A Perfect Day in Graz: Your Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary

Welcome to Graz, Austria’s vibrant second-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site! Nestled in the heart of Styria, Graz offers a captivating blend of historic charm and modern architectural marvels.

If you have just one day to explore this unique Austrian gem, you’re in for a treat. This comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your 24 hours in Graz, ensuring you experience its most iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local flavors.

From the panoramic views atop Schlossberg to the bustling Hauptplatz, the artistic flair of Kunsthaus, and the historical depth of its cathedrals, Graz promises an unforgettable day trip.

We’ve meticulously crafted this 1-day Graz itinerary to maximize your time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture, stunning architecture, and delicious gastronomy. Get ready to discover why Graz was named the European Capital of Culture in 2003 and how its unique character continues to enchant visitors.

Let’s embark on your perfect day in Graz!

Discovering Graz: The Unmissable Highlights

1. The Schlossberg: Panoramic Views and Historic Charm

There’s no better way to begin your 1-day Graz itinerary than by gaining a bird’s-eye perspective of this enchanting city. Head straight to the Schlossberg, a prominent hill rising 123 meters above Graz, offering breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the city’s rooftops and extend to the picturesque mountains beyond. This is truly a must-do to kickstart your exploration of Graz.

Getting to the Schlossberg from Graz city center is convenient, with several options:

• On Foot: For the active traveler, a rewarding climb awaits. From Schlossbergplatz square, ascend approximately 260 steps. Allow about 30 minutes for this invigorating walk, which offers glimpses of the city as you climb.
• By Elevator: For a unique and swift ascent, take the Schlossberg lift, which travels inside the hill, providing a quick and easy way to reach the summit.
• By Funicular: The Schlossbergbahn funicular, departing from Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Kai, offers a scenic ride directly to the top, perfect for enjoying the views on your way up.

The name “Schlossberg” translates to “Castle Mountain,” a testament to the formidable fortress that once stood here. Until the 19th century, the Schlossberg served as a crucial military stronghold and a sanctuary for Graz’s inhabitants during times of conflict. It famously withstood numerous sieges, including those by Napoleon’s troops, who never managed to conquer it.

However, following the Treaty of Schönbrunn, the fortifications were largely dismantled as a gesture of peace. Despite this, the resourceful citizens of Graz managed to preserve two iconic structures that have since become enduring symbols and primary tourist attractions of the city: the Clock Tower (Uhrturm) and the Bell Tower (Glockenturm).

Each tower possesses its own unique charm and history:

• The Clock Tower (Uhrturm): For centuries, this distinctive tower featured only one hand, indicating the hour, a curious detail that adds to its character. Today, it remains a beloved landmark and a popular spot for photos.
• The Bell Tower (Glockenturm): This tower houses the colossal 4.5-ton bell known as “Lisl,” Graz’s largest bell, whose resonant chimes have echoed through the city for generations.

Today, the Schlossberg has been transformed into a beautiful public park, inviting visitors to stroll through its well-maintained paths, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and discover hidden nooks. You’ll also find charming restaurants and souvenir shops, perfect for a leisurely break. But above all, the Schlossberg offers an unparalleled, breathtaking view of Graz’s historic rooftops and the majestic mountains in the background, making it an essential stop on any Graz itinerary.

2. Hauptplatz (Main Square): The Heartbeat of Graz

From the heights of Schlossberg, descend into the vibrant heart of Graz: the Hauptplatz, or Main Square. This bustling plaza is not just a central landmark; it’s the ideal starting point for your exploration of Graz’s historic center. All the main arteries of the Old Town, including Herrengasse, Sackstrasse, and Murgasse, radiate from here, leading you to many of Graz’s most significant attractions.

Originally designed in the Middle Ages to host the city’s market, Hauptplatz remains the energetic nerve center of Graz today. Here, you can marvel at the impressive Rathaus (Town Hall), an architectural gem that dominates the square, and admire numerous other historic buildings adorned with superb colored and painted facades. Each building tells a story, reflecting centuries of Austrian history and artistic flair.

Don’t miss these architectural highlights in Hauptplatz:

• The Luegg Haus: A magnificent 15th-century building distinguished by its beautiful arcades. Today, it houses a modern Swarovski boutique, a fascinating blend of old and new.
• The Adler Apotheke: Graz’s oldest pharmacy, a testament to the city’s enduring heritage.

The Hauptplatz is also a lively hub for socializing and dining. The square is dotted with numerous bars and restaurants, offering perfect spots to enjoy a refreshing drink on a terrace and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. For a quick and authentic lunch experience, we highly recommend trying one of the many food trucks that frequent Hauptplatz. They serve up delicious Austrian specialties, providing a true taste of local gastronomy that no trip to Austria would be complete without!

