I have visited Graz a few times for work and always love going there. Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Austria, it has a lovely balance of historic and cool. It’s the country’s second-largest city, you would hardly know it. It doesn’t have a big-city vibe and is very relaxed.  It’s probably the least likely of the larger cities to be visited by tourists, but it really is well worth a visit.   There a mixture of old and new all mixed together in Graz, which works surprisingly well.

Graz is a 4 hour train trip from Vienna. Being close to the southern and eastern borders.  It is also a stopping point for transport to Slovenia and Croatia.  It considering a rental car, you should check if they can be taken across borders, if that is what you’re planning.

There are some lovely hotels here, although good budget accommodation isn’t as easy to find as in other large cities. There is a A & O Backpacker Hostel quite close to the train station.  

There are also guided tours of the city available.  

 Here are seven fantastic things to do when you visit:

1. Stroll Through the Old Town (Altstadt)

The heart of Graz is its beautifully preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With colorful facades, hidden courtyards, and ornate Renaissance buildings, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and just wander. Don’t miss the Hauptplatz! The impressive Town Hall sits here, and the surrounding little streets are  with cozy cafes and boutique shops.

2. Climb the Schlossberg and See the Clock Tower

You can’t come to Graz without heading up the Schlossberg (castle mountain). You have two choice of getting up there:  walking or funicular. I walked it, and although it looks daunting at first sight, it is really quite an easy climb if you go up the non-winding stairs side.  Then go down the stairs, which are on the opposite side of the Schloss (castle).  All options are easily found from the city centre. At the top, you’ll find stunning views over the red rooftops of Graz, and of course, the famous Uhrturm (Clock Tower), the city’s beloved symbol.

3. Visit Kunsthaus Graz – The “Friendly Alien”

Looking for something completely different? The Kunsthaus Graz, nicknamed the “Friendly Alien,” is a blob-shaped, futuristic art museum that contrasts wildly with the old town’s historic feel. Even if you’re not a big art buff, it’s worth visiting just to experience the bold architecture and the ever-changing contemporary exhibitions inside.  Be warned: some of the exhibitions are quite weird and can be confronting! Check out what the exhibitions actually are if you are going to take children, as I wouldn’t have taken children to the one I visited!

4. Wander Through the Murinsel (Island in the Mur)

The Mur River runs right through Graz, and one of its quirkiest attractions is the Murinsel (Insel meaning island), a floating steel island designed by American artist Vito Acconci. Shaped like a seashell, it’s part bridge, part café, and part playground. Grab a coffee, relax for a while, and enjoy the gentle rocking sensation as the river flows beneath you. It is also possible to go kayaking on the Mur, including organized kayaking tours.

5. Explore the Eggenberg Palace

On the outskirts of the city, Schloss Eggenberg is a Baroque masterpiece surrounded by romantic gardens and peacocks roaming freely. The palace’s architecture is full of symbolism, like 365 windows for every day of the year. Inside, the lavish State Rooms are a treat to tour, with magnificent ceiling paintings and historic furnishings that transport you back in time.

6. Soak Up the Atmosphere at Lendplatz Market

If you want to feel like a local, head to Lendplatz Market. In the mornings, it’s buzzing with farmers selling fresh produce, cheeses, flowers, and more. Grab a coffee from one of the nearby hip cafes, pick up some picnic supplies, and just enjoy the lively, down-to-earth vibe of this colorful part of Graz.

7. Marvel at the Graz Cathedral and Mausoleum

Just behind the bustling Hauptplatz, Graz Cathedral (Dom) offers a more serene experience. Its Gothic architecture might seem understated at first, but step inside to see the intricate frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. Right next door, the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II is a real show-stopper, with its ornate blue-and-white dome and elaborate interior—one of the most important Baroque monuments in Graz.

8. Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum

Not far from Graz, in the town of Thal, is the Arnold Scharzenegger Museum.  Thal is very proud of its famous native, although they probably haven’t seen him in years. The museum is well worth a visit. Transport isn’t great to Thal, and you may have to take a taxi.  But I recommend it if you can make it. 

9. Fasching

If you happen to be in Graz in February, you can also take part in Fasching! In Austria, Fasching is what would be called ‘Carnival’ in other parts of Europe. It is the celebration and final revelry which precedes the fasting time of Lent (the 6 weeks leading up to Easter. I have attended a Fasching celebration in Graz, and be warned it is not for the faint-hearted, although it is undeniably fun! People come in costumes and there is a lot of drinking and merry making. I don’t think I’ve ever had reason to speak so much German as I didn’t on that Fasching night. In Graz it is only held on the night before Ash Wednesday, where as in other parts of Europe there is often a week that leads up to it. Fasching is also held in small towns in Austria.

Graz is the kind of city that charms you without trying too hard. It’s full of contrasts—old and new, lively and laid-back—and that’s one of the things that makes it so memorable.