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Graz

Graz sits in southeast Austria as the second biggest city with a medieval old town, modern architecture, and relaxed university atmosphere. It’s less touristy than Vienna or Salzburg which means cheaper and more authentic. The Mur River runs through the center with hills rising on both sides. The old town earned UNESCO status for preserved buildings mixing Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Two to three days covers the main sights and lets you enjoy the cafe culture. Students keep the city young and lively especially around the university quarter.

Old Town and Schlossberg

Hauptplatz is the main square surrounded by colorful historic buildings and cafes with outdoor seating. The Rathaus town hall dominates one side. Narrow lanes wind off the square with shops and restaurants tucked into old buildings. Schlossberg is the hill rising above town with the Uhrturm clock tower the symbol of Graz visible across the city. You climb stairs or take the funicular or glass elevator built into the rock. The top has gardens, cafes, and views over the red rooftops. Tunnels from World War Two run through the hill open for exploring. Kunsthaus Graz is the alien looking modern art museum called the friendly alien with blue bubble architecture standing out against old buildings. The contrast looks wild. Murinsel is the floating platform designed like a shell sitting in the river with a cafe and amphitheater connecting both banks.

Food Scene and Day Trips

The farmers market at Kaiser-Josef-Platz runs daily with local produce, meats, cheeses, and prepared food stalls. Styrian pumpkin seed oil is the regional specialty drizzled on everything. The restaurant scene mixes traditional Austrian spots with international and vegetarian options. Wine taverns called Buschenschank sit in the hills outside town serving local wine and cold platters. Slovenian border is thirty minutes away. The countryside has castles and vineyards worth exploring by bike or car.

Food is schnitzel, käsespätzle cheese noodles, pumpkin seed oil on salads, tafelspitz boiled beef, apple strudel, local wines, coffee and cake culture.

All Posts Written By
Ian Howes

I’m a travel-obsessed guy who’s been chasing that perfect moment for more years than I can remember – still buzzing like a kid! One Greek island trip changed everything. Now I share travel secrets most tourists miss through Soft Footprints. Trust me: life-changing places aren’t all on TripAdvisor.