Things To Do
in Graz
Graz is a picturesque city located in the southeast of Austria. It is known for its well-preserved historic old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also home to numerous museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, making it a hub for arts and culture in the region.
With its charming streets, vibrant squares, and beautiful architecture, Graz offers visitors a delightful mix of history, art, and modernity.
- "Servus" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Tschüss" - Goodbye
- "Wie geht's?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the UNESCO-listed Historic Centre, marveling at the beautifully preserved architecture. Don't forget to visit the iconic Clock Tower for stunning views of the city.
Head to the Styrian Armory, one of the largest collections of historic weapons. Afterward, indulge in local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
Take a leisurely walk along the Mur River, enjoying the evening ambiance. End your day with a drink at one of the many riverside bars.
Start your day with a visit to Schloss Eggenberg, a magnificent baroque palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the impressive architecture and rich history of the estate.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the palace gardens, taking in the serene atmosphere. After lunch, visit the nearby Kunsthaus Graz to appreciate contemporary art.
Dine at a traditional Styrian restaurant, savoring regional specialties. Cap the night with a visit to a cozy wine bar for local wines.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous museums, galleries, and historic sites.
- Vibrant student life due to the presence of several universities, contributing to a youthful atmosphere.
- Beautiful architecture, combining medieval, baroque, and modern styles.
- Well-connected public transport system, making it easy to navigate the city.
- A variety of parks and green spaces, promoting outdoor activities and a high quality of life.
- Higher cost of living compared to other Austrian cities outside of Vienna.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, especially for non-German speakers.
- Less international compared to larger cities, which may impact expats and tourists.
- Occasional heavy tourist activity, particularly in the city center, which can lead to overcrowding.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and hot summers.
Best Activities in Graz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the historic hill and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Relax in this beautiful city park, featuring green spaces, ponds, and sculptures.
Explore the city on this scenic cycling path along the Mur River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Graz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Graz
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic hill in the city center with panoramic views of Graz, featuring a clock tower and castle ruins.
An iconic clock tower located on the Schlossberg hill, offering spectacular views of the city and surrounding area.
This stunning landmark provides a unique vantage point for capturing the beauty of Graz's skyline and architectural details.
Offers picturesque settings and exceptional views of the city, making it a great spot for photography enthusiasts.
Positioned on a hilltop, this historic site offers breathtaking views of Graz and its picturesque surroundings.
Food in Graz
Graz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Geselchtes, or smoked pork, is a staple of Styrian cuisine. It's often served with tangy Sauerkraut, creating a delightful interplay of smoky and sour flavors. For an authentic experience, head to traditional taverns such as Gasthaus Stainzerbauer or Gasthaus Stainzerbauer.
Must-Try!
This iconic dish consists of tender, juicy fried chicken marinated in a buttermilk and herb mixture, then coated in breadcrumbs. Enjoy this beloved classic at Gasthaus Pfarrwirt or Restaurant Frühwirt.
Kernölteigwaren is a traditional dish featuring pasta served with Styrian pumpkin seed oil, which imparts a distinctive nutty flavor. Sample this unique delicacy at renowned eateries like Aiola Upstairs or Der Steirer.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Graz better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Situated in the heart of Graz, this bustling market offers an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and local specialties. Don't miss the chance to savor tasty street food offerings such as Langos, a Hungarian deep-fried flatbread topped with garlic, cheese, or sour cream.
This vibrant market is a culinary haven, featuring stalls teeming with organic fruits, vegetables, and regional products. Indulge in diverse street food options, including hearty bratwurst and freshly baked pretzels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Graz, it is customary to greet them with a handshake. This is a sign of respect and is commonly practiced in business and social settings.
Austrians value their personal space, so it's important to maintain an appropriate distance when interacting with others. Avoid standing too close or using excessive gestures during conversations.
Being on time is highly valued in Austrian culture, so it's important to be punctual for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings in Graz.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Graz with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Graz
Ensure a smooth experience
In Graz, Austria, tipping at restaurants and cafes is common and the usual practice is to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip if the service was exceptional. Tipping in bars, taxis, and for other services such as hairdressers or tour guides is also appreciated but not always expected.
Payment in Graz, Austria is mostly done using cash or cards, with credit and debit cards widely accepted in most establishments. Contactless payment is gaining popularity, and it's also common to find ATMs readily available for cash withdrawal.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Graz.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit as the weather is mild and the city is blooming with flowers and greenery.
Great for outdoor activities with warm temperatures and many events and festivals.
Beautiful foliage and fewer tourists, perfect for exploring the city with comfortable weather.
Ideal for Christmas markets and winter sports, with a charming festive atmosphere.
Graz at Night
Hiking in Graz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular mountain close to Graz, offering a variety of hiking trails with stunning views over the city and surrounding landscapes.
Located a bit further from Graz, Stuhleck is the highest mountain in the eastern Alps and offers numerous hiking routes suitable for all levels.
Known for its high-altitude trails, Kühtai provides breathtaking mountain scenery and a range of hiking opportunities amidst alpine flora.
A picturesque region south of Graz, Sausal features rolling hills and vineyards, ideal for leisurely hikes and wine tasting.
A lesser-known spot that offers tranquil trails through beautiful forests and meadows, perfect for a peaceful hike just outside of Graz.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Graz through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Graz by plane.
The main international airport serving Vienna, Austria, located about 200 km northeast of Graz.
The primary international airport of Slovenia, located approximately 140 km southwest of Graz.
The main international airport serving Zagreb, Croatia, located around 190 km south of Graz.
An international airport in Klagenfurt, Austria, situated about 70 km west of Graz.
The city airport of Graz, Austria, connecting with several regional and international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group comprising the native population of Austria.
A significant demographic group due to geographical proximity and cultural ties.
One of the largest immigrant groups, contributing to Graz's multicultural landscape.
Includes people from various Balkan countries, which have a historical connection to Austria.
A notable community due to historical immigration and cultural exchange.
Includes nationals from various EU countries who live in Graz.
This category includes individuals from Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
A diverse group of international students contributing to the city's demographics.
The Soul of Graz
Discover the essence of Graz through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Graz, with several local clubs competing in various leagues. The city is home to teams like SK Sturm Graz and Grazer AK, which have passionate fan bases.
Ice hockey has a strong following in Graz, with the Graz 99ers being the city's main team in the Austrian Hockey League. The sport attracts a significant number of fans during the winter months.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Graz, with the local team, BC Gmunden, competing in the Austrian league. The sport is supported by youth programs and local clubs.
Handball is another popular sport in Graz, with local clubs competing at various levels. The sport is well-regarded and has a strong community presence.
Athletics enjoys popularity in Graz, with numerous clubs and facilities available for training and competitions. The city hosts various events and meets throughout the year.
Cycling is widely practiced in Graz, with many residents using bicycles for both recreation and transportation. The city is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure and cycling events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Graz boasts a thriving vegetarian and vegan food scene, with many restaurants offering inventive plant-based dishes. Notable establishments such as Der Morgen, Poesie, and Der Steirer cater to these dietary preferences with diverse and flavorful menus.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can explore a variety of gluten-free dining options in Graz. From dedicated gluten-free bakeries like Amo's Glutenfrei to restaurants like Mangolds that feature extensive gluten-free selections, individuals following a gluten-free diet can dine with ease in the city.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Graz with these cultural adventures.
