View of the old town  | © Graz Region | studio draussen View of the old town  | © Graz Region | studio draussen

Graz in 24hrs

A city tour full of highlights

Explore the capital of Styria in just 24 hours. From discoveries steeped in history to culinary delights and quiet moments along the River Mur - Graz, whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes hearts by storm on unforgettable city tours.

For those who only have 24 hours to discover this vibrant city, here is a carefully compiled tour. From a morning visit to the farmers' market to night-time views over the city.

A cosy start

Fragrant freshness in Graz

The day begins with a stroll through the farmers' market on Kaiser-Josef-Platz, where fresh regional produce from the Graz Region beckons. For those looking for alternatives, the Operncafe or Café Promenade offer delicious breakfast options. The route continues through the Stadtpark, where the splendour of blossoming magnolias, chestnut and fruit trees and the historic Stadtparkbrunnen fountain await visitors.

Graz Castle Hill

A rewarding ascent

No matter how you get to the Schlossberg - on foot via Karmeliterplatz, with the Schlossberg lift or with the Schlossbergbahn - the view over the red-brick roofscape of Graz is definitely worth it. The clock tower (landmark of the city) with its reversed hands, the GrazMuseum Schlossberg, the 4D adventure cinema, the pavilion, the casemates and much more invite you to linger. You can enjoy the spring sunshine with cool drinks and snacks in the pubs before taking the Schlossberg slide.

A city of contrasts

Courageous modernity

After the descent, the unmistakable Mur Island beckons, seamlessly integrated into the city's historical mosaic, a link between the city and the river and a bridge to the highly diverse neighbourhoods. Via the Minorite Monastery, you head towards the Kunsthaus Graz, the ‘friendly alien’ of the city of Graz, which clearly feels at home among the historic buildings. The changing exhibitions in the museum offer insights into the contemporary art scene.

Old town Graz

History meets the modern age

The route leads over the Erzherzog (Archduke) Johann Bridge past the Franciscan monastery to the main square with the town hall. Behind the town hall - along Herrengasse - is the Landhaus with its arcaded courtyard, which is also home to the largest armoury in the world, the Landeszeughaus.

A twisting end

Masterpieces

Through the Altstadtpassage or Stempfergasse you can reach the Glockenspielplatz, where a pair of traditional dressed dolls rotate in the gable of the house on the square at 11am, 3pm and 6pm. The turquoise dome of the Mausoleum forms a magnificent cityscape with the cathedral and St Catherine's Church, and the double spiral staircase is a masterpiece of stonemasonry at the end of the city tour.

Graz - THE Foodie City of Austria

Culinary excellence

Dinner in one of the Capital of Delight's restaurants offers southern flair and culinary highlights. Whether in the stylish award-winning restaurants or in the cosy inns - a love of quality and good taste is a top priority everywhere.

Art & cultural enjoyment

Multifaceted entertainment

There are cultural programmes to choose from, such as opera, cinema or concerts, or you can enjoy the evening with another ascent to the Schlossberg to round off the day in one of the numerous restaurants.

Did you know that Graz was the European Capital of Culture in 2003?
–

More ideas and tips

Where history meets modern life

Enjoy a shopping trip to Kastner & Öhler, one of Graz's most beautiful department stores. Head up to the rooftop café Freiblick for a fantastic view of the Schlossberg and its famous Clock Tower. Explore the right bank of the River Mur, with its design shops along Mariahilferstraße, the lively Lendplatz and the Hans Schell Collection, a fascinating museum dedicated to keys and locks. Take tram line 1 from Hauptplatz towards Eggenberg Palace, or travel in the opposite direction to Mariatrost Basilica. Along the way, stop for a relaxing walk around Hilmteich pond.

More
Graz Region

Even a single day in Graz offers plenty of memorable experiences. From the city's charming streets and cultural highlights to its culinary delights and welcoming atmosphere, there is much to discover and enjoy.

If you have 48 or even 72 hours to explore the Graz Region, you'll have time to venture beyond the city and discover even more. Explore picturesque landscapes, charming towns and villages, and experience the region's culture, cuisine and local traditions at a more relaxed pace.