General Information
Graz, the second-largest city in Austria, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and modern flair. Located along the Mur River, Graz is a beautiful mix of medieval architecture, baroque buildings, and cutting-edge contemporary design. It is also recognized as the Cultural Capital of Austria, offering a wealth of museums, galleries, and festivals, while being surrounded by picturesque mountains and vineyards. Graz is a perfect destination for those looking to experience a charming city with a youthful atmosphere.
Location
Graz is located in southern Austria, in the state of Styria, and is:
- 200 km from Vienna (2.5 hours by car/train)
- 300 km from Salzburg (4 hours by car/train)
- 130 km from Maribor, Slovenia (1.5 hours by car)
The city is set in a valley surrounded by rolling hills and is close to the Styrian wine region, making it ideal for those interested in wine tourism and outdoor adventures.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Graz Airport (GRZ) is the primary international gateway, located about 10 km from the city center. It offers flights to major European cities.
- Alternatively, you can fly to Vienna International Airport (VIE) and take a train to Graz (approximately 2.5 hours).
- By Train:
- Graz Hauptbahnhof (main station) is well-connected to cities across Austria and Europe, including Vienna, Salzburg, and Ljubljana (Slovenia). High-speed ÖBB Railjet trains provide comfortable connections.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus offers affordable services to Graz from various European cities, including Vienna, Munich, and Zagreb.
- By Car:
- Graz is easily accessible via the A2 motorway, which connects it to other major Austrian and European cities.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Ideal for outdoor activities with mild weather and blooming flowers in the parks and vineyards.
- Summer (July – August): Perfect for enjoying festivals, outdoor cafes, and the lively atmosphere of the city.
- Autumn (September – October): The weather is still pleasant, and the fall foliage in the surrounding hills offers stunning views.
- Winter (November – February): Winter is quieter, but the Christmas markets and the snow-covered mountains offer a cozy atmosphere.
Key Events & Festivals:
- Styrian Autumn (September – October): A cultural festival celebrating arts, theater, and music.
- Graz Opera Ball (February): A glamorous event attracting opera lovers and performers.
- Christmas Markets (November – December): Graz is famous for its charming holiday markets in the Old Town.
- The Long Night of Museums (October): A city-wide event with late-night museum openings and special performances.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Schlossberghotel – Das Kunsthotel: A luxury hotel with art-filled rooms and spectacular views of the city.
- Hotel Wiesler: A stylish 4-star hotel blending classic elegance with modern amenities.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Daniel Graz: A trendy, design-focused hotel offering comfortable accommodations in the city center.
- Roomz Graz: A modern hotel with a chic atmosphere and an easy location for exploring the city.
- Budget:
- JUFA Hotel Graz: A family-friendly and budget-conscious hotel near the city center.
- Pension Stadt Graz: An affordable guesthouse with a central location.
Top Attractions
- Schlossberg & Clock Tower: A historic hill offering stunning panoramic views of the city, featuring the famous Clock Tower and Schlossberg Castle.
- Graz Old Town (Altstadt): A UNESCO World Heritage Site full of medieval streets, baroque buildings, and charming shops.
- Kunsthaus Graz: A contemporary art museum housed in a futuristic building designed by Peter Cook and Colin Fournier.
- Eggenberg Palace: A magnificent baroque palace with extensive gardens and a world-class museum.
- Landhaus: A Renaissance building with a beautiful inner courtyard and the Styria Armory.
- Graz Cathedral: A stunning Gothic church with intricate architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
- Murinsel: A floating island structure in the Mur River that serves as a modern café and cultural space.
- Joanneumsviertel: A cultural quarter with museums like Natural History Museum, Art Museum, and History Museum.
- Graz Opera House: A magnificent opera house offering high-quality performances.
- Tummelplatz: A historic square featuring beautiful sculptures and fountains.
Getting Around
- Public Transport:
- Graz has an excellent bus and tram system. You can buy single tickets or passes for longer durations (e.g., 24-hour, 72-hour tickets).
- Single tram/bus tickets cost about 2.30 EUR.
- Bike Rentals:
- Graz is a bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes. Rent a bike through GrazRad or other local bike rental services.
- Walking:
- Old Town is best explored on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance from each other.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
- Taxis and Uber are available for convenient travel around the city.
Local Cuisine
- Styrian Pumpkin Seed Oil: Known for its rich, nutty flavor, often drizzled on salads or served with bread and cheese.
- Backhendl: A traditional fried chicken dish, often served with a side of potato salad.
- Styria Sausages (Käsekrainer): A flavorful sausage made with cheese and spices, commonly served in a bun.
- Grazer Krauthappel: A dish made from savoy cabbage and potatoes, reflecting the region’s hearty cuisine.
- Apfelstrudel: A beloved Austrian apple pastry, served as a dessert.
Best Restaurants:
- Der Steirer: Known for its traditional Styrian cuisine and wine selection.
- Gasthaus Stainzerbauer: A cozy restaurant offering hearty Austrian dishes in a rustic setting.
- Schlögelwirt: A charming place with a focus on regional specialties and local wines.
Shopping
- Herrengasse: The main shopping street in Graz, filled with boutiques, department stores, and local shops.
- Kunsthaus Graz Shop: Offers unique design items and art pieces reflecting the city’s contemporary culture.
- Lendplatz Market: A vibrant local market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.
- Murpark Shopping Center: A large shopping mall with a wide selection of stores and restaurants.
Nightlife
- The New Yorker: A trendy rooftop bar with amazing views of the city and stylish cocktails.
- Postgarage: A popular live music venue with eclectic performances and events.
- Club 2020: One of the city’s best nightclubs, offering dance music and international DJs.
- Café Mitte: A laid-back café with a youthful vibe and excellent drinks.
Day Trips from Graz
- Riegersburg Castle (50 km): A medieval hilltop castle offering fantastic views and a castle museum.
- Therme Loipersdorf (90 km): A large spa resort with thermal pools and wellness treatments.
- Graz’s Wine Region (20-40 km): Explore the Styrian wine region, visiting local vineyards and enjoying wine tastings.
- Bärenschützklamm Gorge (40 km): A stunning nature reserve with hiking trails and spectacular waterfalls.
