10 Must-Do Experiences That Make Graz Austria Worth Visiting All Year

Key Takeaways:

• Graz is Austria’s second-largest city and a vibrant blend of history, innovation, and green spaces.

• The city offers a year-round mix of museums, parks, hilltop castles, festivals, and culinary gems.

• It’s a relaxed, stylish destination perfect for history lovers, foodies, and cultural explorers.

Located in southern Austria, Graz is a city where medieval charm meets cutting-edge creativity. As the capital of the Styria region, it’s home to a UNESCO-listed old town, futuristic architecture, and one of Europe’s most vibrant student populations. Graz is known for its warm hospitality, lush parks, and the iconic Schlossberg hill that towers above the city center. With a temperate climate, thriving café culture, and festivals throughout the year, it’s easy to see why locals and travelers fall in love with its easy-going rhythm. Whether you’re wandering through Renaissance courtyards or sipping pumpkin seed oil in a farmer’s market, Graz offers a unique take on Austrian life all year long.

Table of Contents

1. Climb Schlossberg and Visit the Clock Tower

2. Stroll Through the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

3. Explore Kunsthaus Graz and Its Modern Architecture

4. Visit the Farmers’ Market on Kaiser-Josef-Platz

5. Take a Walk Along the Murinsel Floating Island

1. Climb Schlossberg and Visit the Clock Tower

No trip to Graz is complete without a visit to Schlossberg, the city’s iconic hill that offers sweeping views and a sense of history. You can hike up winding forest trails, take the funicular, or glide up via the elevator built into the mountain itself. At the top, you’ll find the famous Uhrturm (Clock Tower), historic fortifications, a charming café, and even open-air performances during summer. The sunsets from up here are magical—especially when the city lights begin to flicker on below.

Schlossberg is open year-round and offers a totally different vibe depending on the season. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and picnickers, while winter delivers frosty scenes perfect for quiet reflection or photography. Don’t forget to check out the nearby bell tower and cannon, which add even more layers to the hill’s military past. Whether you visit for the view, the history, or just a moment of calm, Schlossberg is a Graz must-do.

2. Stroll Through the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town

Graz’s Old Town is a labyrinth of red-roofed buildings, narrow alleys, ornate façades, and hidden courtyards. The architecture spans centuries—from Gothic and Baroque to Renaissance and Art Nouveau—offering surprises around every corner. Highlights include the Landhaus courtyard with its Tuscan arches, the baroque Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, and the magnificent Graz Cathedral. Street musicians, open-air cafés, and boutique shops add to the area’s timeless vibe.

This part of Graz is beautiful in every season: flowers bloom in spring, Christmas lights twinkle in winter, and shady arcades keep things cool in summer. Guided walking tours are available if you want historical context, but wandering aimlessly is just as rewarding. It’s a place to slow down, sip a coffee, and let the city’s heritage wash over you. You’ll understand why Graz is a city built to be savored.

3. Explore Kunsthaus Graz and Its Modern Architecture

Nicknamed the “Friendly Alien,” Kunsthaus Graz is a futuristic blue bubble of a building that stands out among Graz’s historic skyline. This contemporary art museum features rotating exhibitions of international modern art, media installations, and design showcases. Its exterior glows at night, and the rooftop “Needle” offers unique panoramic views of the city. The contrast between this structure and the surrounding baroque buildings is part of what makes it so compelling.

Open all year, Kunsthaus is more than just an art museum—it’s a conversation starter. It appeals to both design lovers and the art-curious, with exhibits that challenge, inspire, or just delight the senses. Inside, the layout is immersive and avant-garde, often using the building itself as part of the artistic experience. Whether you’re into visual art or architectural statements, Kunsthaus delivers a thought-provoking visit.

4. Visit the Farmers’ Market on Kaiser-Josef-Platz

Graz is the culinary capital of Austria, and the Kaiser-Josef Farmers’ Market is the best place to sample that title firsthand. Open every day but Sunday, this market is where local farmers, bakers, and producers sell fresh, regional goods—everything from Styrian apples and cured meats to fragrant cheeses and homemade jams. You’ll also find bottles of Graz’s signature ingredient: pumpkin seed oil (Kürbiskernöl), which adds a nutty kick to salads and soups. Grab a snack, chat with vendors, and soak up the lively yet laid-back atmosphere.

The market operates year-round, with seasonal ingredients reflecting Austria’s agricultural calendar. Spring brings wild garlic and radishes; fall is rich with pumpkins, mushrooms, and grape must. Even in winter, you’ll find hearty roots, baked goods, and festive decorations. For foodies, this market is a celebration of Styrian flavor and freshness—no matter the month.

5. Take a Walk Along the Murinsel Floating Island

Floating in the middle of the Mur River, the Murinsel is a modern steel-and-glass island that serves as both a pedestrian bridge and cultural space. Designed by American artist Vito Acconci, this futuristic platform hosts a café, amphitheater, and playground—blending art, function, and relaxation. It connects both riverbanks and invites you to linger for a coffee, take photos, or just watch the river flow. At night, the structure lights up in shifting colors, making it a romantic stop on an evening walk.

Open daily and accessible year-round, Murinsel is an especially cool spot in summer when the café spills out onto the deck with parasols and river breezes. But even in winter, the island’s glass enclosure offers shelter and a warm drink with a view. It’s the kind of quirky urban feature that defines Graz—unexpected, functional, and full of personality.

