Graz: Culture, History and Modern Flair in Styria
Graz, the capital of Styria, is a fascinating destination for anyone who appreciates history, culture and modern city life. With a mixture of historic buildings, lively squares and green oases, Graz is a city that amazes visitors. Austria's second largest city offers not only architectural masterpieces, but also a vibrant cultural and gastronomic offering.
Short info:
- What is Graz?: A historical and culturally rich city in Styria.
- Where is it?: In the southeast of Austria
- activities: City tours, museum visits, walks in the Eggenberg Palace Park.
- What sights are there? The landmark is the Graz Clock Tower. Furthermore: the Schloßberg, the Graz city crown, Schloss Eggenberg, the Murinsel, Herrengasse & Hauptplatz, Kunsthaus Graz and much more.
- visiting hours: All year round, particularly attractive in spring and autumn.
- gastronomy: Culinary diversity with regional specialties such as Styrian pumpkin seed oil and fried chicken.
- For families: Child-friendly museums, parks and adventure activities.
Graz: A Journey Through History
The history of Graz goes back to the Middle Ages, and this is particularly evident in the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. The narrow streets and picturesque squares let you feel the atmosphere of times gone by. The main square, which is surrounded by magnificent town houses and the imposing town hall. From here you can walk through the historic Herrengasse which, with its impressive buildings and stylish shops, is one of the most beautiful streets in the city.
The landmark of Graz is the Graz Clock Tower on the SchloßbergIt sits high above the city and offers an incomparable view over the rooftops of Graz. A leisurely walk or a ride on the Schlossbergbahn will take you to the tower, which immediately catches the eye with its baroque clock hands and unique time display.
Schlossberg, Clock Tower and the Graz Fairy Tale Railway
Right in the centre of Graz rises the Schloßberg, which used to serve as an impregnable fortress. Between 1125 and 1809, the fortress protected the city, and even Napoleon could not harm it. Today, the castle hill is not only a popular tourist destination, but also a place steeped in history. Since 1839, the bare rock has been converted into a park, which is still an inviting place to linger today.
The landmark of Graz, the Graz Clock Tower , sits on the Schlossberg and offers an incomparable view over the city. With its baroque hands and its unusual display of the time, it attracts attention. Another highlight on the Schlossberg is the bell tower, whose “Liesl”, as the bell is affectionately called, spreads a distinctive sound throughout the city.
You can reach the Schlossberg plateau in several ways: either via the historic Kriegssteig, the Schlossbergbahn at Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Kai, Schlossberg lift at Schlossbergplatz or via various footpaths. Here you can find more information about Schlossberg and the Graz Clock Tower.
Inside the mountain there are extensive tunnel systems that served as protective bunkers during the Second World War. Today these tunnels are used for events and offer a special attraction: the Graz Fairy Tale Railway .
The Graz Fairy Tale Railway is a narrow-gauge railway that runs on 600 mm wide tracks through the tunnels of the Schlossberg. The journey begins on the lower level of the Schlossberg lift at Schlossbergplatz. This 35-minute journey is a real highlight, especially for families with children aged 4 and over. At 22 stations, passengers immerse themselves in imaginative worlds, and at 10 stops they can actively participate in the action, solve puzzles and get involved in the action - a magical experience for young and old.
Highlights in Graz: Old Town, Art and Culture
In addition to the historic old town, Graz also offers modern architectural highlights. An absolute must for art lovers is the Kunsthaus Graz, which is affectionately called the "Friendly Alien" because of its unusual shape. The building is an example of modern architecture and shows changing exhibitions of contemporary art. Right next to it is the Murinsel, a floating platform in the Mur that serves as a café and event venue. Both buildings represent the innovative and cosmopolitan side of Graz.
A further insight into the history and wealth of the city is offered by the magnificent Schloss EggenbergThe baroque palace complex with its beautiful park is a cultural highlight that is often open for events and guided tours. Here you can explore the magnificent halls and the baroque palace park, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Summer in Graz: Parks, Gardens and More
In summer, Graz really comes to life. The many parks and gardens invite you to take long walks or have a relaxing picnic. The city park is a popular meeting place for locals and visitors alike. With its wide paths, sculptures and cozy lawns, it is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Another highlight is the Botanical Garden of the University of GrazHere you can admire exotic plants from all over the world and spend a quiet afternoon among palm trees and tropical plants. Augarten Park on the banks of the Mur offers numerous recreational opportunities, including playgrounds for children and a large lawn for sunbathing.
Winter in Graz: Christmas markets and festive atmosphere
Graz also has a lot to offer in winter. The city turns into a winter fairytale land, and the many Christmas markets attract visitors from near and far. Especially the Christmas market on the main square is worth a visit. Here you can admire Styrian handicrafts, drink mulled wine and taste regional specialties.
Another highlight in winter is the famous ice crib in the Landhaushof. This impressive work of art made of ice attracts thousands of visitors every year and is a popular photo subject.
Culinary Diversity in Graz
Graz is also known as Austria's capital of pleasure. Here you can enjoy a wide range of regional and international specialties. Styrian delicacies are particularly popular, such as pumpkin seed oil, which is used in almost every dish, as well as the crispy fried chickenIn the many cozy restaurants and inns you can discover Styrian cuisine and let yourself be pampered by the culinary highlights of the region.
English 
German 
Italian 
Czech 
Hungarian