The square buzzes with activity throughout the day and well into the evening. It frequently hosts cultural events and festivals, adding to its dynamic charm. If your visit to Graz coincides with the holiday season, you’ll find the enchanting Christmas market transforming Hauptplatz into a festive wonderland, making it an even more magical experience.

3. Herrengasse: A Stroll Through History and Style

From Hauptplatz, then take Herrengasse, the most touristic street to go to in Graz.

It is the main shopping street of the city , so you will find the traditional fashion boutiques there to do some shopping. Jewelery, shoe and clothing stores, textiles or accessories, nothing is missing!

This street, a must in Graz, is also entirely pedestrian, you just have to be careful of the tram.

But Herrengasse is also very beautiful palaces and magnificent facades to admire.

The Landhaushof courtyard in particular, with its arcades and cobblestones, is considered a masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance.

At n°7, I also advise you to stop in front of the painted facade of the Gemaltes Haus, to admire the frescoes representing the gods of Greek mythology.

Tips for your Graz itinerary:
Take advantage of being on Herrengasse to go to the Graz Tourist Office located just next to the Landhaus, at number 16.

They have put together a very useful little leaflet with maps and 3 ideas for walks in Graz. You will also find in it historical information on the monuments to see. Very well done and complete.

4. The Landeszeughaus (Styrian Armoury): A Glimpse into Military History

Right next to the Landhaus is the Landeszeughaus, the must-visit museum on your trip to Graz.

With more than 32,000 exhibits on 4 floors, the museum houses the largest collection of arms and armor in the world! Cannons, swords, armor, halberds, helmets, there is something for everyone.

I had already seen the armory of the Palace of the Grand Masters in Malta and the Royal Armory in Turin, but this one outclasses them all. The place is really impressive.

Among the many objects to see, do not miss a piece of great value, one of the 7 completely preserved horse armors still existing in the world.

Prices and schedules can be found on the museum’s official website (in English).

Tips for your Graz itinerary:
The Landeszeughaus is part of the Universal Museum Joanneum, comprising several museums in Graz.

You can therefore choose to buy a combined 24h or 48h ticket, giving you also access to the Kunsthaus and to Schloss Eggenberg (which I talk about below). This is the most economical option to visit these 3 places of interest in Graz during your tour in Austria.

5. St. Giles Cathedral (Grazer Dom): A Masterpiece of Gothic Art

Continue your tour of Graz through the cathedral, which is located in the historic center.

Built in the 15th century, during the reign of Emperor Frederick III, it is one of the most important monuments to see in Graz, whether culturally or artistically and historically.

Gothic in style, the exterior of Saint-Gilles Cathedral may seem a bit austere. On the south side and to the left, however, you will find the famous fresco “The plagues”.

It represents the 3 plagues (the plague, the locusts and the Turks) which fell on Styria during the year 1480, a terrible year for the population.

The interior of the cathedral is particularly interesting to visit. You can admire some precious objects there , including 2 wooden chests adorned with ivory and containing relics of Christian martyrs.

Also worth seeing: the cathedral choir, its altarpiece and the organ made up of more than 5,350 pipes.

Tips for your Graz itinerary:
Leaving the cathedral, pass by the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II. Impressive from the outside and with a very beautiful interior decoration, it is the most imposing tomb of the Habsburg family and a monument not to be missed in Graz.

6. Murinsel (Island on the Mur): A Modern Architectural Marvel

I continue this tourist guide of Graz by the island on the Mur or Murinsel, which is part of the modern elements of Graz.

The island is actually a work of art dating back to Graz’s participation as European Capital of Culture in 2003.

The building, in the shape of a giant shell, was created by the New York artist Vito Acconci and serves to connect the 2 banks of the Mur (the Graz river).

The project was to be temporary and withdrawn at the end of the year, but the inhabitants, for whom this strange work had become a symbol of the city, wanted to keep it.

Inside this unusual emblem, you will find a café and an amphitheater. One of the curiosities where to go for a walk in Graz.

7. The Kunsthaus Graz: The Friendly Alien of Modern Art

Another curiosity with futuristic architecture to visit in Graz, the Kunsthaus.

The Kunsthaus is the museum of contemporary art.

It is located on the other side of the Mur from the historic center, so you can go through the Murinsel to visit it.

It was also built in 2003 by 2 London architects who dubbed their work “Friendly Alien”.

