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The original two-week Central European itinerary did not include Graz. However, good fortune resulted in a last-minute change to the itinerary. The selection of Graz was based on two items: easily accessible from Vienna and is a UNESCO world heritage site. Photos of Graz online do not do the city justice – it is gorgeous and laid back!
Getting to Graz
Getting to Graz is easy! From Vienna, take the train, and 2 ½ hours later, you’re in beautiful Graz. You can even take the train directly from Vienna’s International Airport – you’ll find it at the underground level at Terminal 3. Purchase your ticket from one of the machines or the helpful OBB vendor.
13 Best Things to Do in Graz
1. Old Town Graz
Old Towns are my favorite places to visit, and Graz’s Old Town is no exception! Wander along cobblestone streets. Admire medieval buildings and appreciate the history of the town. The city can easily be explored on foot, and trams can take you to further spots. Take a guided tour to learn more about the Old Town.
You’ll find historic churches, art galleries, and quirky boutiques. Pull up to a table at one of the many eateries, such as Glöckl Bräu, one of my first stops in town. Housed in a building dating back to the 17th century, you’ll enjoy examples of Styrian cuisine.
2. Mariatrost Basilica
Begun in 1714, this pilgrimage church showcases a beautiful pulpit. The frescoes on the ceilings are breathtaking. The Madonna statue on the altar dates back to 1465. The basilica is not in the center of town, but you can easily reach it via an approximately 40-minute tram ride.
3. Graz Art Museum – (Kunsthaus Graz)
A photo of the Kunsthaus Graz finally made me decide to visit Graz. This alien-looking structure (nicknamed the “friendly alien”) is in the middle of historic buildings. While I’m not usually a fan of visiting museums, this one piqued my curiosity.
The museum promotes art from the Styria region. Exhibits promote contemporary local artists. The museum also shows exhibitions addressing current social issues. It’s an all-around unique museum.
4. Municipal Park (Graz Stadtpark)
The main park in town is where everyone hangs out when the weather is mildly good. You’ll see everything from families pushing strollers to children playing in the green areas. Make it a point to walk through this beautiful area and admire the statues. Or bring a boxed lunch and enjoy a picnic!
5. Schlossberg and The Clock Tower
The 13th-century medieval clock tower offers panoramic views of Graz. Beautiful gardens surround the clock tower. The castle hill has fortifications dating back to the 10th century. Visitors can explore various paths around and under (through tunnels), with informative signs explaining the city’s history.
While climbing stairs or hiking trails is easy, you can easily get to the top by riding the Graz Funicular. With rides every 15 minutes, you won’t have to wait long to get to the top.
PRO TIP: The funicular is one of the attractions included in the Graz Card.
6. Try the Food Stalls at Main Square of Graz
Located next to several tram lines, you’ll find a plaza full of various food stalls. Whether you opt to stop here for a quick snack or even pick up your meal here, the Main Square is a great option to try Styrian foods. There are a few high top tables where you can eat your food and make some new friends.
7. Styrian Armory
The world’s biggest historical armory is at the Styrian Armory in Graz. Over 32,000 objects ranging from the 15th to the 18th century are displayed in this building. Every type of armament, from firearms, artillery, edged weapons, staffed weapons, and defensive arms, reflects the advancement of armaments of war.
The armory is staged as it would have been during each period. The displays are not behind glass and don’t even have signs explaining what they are. You’ll want to rent an audio tour if you don’t take a guided tour to understand what you’re seeing.
8. Landhaus and Courtyard
Feel like you’re in Italy when you visit the arcaded inner courtyard of Landhaus. You’ll think you’re visiting a Venice palazzo. The building originally served as a parliament. The courtyard features copper gargoyles and a bronze fountain in the Mannerist style. Today, the location is the backdrop for everything from special events to concerts to films.
9. Mur Island (Murinsel)
This artificial island connects Old Town Graz and the Clock Tower area in the middle of the river Mur. This is a great spot for photos! In the summer, attend one of the concerts here. There’s a cafe where you can sit and watch the water flow while relaxing.
10. Explore the Eggenberg Palace (Schloss Eggenberg)
Built in the Baroque style during the 17th century, the Eggenberg Palace has four wings, creating inner courtyards. Take a guided tour to learn all about the historic furnishings and artwork. The beautiful rooms make it easy to imagine the grand balls that must have been held once upon a time in these halls. Take a peek at the church with its frescoes if you can. Unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside.
11. Graz Cathedral
Built from 1438-1462 in the Gothic style, the Graz Cathedral was later changed to the Baroque style when the Jesuits used it for 200 years. The inside of the cathedral blends both styles. The remaining frescoes date back to the original construction. It’s worth stopping in and admiring the history of this house of worship.
12. Graz Mausoleum
Next to Graz Cathedral is the Graz Mausoleum. The body of Emperor Ferdinando II is housed here. Visitors will get to see frescoes and stuccoes from the 17th century. Arrange a guided tour in advance.
13. Explore the walking and hiking trails
Graz is a haven for those who want to explore by foot. The city is located on hilly terrain. Graz has labeled various paths depending on whether people prefer to stroll (denoted by a sneaker) or hike (denoted by a boot). Of course, you can always climb the stairs! This is one of the fastest ways to go from the river bank to the clock tower. I opted for the funicular!
And one more just for fun if you have time!
14. Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum
Technically just outside of town, but you can reach the Terminator’s boyhood home by taking a combination of trams, buses, and about a 10-minute walk. Locals will be happy to point you in the right direction if you get lost. His boyhood home is now the museum site dedicated to explaining his life and accomplishments.
Where to Stay in Graz
I recommend staying near Old Town Graz. This location permits you to walk to most sites on this list or take one of the trams.
Luxury: ParkHotel Graz offers traditional luxury. The hotel has its own gardens, pool, and spa. Guests appreciate the high ceilings and spacious rooms.
Affordable: NH Graz City: My home for a few days, the NH Graz City is located a few minutes walk from almost anywhere you want to visit in Graz. The rooms are modern and comfortable. Airline personnel were checking in at the same time I was, which tells you that it is a solid option.
Budget: Argos Graz Serviced Apartments: This unusual-looking hotel features many modern aspects, such as contactless check-in—just another quirky modern architecture in the middle of Old Town, which is just perfect.
The Graz Card
Is the Graz Card worth it? Like many European cities, Graz offers its own city card. The card allows access for the validity of the period (sold in 24, 48, and 72-hour options). The time begins upon the first usage of the card. The card allows owners to use all the city’s public transportation, including the Schlossbergbahn and Schlossberglift. It also permits admission to the Graz Museum and Universalmuseum Joanneum.
Whether the Graz Card is a good deal depends on whether you plan to visit the museums. For public transportation, you can just buy tram tickets.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Graz
Graz turned out to be a magnificent surprise! The city offers plentiful public transportation but you’ll see that a lot of people get around by foot or cycling. If you’ve got a few extra days in your Austrian or Central Europe itinerary, you can’t go wrong with adding a stop in Graz!
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.