The Old-Town is the heart and soul of Graz. Encompassing the city mountain, former fortifications, charming alleyways, medieval building facades as well as extraordinary modern architecture, it is a living museum with a modern twist. And, summer and winter, it is bustling with activity.
UNESCO experts were so impressed by the interplay of the countless sights and attractions that they declared the Old Town of Graz to be a World Cultural Heritage site, worthy for protection for the ages. Graz is old, to be sure.
Fortifications on the city mountain date back to the 11th century. The inner city is full of narrow, romantic streets in which Italian-style palazzi and impressive public halls vie for the attention of passers-by, without making a show of the cool beauty of their courtyards and other well-kept secrets.
What makes Graz especially exciting is the combination of these historic treasures with truly stunning modern architecture like the Kunsthaus Graz, which beautifully reflects the Old Town in its façade. Students from the city’s four universities enjoy the many street cafes, which lend the city an almost Mediterranean flair. Art galleries, great shopping, innovative- as well as excellent traditional restaurants, and a busy event calendar ensure that the city stays young at heart.
Discover the old town of Graz on a virtual tour with Kelley:
During Advent, as the four weeks that lead up to Christmas are called in Austria, Graz literally lights up at night. All the main streets and squares are festively decorated, some in traditional fashion, some more adventurously...
Experience the great cities of Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck and Graz through Elyse Weiner’s audio walking tours - an Emmy Award winner who has thoroughly explored these exciting cities. Get your Austria audio tour
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