365 Days of Adventure in the Graz region
Urban diversity meets nature experiences

Culture, cuisine, design and the UNESCO Old Town meet excursion destinations, cycling and hiking trails as well as impressive highlights around Graz.

The Graz Region brings together vibrant urban life and natural escape at remarkably close range. Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is known for its Mediterranean ease of living. As the country’s Capital of Delight, an UNESCO World Heritage Site and a recognised City of Design, Graz combines creative energy with a relaxed lifestyle. Step just outside the city and the landscape opens up quickly: forests, rolling hills, Alpine pastures, vineyards and distinctive excursion spots shape a diverse region that reveals new perspectives in every season.

Graz is a city shaped by contrast. Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture blends effortlessly with contemporary design. Red rooftops, hidden courtyards and the elegant city crown define the UNESCO-listed historic centre, while nearby Eggenberg Palace shares this rare distinction. Rising above the city is the Schlossberg, crowned by its iconic clock tower, a landmark visible far beyond the city limits.

Cultural life in Graz is equally distinctive. In 2003, the city was named European Capital of Culture, a year that left a lasting legacy. Landmarks such as the Murinsel, the Kunsthaus Graz and the Austrian Sculpture Park continue to shape the city’s cultural identity today. Alongside the opera and Schauspielhaus, international festivals including the DiagonaleStyriarteLa Stradasteirischer herbst and Springfestival create a cultural scene of exceptional depth and diversity.

Facts & Figures
Population:approx. 289,000
State capital:of the province of Styria
Area:127 km²
Altitude:365 m
Viewpoint:Schlossberg
Local mountain:Schöckl (1,445 m)

Graz Card
Free public transport and free entrance to many attractions for 24, 48 or 72 hours a
From £ 26

Why visit the Graz region

  • City of culture: Art, music, design and vibrant local festivals.

  • Heritage meets now: UNESCO old town with a creative, modern twist.

  • For food lovers: Farmers' markets, Styrian classics and top restaurants, cosy cafés and peaceful corners

  • From city to countryside in 10 min for scenic hikes, cycling paths, mountain bike trails, and nature up close

  • Exciting excursion destinations in the surrounding area to visit palaces, abbeys, an open-air museum, and more

  • Perfect for a winter break with 16 Christmas markets, must-see ice nativity scene in the Landhaushof, sights and museums within walking distance

The Capital of Delightand Austria's second-largest city

FAQs

By plane:
British Airways flies to Graz directly three times a week from Gatwick Airport from November 2025 until March 2026.

By train/bus:
There are direct trains and buses from Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, Innsbruck, Klagenfurt, Munich, Stuttgart and Frankfurt.

By car:
From the north and south, you'll reach Graz via the A9 motorway. From the west, you can take the A2 motorway.

Graz is called the Capital of Delight, because here, enjoyment is part of everyday life. From farmers selling their own produce at colourful markets to cosy cafés and street corners lined with great food, Graz is all about slowing down and enjoying the moment. Whether it's Styrian classics or modern cuisine – you’ll taste the city’s love of good living everywhere you go.

On a trip to Graz, you can enjoy a rich mix of city culture and outdoor experiences. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, discover contemporary design, and sample the city’s acclaimed cuisine.

Just beyond the centre, a wide range of excursion destinations, cycling routes and hiking trails invite you to experience nature and the varied landscapes around Graz.

Yes, there are! 16 Christmas markets are scattered across the UNESCO-listed old town, all within walking distance, which makes it easy to explore them at your own pace. Each market has its own charm, from the festive bustle on Hauptplatz to creative corners like Wonderlend or the peaceful Christmas village on Karmeliterplatz. Add unique highlights like the ice nativity scene and the nostalgic Advent tram, and you get a truly atmospheric Christmas experience.

Won't get Graz out of your head...

Experiences in spring, summer and autumn

Experiences in winter

We love to entertain you - all year round

Insider Tip

Genießerei am Markt

The Genießerei am Markt is a Michelin-listed restaurant that celebrates the diversity of Styrian produce from Graz’s Kaiser-Josef Market. There is no fixed menu: dishes are created daily using only what the market offers fresh that day. The result is a changing selection of lunch specials, small seasonal bites, and optional multi-course menus that highlight regional ingredients at their best.

With around thirty seats, the restaurant offers an intimate, welcoming atmosphere right in the heart of the market. Since 2025, head chef Alexander Posch has shaped the kitchen’s style, focusing on regional sourcing, craftsmanship, and creative flair. Whether for a quick lunch, a bookable dinner, or a simple baked market bread, the Genießerei am Markt shows how great taste begins with local produce and close connections.

Get in touch

Tourism Office Graz Region

Herrengasse 16

8010 Graz

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