Graz Itinerary 3 Days: A Perfect Weekend Escape (2026)

Begin your Graz adventure by immersing yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Start your morning with a delicious Austrian breakfast at a local bakery before heading to the Hauptplatz, the main square, to admire the ornate Rathaus (City Hall). From there, wander through the charming alleyways, discovering hidden courtyards and boutique shops. Make your way to the Graz Cathedral and the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, marveling at their historical significance and architectural beauty. For lunch, find a cozy restaurant near the Sporgasse, a picturesque street known for its historic buildings. In the afternoon, prepare for breathtaking panoramic views by ascending the Schlossberg. You can take the Schlossbergbahn funicular, the Schlossberg lift, or brave the 260 steps. Once at the top, explore the iconic Uhrturm (Clock Tower), the Kasematten (casemates), and enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine at one of the hilltop cafes. As evening approaches, dine at a traditional Styrian restaurant in the Old Town, savoring local specialties like Kürbiskernöl (pumpkin seed oil) dishes.

Today, experience Graz's modern side and vibrant culinary scene. Start your day with a visit to the Kunsthaus Graz, affectionately known as the 'Friendly Alien' due to its futuristic biomorphic architecture. Explore its contemporary art exhibitions before crossing the Mur River via the futuristic Murinsel (Mur Island), a unique artificial island housing a café and open-air amphitheater. Enjoy a coffee with views of the river. For lunch, venture into the trendy Lend district, known for its multicultural atmosphere and diverse eateries. You'll find everything from traditional Austrian fare to international cuisine. Spend your afternoon browsing the independent shops and galleries in Lend, or visit the farmer's market at Kaiser-Josef-Platz if it's a market day, to sample local produce and regional delicacies. In the late afternoon, consider a visit to the Botanical Garden Graz, a tranquil oasis showcasing a variety of plant species. For dinner, choose one of the innovative restaurants in the city center or return to Lend for its lively evening scene. Don't forget to try some of Graz's famous pumpkin seed oil products!

On your final day, delve into imperial history and enjoy more stunning views. Begin your morning with a visit to Schloss Eggenberg, a magnificent Baroque palace and UNESCO World Heritage site located just outside the city center. Explore its opulent state rooms, the stunning planetary garden, and the extensive parklands. You can easily reach it by tram. Allow a few hours to fully appreciate the palace and its surroundings. For lunch, you might consider the palace café or head back towards the city for more options. In the afternoon, return to the city and ascend the Schlossberg once more, but this time, consider taking a different route or exploring areas you missed on day one, perhaps visiting the Chinese Pavilion or enjoying the panoramic views from a different vantage point. Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, stroll through the Stadtpark, Graz's beautiful city park, enjoying its green spaces and fountains. For your farewell dinner, choose a restaurant with a view, perhaps one overlooking the Mur River, to reflect on your wonderful time in Graz.