Things To Do
in Grad

Grad is a small historic town in northeastern Slovenia, perched near the Drava River and surrounded by rolling Prekmurje countryside. Its compact center blends medieval charm with riverside views, quiet cafes, and traditional architecture. The area is known for vineyards, farms, and a relaxed pace that invites easy exploration on foot or by bike.

Grad makes a convenient base for visiting Ptuj, Murska Sobota, and scenic rural detours in the region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Grad
morning
:

Arrive in Grad and check into your cozy accommodation. Spend the morning settling in and enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Take a stroll through the quaint streets, absorbing the charming atmosphere of the town.

afternoon
:

Visit the Grad Castle, where you can explore its historical exhibits and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring traditional Slovenian cuisine. Afterward, relax in the nearby park or take a guided tour of the old town.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local bistro known for its seasonal dishes. After dinner, stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Finish your evening with a drink at a local pub, mingling with friendly locals.

day 2
Exploring Lake Grad
morning
:

Head to Lake Grad for a refreshing start to your day, where you can rent a kayak or a paddleboard. Enjoy some time on the water, surrounded by the scenic beauty of nature. Have a picnic breakfast by the lakeside, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After some water activities, take a hiking trail around the lake that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Stop for lunch at a lakeside restaurant, tasting local fish dishes. In the afternoon, take a dip in the lake to cool off and unwind.

evening
:

Return to Grad and freshen up at your accommodation. For dinner, explore the vibrant culinary scene in the town, trying out different Slovenian wines and homemade desserts. End your day at a local cultural event, such as a folk music performance or art exhibition.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2-4
🚆Public transport day pass$5-7
💧Bottle of water$0.60-1.50
🍷Glass of wine at a bar$3-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming historic town with easy access to nature
  • Warm Slovenian hospitality and regional cuisine
  • Small nightlife scene in Grad itself
  • Limited public transport options within town; best explored by car or bike
  • "Dober dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Prosim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Kje je stranišče?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ali govorite angleško?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Grad

Visit one of these nice places.

Grad Castle Hilltop

Ruined castle remains perched above Grad with sweeping views of the Drava Valley and surrounding farmland, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.

Drava River Promenade

Paved riverbank with gentle curves and reflections; great for long exposure shots of boats and the water in different light.

Old Town Square

Cobblestone lanes, historic facades, and a peaceful central plaza ideal for candid street photography and architectural details.

Vineyard Hills at Dusk

Rolling vineyard-covered slopes just outside town provide warm golden-hour light and panoramic countryside portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Grad

Slovenian cuisine in Grad reflects the hearty, agricultural roots of the Prekmurje region, with simple ingredients prepared in comforting, home-style ways. Expect fresh dairy, cornmeal dishes, seasonal produce, and regional wines that pair well with rustic meats and fish from the Drava basin.

Grad Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Štruklji

Rolled dumplings with a variety of fillings (often cottage cheese or walnut for sweet versions) that are a staple across Slovenia and widely enjoyed in the region.

Must-Try!

Prekmurska gibanica

A famous multi-layered pastry dessert from the Prekmurje region featuring walnuts, poppy seeds, apples, and sweet dough.

Žganci

Cornmeal mush typically served with milk, butter, or curdled milk; a comforting and traditional staple often paired with seasonal sides.

Bograč (goulash-style stew)

A hearty meat-and-vegetable stew common in Slovenian countryside, with regional twists and generous spice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ptuj Market

Historic weekly market in nearby Ptuj where you can buy fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and regional pastries.

Murska Sobota Market

Large market offering local vegetables, fruit, dairy, bread, and prepared foods; great for picnic supplies and tasting seasonal specialties.

Grad Local Market (weekly)

A small-town market day featuring farmers and artisans; look for fresh dairy, honey, and bakery items to try with a coffee.

Climate Guide

Weather

Grad experiences a temperate continental climate with warm summers, cold winters, and four distinct seasons. Summers can reach comfortable highs in the low to mid 20s Celsius, while winter temperatures often dip below freezing with occasional snowfall. Rain is possible throughout the year, so a light rain jacket can be handy year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting like Dober dan (Good day) goes a long way; handshake is common in formal settings.

