1. Homepage
  2. Graz

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. 305,200 (as of 2025)
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 £ 28

Why visit the Graz region

The Graz region combines culture, cuisine and relaxed city life with outdoor experiences and scenic countryside in Styria. Explore the UNESCO-listed old town, vibrant markets and creative festivals before heading into nature for hiking, cycling and relaxing moments just beyond the city.

  • 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 September 2026 (winter flights for the season 2026/2027 are not confirmed yet).

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.

Graz combines relaxed city life with outdoor experiences and cultural events during the warmer months. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed old town, enjoy farmers’ markets and outdoor cafés, and discover museums, festivals and creative neighbourhoods throughout the city.

Just outside Graz, scenic hiking trails, cycling routes and mountain bike tours lead through the Styrian countryside. Fresh air, green spaces and nearby excursion destinations make the Graz region ideal for combining culture and nature in one summer holiday.

Graz is an ideal winter city break destination with festive Christmas markets, cultural highlights and cosy cafés throughout the historic old town. During Advent, the city is known for its atmospheric markets, seasonal events and the impressive ice nativity scene in the Landhaushof courtyard.

Museums, galleries, restaurants and sights are all within walking distance, while the surrounding region offers winter hiking, relaxing nature experiences and scenic excursions just beyond the city.

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.

  • Best for: Culture, cuisine, relaxed city breaks and outdoor experiences in Styria

  • Best time to visit: Year-round, with festivals, outdoor cafés and cycling in summer and Christmas markets and cultural events in winter

  • Ideal trip length: 2–4 days for a city and countryside getaway

  • Getting there: Easy access by train and public transport, with direct connections to Graz from major Austrian cities

  • Perfect for: Culture lovers, food enthusiasts, couples and travellers looking to combine city experiences with nature and relaxation

  • Unique highlight: Graz combines a UNESCO-listed old town with quick access to hiking trails, cycling routes and the Styrian countryside

  • Winter highlight: Graz is home to 16 Christmas markets and the famous ice nativity scene in the Landhaushof courtyard

Graz highlights you won't forget

Experiences in spring, summer and autumn

Experiences in winter

Events in Graz all year round

Insider Tip for Graz

Genießerei am Markt

The Genießerei am Markt is a Gault Millau-awarded 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.

Styria: The Green Heart

Summer in Styria is an invitation to experience nature in all its diversity. From the majestic peaks of the Dachstein to the gentle vineyards in the south, countless opportunities await for active holidays and relaxation. Hikers can explore blooming alpine meadows, while cyclists enjoy idyllic river landscapes along the Mur and Enns trails, and swimmers can refresh in crystal-clear lakes.

Historic towns such as Graz and Leoben offer cultural adventures, while traditional taverns and inns delight with regional specialties such as Käferbohnensalat (broad bean salad) and the beloved Styrian cold platter.

Get in touch

Tourism Office Graz Region

Herrengasse 16

8010 Graz

Discover the Best of Austria

Sign up for our newsletter and enjoy exclusive access to:

  • Insider tips for your next Austrian holiday

  • Delicious recipes

  • Must-see events and cultural highlights

  • Special travel deals and offers