Graz - Discovering Austria

Travelling to Graz

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Graz, a pretty good destination in Austria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Graz and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Graz, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Austria, here's everything to know about Graz for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Graz

Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, located in the southeastern part of the country. It is the capital of the federal state of Styria and has a population of around 300,000 people. Graz is known for its well-preserved historic city center, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The city has a rich cultural and intellectual history and is home to several universities, including the University of Graz, which was founded in 1585. Graz is also known for its vibrant culinary scene, with many traditional Austrian dishes and international cuisine options available.

What to visit in Graz

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Graz, Austria: 1. Schloss Eggenberg: This grand palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features several museums showcasing art, history, and natural sciences. Visitors can also explore the beautiful Baroque gardens surrounding the palace.
2. Graz Old Town: Known as the Altstadt, this historic district features narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, quaint cafes, and boutique shops. Highlights include the town hall, Graz Cathedral, and the Hauptplatz (main square).
3. Murinsel: This futuristic floating island was designed by architect Vito Acconci and is located on the Mur River. It serves as a venue for events and performances and features a cafe and viewing platform.
4. Uhrturm: The iconic clock tower stands atop the Schlossberg hill and offers panoramic views of the city below. Visitors can reach the tower by hiking up the hill or taking the funicular railway.
5. Landeszeughaus: This museum houses one of the world's largest collections of historical weapons and armor. Visitors can see everything from medieval swords to early firearms.
6. Graz Art Museum: Located in the Lend district, this modern museum showcases contemporary art from Austria and around the world. The building itself is an interesting example of modern architecture.
7. Botanical Garden: This peaceful oasis is located near the university and features a variety of plants from around the world. Visitors can take a guided tour or simply stroll through the gardens on their own.
8. Styrian Armoury: Another museum dedicated to armor and weapons, the Styrian Armoury is housed in a former arsenal building and contains over 30,000 items. Visitors can see everything from chain mail to cannon.
Overall, Graz offers a unique mix of historical and modern attractions, making it a great destination for travelers who are interested in both art and history.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Graz.

When to go on holiday to Graz

The best time to go on holiday to Graz largely depends on your interests and what you plan to do while you're there. If you're interested in exploring the city's cultural scene and attending the various festivals and events, then the summer months (June-August) might be the best time to visit Graz, as this is when the city is liveliest and most festive.
However, if you're looking to enjoy some outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling, then the winter months (December-March) might be a good time to visit Graz as there are excellent skiing resorts nearby, and the city also boasts beautiful winter landscapes.
For those looking to save money, the off-peak season (from November to March) offers lower prices on accommodation and flights.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Graz

There are several ways to get to Graz, Austria: 1. By plane: Graz Airport (GRZ) is located just 10 kilometers south of Graz city center. There are direct flights from many European cities to Graz. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus or train to reach the city center.
2. By train: Graz is well-connected to most major European cities by train. The main train station is Graz Hauptbahnhof, located in the city center. There are direct trains from Vienna, Salzburg, Budapest and Munich, among others.
3. By bus: There are many bus companies that offer connections to Graz from various European cities. Flixbus and Eurolines are some of the most popular ones.
4. By car: Graz is easily accessible by car, with good highway connections to Vienna and other major European cities. However, be aware that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive.
I hope this information helps you in planning your trip to Graz!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Graz, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Graz

