Is Graz worth visiting? Yes, it is. I think Graz is one of the most underrated cities in Austria. When I first visited, I expected a pleasant city with a nice old town, but I was surprised by how much there was to see and do. From historic streets and hilltop views to modern architecture and great food, Graz felt like a city that many travellers overlook but shouldn’t.
Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and is located in the southeast of the country. It is known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town, vibrant student population, and mix of historic and modern attractions. Unlike some of Austria’s more famous destinations, Graz often feels less crowded, giving visitors a chance to experience local life at a slower pace.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why Graz is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. If you’re looking for a destination in Austria that combines history, culture, and a more authentic atmosphere, keep reading to discover the many reasons why Graz is worth visiting.
Table of Contents
Top Reasons You Should Visit Graz
1. A Beautiful and Well-Preserved Old Town
Graz has one of the best-preserved historic centers in Europe, and it’s no surprise that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town is a stunning blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, with colorful facades, hidden courtyards, and elegant squares. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, yet the city also has a lively and youthful energy thanks to its university population.
I spent hours exploring the Old Town, stumbling upon charming alleyways and beautifully preserved palaces. Hauptplatz, the city’s main square, was particularly impressive, with its grand buildings and bustling cafés. Unlike some larger cities where history feels like a museum exhibit, Graz’s Old Town is full of life, making it a pleasure to wander at any time of day.
2. The Unique and Scenic Schlossberg Hill
One of Graz’s most iconic landmarks is Schlossberg, a hill that rises above the city and offers breathtaking panoramic views. The hill is home to the famous Clock Tower, which has become a symbol of Graz, as well as scenic walking paths, fortress ruins, and charming cafés. You can reach the top by hiking, taking a funicular, or riding an elevator built inside the hill.
I took the funicular up to Schlossberg and was immediately greeted with one of the best views I’ve ever seen. The red rooftops of Graz stretched out below, framed by rolling hills in the distance. Later, I walked down the picturesque stairway that winds through the trees, stopping for coffee at a terrace overlooking the city. It’s the perfect place to take in Graz’s beauty and get a bit of fresh air.
3. A City with a Distinct Mediterranean Feel
Despite being in Austria, Graz has a noticeable southern European influence, thanks to its location near Slovenia and Italy. The city’s red-roofed buildings, sunny climate, and relaxed pace give it a Mediterranean flair that sets it apart from other Austrian destinations. Many streets are lined with palm trees, and the outdoor café culture feels more like something you’d find in Italy than in central Europe.
I noticed this Mediterranean atmosphere most when sitting at a café in one of Graz’s squares. The sun was shining, people were leisurely sipping Aperol Spritz, and the pace of life felt slower than in cities like Vienna. If you love the charm of southern Europe but also enjoy Austrian traditions, Graz is the perfect blend of both.
4. A Foodie’s Paradise with Strong Styrian Culinary Traditions
Graz is the capital of Styria, a region known for its incredible food and wine. The city has a strong farm-to-table culture, with local markets, organic restaurants, and traditional Styrian dishes that showcase the best of the region’s produce. Styrian pumpkin seed oil, a dark, nutty-flavored oil, is a local specialty that’s used in everything from salads to ice cream.
I visited the Kaiser-Josef Market, where vendors sold fresh fruit, handmade cheeses, and bottles of Styrian wine. Later, I tried a classic Styrian dish—Backhendl, a crispy fried chicken served with a light salad drizzled in pumpkin seed oil. The flavors were rich but fresh, and it was clear that Graz takes pride in its culinary heritage. Whether you love traditional Austrian food or modern farm-to-table cuisine, Graz is a fantastic place to eat.
5. A Young and Creative City with a Strong Student Culture
Graz is home to several universities, making it one of the most youthful and dynamic cities in Austria. The large student population brings an energy that keeps the city buzzing with cultural events, concerts, and a thriving arts scene. Unlike Vienna or Salzburg, which can sometimes feel steeped in tradition, Graz has a fresh and forward-thinking vibe.
I noticed this creative energy when I visited the Lend and Gries districts, which are filled with independent shops, art galleries, and trendy cafés. Street art, pop-up markets, and live music performances were everywhere, making the city feel vibrant and full of life. If you enjoy cities that balance history with modern culture, Graz offers the best of both worlds.
6. The Eye-Catching Modern Architecture Blended with History
While Graz is known for its historic charm, it also has some of Austria’s most daring and creative modern architecture. The Kunsthaus Graz, often called the “Friendly Alien,” is a futuristic museum that looks like a giant blue bubble, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding Baroque buildings. Another standout is Murinsel, an artificial island in the Mur River designed as a floating steel structure with a café and amphitheater.
At first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about the Kunsthaus—its odd shape and glowing blue exterior seemed out of place. But after exploring it up close, I realized that Graz embraces this blend of old and new, making it one of Austria’s most architecturally interesting cities. Instead of clashing, the modern buildings give Graz an edgy and progressive feel.
7. The City is Green and Environmentally Friendly
Graz has a strong commitment to sustainability and green spaces, making it one of Austria’s most environmentally friendly cities. Parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets make it a pleasant place to explore, and the city is very pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly. The public transportation system is efficient, and many locals prefer biking over driving.
I rented a bike and rode along the Mur River, passing through lush parks and scenic viewpoints. It was refreshing to be in a city where cycling is so common, and the clean air and well-maintained green spaces made it feel very livable. If you appreciate cities that prioritize the environment and sustainability, Graz is a great example of urban planning done right.
8. The Local Wine Culture and Nearby Vineyards
Styria is one of Austria’s top wine-producing regions, and Graz is the perfect place to experience it. The nearby Südsteiermark Wine Road, often called the “Tuscany of Austria,” is a stunning area filled with rolling vineyards and charming wineries. The region is famous for its crisp white wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Gelber Muskateller.
