Austria’s second largest city is the quintessence of the country with its beautiful scenery, varied architecture and contemporary entertainment. Located between lush mountains and the Mur River, Graz is an exciting place decorated with architectural and cultural attractions. Selected as a World Heritage site several years ago, the Old Town of Graz has good hotels and excellent restaurants.
After Vienna, the second largest city in Austria has a tradition as a student city, due to its six universities which exceed 40,000 students. Perhaps that is why Graz boasts hundreds of coffee shops, many of which are located in the Old Town, one of the finest preserved city centers in Central Europe. Many festivals take place throughout the year, while art events including opera and Mozart happenings are frequently going on at any one of the city’s theaters.
In a city that honored one of its most famous sons – Arnold Schwarzenegger - with an arena in his name and then renamed it when controversy arose over his support for the death penalty, the locals are a conscientious lot. If museums and dusty armor gets up your nose, hit a football match at this very arena and see a different side to the natives.
Highlights
Old Town: added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999 for its balance of typical buildings from different eras and mix of architectural styles influenced by its borders with Central Europe, Italy and the Balkan States.
The Landhaus: built between 1557 and 1565, the residence of the federal state parliament of Styria is an important example of Renaissance architecture in Austria.
Dom: this cathedral is a rare monument to Gothic architecture, and it also includes the oldest painted view of Graz.
Herz Jesu Kirche: the largest church in Graz is built in Gothic Revival style and has the third highest spire in Austria.
Eggenburg Castle: magnificent architectural highlights can be found in the castle, which guards the city from its perch on the summit of the Schlossberg.