Graz is the capital of Styria and is a blend between the old and new. Probably of most prominence is the fact that Arnold Schwarzenegger originated from this region. As the local hero that made it to the big-time abroad , there is a museum in his honour located in his birthplace Thal, 20 minutes drive from Graz.
Lets get back to Graz:
Getting here:
Graz has an airport. To get into the city center from the airport there are 2 possibilities:
By S-Bahn (S5 – Flughafen Graz-Feldkirchen Bahnhof) to direction Graz Hauptbahnhof.
By Bus 630 or 631 brings you to Griesplatz in the center. Below is the link for the train / bus to and from the airport to city center.
Tickets can be bought from the drivers on the buses or from a ticket machine. If you check the link above , there are prices stated for if you buy a one-way ticket or a 24-hour ticket.
That said: I have found Graz to be a walkable place. I normally just walk around to the places of interest.
Seeing Graz:
As with most if not all European town centers, Graz downtown looks majestic with its old buildings, however right next to it are the modern shopping areas served by the trams around.
Hauptplatz & TownHall
One of the nicer views around Graz is the main governing centre with the Rathaus.
Up the hill there is Schlossberg , with nice flower gardens at the right seasons and the impressive clock tower. Just a few steps from the Hauptplatz is the staircase and lift to bring to the clock tower.
If you don’t like the steps , you can also take the lift up for a small fee.
A brief walk away is also the other way up or down the hill is the funicular.
Up the hill is a nice place to have a walkabout. Flowers of the season abound.
The view from the top is one of the highlights!
Graz Kunsthaus
This building is hard to miss- looking at it from above from Schlossberg, it stands out and is also walking distance from the centre. Here is also the link to opening hours.
Back on the ground there are further sights all walkable.
Landhaus Courtyard
This courtyard is a few steps away from the Rathaus , there are no entrance fees , you just have to walk in.
The Landhaus Courtyard
Painted House
The painted house is immediately recognizable , the frescoes cover the whole facade of the building.
Styrian Armoury
The world’s biggest historical armoury collection is here. This is the link for entrance fees and opening hours.
Churches in Graz
Murinsel
This is a manmade island and rather eye-catching, there is a cafe inside and also acts as kind of a bridge to get to the other side of the river.
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