alongside a buffet of cold dishes, including cured meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, and bread, reflecting the region's winemaking heritage.

• Schilcher: A unique rosé wine made from the indigenous Blaue Wildbacher grape, known for its distinctive tart flavor, commonly found in the western part of Styria but enjoyed throughout Graz.

• Modern and International Cuisine: Graz's culinary landscape also includes a variety of contemporary and international dining options, from high-end restaurants serving innovative dishes to casual eateries offering global cuisines.

Accommodations

When visiting Graz, choosing the right area to stay can significantly enhance your experience, depending on your preferences for culture, convenience, and tranquility. Here are some of the best areas to consider:

• Innere Stadt (Old Town): The heart of Graz and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Innere Stadt is ideal for those who want to be close to major attractions like the Graz Cathedral, the Kunsthaus, and the Schlossberg. This area is perfect for travelers interested in history, architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.

• Lend: Known for its creative and bohemian vibe, Lend is home to trendy cafes, galleries, and boutiques. Staying in Lend offers a more local experience, with easy access to the city's contemporary culture and the lively Lendplatz market.

• Geidorf: A quieter, more residential area, Geidorf is situated to the north of the city center. It's ideal for those looking for a peaceful stay, with the added benefit of being close to the University of Graz and several parks, including the Hilmteich and Leechwald for nature walks.

• St. Leonhard: Close to the university and the city's main hospitals, St. Leonhard is a lively area with a mix of students, professionals, and families. It offers a variety of accommodation options, from guesthouses to apartments, and is within walking distance of the Old Town.

• Gries: Offering a multicultural atmosphere, Gries is known for its diverse culinary scene, with numerous international restaurants and cafes. It's a more affordable area, slightly off the beaten path but still within easy reach of the city center.

• Jakomini: Situated to the southeast of the Old Town, Jakomini is a convenient area with excellent public transport connections, making it easy to explore Graz. The neighborhood hosts a range of accommodations and is close to the Augarten, a popular park with leisure facilities.

• Eggenberg: Known for the magnificent Eggenberg Palace and its extensive grounds, Eggenberg is a bit further from the city center but offers a tranquil environment and a touch of imperial history.

Travel Tips

Visiting Graz can be a delightful experience, enriched by the city's blend of historic charm and contemporary culture. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip to Graz:

1. Graz Card: Consider purchasing the Graz Card, which offers free public transportation and free or discounted entry to many of the city's museums and attractions. It's a cost-effective way to explore the city.

2. Comfortable Footwear: Much of Graz's Old Town is best explored on foot, and some streets are cobblestoned. Wear comfortable shoes to make walking around more enjoyable.

3. Bike Rentals: Graz is a bike-friendly city with an extensive network of cycling paths. Renting a bike is a great way to see the city and its surroundings at your own pace.

4. Schlossberg Lift and Funicular: For stunning views of the city, take the lift or funicular to the top of Schlossberg Hill. The ticket price is included with the Graz Card.

5. Museum Hours: Check the opening hours of museums and attractions in advance, as they can vary and may be closed on certain days of the week, typically Mondays.

6. Day Trips: Consider taking day trips to nearby attractions such as the South Styrian Wine Road, the Lipizzaner Stud Farm in Piber, or the Riegersburg Castle for a well-rounded experience of the Styrian region.