Things to See and Do

Graz has no shortage of impressive historical sights, interesting cultural hangouts and cool bars and cafes. With an extensive main shopping strip and the castle mountain that dominates the city skyline, you’ll be well setup for two fulfilling days.

Schloßberg and the Clock Tower

Without a doubt the most dominating feature of the city, the Schlossberg towers of the old town and harbours the history of hundreds of years of conflict and empire rule. It was such a stronghold in its heyday that it was the only place in the region that never fell to the Ottoman Turks.

The Clock Tower (Uhrturm) is the last remaining structure of the castle that once stood on the hill and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. The Schlossberg boasts no less than four ways of ascending to the top to enjoy the view. You can take the stairs, built by former Turkish slaves and cut into the cliff face, the funicular railway or the elevator, dead set in the core of the mountain.

The view of Graz from the Schlossberg

The mountain is also dotted with the remains of former buildings that adorned the top over the centuries, and features a large open air auditorium where concerts are held. Another unique event space is hidden *inside* the mountain itself (near the elevator) and is host to rave parties, concerts and gala dinners.

Armoury (Landeszeughaus)

Preserved since 1551, the Landeszeughaus houses the complete collection of arms of Styria and displays over 30,000 items.

It’s the largest existing original armoury in the world and attracts visitors from all over. It holds weaponry, tools, suits of armour (for battle and for parades) going back hundreds of years. The guided tours are excellent value – the guides know tonnes about the pieces, what time period they are from, what they were used for, even which particular workshop made them.

Murinsel

One of the more quirkier landmarks in Graz, the Murinsel is an artificial island in the middle of the river Mur.

After trapsing down the gangway into the main superstructure, you’ll find a café, an open-air theatre and a playground.

Rathaus (City Hall) and Old Town

As the striking centrepiece of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town, the Rathaus stands imposing over the central square.

Landhaus

This palace in Lombardic style in the centre of the Old Town houses the federal state parliament of Styria. It’s one of the most incredible examples of Renaissance architecture in Austria and was built by the Italian architect Domenico dell’Allio between 1557 and 1565.