Austria’s second-largest province is the country’s most forested region, with virtually continuous woodland. Because of this, it’s also known as a paradise for hunters and tourists. It’s bordered by Salzburg and Carinthia to the west, Upper Austria and Lower Austria to the north, Burgenland to the east, and Slovenia to the south.

Styria attractions

Graz

Austria’s 2nd largest city is the capital of Styria, an important transportation hub along the Mura River.

Its Old Town was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999 because the historic district has remained in very good condition, and its development can be well traced from Gothic times onwards.

Its most famous part is Castle Hill, a hill rising above the old town, where the Clock Tower, which is the symbol of Graz, can also be seen. Another outstanding attraction is Eggenberg Palace, one of the country’s most beautiful Baroque castles.

Graz attractions

Best museums in Graz

Bear Gorge (Bärenschützklamm)

The gorge near Mixnitz village is located at the foot of Hochlantsch mountain, north of Graz.

Its special feature is that wooden stairs and bridges lead through the entire gorge, so we can explore this wonderful section along a developed route. It’s more than 1,300 meters long, and we need to overcome an elevation difference of about 350 meters. Along the way, there are more than 50 ladders and 110 bridges.

The gorge entrance can be approached from a large, free parking lot. From here, we reach the ticket building after about a 45-minute walk.

While you don’t need to be an athlete, good stamina is definitely recommended. The many stairs are quite tiring, so if you want to complete it, do some stair training beforehand. 🙂

Riegersburg Castle

Between Graz and the Hungarian border, a medieval castle built on volcanic rock rises above a small town.

The castle has been owned by the Prince of Liechtenstein family since 1822. It currently houses museums, permanent and temporary exhibitions, while the princely family lives at the foot of the castle in a modern house.

The castle can be reached on foot, walking up a steep path, or by elevator. Of its 108 rooms, all but 25 can be visited. It’s typically closed in winter.

Three exhibitions can be found in the castle. The most interesting is the witch museum, where they display legally permitted torture devices and execution methods. In the castle museum, we can learn about the castle’s history, while the weapons museum presents 400 years of military history relating to the region.

Stübing Open-Air Folk Museum

One of Europe’s largest open-air museums, located about 20 kilometers north of Graz in the Stübing valley.

The museum displays more than 100 original buildings from the Austrian provinces. We can see the country’s rural architectural heritage from the Middle Ages right up to the 20th century.

The purpose of its establishment was to preserve the characteristics of Austrian folk architecture, showcasing the lifestyle, traditional agricultural techniques, and local crafts. The buildings are also furnished inside, faithfully reflecting the way of life of the particular era and region.

Admont Abbey

Styria’s oldest monastery is located in a rocky valley in Gesäuse National Park.

It was founded in 1074 by Archbishop-Prince Gebhard of Salzburg. For centuries, it was not only a religious center in Upper Styria but also a center of art and science. In the 19th century, the church burned down due to a fire and was rebuilt in Gothic and Romanesque style based on the model of Regensburg Cathedral.

From a cultural perspective, the abbey’s main attraction is its world-famous Baroque library with 80,000 volumes. Its museum exhibition rooms contain medieval manuscripts and early prints, art objects from the Middle Ages to the present, as well as a natural science collection.

Dachstein

One of Austria’s most famous mountain regions, a popular place for hikers, trekkers, and skiers.

It’s famous for its wonderful panorama, which can also be admired from the Skywalk viewing platform located on the glacier. This is often referred to as Europe’s highest viewing platform.

Naturally, winter sports are the most popular. The region’s ski slopes welcome visitors with excellently maintained runs and modern lifts. Skiing and snowboarding are possible on the glacier year-round, which makes this location unique in Europe.

A special attraction is the Ice Palace (Eispalast), where we can explore an artistically designed ice cave with impressive ice sculptures and creations.

Grüner See

The Green Lake lies in the southern part of the Hochschwab mountain range and is famous for its color and wonderful surroundings.

The small lake, sheltered from the wind, doesn’t form waves on the water surface, so you can see the water well even from a low angle. The light-colored limestone visible on the ground among the grass and small amounts of scattered limestone powder contribute to the brightness underwater. This is how the lake becomes sparkling emerald green.

Its water level varies significantly throughout the year. In winter, the lake’s depth is barely a few meters, but in spring, when the snow melts in the surrounding mountains, the water level rises significantly and can reach 10-12 meters.

Lurgrotte Peggau

One of Austria’s largest and most impressive stalactite caves, about 25 kilometers northeast of Graz, near the settlement of Peggau.

The cave was carved out by the Lurbach stream in the limestone rock and has two entrances: one in Peggau and the other in the village of Semriach. It consists of a complex labyrinth and giant chambers, with stalactites that formed over millions of years.

The temperature inside the cave is relatively constant year-round, moving around 8-10 degrees Celsius, so visiting is pleasant at any time. We can also admire the wonderful stalactite formations as part of a guided tour.

