El-Hil We Alterhal For Travel And Tourism: Graz

Graz Austria

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is a charming Central European town where different architectural styles and artistic movements have blended since the Middle Ages. Partly surrounded by the Alps, on the banks of the River Mur, with the Schlossberg – the castle hill – in the centre, Graz is ideally located. The walk up the Schlossberg takes less than 30 minutes and rewards you with excellent views. At the top there’s an open-air theatre, a small military museum and a bell tower dating from 1588. Graz’s Hauptplatz is a beautiful square with the town hall, a lively market and a lovely fountain, surrounded by many ornate buildings. Graz’s role as European Capital of Culture in 2003 highlighted the contrast between the very old and the ultra-modern in the city’s architecture. Two standout examples of contemporary design are the Kunsthaus, a futuristic exhibition centre on the banks of the Mur dubbed the “Friendly Alien”, and the Mur Insel, an artificial island in the Mur made of metal and glass. Locals love to linger at all hours, meeting friends and chatting in the cosy atmosphere of the city’s many cafés. On bright, sunny days the streets fill with people, and nearly every café and pastry shop sets out a small terrace, especially on the main squares. A large student population fuels the nightlife and vibrant arts scene, making Graz a pleasant, lively and very liveable city.

Recommended airport

Graz (GRZ)

Points of interest

Nearby destinations