Nestled in the heart of Styria, Graz unfolds like a beautifully preserved secret, where red-tiled rooftops meet avant-garde architecture under the watchful gaze of the Schlossberg. This UNESCO World Heritage city effortlessly blends its Renaissance past with a vibrant, modern energy, offering travelers a sophisticated escape filled with culinary delights and artistic flair.
Why Visit Graz?
Austria is a symphony of alpine grandeur and imperial elegance, where every cobblestone street tells a story of musical genius and historic splendor. Beyond the famous peaks, you will find a culture that treasures the finer things in life, from world-class art to cozy coffee house traditions.
- Schlossberg and the Clock Tower: Scale the iconic hill for a panoramic view of the city and stand beside the centuries-old Uhrturm, the soul of Graz.
- Eggenberg Palace: Wander through this magnificent Baroque masterpiece, where roaming peacocks and stunning planetary gardens transport you to a royal era.
- Kunsthaus Graz: Marvel at the “Friendly Alien,” a striking ultra-modern art museum that showcases the city’s bold, creative spirit.
- Styrian Armoury: Step into the world’s largest historic armory, housing a glistening collection of medieval tools of war preserved in time.
- Murinsel: Relax on this floating steel island in the middle of the Mur River, a unique architectural feat that doubles as a chic café and amphitheater.
Whether you are getting lost in its hidden courtyards or savoring world-class Styrian wine, Graz promises an enchanting experience that captures the very best of Austrian charm.
GRAZ KEY INFO
Everything you need to hit the ground running.
WHEN TO VISIT
April to June for spring festivals and blooms; September to October for golden foliage and wine harvests.
HOW TO GET THERE
Fly into Graz Airport (GRZ). It’s a train ride to the city center (~12 min).
HOW TO GET AROUND
Tram! Graz has an extensive, efficient network that makes navigating the historic center and outskirts a breeze. Use the Graz Mobil app for easy ticketing.
IDEAL TRIP LENGTH
1-2 days for the city itself, but 3-4 days if you want to explore nearby Styrian wineries and UNESCO-listed Eggenberg Palace.
What is Graz Mainly Known For?
Graz is famous for its hilltop Clock Tower, a medieval icon saved from Napoleon by a local ransom. It’s also known for the Landeszeughaus, the world’s largest historical armory housing over 32,000 pieces of weaponry. Beyond the sights, it’s known as Austria’s Culinary Capital, celebrated for its Mediterranean vibe and UNESCO-listed architecture.
Is Graz a Walkable City?
100% yes. Graz is incredibly compact with a massive, tranquil pedestrian zone in the Old Town, making it a joy to explore without traffic noise.
Is it safe to walk in Graz at night? Absolutely. It is one of Europe’s safest cities with very low crime rates. I always feel completely at ease wandering the well-lit streets, though standard common sense remains wise.
What Is the Best Neighborhood to Walk Around?
The winner is Innere Stadt, nestled between the verdant Schlossberg hill and the Mur River. This UNESCO gem enchants with a kaleidoscope of terracotta rooftops, winding cobblestone alleys, and a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. For something completely different, walk over to Lend, a hip hub defined by bold street art, the futuristic Friendly Alien museum, and a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Graz? (For Your First Visit)
I visited Graz without a strict day-by-day plan. I just wanted to take my time, enjoy the laid-back Mediterranean vibe, and see where the streets took me. I wrote down a few highlights and hit the ground running. Here are the spots I definitely recommend checking out:
Schlossberg and the Clock Tower
Rising above Graz, Schlossberg is a lush, historic escape with panoramic city views. Highlights: the iconic Clock Tower and the massive 175m slide. Price: Free (Slide/Lift extra). Pro Tip: Catch the sunset for a magical golden-hour glow. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Eggenberg Palace
Step into a Baroque dream world where astronomy meets art. Explore the lavish Planetary Room and gardens filled with peacocks. Entry is €15 for state rooms. Pro tip: Take tram line 1 for a scenic 15-minute ride from the center. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Styrian Armoury
Step into a living time capsule holding 32,000 pieces of history. Explore rows of gleaming plate armor and original 17th-century muskets. Tickets start at 13 euros. Pro tip: Visit in winter for an exclusive guided-only experience. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Kunsthaus Graz
Graz’s “Friendly Alien” is a sci-fi art masterpiece. Explore avant-garde exhibits inside its biomorphic blue bubble. Entry is about 12 EUR. Pro tip: Visit the “Needle” for a killer view of the Clock Tower and red roofs. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Murinsel
This floating steel shell is a futuristic island in the Mur river. Relax at the trendy cafe or outdoor amphitheater. Price: Free (excluding cafe). Pro tip: Visit at night to see it glowing with blue lights. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Graz Cathedral and Mausoleum
Gothic grandeur meets Baroque drama at this imperial burial site. Explore the stunning turquoise domes and the eerie “Plagues” fresco. Price: Free (Cathedral) / €4 (Mausoleum). Pro Tip: Climb the tower for the city’s best rooftop views. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Hauptplatz and Town Hall
Graz’s heartbeat pulses at Hauptplatz, where grand architecture meets street-food chic. Marvel at the ornate Town Hall and vibrant market stalls. Price: Free. Pro tip: Grab a local pumpkin seed oil snack while people-watching by the fountain. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Mariatrost Basilica
Perched on a hill, this Baroque beauty offers a serene, atmospheric escape. Marvel at the golden frescoes and impressive pulpit before soaking in panoramic city views.