Murau

The town is located along the Mura River. It became known for its historical heritage, excellent beers, and wonderful natural environment.

The finest example of medieval monuments is Murau Castle, rising above the town. The Baroque castle is owned by the Schwarzenberg family. A chapel, prison, and period furnishings can be viewed, and classical music concerts are held in the knights’ hall.

Brewing is an integral part of Murau. The town’s famous brewery, Murauer Bier, produces excellent quality beers thanks to its long history and traditions, which we can also taste at local beer tours and tastings.

Schilcher Wine Road

The Schilcher Wine Road is a route offering a special gastronomic experience in western Styria.

The region is particularly known for a unique grape variety, Blauer Wildbacher, from which the famous Schilcher rosé wine is made. The wine’s characteristic is its strong acidity and special flavor profile, which distinguishes it from other rosé wines.

The wine road leads through wonderful landscapes where we can discover small mountain villages, historic wineries, and local winemakers. The route touches numerous wineries and vineyards.

Piber Lipizzaner Stud Farm

The famous stud farm is one of the most important centers for breeding and raising Lipizzaner horses, representing centuries-old traditions and high-level expertise.

The Lipizzaner is an elegant, medium-sized, mostly white horse breed, particularly suitable for carriage driving and classical dressage. It was originally bred in Slovenia, in the settlement of Lipica, from which its name also derives.

The farm’s goal is to maintain and further develop this special horse breed while showing visitors the history, cultural significance, and breeding methods of Lipizzaner horses.

Bad Blumau

The wellness and spa complex was designed by the famous Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and stands out for its unique architectural style.

The thermal water is rich in minerals and has numerous health benefits, including beneficial effects on joint problems, skin diseases, and the circulatory system.

There are 14 indoor and outdoor pools with more than 3,000 square meters of water surface. The wellness section has numerous saunas and steam baths, including Finnish saunas, aromatherapy steam baths, and infrared saunas. In addition, a wide range of wellness and spa services, including massages, body treatments, and beauty services, are available to guests.

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Best museums in Graz

Kunsthaus Graz

The „Graz Art House” is an impressive and avant-garde building that represents the contemporary art scene of Graz.

It opened in 2003 as part of the city’s European Capital of Culture program. The building was designed by Peter Cook and Colin Fournier in a futuristic form. It regularly hosts exhibitions, showcasing the latest trends in international and local contemporary art.

All information can be found here!

Neue Galerie Graz

Another significant art museum that also focuses on modern and contemporary art.

It has an extensive collection that includes artworks from the mid-19th century to the present day. The gallery’s exhibitions showcase the most important creators of Austrian and international art in numerous genres, including paintings, sculptures, graphics, and photographs.

All information can be found here!

FRida & freD

A very good museum for children, where interactive and educational exhibitions make the presentation of science, art, and culture enjoyable.

It’s actually a combination of education and entertainment, covering a wide range of topics from scientific experiments to artistic activities and social issues.

All information can be found here!

Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum

I don’t think I need to write much about what this museum is about!

The museum is located in Schwarzenegger’s childhood home in the village of Thal, about 12 km from downtown Graz.

Visitors can gain insight into Schwarzenegger’s early years, bodybuilding career, film roles, and political career. The exhibitions include numerous personal items, photos, and memorabilia that document important moments in Schwarzenegger’s life.

All information can be found here!

Johann Puch Museum

The museum showcases the work and legacy of Johann Puch, the famous Austrian entrepreneur and vehicle manufacturer.

Puch was one of the most significant figures in the history of Austrian car, motorcycle, and bicycle manufacturing. The museum exhibits numerous original Puch vehicles, including bicycles, motorcycles, and cars, as well as various documents and photographs that showcase the company’s history and development.

Visitors can learn about the technological innovations and design developments that Puch introduced and which had a significant impact on the vehicle industry.

All information can be found here!

Graz Museum

Located in the 16th-century Khuenburg Palace beneath the Uhrturm, this museum showcases the city’s history, culture, and art.

Through modern and interactive exhibitions, it guides visitors through Graz’s past and present, showcasing the city’s architectural development, social changes, and cultural life.

Its collection is extensive, ranging from archaeological finds to historical documents and artworks.

All information can be found here!

Landeszeughaus

Many people might not expect it, but Graz is home to the world’s largest collection of weapons!

This 17th-century building contains more than 30,000 historical weapons and military equipment from the Middle Ages to the 19th century, including armor, swords, lances, and firearms. The museum showcases the evolution of combat tools and weapons, as well as the characteristics of historical warfare.

The Landeszeughaus is unique in that it has preserved this vast collection in its original state, providing insight into the history of military technology and warfare.

All information can be found here!

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The old town of Graz was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1999 because the historical part of the city has been preserved in very good condition, and its development can be well traced from Gothic times onwards. The site was supplemented with Eggenberg Palace in 2010.

