When traveling to Austria, the various cities are usually overshadowed by Vienna or Salzburg, which are also known to most foreign tourists. Graz is another city that has a variety of interesting places to offer. The capital of Styria is a pleasant size and can be easily explored on foot or by public transport. In addition to some sights, however, it is above all the interesting culture of the city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is not for nothing that the old town, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, is home to some of the best cafés in the country.
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The visit to Graz – why here?
Austria has a long history behind it, which can still be experienced up close in many cities today with breathtaking sights. But while you can simply get lost in Vienna, for example, and Salzburg is mainly associated with the castle for visitors, Graz has retained the charm of a small town and still offers many interesting testimonies from the long history of Austria. It is very easy to move through the streets and the excellent public transport system allows you to visit most of the sights easily by bus.
In addition, Graz not only has historical buildings to offer, but also an interesting and old culture, which can be seen here on every corner. A large number of interesting museums, for example, deal with art in the former empire. Testimonies from the city’s long history can also be seen in exhibitions and museums. And if you’ve had a long day of history and culture, you’ll find a variety of cafes for a break or restaurants serving local cuisine. The hearty dishes of Austria are known all over the world and here you can enjoy them authentically in a historic setting.
The main attractions
The city’s landmark is the majestic Graz Clock Tower, which rises in the old town of Graz. It can also be found on most postcards, coins and other souvenirs and is the figurehead for the inhabitants of the city. It is also located on the Schlossberg and if you make your way to visit the tower, you will have the city’s second major attraction right in front of you. This is where the true history of the city is located. The ascent can be done in two ways: Either you use the footpath to the top and enjoy the view of the city, or you take the elevator that takes visitors to the top. From here you have an impressive view, especially in the evening, and can enjoy Graz in the play of lights.
The Schlossberg offers some restaurants and beer gardens and of course probably the most beautiful exhibition of history in the city. From here you not only have a great view, but you can also spend a few hours exploring the locations. Fittingly, Graz is also home to the Landeszeughaus, probably the oldest ammunition and weapons depot in the country, where today not only modern weapons can be found, but above all historical pieces that once adorned the army in the many wars of the Empire.
Last but not least, there are many buildings from former times in the old town. From here you also have an easy way to the Graz Cathedral, which also adorns the skyline of the city and was built in the typical magnificent construction of the Middle Ages. If you have had enough of history and prefer to devote yourself to culture, you can walk to the art museum, which also offers some interesting exhibitions about the long history of the country and the city.
In the end, it is always worthwhile to end the day on Graz’s main square. This is where the city comes together and there are also many bars, cafes and restaurants in this place. So if you want to regain your strength after a long day exploring the city, you can do so with an original Wiener Schnitzel or other delicacies of Austrian cuisine.
