Things to see and do in Graz

Kunsthaus Graz

Affectionately known by locals as the "Friendly Alien," this striking museum of contemporary art is an absolute architectural marvel. Its undulating, biomorphic blue shell completely contrasts with the surrounding historic red roofs and classic facades of the city center. Step inside the glowing, futuristic belly of the building to explore rotating exhibitions of modern art, or simply grab a coffee in the stylish ground-floor cafe and soak in the creative atmosphere.

The Styrian Armoury (Landeszeughaus)

Step right back into the turbulent 17th century by walking through the largest historically preserved armory in the world. Housed over four beautifully maintained wooden floors, this extraordinary museum holds an authentic, gleaming arsenal of more than 32,000 items, including pristine suits of armor, halberds, broadswords, and flintlock rifles. It feels less like a traditional museum and more like a massive army is standing by, ready to march out at any moment.

Eggenberg Palace (Schloss Eggenberg)

Located just a short tram ride from the city center, this magnificent Baroque palace is a fascinating masterpiece of astronomical symbolism. Built to perfectly reflect the Gregorian calendar, it features 365 windows, 31 rooms on each floor, and four corner towers representing the four seasons. Stroll through the lush, peacock-filled gardens before touring the opulent, fresco-covered Planetary Room to experience the grand, cosmic vision of the Eggenberg dynasty.

Murinsel (Island in the Mur)

Floating gracefully in the middle of the Mur River, this unique, shell-shaped steel-and-glass structure was commissioned when Graz was the European Capital of Culture in 2003. Designed by New York architect Vito Acconci, it connects the two banks of the city via sleek pedestrian bridges. Grab a seat in the ultra-modern open-air amphitheater or sip a cocktail in the glowing floating cafe while watching the rapid river waters rush safely by beneath you.

Graz Cathedral (Grazer Dom)

Tucked away on a quiet square, this rare late-Gothic cathedral looks surprisingly modest from the outside, save for the faded but fascinating 15th-century "Gottesplagenbild" fresco depicting the plagues, locusts, and Ottoman invasions that once threatened the city. Inside, however, you will discover a breathtakingly ornate interior filled with magnificent Baroque altars, intricate ceiling vaults, and two stunningly detailed historic reliquaries.

Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II

Standing right next door to the cathedral, this grand, turquoise-domed masterpiece is one of the most important Mannerist buildings in Austria. Commissioned by Emperor Ferdinand II as his grand final resting place, the stunning interior boasts elaborate stucco work, dramatic ceiling frescoes, and a deeply solemn, red-marble sarcophagus. If you have the energy, climb the tower for a fantastic, elevated view right over the historic city center.

Hauptplatz (Main Square)

The vibrant, bustling heart of the Old Town is the perfect starting point for any Graz adventure. Dominated by the magnificent, 19th-century City Hall (Rathaus) and centered around the monumental Archduke Johann fountain, the square perfectly captures the city's lively, everyday atmosphere. Grab a traditional sausage from one of the iconic local food stands (Würstelstände) and watch the colorful trams glide seamlessly past the beautifully preserved pastel facades.

Landhaushof (Landhaus Courtyard)

Tucked just off the busy Herrengasse shopping street, the Styrian regional parliament building hides one of the most beautiful Renaissance courtyards in all of Europe. Designed by Italian architect Domenico dell’Allio in the 16th century, the expansive space is framed by three stories of sweeping, elegant arcades and topped with a beautiful copper roof. It is a stunning, peaceful oasis of Italian flair right in the middle of the Austrian city.

Glockenspielplatz

Time your visit to this charming, cobblestone square for exactly 11:00 AM, 3:00 PM, or 6:00 PM to witness a delightful, deeply traditional daily routine. As the bells high up in the gable chime three different folk melodies, two life-sized wooden figures in traditional Styrian dress emerge to pirouette gracefully. Afterward, grab a seat at one of the sunny outdoor cafes and enjoy a slice of cake in the shadow of this historic, musical facade.

Joanneumsviertel (Joanneum Quarter)

Descend a set of sleek, modern escalators into a subterranean, glass-domed plaza to discover the largest universal museum complex in Central Europe. This spectacular cultural hub completely revitalized the historic center, seamlessly blending classical architecture with striking contemporary design. It houses incredible, beautifully curated collections of natural history, modern art, and local culture, making it an absolute must-visit for curious, history-loving travelers.

Herrengasse & Painted House (Gemaltes Haus)

Walking down Graz’s elegant, pedestrianized main shopping boulevard is a constant visual delight, but you must stop at number 7 to admire the spectacular "Painted House." The entire facade of this historic building is completely covered in magnificent, centuries-old frescoes depicting Greek and Roman gods in rich, earthy colors. It is a breathtaking piece of street-level art that beautifully highlights the deep, artistic heritage of the Styrian capital.