Graz is a center of arts and current culture that spans nine centuries of history from the Medieval Era to the twenty-first century, and it is as sophisticated and inventive as it is historic and classic. It has a distinctly Mediterranean vibe to it, making visitors feel like they are in southern Austria.
It may be observed in the conserved UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site's old-world attractions and deep-rooted legacy, which includes Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural structures. However, that is only part of its cultural history. Graz's contemporary persona, which has earned it the designations of UNESCO City of Design, European Cultural Capital, and Austrian Culinary Capital, is equally deserving of visitors' attention in order to comprehend it as a whole.
What To Explore In Graz?
Graz may not be as divinely beautiful as Vienna or as picturesque as Salzburg, but it has its own allure. Styrian Province's metropolis is a dynamic, urban city with a great diversity of culture and art.
Begin With The Main Square
The Hauptplatz, or Main Square, is the city's beating heart. The Town Hall is the most striking and elegant structure on Main Square. However, the other Baroque and Biedermeier residences on Main Square are equally attractive. The assemblage of buildings here appears to be highly elegant and well-integrated. Visitors can walk down the Herrengasse, Graz's major shopping strip, starting at the Main Square. Along this boardwalk, there are numerous stunning buildings.
Next, explore the Castle Mountain of Schlossberg. Schlossberg translates to 'castle-mountain.' It is among Graz's most renowned tourist attractions, located near the Old Town in the city's center. Originally a fortification, practically all of the old construction has been leveled and the area has been turned into a tranquil public park.
The Clock Tower, Bell Tower, Chinese Amphitheatre, Turkish Cistern, and Open Air Amphitheater, which uses the fortress's original cellars, are all worth seeing. Along the park walkways, there are a variety of fantastic cafés and restaurants, with beautiful scenery of the Old Town from the tops of the turrets.
It's Not A Spaceship, Just An Art Museum
Local residents describe the Kunsthaus Graz as "the amiable alien," a work of innovative architecture built to commemorate the city's time as the European "Capital of Culture." The Kunsthaus is without a doubt the city's most revolutionary structure. It is known as a modern urban monument, and it appears like a spaceship to onlookers.
The architect intended for the Kunsthaus's design to strike out from Graz's red roof skyline.
Many global exhibitions are held at the Graz Kunsthaus. Because there are no constant exhibitions, whether a trip to the Kunsthaus is rewarding or not depends on the type of art they are exhibiting at the moment and visitors' individual preferences.
Missing A Royal Charm? Visit Schloss Eggenberg. The architectural marvel of Eggenberg Palace is set on the outskirts of the city center. Prince Hans Ulrich von Eggenberg ordered the main palace in 1625 to represent the newly established Gregorian calendar. A numerical symbolism was used to build the castle design. The castle has accurately 365 façade windows, which correlates to the 365 days of the year.
It runs alongside the thirteenth-century medieval castle surrounded by gorgeous gardens with peacocks walking freely.
There are several galleries to visit, including a Lapidarium with one of Austria's best collections of Roman stones, a coin collection, and the Alte Galleria, which displays artworks from the Medieval to late Baroque periods within the museum.
A Clocktower Which Has A Connection With Beer
The Glockenspiel, originally erected as a beer promotion, is a clock featuring daily displays at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. When the clock hits these intervals, a dancing couple made of wood pirouettes. Three distinct melodies alternate between Christmas carols, Alpine folk yodeling, and current hits.
It's a lovely sight to see while strolling across the city, especially during the holidays. It's worth noting that the female figure is clutching a towel rather than a beverage; it was once forbidden for women to drink in public.
Accommodations In The City
The Wiesler Hotel
The lobby features a ragged wood piece by Clemens Hollerer, an Austrian artist a panel puzzle art piece.
The bedrooms are light and airy, with a focus on clever, simple decor, and some have views of the river.
The Lend Hotel
The Lend Hotel is a tasteful, art hotel in the heart of the neighborhood near the main square. The bedrooms are sleek and minimalist, and every corridor wall is covered in artwork ranging from canvases to statues to furnishings.
Breakfast is plentiful and goes beyond the normal buffet stuff, and the cafe and dining area are more than just a continuation of the lobby.
When To Visit?
Graz has a climate that is a blend of Alpine and Mediterranean. The city's location results in a climate with significant seasonal temperature fluctuations.
The months from April to September are ideal for visiting Graz, as they have warmer temperatures, albeit they are also the wettest.
Graz is unquestionably one of Austria's most interesting cities. Tourists from all over the world are inspired and amazed by the exceptionally lovely ancient old town. The city is a vibrant, urban cultural center that resembles a colorful feast of diverse influences and stunning architectural styles. It is a destination that should be on everyone's weekend trip itinerary.