And we must admit that the exterior structure of the museum is really bizarre: indefinable shape, blue color and a kind of tentacles on the roof! A perfect example of the atypical character of Graz, between modernity and tradition.

The Kunsthaus does not offer permanent exhibitions only temporary exhibitions lasting from 1 to 3 months, and of both national and international artists, so you will be surprised by visiting it!

Now you know where to go and  what to do in Graz when it rains!

Tips for your Graz itinerary:
Climb to the top floor of the museum and step out onto the terrace for a panoramic view of the city.

8. Schloss Eggenberg: A Baroque Masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Last unmissable place of interest to see in Graz, Schloss Eggenberg.

Located a little away from the city, you can take tram line 1 to reach it.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the largest castle in Styria. It was built in 1625 by the imperial adviser of Ferdinand II, Hans Ulrich Von Eggenberg.

Unusual fact, the construction was organized around time and seasons : 4 towers for the 4 seasons, 365 windows for the days, 31 rooms on each floor, 24 ceremonial rooms etc.…

You can visit certain rooms inside the castle such as the Planets room and its wall painted with the 12 signs of the zodiac, the reception rooms and the Old Gallery. However, some of these rooms are only accessible by guided tour, which is a bit of a shame.

The castle also includes several museums including the archeology museum and the cabinet de la Monnaie where you can see several pieces dating from Antiquity to the 18th century.

The castle also has a superb and large park (entrance fee, around €2). You can walk among the peacocks and even have a picnic in the area specially made available. There is also a cafe.

How Many Days to Visit Graz?

For most travelers, 1 day is perfectly sufficient to visit Graz and experience its main highlights. The city’s compact nature and the concentration of its key attractions within or very near the historic center make it incredibly convenient to explore on foot. While some attractions like Schloss Eggenberg are a little further afield, they are easily reachable by public transport, specifically tram line 1.

This makes Graz an ideal destination for a day trip or a brief stopover during a longer tour in Austria. You can immerse yourself in its unique blend of history, culture, and modern art without feeling rushed.

Your Perfect 1-Day Graz Itinerary: A Detailed Walkthrough

If you have just one day to spend in Graz, this optimized itinerary ensures you capture the essence of the city, from its historic landmarks to its contemporary marvels. This plan is designed for a seamless and enriching experience, allowing you to visit the old town’s most significant sites efficiently.

Morning: History and Panoramic Views

• 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Schlossberg – Start with a View Begin your day by ascending the Schlossberg. Choose your preferred method: a scenic walk up the 260 steps for an invigorating start, a quick ride with the Schlossberg elevator, or a charming journey on the funicular from Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Kai. Once at the top, take ample time to admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Graz and the surrounding Styrian landscape. Explore the historic Clock Tower (Uhrturm) and Bell Tower (Glockenturm), and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped park.
• 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Hauptplatz & Herrengasse – The City’s Heartbeat Descend from the Schlossberg and make your way to Hauptplatz, Graz’s bustling Main Square. Take in the grandeur of the Rathaus and the colorful historic facades. From here, stroll down Herrengasse, the city’s most famous street. Admire the architectural beauty, including the Italian Renaissance-style Landhaushof courtyard, and keep an eye out for the painted facade of the Gemaltes Haus. This walk offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and local life.

Lunch Break: Savoring Austrian Flavors

• 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch in the Old Town For a quick and authentic lunch, explore the food trucks around Hauptplatz for delicious Austrian specialties. Alternatively, find a cozy restaurant in the historic center to enjoy a more relaxed meal. Consider trying local favorites like Styrian pumpkin seed oil specialties or a classic Wiener Schnitzel.

Afternoon: Culture, Art, and Modernity

• 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Landeszeughaus – World’s Largest Armory Immerse yourself in military history at the Landeszeughaus (Styrian Armoury), located just off Herrengasse. Explore its four floors filled with over 32,000 historic weapons and armor. Don’t miss the rare preserved horse armor. Remember, if you plan to visit other museums, a combined ticket for the Universal Museum Joanneum might be a cost-effective option.
  