Language and Politeness

Learning a few phrases in Slovene is appreciated. Address people with courtesy and avoid loud behavior in residential areas.

Dining Etiquette

Raising voices in restaurants is discouraged; dine at a moderate pace and tip as described above.

Safety Guide

Safety

Grad is generally safe for travelers. Standard precautions apply: keep valuables secure, especially in tourist areas; use official taxis or ride services; be mindful of road traffic when walking near the river. In an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance.

Tipping in Grad

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good. Cash tips are appreciated but cards are accepted for larger payments.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cafes, restaurants, and shops. Euros are the local currency; ATMs are available in towns nearby if you need cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with occasional afternoon showers; days are long, markets thrive, and outdoor terraces are in full swing. Pack sun protection and light layers for cooler evenings by the river.

Autumn

Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage; perfect for countryside walks and harvest-time food specials. Bring a light jacket for cooler mornings.

Winter

Cold with a chance of snow; some outdoor trails may be icy. Embrace cozy inns, hearty stews, and shorter daylight hours.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming fields; ideal for cycling and hiking as trails dry out after winter. Layers are useful for fluctuating temps.

Nightlife Guide

Grad at Night

Grad’s nightlife is typically relaxed and intimate, with riverside bars, wine bars, and casual pubs. After a day of exploring, you can enjoy a drink with locals in a cozy setting; there are few late-night clubs in Grad itself, but you can ventrally travel to nearby towns like Ptuj or Maribor for broader options.

Hiking in Grad

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Grad Castle Hill Trail

Short to moderate hike from town center to hilltop ruins, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.

Drava River Vista Loop

Riverside loop that combines flat paths with small elevation changes, ideal for easy daytime hikes or bike rides.

Prekmurje Countryside Walk

Scenic rural path through orchards and vineyards, suitable for a half-day excursion from Grad.

Maribor-Pohorje Day Hike (nearby)

A longer option a short drive away, offering forest trails, viewpoints, and refreshing mountain air.

Airports

How to reach Grad by plane.

Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport (MAR)

Regional airport serving domestic and limited international flights; convenient for a fast connection to Grad by car or bus.

Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU)

Large international hub with frequent connections; about a few hours’ drive from Grad, via highway and regional roads.

Klagenfurt Airport (KLU)

Nearby Austrian airport offering some international and seasonal flights; a reasonable option for access to northeastern Slovenia.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

Major Croatian airport with broad connections; accessible by road or rail via cross-border trips from Grad and surrounding towns.

Getting Around

Walkability

Grad is compact and walkable, with a pleasantly sized historic center and a hilltop view accessible on foot. Narrow cobblestone lanes add charm but may require careful footing. The riverfront is pedestrian-friendly and connects to several scenic viewpoints.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Predominantly ethnic Slovenes with a mix of families, retirees, and seasonal agricultural workers; a few Roma communities and a presence of visitors during peak tourist seasons.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport across Slovenia; expect local clubs and school-level matches in and around Grad.

Cycling

Gentle to moderate routes through the Prekmurje countryside are ideal for day rides and scenic routes.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Nearby hills and ski areas in winter provide opportunities for downhill and cross-country skiing within a short drive.

Transportation

Traffic

Grad’s core is best explored on foot or by bike; car travel is convenient for countryside day trips. Public transport exists but may be less frequent than in larger cities, so check schedules in advance. Road conditions are generally good, with local signs guiding visitors to viewpoints and towns in the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Grad.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose vegetarian štruklji, dairy-rich dishes like žganci with cheese, fresh salads, and seasonal vegetable sides; many menus can accommodate meat-free options with advance notice.

Vegan

Look for fruit, vegetable-based dishes, bread with olive oil, and dairy-free versions of regional specialties; ask about stock, butter, and cream in sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available in Grad through local clinics, with more comprehensive care in nearby towns like Ptuj and Murska Sobota. For hospitals or specialist care, you can rely on regional facilities in larger centers such as Maribor. Carry your health insurance information and any necessary prescriptions.

Discover Slovenia

Read more in our Slovenia 2025 Travel Guide.

Slovenia Travel Guide