The Graz Region Way of Life
Urban rhythms, natural surroundings
A morning in the old town. An afternoon by the water or in the mountains. An evening overlooking the rooftops of Graz.
In the Graz Region, the historic centre, places to visit, nature and culinary experiences are often only a few minutes apart. This sense of closeness shapes the region’s distinctive way of life.
Graz continues beyond the city
The Schlossberg is never far away. The River Mur follows many routes through the city. Courtyards open up behind historic façades, while life unfolds in the open air at the local markets. In between, there is time for a coffee, a walk through the old town or a short detour into small shops and boutiques.
Beyond the historic centre, hills and mountains offer scenic trails, lakes and green spaces close to the city. There are also places shaped by history, romantic chapels, white Lipizzaner horses and a food culture that connects Graz with its surrounding region.
A day of changing perspectives
From a morning at the market in Graz to views from the Schöckl, from a walk through a gorge to an evening in a traditional garden restaurant: many experiences are closer together than expected.
Urban life, rooted in Styria
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is the capital of Styria and a UNESCO City of Design. Its historic centre and Eggenberg Palace are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city’s cultural influence reaches far beyond its borders.
At the same time, the Graz Region remains deeply rooted in Styria. Traditions are part of everyday life, seasonal customs shape the year, and regional produce has a natural place at the table. Historic town centres, a lively cultural scene and contemporary ideas come together in a region with many different sides.
Perhaps this is what defines the Styrian way of life in the Graz Region: the city creates momentum, while the region gives it space.
A southern rhythm in Graz
When the squares fill and the outdoor dining areas remain lively well into the evening, Graz reveals a side that stays in the memory.
More than 50 courtyards lie behind the façades of the old town. Some feel almost hidden, while others become meeting places for coffee, lunch or a glass of wine.
On warm days, Renaissance courtyards, narrow lanes and shaded garden restaurants create an atmosphere with a distinctly southern feel. International students, markets and coffee houses add to it, as do the small shops and boutiques of the historic centre.
People linger a little longer. Meet for a glass of wine. Let the evening unfold. For no particular reason.
To explore the region is to understand Graz.
Frequently asked questions
The Graz Region brings together the Styrian capital with nature, culture, food and distinctive places to visit nearby. Many experiences are only a few minutes apart, from UNESCO World Heritage sites to vineyards, viewpoints and places known for regional produce.
As the capital of Styria, Graz brings together culture, history, design, food and a distinctive way of life. Many experiences in the region begin here.
Beyond the city are mountains, lakes, places to visit, vineyards, historic towns and villages, and the home of the Lipizzaner horses. Much of it is closer than expected.
City walks, cycling routes, hiking trails, waterside experiences and nearby recreation areas make it easy to move between urban life and nature.
By the water, in a meadow with a view or beneath the shade of old trees, the Graz Region offers many places to spend a relaxed few hours outdoors. Picnic spots in and around Graz are especially popular.
Parks and nearby recreation areas are complemented by thermal spas, health and wellbeing offers, and numerous paths through nature and along the water.
At farmers’ markets, local events, traditional wine taverns and mountain huts, as well as directly from regional producers and wherever traditions remain part of everyday life.