Most of Graz’s attractions are located in the old town, although many beautiful old buildings can be found in the St. Leonhard (II.) and Geidorf (III.) districts as well.

Graz attractions

Schlossberg and the Clock Tower

One of the most significant and well-known attractions of Graz is the Schlossberg, located on a hill right in the heart of the city.

The 474-meter high hill offers a great view of the city. You can reach it on foot or by funicular.

The characteristic attraction of the Schlossberg is the Clock Tower, which is also a symbol of Graz. It’s not only a dominant element of the city’s panorama but also a historical monument that preserves the remains of medieval fortifications. It gained its final form in the 16th century.

Graz Cathedral

Officially named the Cathedral of Saint Aegidius, it’s one of the outstanding architectural beauties of Graz’s historical city center.

The cathedral was built in the mid-15th century, commissioned by Friedrich III, the architect of the imperial court. It was built in Gothic style, although it underwent several significant alterations in later centuries.

Particularly noteworthy are the cathedral’s frescoes and interior decorations, including the famous ‘Plagenbild’, a 15th-century fresco depicting the plague epidemic.

Mausoleum

Built as the resting place of Ferdinand II, it’s an impressive Renaissance structure located in the historical center of the city.

Designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach in the 17th century, it’s an excellent example of the architectural and artistic styles of the time. The mausoleum is not only the burial place of Emperor Ferdinand II but also the final resting place of many other Habsburg family members.

The interior of the building is characterized by rich decorations, frescoes, and artistic creations that worthily reflect the power and influence of the Habsburg house.

Hauptplatz

The central square of Graz, where historical buildings, cafes, shops, and restaurants can be found.

It has two characteristic attractions. One is the town hall (Rathaus) built in 1550, whose classicist style creates a special contrast with the surrounding Baroque and Renaissance buildings.

The other is a decorative fountain statue erected in memory of Archduke John, the city developer. The female figures symbolize the four rivers of the region: the Mur, Enns, Drau, and Sann.

Landhaus

Very close to the main square stands the most beautiful building in Graz, the state parliament building.

Built in the 16th century, it’s an excellent example of Renaissance architecture, particularly highlighted by its richly decorated, arcaded courtyard. The Landhaus is known not only for its political and administrative function but also serves as a popular venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts.

The interior of the building is impressive, especially the famous „Landhaushof” courtyard, which represents one of the peaks of Styrian Renaissance architecture.

Franziskanerkirche

The Franciscan Church is a historically significant religious building in downtown Graz.

Built in the 13th century in Gothic style, the church is associated with the Franciscan order. The church is particularly famous for its tall, slender tower and richly decorated interior, which features a remarkable main altar.

Over time, it has undergone numerous transformations, so today it incorporates elements of various architectural styles, reflecting the city’s diverse history.

Murinsel

The bridge on the Mur River is actually a modern and innovative work of art that connects the two banks.

Created in 2003 for Graz’s European Capital of Culture title, it was designed by New York artist Vito Acconci. Externally resembling a ship, it serves as a venue for numerous events, concerts, and exhibitions.

Stadtpark

The largest park in Graz, which is essentially a continuation of the Schlossberg to the east.

In the freely accessible park, there are statues of several celebrities associated with the city and others: Mozart, Franz Nabi, Joseph Krainer.

In addition, you can see the fountain named after Franz Joseph, exotic trees, colorful flowers, and numerous resting areas with benches.

Freiheitsplatz

One of Graz’s central squares, which is part of the historical downtown. The rectangular Freedom Square features a monument to Emperor Franz Joseph I.

Eggenberg Palace

The most significant Baroque castle in Styria, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List along with the old town of Graz.

Its excellently preserved interiors, extensive, spectacular park, and some collections of the Universalmuseum Joanneum museum placed here make Eggenberg Palace one of the most valuable Austrian cultural monuments.

At the western corner of the palace, the „Garden of the Planets” was created, as well as the Lapidarium (Roman stone collection), and the entrance to the Archaeological Museum is also on this side. The coin collection can be viewed in the former rooms of Balthasar Eggenberger, who acquired imperial minting rights.

In the Old Gallery, masterpieces from five centuries are exhibited. 300 works of art, mostly paintings from German-speaking areas, fill 22 rooms. In the first room, there are carved Madonnas from the 13th century in mystical lighting, then the rooms take us through different historical and artistic periods in chronological order, up to the 18th century Rococo.

Mariatrost Basilica

Located on the outskirts of Graz, about 9 km from the city center, but it’s worth visiting.

The Baroque building is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Styria. The goal of pilgrims coming from Austria, Hungary, and Croatia is a wonderful statue of Mary, which originates from the Rein Abbey near Graz and was originally located in the private chapel of the castle.

The Baroque-style basilica was built in the early 18th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Its exterior is impressive with its two towers, and its interior is richly decorated and has a wonderful main altar.

The church can be reached from downtown Graz by tram number 1. From the last stop, it can be approached by climbing 216 steps.

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