Graz is the second-largest city in Austria and the capital of the region of Styria, in the south-east of the country. It is a place where a medieval old town sits alongside modern architecture, so a visit can move easily between centuries.
The old town and its heritage
The historic centre of Graz is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and walking its streets is the most natural way to get to know the city. Narrow lanes, old courtyards and squares give the centre a settled, unhurried character. The city's cultural standing is also reflected in its designation as a European Capital of Culture, a title that signals the variety of events and institutions it hosts.
Contrast and student life
Graz is not only a city of old buildings. Contemporary architecture appears throughout, and the result is a skyline and streetscape that feel current rather than preserved behind glass. The large student population gives the city an energetic, youthful atmosphere, particularly in the evenings, when cafés, bars and open spaces fill with people.
What kind of visit it suits
Graz suits visitors who enjoy wandering on foot, combining history with a lively present-day atmosphere. It works well as a stop of a day or several, whether you are interested in architecture, culture or simply spending time in a city with a strong sense of its own identity. The city is also sometimes written as Gratz, so you may come across that spelling in older material or maps.
If you are planning a trip, the historic centre is the obvious starting point, and the mix of old and new means there is always something close at hand to explore next.
