Graz is for contrast seekers
Are you torn between indulging in old-world charm and embracing modern innovation? Do you love the idea of sipping an espresso in a Renaissance courtyard one minute, then snapping selfies in front of an alien-like building the next? Welcome to Graz, Austria’s well-kept secret, and your new home for existential balance. With a blend of history and future-forward creativity, Graz is the perfect city for a traveler who’s having an identity crisis —but, in the best way possible.
Before diving into your new split personality, let’s talk about where to stay. Graz has accommodations as diverse as your mood swings. Fancy some old-world opulence? Check into Schlossberghotel, where you’ll be surrounded by art collections and Baroque vibes. Want something more futuristic and hip? Lendhotel, with its minimalist design and rooftop views, will feed your inner cool.
(Yes, you can be fancy and minimalist at the same time, I swear.)
Skip to:
Start your Graz journey at Schlossberg, the hill at the heart of the city. You can hike up like a rugged adventurer embracing the old-fashioned way of life, or, if your knees are feeling very 21st-century, take the funicular. The reward? A panoramic view of Graz that will have you questioning which side of the city to explore first: the medieval rooftops or the modern art marvels. Don't forget to snap a pic at the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), where the clock hands seem as confused as your inner traveler: the big hand shows the hour, the little hand the minutes. (I know, weird, right?)
Uhrturm
From the top of the hill, head back down into the old town to explore Eggenberg Palace. This Baroque palace is obsessed with astrology in the way your most star-sign-loving friend is—but with actual architecture and peacocks involved. Wander through 31 rooms, 365 windows, and let the cosmic symbolism wash over you. Your inner history buff will rejoice, while your artsy side will swoon over the beautifully manicured gardens.
Speaking of artsy, take a turn toward the future at Kunsthaus Graz, lovingly dubbed "the Friendly Alien" by locals. This blob-shaped building looks like it landed from another galaxy, and its modern art exhibitions will challenge every creative bone in your body. One minute you’re pondering the Renaissance, and the next you’re reflecting on contemporary installations that make you feel like you’ve entered an alternate universe. Ah, the beauty of contrast.
Kunsthaus Graz
Hungry yet? Time to explore the gastronomical delights of Graz, where old meets new in the most delicious ways. You must try Styrian pumpkin seed oil—it’s Graz’s answer to olive oil, and once you drizzle it on your salad or a scoop of ice cream (yes, ice cream), you’ll never look at dressings the same again. Visit Lendplatz Market to snack on local cheeses, sausages, and Styrian pastries, or swing by Aiola Upstairs for a modern take on traditional Austrian dishes. Whether you're in the mood for hearty schnitzel or a cutting-edge vegan dish, Graz’s culinary scene will satisfy both sides of your culinary personality crisis.
To satisfy your desire for more “What am I even looking at?” moments, cross the river and visit Murinsel, a futuristic floating island made of steel, chilling in the middle of the river Mur. It's part bridge, part café, part island, and totally a symbol of how Graz thrives on duality. Whether you sip a cappuccino while reading your book or stroll across it like a local, it’s the perfect spot to reflect on just how cool contradiction can be.
Murinsel
When you’re done island-hopping, head to Lendviertel, the artsy district where historic meets hip. Stroll through boutiques selling local crafts, grab a third-wave coffee (because obviously, Graz is that cool), and appreciate the street art. It’s a neighborhood where you can pretend you’re both an art connoisseur and an effortlessly cool hipster without needing to commit to either. By the end of the day, you’ll have collected enough artisanal snacks, tote bags, and street art photos to convince anyone you’ve always been this cool.
Rathaus (City Hall)
Before you leave, don’t forget to visit Graz Cathedral for a touch of Gothic wonder, or head to the Styrian Armoury to remind yourself how brutal history could be (and how grateful you are for modern comforts like Wi-Fi and fluffy hotel pillows).
With its mix of old-world elegance and futuristic flair, Graz will have you questioning your identity in the best way possible. And who knows? By the time you leave, you might not need to choose between past and future—you might just find you love them both equally.