I took a short trip outside the city to visit a vineyard, where I sat on a terrace overlooking endless rows of grapevines. The wine was refreshing and light, perfect for a warm day, and the experience felt completely different from the more well-known wine regions of Europe. Even if you don’t have time for a vineyard visit, Graz has plenty of wine bars where you can sample local varieties.
9. A Relaxed and Unpretentious Atmosphere
Unlike Vienna, which can sometimes feel formal, Graz has a much more laid-back and welcoming vibe. The city is stylish but not pretentious, and locals are friendly without being overly polished. Whether you’re in a traditional Austrian tavern or a modern café, there’s a relaxed energy that makes visitors feel at home.
I felt this easygoing atmosphere when I chatted with a shop owner in the Lend district—she was happy to share recommendations, and the conversation felt natural and unhurried. Graz is the kind of place where you can take your time, explore at your own pace, and never feel rushed.
10. A Great Base for Exploring Southern Austria and Beyond
Graz’s location makes it a great base for exploring the rest of Styria and beyond. You can take day trips to charming alpine towns, stunning lakes, and even cross the border into Slovenia or Italy. Places like Riegersburg Castle, the thermal spa town of Bad Gleichenberg, and the scenic mountain region of Gesäuse National Park are all within easy reach.
I took a short train ride to the small town of Bärnbach, home to a unique, colorful church designed by artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. It was a completely different experience from Graz but still carried the same creative and welcoming spirit. If you love exploring beyond the main tourist spots, Graz’s location makes it easy to discover hidden gems.
Travel Tips for Visiting Graz
What to Do in Graz
Graz is one of Austria’s most underrated cities. It has a beautiful old town, a relaxed atmosphere, and a great food scene. I wasn’t expecting much before visiting, but it ended up being one of my favourite stops in Austria. These are the experiences I would recommend most.
- Explore Schlossberg and Ride the Funicular – This was my favourite thing to do in Graz because the views over the red rooftops are fantastic, and the funicular saves you from a steep climb.
- Join a Graz Old Town Walking Tour – I always like taking a walking tour in a new city, and Graz has a fascinating mix of medieval, Renaissance, and modern architecture.
- Visit the Lipizzaner Stud Farm in Piber – Seeing the famous white horses in their home region was a unique experience and something I enjoyed more than I expected.
- Take a South Styrian Wine Tour – The rolling vineyards around Graz are beautiful, and I think this is one of the best ways to experience the local culture and food.
- Explore the Styrian Armoury – This museum holds one of the largest collections of historic weapons and armour in the world, and I found it surprisingly interesting.
- Visit Zotter Chocolate Factory – If you enjoy chocolate, this is a fun day trip where you can taste dozens of different creations while learning how they’re made.
When to Visit Graz
I think the best times to visit Graz are May, June, September, and early October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and it’s comfortable to spend long days exploring the city on foot. Summer is lively, with outdoor dining, festivals, and plenty of events taking place around the old town. Winter can be cold, but the Christmas markets add a festive atmosphere that makes the city feel very welcoming. I visited in late spring and thought it was the perfect time. The weather was mild, the parks were green, and the city felt relaxed without being crowded.
How to Get to Graz
Most visitors arrive through Graz Airport, which is located about 10 kilometres south of the city centre. Airlines such as Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, and several seasonal carriers operate flights here. From the airport, trains and buses connect directly to the city centre in around 15 to 20 minutes. Graz is also very well connected by rail, with regular services from Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Ljubljana, and other European cities. Personally, I think arriving by train is the most convenient option if you’re already travelling around Austria. The station is close to the centre, and Austrian trains are generally comfortable and reliable.
Where to Stay in Graz
- Grand Hôtel Wiesler – Located along the Mur River near the Old Town, this stylish hotel combines historic charm with modern design and is one of my favourite places to stay in Graz.
- Schlossberghotel – Situated at the foot of Schlossberg Hill, this upscale hotel offers an excellent location and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
- Hotel Weitzer Graz – Located near the Mur River and Old Town, this popular hotel offers comfortable rooms and great value for its central location.
- NH Graz City – This modern hotel sits close to the historic centre and is a great choice for travellers who want convenience and comfort.
- Motel One Graz – Located near the Old Town, this affordable hotel offers stylish rooms and one of the best value stays in the city.
- JUFA Hotel Graz City – This budget-friendly option near the city centre is ideal for families and travellers looking to keep costs down.
Getting Around Graz
Graz is one of the easiest cities in Austria to get around. The historic centre is compact, and most attractions can be reached on foot. The city also has an excellent network of trams and buses operated by Holding Graz. Tickets can be purchased through machines, online, or using the GrazMobil app. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated bike paths throughout the city. Personally, I spent most of my time walking because the old town is so compact, but the tram system is excellent if you want to travel further out.
How Long to Spend in Graz
I think two to three days is the perfect amount of time for Graz. Two days gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, visit Schlossberg, enjoy the local food scene, and see the main museums. With three days, you can add a wine tour, visit the Lipizzaner stud farm, or take a day trip into the Styrian countryside. If you enjoy food and wine travel, you could easily stay longer. Personally, I would recommend three days because it allows you to enjoy both the city and the beautiful region that surrounds it.
Conclusion
So, is Graz worth visiting? Absolutely. From its beautiful Old Town and historic landmarks to its lively food scene and unique blend of old and new architecture, there are plenty of reasons to visit. Graz offers a different side of Austria that many travellers never get to experience. If you want to explore a city that combines culture, history, and local charm without the crowds of some bigger destinations, Graz is well worth adding to your travel plans.