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As the large, imposing clock tower faces over the city, it reminds people to stop and take some time; time for friends, time for sightseeing, or just time for themselves. While Graz is the second largest city in Austria, there are actually only a little over 285,000 residents. Approximately 40,000 of them are students studying there. Graz is a educator’s city. With ties to Ancient Rome and a Slovenian name, this city has quite the history. There are also six very impressive universities located here. This is why Graz is such a popular spot for college students. It is also a very popular city for studying abroad. The first of the universities, and one of the most popular, was founded in the late 1500’s. It is quite beautiful if you like grand architecture. There are so many incredible reasons to make a visit to Graz. Find out for yourself what everyone’s talking about.

Graz Pictures

Things to do in Graz

The old town of Graz is a very easy city to walk around. It is the perfect tourist destination even if just for this reason. With buses and trams running throughout the city you really don’t have to worry about renting a car. The historic downtown is listed as a world Heritage site just to give you an idea how incredible it actually is. The Glockenspiel located here plays songs and rotating dancers come out three times a day. It is quite the spectacle. Schlossberg Castle is located on top of the hill that Graz was built around. You can either walk to the top or opt to take the fanicular and elevator. From there, cross wooden bridges around the premise and take in the breathtaking view from the very top. Eggenberg Castle is close by as well. For a small fee take a guided tour around the various rooms of the castle. Each state room was designed in Baroque architecture. You will feel as though you have been pulled back in time. The Opera is another famous landmark and a gorgeous building in its own right. See an opera or take a peek inside.

Find things to do in Graz

Nightlife in Graz

As with any good college city, Graz has a great nightlife. There are a few simple rules when looking to go out at night. Stick around the universities and you will find a predominately college crowd. In the old city, it is a little more mixed. And the city center has a fairly touristy crowd. If you want the more authentic feel, stay away from here. There are a few really good Irish bars in Graz. The Office is the cool bar on the block. Located near the main square, it is easily accessible. With live music, cheap beers, karaoke, and other fun events, this place is always a good time. Parkhouse is fun in the summer, when you can go outside. Concerts, live DJ’s, and open til the wee hours of the morning, what more could a college student as for?

Dining in Graz

There is a little something for everyone and every budget in Graz. Because so many college students come here to study, there are plenty of places that cater to this appetite. Also many places will stay open later, especially on weekends, to accommodate. There are many markets open throughout the city. They all offer fresh produce and some prepared foods. If you come across one of these, stop by for some lunch or an afternoon snack. Saegewerk and Posaune are good cheap eats. For more of a sit-down atmosphere, Braun de Praun, Pension Gasthof Zur Steirerstubn, and Gloeckl Braeu are safe bets. Ask at Gloeckl if you can sit outdoors (during the summer season). The food in Graz, as with other cities in Austria, is Turkish and Styrian inspired.

Shopping in Graz

If you want a traditional gift from Graz, pick up some Kernol, or pumpkin seed oil. This is a typical oil used in much cooking with a very unique taste. Most grocery stores and markets sell it. Kernol makes for a great souvenir for a family member or friend. If you are looking for the hip shopping, go to Herrengasse street, which is connected directly to the main square. This is the best shopping in the city. Although there is always Shopping City Seiersberg. However, this requires taking a bus to the city limits to get to. Once inside, though, it will have been well worth the trip.

Graz Travel Tips

• Keep exact change on you for buses.
• Graz uses Euros as the official currency.
• Layering is a good way to go if visiting in the winter.