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A Weekend in Graz: Culture, Culinary Delights and Mediterranean Flair in Styria
Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is often called the "capital of indulgence" – and quite rightly so. Between baroque magnificent buildings, winding old town alleys and futuristic architecture, the capital of Styria unfolds a unique flair. A weekend is enough to get to know the most important sights, immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere and enjoy the culinary highlights.
To help you make the most of your time in Graz, here's a suggestion for a varied weekend programme – from your first breakfast to a glass of wine in a Buschenschank.
Accommodation tip: a&o Hostel Graz Hauptbahnhof
For a weekend in Graz, the a&o Hostel Graz Hauptbahnhof is a practical accommodation. Just a few minutes' walk from the station and excellently connected to public transport, you're quickly in the centre, at the Schlossberg or also on excursions into the surrounding area. The rooms are modern, with both private double rooms and multi-bed rooms – ideal for solo travellers, couples, families or groups who want to stay centrally and cost-consciously without sacrificing comfort. Particularly pleasant: the generous breakfast buffet that you can enjoy directly at the hostel. This way you start the day strengthened without having to search for a café for long.
- modern rooms: from affordable multi-bed rooms to comfortable double rooms
- family-friendly: children often stay free in family rooms
- breakfast buffet: for a good start to the day
- 24-hour reception: early check-in and late check-out bookable
- communal areas: lobby bar, games corner and guest kitchen
First day: Classics & first impressions
Discover the old town: From the main square to the Schlossberg
After breakfast at the a&o Hostel, it's straight into the old town. Begin your Graz weekend at the main square, framed by the town hall and magnificent townhouses. From there you stroll through the narrow alleys, discover small boutiques, courtyards and baroque façades.
A highlight in the morning is the ascent to the Schlossberg. Whether on foot via the famous staircase, comfortably with the lift or romantically with the funicular – at the top you'll find the clock tower, the symbol of Graz, as well as a magnificent panoramic view over the red roofs of the city.
Indulgence at lunch: Try Styrian cuisine
For lunch, a detour to Glöckl Bräu is worthwhile. Here you get classics like Backhendl or Käferbohnensalat with the famous Styrian pumpkin seed oil. Those who prefer it more urban will find modern dishes with international flair at the Kunsthauscafé.
Afternoon programme: Kunsthaus & Murinsel
After eating, it's on to the Kunsthaus Graz, whose futuristic architecture forms an exciting contrast to the old town. Right next to it lies the Murinsel, a floating platform in the middle of the river – perfect for a short break with coffee or ice cream.
If you fancy more history, a detour to the Landhaushof with its Renaissance arcades or a relaxed stroll through the city park is recommended.
Sunset over Graz: Dinner with a view
In the evening, it's back up to the Schlossberg – this time for sunset. The roofs of the city glow golden while the lights slowly come on. You can end the evening at the Schlossberg gastronomy or at Aiola Upstairs with a dinner and view.
Second day: Schloss Eggenberg, museums & Buschenschank atmosphere
Baroque splendour: Schloss Eggenberg in the morning
Strengthened by breakfast at the hostel, it's off to Schloss Eggenberg by tram on the second day. The baroque complex is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and impresses with magnificent state rooms, the Planet Hall and an idyllic park where even peacocks roam freely.
Culinary variety: Market visit or café culture
At lunchtime, you can sample regional specialities at the Kaiser-Josef-Markt: from cheese to fresh bread to small snacks from local producers. Those who prefer to sit in a café will find creative menus at the Operncafé or Café Mitte.
Between culture and nature: Joanneum or Botanical Garden
In the afternoon you have the choice:
- Culture: At the Universalmuseum Joanneum, exciting collections from natural history to modern art await you.
- Nature: A stroll through the Botanical Garden or the Leechwald offers green relaxation in the middle of the city.
Buschenschank atmosphere: An evening in the vineyards
To conclude your Graz weekend, a visit to a Buschenschank is a must. Here you'll find Styrian wines, homemade spreads, cheese and a cosy atmosphere. With a view of the vineyards around Graz, your weekend ends relaxed and authentically.
Experiencing Graz in a weekend
Whether old town, Schlossberg, Schloss Eggenberg or Buschenschank – Graz is a city that should be experienced with all your senses. Thanks to the mix of baroque buildings, modern architecture, Mediterranean lifestyle and culinary variety, a weekend here is guaranteed to be unforgettable. The a&o Hostel Graz Hauptbahnhof is the ideal starting point to explore the city easily: centrally located, cosy and with a good breakfast that gets you off to a good start to the day.
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