Travel Guide to Graz
Discover the charm and beauty of Graz. Explore this enchanting city with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
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Nestled in the southeastern part of Austria, Graz is a city brimming with history, culture, and charm. As the second-largest city in Austria, Graz offers a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, making it a must-visit destination for travellers.
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Graz, the second-largest city in Austria, boasts a rich history that spans over a thousand years. Founded around the 12th century, Graz became a vital trade and military hub due to its strategic location at the crossroads of important routes in the Alps. Its name likely originates from the Slavic word “Gradec,” meaning “little castle,” reflecting its early fortifications.
During the Middle Ages, Graz flourished under the Habsburgs, who made it the capital of Styria in 1180. The city’s importance grew as it became a residence for several Habsburg rulers, leading to the construction of many significant buildings, including the Graz Castle and the Gothic Graz Cathedral. The cityscape was further enriched during the Renaissance, with Italian architects contributing to its unique blend of architectural styles.
Graz was a centre of defence against Ottoman invasions during the 16th and 17th centuries. The city’s fortifications, particularly on Schlossberg Hill, were strengthened during this period. Despite threats, Graz continued to thrive, becoming a centre of art, culture, and education, with the founding of the University of Graz in 1585.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Graz evolved into a modern city while preserving its historical charm. It played a role in both World Wars but largely escaped significant destruction, allowing its historic centre to remain intact.
Today, Graz is recognised for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the city’s enduring legacy and importance in European history.
Graz Airport is located about 10 kilometres south of the city centre. It caters for direct flights from several European cities, including Frankfurt, Munich, Zurich, and Vienna. To reach Graz’s city centre, you can take a bus, train, or taxi. The trip takes about 20 minutes.
Graz is well-connected by train, with direct services from major Austrian cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. The train journey from Vienna to Graz takes around 2.5 hours, making it convenient for travellers. We chose this option, booking business class seats from Vienna.
If you prefer driving, Graz is easily accessible via Austria’s well-maintained highway system. The A2 and A9 motorways connect Graz to Vienna and Salzburg, respectively. The scenic drive through the Austrian countryside is a bonus.
One of Graz’s most iconic landmarks, Schlossberg, is a hill that offers stunning views of the city. The highlight of Schlossberg is the Uhrturm, or Clock Tower, which dates back to the 13th century. You can reach the top by walking up the 260 steps or taking the funicular railway. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of Graz and its red-tiled rooftops.
Surrounding the Clock Tower, Schlossberg Park provides a peaceful escape with its beautifully landscaped gardens, winding paths, and shaded spots perfect for relaxation. The park is also dotted with sculptures and historical remnants, blending nature with history.
When coming back down from Schlossberg, you can also take one of the longest indoor slides in the world. At 175 metres long, the slide takes you from the top of Schlossberg down to the bottom in around 40 seconds. Just note that you cannot take bags on the slide with you. Or if you prefer something with a bit less of an adrenalin rush you can also catch the lift down for a small fee.
Once at the bottom, the Schlossberg Tunnel is a fascinating network of underground passages running through the Schlossberg hill. Constructed initially as air raid shelters during World War II, the tunnels now serve as a unique part of Graz’s infrastructure. The main tunnel connects different parts of the city, with one section housing the Schlossberg lift. This elevator takes visitors directly to the top of the hill. Today, these tunnels offer a glimpse into Graz’s history while providing a practical route for locals and tourists exploring the city’s historic heart.
Stadtpark is a tranquil green oasis in the city’s heart, offering locals and visitors a peaceful retreat. Established in the 19th century, this expansive park spans over 22 hectares. It is known for its lush lawns, tree-lined pathways, and vibrant flowerbeds.
The park is dotted with historical fountains, sculptures, and historical monuments, including a notable statue of Emperor Franz Joseph I. Stadtpark is also home to several beautiful ponds, where ducks and swans can often be seen gliding across the water.
Popular with joggers, families, and students from nearby universities, Stadtpark is an excellent spot for outdoor activities or to relax. Its central location and serene atmosphere make it ideal for escaping the city’s hustle and bustle while staying c
Graz’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The medieval streets are lined with beautifully preserved buildings, each a piece of living history. Begin your journey at Hauptplatz, the bustling main square, where the impressive Rathaus (Town Hall) stands as a centrepiece. Its grand façade is just the start of what makes this area so special.
As you venture beyond the square, you’ll find yourself immersed in a labyrinth of narrow alleyways. These winding paths lead to hidden courtyards, each offering a quiet escape from the city’s hustle. Along the way, you’ll discover charming shops filled with local crafts, unique finds, and cozy cafes where you can pause and soak in the atmosphere.
Every corner of Graz’s Old Town has a story to tell, from the Gothic spires to the Renaissance arches. It’s a place where history and modern life blend seamlessly, inviting you to explore and enjoy its timeless beauty.
We were in Graz a few days after Christmas so the town was very festive.