Here are some typical dishes and foods to try in Graz, Austria: 1. Steirischer Backhendlsalat - This dish is a salad that consists of crispy fried chicken breaded with bread crumbs, mixed with lettuce and sliced vegetables like cucumber and onions. 2. Käferbohnensalat - This is a traditional salad made of fresh kidney beans with onions, vinegar, oil, and spices. 3. Schilcher - This is a type of wine made from grapes grown in Styria. It has a unique pink color and is a bit sour but refreshing to taste. 4. Speck - This is a type of cured meat made from pork, which is sliced thinly and can be eaten on its own or as a part of a traditional Styrian snack platter. 5. Kürbiskernöl - Also known as pumpkin seed oil, which has a dark green color and can be used as a dressing for salads or as a dip. 6. Styrian Apple - This is a type of apple from the region that is delicious, juicy, and slightly sour. It is used in many traditional Austrian dishes and desserts.
7. Buchteln - This is a sweet, soft, and fluffy yeast dough pastry filled with a mix of jam, nuts or cinnamon.
These are just a few examples of the delicious and traditional dishes and foods to try in Graz, Austria!
You can find general info about typical foods in Austria here.

Is Graz an expensive destination for tourists?

Graz can be considered a bit pricey when it comes to tourist expenses, but it depends on your travel style and budget. For example, accommodations in the city center tend to be more expensive than those located on the outskirts. Dining out in popular restaurants and visiting tourist attractions can also add up quickly.
However, there are ways to make your trip to Graz more affordable. For instance, you can opt for budget-friendly accommodations, eat at local eateries, explore the city's many free attractions, and use public transportation instead of taxis. Ultimately, it all depends on your travel preferences and financial situation.

Where to find accomodation in Graz

The best areas to find accommodation if you're visiting Graz, Austria include the historic Old Town area, around the Schlossberg hill, and the trendy Lend district. These areas offer easy access to the city's major tourist attractions, shopping districts, and restaurants, and have a wide range of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals to choose from.
You can check hotel prices at Graz here:
Booking.com

Is Graz a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Graz is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Austria, in general, has a low crime rate, and Graz is known for its peaceful atmosphere, welcoming locals, and well-maintained infrastructure. However, like in any city, certain areas may be more prone to crime or pickpocketing, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions such as keeping valuables secure and not walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Overall, though, Graz is a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Austria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Graz.

What type of travelers will enjoy Graz the most?

Graz is a vibrant and charming city that welcomes all types of travelers. It offers a wide variety of activities and attractions that cater to couples, young people, and families alike.
Couples will enjoy romantic walks through the historic Old Town and picturesque Schlossberg hill. They can also indulge in local cuisine at one of the city's top-rated restaurants or visit one of the many museums and art galleries.
Young people looking for fun can explore the city's trendy bars, clubs, and music venues. Graz hosts several music festivals throughout the year that attract a young and lively crowd.
Families can enjoy a range of activities, including visits to the Tiergarten Graz Zoo, Styrassic Park Dinosaur Museum, and Planetarium Graz. They can also take a stroll in the city parks, such as Schloss Eggenberg and the Stadtpark, or go for a bike ride along the River Mur.
Overall, Graz has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Graz

In Graz (Austria), you can move around by public transportation like trams and buses. The public transport network is efficient and connects all parts of the city. You can purchase tickets in the tram or bus, from vending machines around the city, or via the Graz Mobil app. Alternatively, you can also explore Graz by bike, as the city has a well-established bike rental system. Additionally, taxis and car rentals are also available.

What to see around Graz

Certainly! Here are a few suggestions for a day trip from Graz: 1. Schloßberg: Located right in Graz, the Schloßberg is a hill with a fortress on top. From here you can get a stunning view of the city.
2. Seggau Castle: A historic castle located in Leibnitz, just 30 minutes south of Graz.
3. Kalkalpen National Park: A beautiful park with lots of hiking trails, located about an hour's drive west from Graz.
4. Riegersburg Castle: This medieval castle is about an hour's drive southeast of Graz and is perched on a hilltop overlooking beautiful countryside.
5. Bärenschützklamm: A scenic gorge hike that's about an hour's drive north from Graz.
6. Lake Grundlsee: A beautiful alpine lake that's about two hours' drive east from Graz.
7. Red Bull Ring: A popular racetrack located in Spielberg, about 90 minutes north of Graz.
Hope these suggestions help!
For every travel information about Austria you can click here.

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