Graz, in the Austrian state of Styria, is an offbeat destination tailor-made for the cultural and adventurous traveler.
In some ways, it’s just what you would expect from Austria’s second-biggest city: grand, modern, and brimming with life. However, dig a little deeper, and you will discover that Graz is so much more than meets the eye.
With its distinct Mediterranean flair, emerging design scene, and bustling nightlife, Graz will keep you on your toes day and night.
Historic Architecture and Modern Design
One of Graz’s lures is its eccentric mix of architectural styles. From classicism to art nouveau, from medieval to contemporary, a good wander reveals the true wonders of the city.
As you stroll through the inner city, feast your eyes on the exquisite Baroque facades that line the streets. In the heart of the city, the main square and the adjoining Herrengasse are prime examples of Styria’s Baroque architecture. Moreover, Eggenberg Palace in the city’s outer districts, at the foot of Plabutsch mountain, adds to the charm. Together, the Historic Old Town of Graz and Eggenberg Palace are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Like clearings in a dense forest, there are also pockets of calm away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets. Dare to venture down narrow alleys, and you will be rewarded with some of the most beautiful Renaissance courtyards in Europe. Consequently, marvel at the intricate arcades with their perfectly symmetrical arches and carefully sculpted balusters. Although many courtyards exist in Graz, Landhaushof is probably the best example.
Soaring above Graz and visible from many corners of the city is the Clock Tower (‘Uhrturm’). The Uhrturm has been the symbol of the city for more than seven centuries, deeply rooted in the minds of the city’s inhabitants. Graz paid a significant ransom to keep it from being destroyed during a Napoleonic invasion in 1809.
Graz is a city of contrasts, and nowhere is this more apparent than in its skyline. Here, modern design seamlessly blends in with classic architecture. To fully appreciate the city’s beauty, scale Schlossberg ‘mountain’ in the heart of the city; take in the stunning vista from above. In the calm sea of red rooftops, you’ll spot pops of bright color.
As a UNESCO City of Design, Graz even knows a thing or two about contemporary architecture. Say hello to the ‘Friendly Alien’ – a giant blue blob serving as the city’s Modern Art Museum (‘Kunsthaus’) or stare into the cool blue of the Mur River from Murinsel, a floating island connecting the city’s western and eastern districts.
With the city’s skyline being defined by cutting-edge examples of modern architecture such as the Science Tower adjacent to the newly built Smart City neighborhood, Graz also rewards the adventurous traveler willing to venture out to the outer districts.
Relaxed Days & Vibrant Nights
Taking inspiration from Vienna, Graz is a true haven for coffee lovers. Let your nose guide you to the closest cafe and enjoy the day ahead as the warm aroma of coffee fills the air.
Bars and restaurants offer a welcome reprieve from the cobblestone streets at almost every corner. Choose from many al fresco dining options, sipping on a bittersweet Aperol Spritz as the world passes by. Close your eyes and listen to the sounds of the city: at this moment, you will truly understand the city’s Mediterranean flair.
When the long summer days fade into the night, Graz reveals another side of itself. You may find yourself attending a late-night vernissage (private art exhibit), relaxing to some smooth jazz, or joining local students living it up in the city’s nightclubs.
In the late days of summer, numerous festivals in Graz beckon. Choose from Styriarte for classical music or La Strada for street art, music, and dance.
Deeply Rooted Yet Elevated Cuisine
Graz is Austria’s ‘Capital of Delights’ and surprises even the most refined palates. The day starts early for foodies in Graz as hundreds of vendors open their stalls at farmers’ markets around the city with fresh, organic produce picked just hours earlier.
At more than 10 locations, you can browse for juicy Styrian apples, crisp lettuce (‘Grazer Krauthäuptel’), scarlet runner beans, unique truffles, and Styria’s ‘black gold’ – pumpkin seed oil. Be sure to arrive early, as many stalls sell out before 10am. Popular markets are located at Kaiser-Josef-Platz and Lendplatz.
Those who prefer a leisurely start can still enjoy the high-quality produce available at Graz’s esteemed restaurants, where chefs serve dishes that combine traditional flavors with a modern twist. Seek out Styrian fried chicken (‘Backhendl’) for a taste of local cuisine.
Styrian cuisine is best accompanied by light, dry Styrian wine, grown in the hills just south of Graz. The region offers ideal conditions for a variety of grapes, with a focus on popular whites like Welschriesling, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Blanc.
While Styrians favor white wines, red grapes are also cultivated; one of the region’s most recognizable specialties, Schilcher, is produced from the red Blauer Wildbacher grape. Schilcher is a rosé that can also be made into sparkling wine, often paired with cured meats.
Innovative & Sustainable
As if the city’s dedication to farm-to-table cuisine isn’t enough, Graz promotes several sustainable development initiatives that responsible travelers will appreciate. Visitors can easily explore the city on foot or utilize the extensive tram network. In the inner city, trams are free for everyone (‘Altstadtbim’). Furthermore, Graz is Austria’s most bicycle-friendly city, featuring bike paths extending to its farthest corners.
Conscious shoppers can uncover hundreds of locally owned businesses, many of which contribute to social change through upcycling efforts and employment for marginalized communities. Thus, the business landscape in Graz is innovative, inclusive, and sustainable.
Thanks to Graz’s mindful approach to tourism, the city will continue to be enjoyable for years to come, allowing visitors to peel back another layer with each visit.
Sponsored by Graz Tourism