The Landhaus in Graz is a stunning Renaissance building that serves as the seat of the Styrian government. Built in the 16th century, it is renowned for its arcaded courtyard, considered one of Austria’s finest examples of Renaissance architecture. The courtyard, with its elegant arches and columns, is often used for cultural events, including concerts and festivals, adding to its lively atmosphere. Located in the heart of the Old Town, the Landhaus and its courtyard are a testament to the city’s rich history and architectural beauty.
Graz Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, is one of the city’s most significant landmarks. Built in the 15th century, its interior is adorned with intricate frescoes and a magnificent high altar. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, a striking Baroque structure that houses the emperor’s tomb. The Mausoleum’s elaborate dome and ornate decorations make it one of Austria’s most beautiful and important Baroque buildings. Together, the cathedral and Mausoleum form a historic and architectural highlight in Graz, reflecting the city’s rich religious and cultural heritage.
The Double Spiral Staircase, known as the “Staircase of Reconciliation,” is a fascinating architectural gem located in the Burg, the former residence of the Habsburgs. Built in 1499, this unique staircase features two spirals that twist around each other, creating the illusion of never-ending movement.
To find it, head to the Graz Castle (Burg) near the Old Town. Once inside, look for the central courtyard, and you’ll find the staircase tucked away in one of the castle’s corners. This hidden treasure is a must-see for architecture lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
The Kunsthaus Graz, known as the “Friendly Alien,” is a striking modern art museum that stands out with its futuristic design in the heart of Graz. Opened in 2003, its unique, biomorphic shape and blue acrylic glass skin make it an architectural icon. The Kunsthaus hosts contemporary art exhibitions focusing on cutting-edge works by international and local artists. Located on the banks of the Mur River, it stands in bold contrast to the historic surroundings.
Murinsel is an artificial island in the Mur River designed by artist Vito Acconci. It features a cafe, an amphitheatre, and a playground, making it a great spot for a leisurely break. The island’s unique design, resembling a giant seashell, makes it a standout attraction in Graz.
A short tram ride from the city centre takes you to Eggenberg Palace, a Baroque masterpiece surrounded by beautiful gardens. The palace interiors are richly decorated, with grand halls and opulent rooms that offer a glimpse into the lives of the nobility. The surrounding park, with its manicured lawns, peacocks, and serene atmosphere, is perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Head to the Graz Opera House, a stunning example of neo-baroque architecture, for a dose of culture. The opera house hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and concerts. Even if you don’t catch a performance, a guided tour of the building is worth it to admire its lavish interiors.
Graz seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. From its historic Old Town to its innovative art museums, there’s something for everyone in this charming Austrian city. Whether you’re admiring the views from Schlossberg, exploring the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, or marvelling at contemporary art in Kunsthaus Graz, Graz promises a memorable and enriching travel experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the hidden gem of Austria!
Discover the charm and beauty of Graz. Explore this enchanting city with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
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20 Responses
Never been to Graz, it looks like a lovely mid-sized city. To my shame I admit I don’t know a lot of Austria even though we are neighbours. I am saving this for later.
I hadn’t heard of Graz either and we ended up visiting purely because we had a couple of days spare after having to rearrange our travel plans. Glad we did visit though. It’s a very pretty city.
Graz is gorgeous! I love the architecture and the fresco paintings.
I love that they have the beautiful old architecture but have added the modern as well.
I had heard of Graz but never been there, and I certainly didn’t know about the artsy things there like the Kunsthaus and Murinsel! They look so unique and very much up my alley. Hope to visit one day.
We loved Murinsel so much we had to go back both during the day and at night to get photos. It is such a cool bridge.
I visited Graz 3 years ago and this article brings me good memories. Nice and useful written. Thanks for sharing:)
Thanks. It’s such a beautiful city.
We’ve visited Austria many times, but never made it to Graz. The architecture looks like it would be lovely to visit.
If you get back to Austria Sonia, Graz is definitely worth a visit.
We sadly missed Graz on our visit to Austria but it was on our list of places to see. We just ran out of time. I can see we need to fix that on a return trip to Austria. We would love the beautiful architecture and art everywhere. Definitely one spot to keep on our travel list!
We were going to miss it too Linda, but a change of plans gave us a couple of days and it visiting fitted perfectly into our itinerary. So glad we go to visit.
I need to go to their Christmas Market! I’m sure it would be stunning!
We were there just after Christmas but the markets we saw were amazing. We were in Vienna for Christmas so spent plenty of time at the Christmas markets there.
How do I not know about the city? We recently spent an amazing week in Vienna and vowed to return…adding Graz seems like a plan. Thank for the detailed info. Saving for later.
We didn’t know about it either Laureen. But a change in our plans gave us a few extra days and I found it when doing some research on what we could do. It’s a beautiful city.
I have been to Graz quite a long time ago, but after reading your guide, I think I should go back. It seems I missed some places from your list. Thanks for sharing!
There are some amazing things to see and I’m sure I missed some as well. We only had a day and a half so it would be good to have more time to explore.
Austria is on my bucket list. Thank you for introducing me to Graz. izzy
You’re welcome! It is definitely worth visiting.