6. Tour Eggenberg Palace and Its Gardens

Eggenberg Palace is Graz’s most opulent baroque structure, featuring grand halls, mythological ceiling paintings, and a design rooted in cosmology and astrology. The palace’s 365 windows, 31 rooms per floor, and 24 staterooms reflect a symbolic calendar, making a tour as educational as it is beautiful. Visitors can explore the State Rooms, Archaeology Museum, and the lavish Planetary Room. Surrounding the palace is a sprawling English-style garden filled with peacocks, fountains, and seasonal blooms.

While the interiors are open from April to October, the palace grounds are accessible year-round. In spring, the gardens burst with tulips and flowering trees; in autumn, they glow with golden foliage. Even in winter, it’s a peaceful retreat for a quiet stroll or a scenic photo session. Eggenberg offers a royal escape just minutes from the city center—perfect for history lovers, romantics, and families alike.

7. Ride the Tram Through Graz’s City Center

Graz’s colorful trams are more than just transportation—they’re a charming way to see the city. Trams weave through the historic core, pass by modern districts, and link key attractions like the Hauptplatz (Main Square), Schlossbergplatz, and Jakominiplatz. For the price of a coffee, you can enjoy a scenic ride while observing daily life unfold outside your window. Many trams are modern and accessible, with helpful signage and announcements in German and English.

Riding the tram is a year-round pleasure and especially cozy in colder months when you want to sightsee without walking in the chill. Grab a day pass and hop on and off as you explore shops, museums, and cafés. For a mini city tour, take line 1 or 7 and just enjoy the ride—it’s a local experience that visitors often overlook. Graz feels even more charming from a tram window.

8. Visit the Graz Opera House for a Show

Austrian cities take their classical music seriously, and Graz is no exception. The Graz Opera House (Opernhaus Graz) is a stunning neo-baroque venue that hosts opera, ballet, orchestral concerts, and contemporary productions. Even if you’re not a classical music buff, the experience of sitting in this ornate, gold-accented theater is unforgettable. Performances range from Mozart and Wagner to modern Austrian composers and experimental works.

Shows run year-round, with holiday specials, summer concerts, and discounted matinees for students or tourists. Tickets are reasonably priced, and guided tours of the building are available if you prefer to explore its beauty by day. Whether you attend a grand opera or a casual recital, the Opernhaus adds elegance and artistry to any trip. It’s one of Graz’s finest cultural experiences—and a perfect evening outing.

9. Enjoy Panoramic Views from the Graz Cathedral Tower

The Graz Cathedral, or Dom zu Graz, is a gothic masterpiece tucked just behind the Old Town. While its interior is solemn and awe-inspiring—with golden altars and historic frescoes—many visitors don’t know you can climb its tower for sweeping views of the city. From the top, you’ll spot Schlossberg, the red roofs of the Altstadt, and even snowcapped Styrian mountains on a clear day. The climb isn’t too steep, and the reward is worth every step.

The cathedral is open year-round, though tower access may vary by season or service schedule. Whether you’re religious or just interested in architecture, the church and its viewpoint are a must. Time your visit during golden hour for the most magical light. Graz reveals its layered beauty from above—and the cathedral tower offers one of the best perspectives in town.

10. Take a Day Trip to the South Styrian Wine Road

Just outside Graz lies one of Europe’s most scenic wine regions—the South Styrian Wine Road (Südsteirische Weinstraße). Winding through rolling green hills, this route is dotted with charming vineyards, hilltop wineries, and rustic taverns known as Buschenschänken. Visitors can sample locally produced wines like Sauvignon Blanc, walk through vineyards, or enjoy hearty Styrian meals with panoramic views. It’s a relaxing contrast to city life and only about an hour away by car.

The wine road is beautiful in all seasons: lush in summer, golden in fall, and peacefully quiet in winter. Many wineries offer tastings without appointments, and some even have guesthouses for overnight stays. Whether you self-drive or join a guided tour, it’s a perfect way to explore the Styrian countryside. For wine lovers or nature enthusiasts, this day trip will be a highlight of your Graz adventure.

What to do if you have kids?

Graz is a family-friendly city with lots to keep kids engaged and happy. Schlossberg has open spaces and a hilltop slide, while the FRida & freD children’s museum offers hands-on exhibits and creative play areas. The tram system is easy for families to navigate, and restaurants often have high chairs and kid-friendly menus. Parks like Stadtpark provide room to run, and seasonal events like the Christmas market or summer festivals feature rides, crafts, and sweets. Whether exploring nature, art, or just enjoying a family picnic, Graz makes traveling with kids easy and enjoyable.

Where can i find free events in Graz Austria taking place this weekend?

To discover free concerts, outdoor movie nights, markets, museum days, and family-friendly events happening this weekend in Graz, check out PlanMyWeekend.ai. Our AI-powered platform curates the best local happenings based on your interests, location, and time of visit. Whether you’re into classical music, pop-up art shows, open-air yoga, or food festivals, we’ve got you covered. Simply search “Graz, Austria” and find exciting, zero-cost things to do near you—no hassle, no ads.

Final thoughts

Graz is a city that quietly charms its visitors with a unique mix of old-world elegance and youthful energy. It’s where baroque courtyards meet bold architecture, and quiet cafés open into lively street festivals. Whether you’re climbing Schlossberg, sipping wine in the Styrian hills, or admiring avant-garde art, Graz invites you to slow down and savor life. It’s Austria’s best-kept secret—easy to explore, endlessly rewarding, and full of year-round magic. Come once, and you’ll want to return every season.