Unmissable Attractions in Graz

Clock tower in Graz, Austria
Clock tower in Graz, Austria | © 955169 / Pixabay
Culture Trip

Tucked away in Austria’s embrace, the lesser-known city of Graz exudes a captivating charm that few can resist. Beyond the spotlight of its more famous counterparts, Graz stands proudly with a treasure trove of delights waiting to be discovered. From historical landmarks to vibrant cultural hubs, this picturesque city offers an array of top destinations that promise to captivate every traveler’s heart. Join us as we unveil the best of Graz, where the lesser-known beauty shines through, and the allure of its hidden gems beckons with an enchanting allure. Prepare to be delighted as we explore the splendor that Graz has to offer, a city deserving of every traveler’s admiration.

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Kunsthaus

Inside the “friendly alien”

Nicknamed “the friendly alien” by locals due to its exceedingly unusual external appearance, this structure is not just an architectural masterpiece, but Graz’s finest modern art gallery.

The stairs of reconciliation

Murinsel

The platform in the River Mur

Designed by American artist Vito Acconci during celebrations of the city being named European Capital of Culture in 2003, this peculiar landmark, known by locals as the Murinsel (“Mur island”), is not, in fact, an island, but a floating platform in the center of the river.

Schlossberg

The facade of the palace

Schlossberg, Am Schlossberg 1, 8010 Graz
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic gem is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions, boasting impressive grounds, magnificently designed staterooms, and a wealth of history to uncover.

Graz Botanic Gardens

This unusual greenhouse contains an extraordinary wealth of plants, with varieties from all over the world.

A rose in the garden

Sculpture park

Interactive sculpture park

Wandering through these gardens, located just outside Graz, you will find twisted metal and surrealist shapes of lurid color emerging from the ordinary landscape. Marrying nature and art harmoniously, the Austrian Sculpture Park makes for a wonderfully dreamlike day out, and will introduce you to the work of some of Austria’s most prominent modern artists, including Fritz Wotruba and Franz West, Erwin Wurm, Heimo Zobernig, and Michael Kienze.

Der Steirer

This is an artfully designed restaurant with roots dating back to 1910. The menu focuses on traditional Styrian cuisine.

Aiola

The lovely view from the restaurant’s veranda

Catch some of the finest views of the city from the veranda of this stylish restaurant.

Hofbäckerei Edegger-Tax

This is Graz’s oldest functioning bakery. In imperial times, the Hofbäckerei Edegger-Tax supplied the Hofburg family with their bread.

Blendend

This is a homely and friendly bar serving delicious brunches and a wide range of cocktails.

Buna

Buna is one of the best venues in the city in which to get your caffeine fix. They are passionate about their craft, serving delicious coffee made with beans roasted in Graz.

Parkhouse

The Parkhouse offers a monthly music program, with live concerts in the summer months and DJ sets in the restaurant during the winter.

Caylend Restaurant

This gourmet venue has an exquisite menu, featuring both Austrian and international specialties.

Opern Cafe

A traditional café where you can try all the famed Austrian pastries and cakes from Sachertorte to Apple Strudel.

Farmer’s market

Mix with the locals at this charming market, where you will find an incredible range of locally produced fruit and vegetables.

Opernhaus

Graz’s opera house

This Neo-Baroque-style opera house witnessed many early performances of Mozart’s music. Check their program for upcoming events here.

The Neue Galerie

An exhibition at the New Gallery

Opened in 2011, this modern art gallery has gone on to become a powerhouse in Graz’s cultural scene, with an impressive collection featuring work from renowned contemporary artists.

Kunsthaus Cafe

Located in “the rumbling belly of the alien,” this trendy café is the perfect place to grab a coffee after a day’s sightseeing.

landscape with balloons floating in the air

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

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