Graz: An Amazing City with Great Things to Do
Graz, the capital of Styria in Austria, is a beautiful city filled with amazing things to do. From exploring the Old Town and feasting on gourmet cuisine, to visiting world-famous museums and hiking in nearby forests, Graz offers something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to visit and things to do in Graz, along with five places you should avoid.
1. Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)
The Old Town of Graz is a must-see destination. Here, you will find cobblestoned streets lined with centuries-old buildings, art galleries, cafés, and shops. The historic center is also home to some of Graz’s most iconic landmarks including the Grazer Burg, the main city fortification, and the clock tower, which has been ticking since 1560. Not to mention, there are plenty of options for eating and drinking here, making it a great place to explore and relax.
2. Schlossberg Hill
Schlossberg Hill is a popular tourist attraction in Graz and is home to an array of attractions, including an observation tower, a 500-year-old church, a museum, and more. The hill itself offers picturesque views of the city and can be reached by taking the funicular up from the Old Town. On weekends, the hill also hosts a bustling flea market, which is sure to delight shoppers and bargain hunters alike.
3. Graz Opera House (Oper Graz)
The Graz Opera House is one of the most renowned venues in the city and is home to a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, and theater. The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring a grand facade and ornate interiors. Tickets to the performances tend to be fairly affordable, so why not indulge yourself in a bit of culture while you’re in Graz?
4. Kunsthaus Graz Museum
The Kunsthaus Graz Museum is one of the most popular museums in the city. Here, you’ll be able to view contemporary artwork from all over the world, ranging from sculptures to video installations. The museum also features a variety of workshops and events, such as concerts and film screenings.
5. Murinsel Floating Island
The Murinsel Floating Island is a unique attraction situated in the middle of the Mur River. This futuristic structure was built in 2003 and consists of two halves connected by a bridge. You can explore the island and admire the views of the city skyline. It’s also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
6. Hike in the Nearby Forests
Graz is surrounded by breathtaking forests, so why not take a break from the city and head outdoors? There are a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. If you’d like to explore further, there are also many other nature reserves and parks located near Graz.
7. Go Shopping Along the Franziskanerplatz
If shopping is more your thing, then the Franziskanerplatz is the place to go. This pedestrianized square is home to a variety of boutique stores and shops, as well as numerous cafés and restaurants. Due to its central location, this bustling square is a great spot to people-watch and observe the local culture.
8. Visit the Botanical Garden of Graz
The Botanical Garden of Graz is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city. Here, you can wander through a variety of gardens, greenhouses, and ponds, as well as marvel at the thousands of flowers that bloom here. The garden also hosts a number of events throughout the year, such as art exhibitions and lectures.
9. Feast on Gourmet Cuisine
Graz is renowned for its cuisine, and there are plenty of places to enjoy a delicious meal. Whether you’re looking for traditional Austrian dishes or modern interpretations of international cuisine, Graz certainly won’t disappoint. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties, such as the famous Grazer Käsekrainer sausage.
10. Relax at the Murpark Shopping Center
The Murpark Shopping Center is one of the largest and most popular malls in the city. Here, you’ll find an impressive selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. It’s a great place to while away an afternoon or pick up some souvenirs.
Five Places to Avoid When Visiting Graz
While Graz is filled with amazing things to do, there are a few places you should avoid. Below are five places to stay away from when visiting Graz.
1. The Area Near the Railway Station
The area around the main railway station in Graz can be quite seedy and unsafe. Avoid walking around the area at night, and be aware of your surroundings if you must pass through during the day.
2. The Südtirolerplatz
The Südtirolerplatz is a small square located in the heart of the city. However, it’s a notorious hotspot for drug dealers and other criminal activity. Avoid this area at all costs.
3. Prostitution Districts
Graz has several areas where prostitution is common. While the activity itself is legal, there is often associated criminal activity that you should avoid. Steer clear of these districts and do not engage in any activities related to prostitution.
4. Areas Near the University
The area near the university can be quite rowdy and dangerous. Crime and vandalism are common, so it’s best to avoid this area altogether.
5. The Red Light District
Like many cities, Graz has a red light district. It is illegal to solicit sex in this area, and many of the establishments here could potentially be involved in illegal activities. For your own safety, it’s best to steer clear of this area.
Conclusion
Graz is an amazing city filled with plenty of things to do and see. From exploring the Old Town to feasting on gourmet cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Graz. Of course, there are some places you should avoid, such as the railway station and the red light district. But if you stick to the places listed in this article, you’re sure to have an amazing time in Graz.