Conscious Travel in the Graz Region

In Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, visitors can feel not only the southern flair of the red-tiled roofs – part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town – but also the strong commitment of its residents to sustainable living. Thanks to the largely car-free historic centre, strolling through the narrow streets becomes even more enjoyable. At the same time, an efficient public transport system – partly powered by hydrogen or electricity – ensures quick and convenient connections. A particularly relaxed way to explore the city is a guided tour on the electric “Schlossbergbahn” or with the Audioguide on an electric bus.

Zero-waste and social-impact shops in the Lend and Gries districts, as well as the souvenir shop at the Graz Tourist Information on Herrengasse, which offers almost exclusively regional products, make shopping in the city a sustainable experience.

Cycling is timeless, liberating and offers new perspectives. Thanks to e-bikes, it has become an attractive option for almost everyone – and a sustainable way to explore the Graz Region.

Along the region’s culinary cycling tours, there is plenty to discover: scenic landscapes, charming excursion destinations and traditional wine taverns.

With the Mur Cycle Path, the main cycling route through Styria, and EuroVelo 14, it’s easy to explore the entire region by bike.

Cycling is also very popular in the city of Graz among both locals and visitors. The well-developed cycling network allows you to get around quickly and avoid traffic.

Bicycles can be rented at Graz Main Station (Bicycle bike rental).

Every guest can help preserve nature for future generations – even small actions make a difference.

Our shared contribution to protecting nature:

• We are guests in nature and behave accordingly.

• We leave nature as we found it – without leaving any waste behind.

• We use designated parking areas, camp only where permitted and stay on marked paths.

• We respect protected areas and private property, avoid noise and keep our dogs on a leash.

• We drive only on publicly accessible roads and respect permitted times to protect wildlife.

• We observe animals from a respectful distance and respect their resting areas.

• We share these principles with other visitors to create a greater positive impact together.

Nature conservation in Styria helps define and protect valuable natural areas, including nature and landscape protection areas, natural monuments, European protected sites and Natura 2000 areas. Even within the city, nature is preserved – the park of Eggenberg Palace in Graz is itself part of a Natura 2000 site.

Doing something good for the environment does not always require a formal certification. Several businesses in the Graz Region have developed their own innovative sustainability concepts.

The Johann Waller Hut, founded in 1932, has been operated energy self-sufficiently since 2022 and supplies itself with water. The hut can be reached on foot or by mountain bike. It is open from Thursday to Sunday, while from Monday to Wednesday a self-service snack station is available. Overnight stays are also possible.

A zero-emission hotel is the vision behind the Hi5 Hotel in Seiersberg. Alongside an expanded large kitchen, the concept includes building an energy self-sufficient hotel powered by its own photovoltaic system. Various heating and cooling systems, electric company vehicles, on-site well water and the conversion of organic waste into biogas are all part of the hotel’s energy concept.

The Well Ranch near Graz combines horse-supported seminars and nature experiences with a strong focus on sustainability. The goal of the farm is to become energy self-sufficient through renewable energy and environmentally friendly practices.

With the BackCup reusable cup, it has been possible since 2018 to enjoy takeaway coffee in Graz in a resource-saving way. More than 70 partner businesses in the city already participate in this initiative.

Graz has plenty to offer for those who value regional, seasonal and high-quality food. Vegetarian and vegan cuisine has long become an integral part of the city’s culinary scene. Short, transparent supply chains from producers to kitchens, as well as social inclusion for people with special needs or migrant backgrounds, are a natural part of everyday practice for many restaurants. Below you will find a few examples.

Why travel far when beautiful places are so close?

Holidays close to home are becoming increasingly popular – and for good reason. They not only support social, ecological and economic sustainability, but also offer many additional advantages.

• Shorter travel distances save both time and resources, allowing you to make the most of your valuable holiday time.

• A break in the surrounding region offers the chance to rediscover nearby places – often the tourist and scenic highlights are just around the corner.

• Regional holidays also support the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions all benefit directly from visitors.

It is well worth turning your attention to nearby destinations and discovering the beauty of the region around you.