Price: Free. Pro tip: Take bus 1 for an easy ride from Graz. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Glockenspiel
Catch the enchanting dance of the Graz Glockenspiel as figurines twirl to melodic chimes. This rhythmic spectacle in the old town is a classic local vibe. Price: Free. Pro tip: Be there at 11 AM, 3 PM, or 6 PM. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Austrian Sculpture Park
Wander through a 7-hectare open-air dream where contemporary art meets nature. See the Fat Car, Yoko Ono’s crosses, and a concrete boat. Price: Free. Pro tip: Visit in July for the stunning lotus flower pond. Check availability and explore popular experiences.
Must-Do Activities in Graz
To really get the most out of your trip, I recommend checking out these experiences:
What Part of Graz is Best for Tourists?
Stay in the Innere Stadt. Everything will be within a short walk. If you want something a bit more local but still close, the Lend district is lovely—it features a vibrant farmers market, trendy bars, and an artistic, bohemian vibe along the Mur River.
What to Know Before Going to Graz
- The Tap Water is Gold: Tap water is safe, high-quality, and drinkable from every tap without treatment or health hazards.
- Language Skills: English is widely spoken, but learning basic German phrases makes navigating daily life much easier.
- The Graz Card: The Graz Card offers free public transport and museum entry, providing excellent value for sightseeing.
- Sunday Closures: Most shops close on Sundays; use train station or gas station supermarkets for essential groceries.
- Tipping Etiquette: Tipping around 10% is standard; round up the bill and state the total amount when paying.
How Many Days Do I Need in Graz?
3 days is perfect for exploring the imperial history of the city center and venturing into the lush surrounding wine region.
- Day 1: Schlossberg and Clock Tower, Graz Cathedral, Styrian Armoury, Hauptplatz, Rathaus.
- Day 2: Kunsthaus Graz, Murinsel, Eggenberg Palace, Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, Stadtpark.
- Day 3: South Styrian Wine Road day trip or a visit to the Austrian Sculpture Park.
Suggested daily budget – 120-150 EUR / 130-165 USD (Note: This covers mid-range hotels, a mix of casual restaurants and cafes, and public transport or local museum entry. You can go cheaper if you purchase the Graz Card or opt for lunch menus at local restaurants.)
MONEY SAVING TIPS
- Score a Steirerstubm Lunch: Head to Steirerstubm for their daily lunch menu (Tagesmenü) priced between 10.90 EUR and 11.90 EUR, which usually includes a soup and a large main portion.
- Join a Discover Graz Free Tour: Meet at the Erzherzog Johann fountain on Hauptplatz for a free walking tour on scheduled dates to see the Old Town highlights on a tip-your-guide basis.
- Ride the Altstadtbim for Free: Take advantage of the Graz Old Town Tram (Altstadtbim), which allows you to travel free of charge between Jakominiplatz, Hauptplatz, and one additional stop in each direction.
- Picnic on the Schlossberg: Skip the pricey bars and grab a store-bought beer or snack to enjoy at the top of Schlossberg hill, where you can take in stunning panoramic views of the city for free.
What’s the Best Month to Visit Graz?
May and June are the sweet spots for visiting Graz. These months offer pleasant weather and blooming gardens, perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and spring festivals while avoiding the peak summer heat. However, December is a magical alternative, as the city transforms into a winter wonderland with festive Christmas markets and a cozy, illuminated atmosphere.
How to Get to Graz
Most international travelers fly into Graz Airport (GRZ). Key direct connection hubs include Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Zurich, providing easy access from major European and international cities.
- From the airport: The city center is reachable in approximately 12–20 minutes. A train to Graz Main Station or bus 630 costs about 3 EUR, while a taxi is approximately 25 EUR.
- By Train: Graz Hauptbahnhof offers direct rail connections to Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Munich, and Ljubljana. High-speed Railjet services link the city to Prague and Venice.
How to Get Around Graz
Walk and use the tram—it is the most efficient and scenic way to explore.
- Car Rental: Not recommended for the city center due to limited parking and pedestrian zones. If exploring rural Styria, use DiscoverCars to compare prices.
- Walking: Highly recommended. The compact, UNESCO-listed Old Town is perfectly suited for exploring on foot.
- Uber/Bolt: Uber is available 24/7, providing access to licensed taxis.
- Tours: Guided walking tours are a great alternative for navigating historic highlights without a car.
Tips for first-timers: Avoid driving in the city center—narrow pedestrian-only zones and limited, expensive parking make navigation a total nightmare. Park in a garage outside the core and use the city’s excellent tram network instead!
Graz is the kind of place that lingers in your memory long after you have departed. Its essence is a harmonious blend of red-tiled Renaissance charm, avant-garde creativity, and the sun-drenched spirit of Styria. Wandering its historic alleys and vibrant plazas, it leaves you with a renewed sense of connection to a world where tradition and innovation dance together.
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