Things to Do in Graz

Graz quietly holds its own as Austria's second-largest city, though it feels refreshingly unhurried compared to Vienna. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, actually earned that designation for good reason - its Renaissance and Baroque architecture creates one of Europe's most cohesive historic centers. What makes Graz particularly appealing is how it balances its medieval charm with a genuinely vibrant cultural scene, thanks largely to its large student population and role as a European Capital of Culture. You'll find contemporary art installations sitting comfortably alongside 16th-century courtyards, and the food scene tends to be more innovative than you might expect from a city this size. The Schlossberg hill dominates the cityscape with its iconic clock tower, while the modern Kunsthaus - locals call it the 'friendly alien' - represents the city's willingness to embrace bold architecture. Graz has this quality where you can wander the cobblestone streets in the morning, take in some cutting-edge art in the afternoon, and end up in a traditional Styrian tavern by evening without any of it feeling forced or touristy.

Graz's dining scene punches above its weight, blending traditional Styrian cuisine with contemporary innovation. The old town harbors excellent restaurants in historic cellars and courtyards, while the university area offers more casual spots popular with students. Look for restaurants serving pumpkin seed oil - it's a local obsession and genuinely delicious drizzled over salads or soup. Traditional Buschenschanken serve hearty portions alongside local wines, while newer establishments experiment with modern Austrian cuisine. The farmers market at Kaiser-Josef-Platz on Saturdays showcases the region's exceptional produce.

Late spring through early fall offers the most pleasant weather, with May through September being ideal for wandering the old town and sitting in outdoor cafes. Summer can get quite warm, but the city's elevation keeps temperatures more comfortable than Vienna. Winter has its charm - the Christmas markets are particularly atmospheric - though some attractions have reduced hours. The shoulder seasons of April-May and September-October tend to offer the best balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable hotel prices.