Things to do in

Old Town of Graz

Welcome to charming Graz, an exciting place with many nicknames like “UNESCO City of Design”, “City of Human Rights” or the “Culinary Capital City of Austria”. You will discover the harmonious contrast of old and new, its history and importance as an imperial residence of the Habsburg dynasty, and all of its legends. Begin your adventure into history, architecture and modern art, starting from a view of the Schlossberg hill above the city, a testimony of the Middle Ages, when Graz was home to Slavic merchants and traders. Today the Town Hall dominates the market square. Other notable buildings include the 17th-century Luegg House and its impressive stucco façade, the five-story White House with a sandstone relief of the Virgin Mary, the 16th-century Eagle Pharmacy, the 14th century Palais Sturgkh, and the fountain and statue of Archduke Johann dating from 1878. Admire the Landhaushof and its remarkable Renaissance courtyard, the first one in the city. You will be back into the 21st century at the Kunsthaus, Graz's newest exhibition place, and its blob-like ultramodern architecture. Stroll along the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999, one of the best-preserved districts in all of central Europe. The romantic alleys and unique architectural legacy of the imperial days leave an impression of Graz, which name actually means “small city” in old Slavic language.

Start your tour at the historic Schlossberg castle built on a tree-clad hill. You will reach the Castle by funicular and from here enjoy Panoramic city views. The castle is well renowned as one of the strongest of all time - even Napoleon found it impossible to capture. Here, you will also see the impressive 13th century medieval clock tower with the exquisite city views. Next, you will walk by the Graz museum, the cultural and historical museum of the city. The museum houses the economic, social and political history of the city. As we continue, you will see the Town Hall and pass through the Old Town of Graz where you will come across thousands of Gothic as well as contemporary buildings. Stroll through the main square of the city known as Hauptplatz. Here, you will see a bronze punk statue designed by the artist Gustav Troger. Various medieval buildings can also be seen here. Your next stop will be the 15th-century cathedral of Graz dedicated to Saint Gailes. Bult between 1438 and 1462, you will notice that the building is made in a Gothic architectural style. The interiors of the building will be sure to impress you where you will find astonishing frescoes and artwork. Finish your tour at the city’s first opera house, dating back to the 17th century. It was renovated at a significant cost after the bombings of World War II. The construction of the building is done in Neo-Baroque architectural style. It is also the second largest opera in Austria.