• 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: St. Giles Cathedral & Mausoleum – Spiritual and Imperial Grandeur Continue your cultural journey with a visit to St. Giles Cathedral (Grazer Dom). Admire its Gothic architecture, the powerful “The Plagues” fresco, and the intricate interior details, including the impressive organ. Afterward, pass by the imposing Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, a significant Habsburg burial site.
• 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Murinsel & Kunsthaus Graz – Modern Icons Cross the Mur River via the Murinsel (Island on the Mur), a unique shell-shaped art installation that serves as a pedestrian bridge and houses a café and amphitheater. On the other side, marvel at the futuristic architecture of the Kunsthaus Graz, affectionately known as the “Friendly Alien.” Explore its temporary contemporary art exhibitions and make sure to go to the top floor for a panoramic view of the city.
• 5:00 PM onwards: Schloss Eggenberg – Baroque Splendor (Optional, if time permits) If your energy levels allow and you wish to delve deeper into Graz’s imperial past, take tram line 1 to Schloss Eggenberg. This UNESCO World Heritage site is Styria’s largest castle, famed for its symbolic architecture tied to time and seasons. Explore its opulent rooms (some by guided tour) and wander through its beautiful park, home to peacocks. This is a perfect way to conclude your day, offering a serene and grand finale to your Graz adventure.

This itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of Graz’s highlights, ensuring a memorable and efficient visit. Adjust timings based on your pace and interests, but this structure offers a solid foundation for your perfect day in Graz.

Recommended Accommodation in Graz

Like all cities in Austria, Graz is no exception to the rule and accommodation is quite expensive.

So we can never repeat ourselves enough but book as soon as possible to avoid the best accommodations being taken!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Graz:

• • Hotel Daniel Graz: Located 10 minutes walk from the historic center. Modern and pleasant double room from €77 per night, breakfast at €25. Most: the geographical location, the good breakfast, the friendliness of the staff.
  • Hotel Mercure Graz City: Located 400 meters from the clock tower. Spacious and comfortable double room from €100 per night, breakfast at €18. Most: the comfort of the rooms, the location, the quality of the breakfast.
  • Hotel Weitzer Graz: Located in the heart of the old town. Spacious and well-equipped double room from €120 per night, breakfast at €25. The pluses: close to all places of interest, the hearty breakfast, the impeccable service.
  • Augarten Art Hotel : Located 1km from the historic center. Tram station nearby to reach the center. Elegant and designer double room from €180, breakfast at €15. The pluses: the decoration of the hotel with numerous works of art, the comfort of the rooms, the swimming pool, the kindness and the availability of the staff. Our favorite, ideal for an upscale stay in Graz.

Where to eat in Graz

• Area 5 : Located on Jakominiplatz. The restaurant has a large roof terrace for the panoramic view of Graz. The place is very nice. The dishes are simple but you can select the ingredients yourself for your pasta or salads, for example. The quality/price ratio is unbeatable. Ideal for the lunch break.
• El Gaucho : Located on Landhausgasse Street. Steak house offering a wide choice of very good meat. You can choose the weight and the different accompaniments. The quality is there. Red meat lovers will be satisfied.
• Der Steirer Graz : Located in Belgiergasse street. You can taste typical Austrian dishes in a neat and authentic decor. Varied menu, homemade dishes, wide choice of local wines and very good value for money! Reservation recommended.

Extending Your Stay: Beyond the 1-Day Graz Itinerary

While this guide focuses on a comprehensive 1-day Graz itinerary, the region surrounding Graz offers additional attractions for those with more time or planning a return visit. If you find yourself with an extra day or are looking to explore beyond the city center, consider these intriguing options:

9. Rabenstein Castle (Burg Rabenstein)

Located approximately 35 minutes by car north of Graz, Burg Rabenstein is a beautifully renovated 12th-century castle. It uniquely blends historical architecture with modern elements, such as a rotating glass elevator offering 180° views of the surrounding forest. Guided tours, lasting about 1.5 hours, allow you to explore the interior courtyard, chapel, and ceremonial rooms. Booking in advance on the official website is mandatory.

10. The Austrian Sculpture Garden (Österreichischer Skulpturen Park)

For art and nature enthusiasts, the Austrian Sculpture Garden is a captivating destination situated 13 km from Graz’s historic center. Spanning 7 hectares, the park showcases over 70 giant sculptures by both Austrian and international artists. Open daily from April to October, admission is free, making it a wonderful spot for a leisurely stroll and unique photo opportunities.

These attractions offer a deeper dive into the Styrian region and can complement your Graz experience if your travel plans allow for more than a single day.

Graz tourist map

To help you visualize the city a little better, I made you a tourist map of Graz, listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 10 things to do in Graz. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow.

Are you planning to visit Graz during your holiday in Austria? 

Are you going to Austria? Read also:

• What to do in Austria? The TOP 20 things to do and see in Austria
• Itinerary: A week in Austria: Itinerary to prepare your trip to Austria
• Hallstatt: The 6 things to do during your stay
• Innsbruck: Top 15 places to visit
• Linz: The 12 places to see
• Salzburg: The 17 must-sees to visit
• Vienna: Top 25 Must-See Things