When I first set foot in Graz, my heart was full of anticipation and curiosity about this city. It’s not as bustling as Vienna, nor does it have the hectic vibe of large tourist cities. Graz offers a perfect balance of calmness and warmth. After a few days of exploration, I gradually learned how to step out of the typical tourist perspective, blend into the local rhythm of life, and discover the charm of Graz hidden in the details. Here, I want to share 10 things that only those who truly know Graz do, so you won’t just be a fleeting visitor but part of the city itself.
1. Wake Up Early and Head to the Clock Tower to Feel the City’s Breath
Many people come to Graz just to take photos at the clock tower, but what truly makes you fall in love with this city is the tranquility of the early morning. I like to get up early, stand beneath the clock tower, listen to its slow chimes, and feel the moist, fresh air. At that moment, the streets are empty except for the clock’s ringing and the occasional passerby. The world feels paused, as if time slows down just for this moment. Nearby cafes are just opening their doors, the smell of fresh coffee drifting out onto the quiet streets. I order a cappuccino, sit by the window, and quietly watch the street slowly come to life with soft jazz playing in the background. Shopkeepers begin setting up, and the soft morning light casts long shadows, adding warmth to the cobblestones. That peace is something no other time of day can replicate—it’s the heartbeat of the city before the day fully wakes.
2. Skip the Main Street and Wander into the Winding Alleys
Most tourists stick to Graz’s main shopping streets and squares, but the true flavor of life hides in the cobblestone alleys that weave behind the busy façades. These alleys are home to independent bookstores filled with the smell of old paper and the whispers of forgotten stories. Artisan shops sell handcrafted goods that reflect local culture, while hidden cafés offer cozy corners away from the crowds. Ivy climbs the old walls, and on warm days, small vines cascade over windowsills. Occasionally, a lazy cat curls up in the sun, adding to the peaceful charm. Wandering aimlessly here, you get the chance to chat with shop owners who are proud to share the city’s stories and legends, passing down pieces of Graz’s history with every word. This meandering reveals a completely different side of the city—intimate, authentic, and quietly alive.
3. Visit the Farmers’ Market on Weekends to Taste Fresh Local Produce
My favorite place in Graz is the farmers’ market, where the pulse of local life beats strongest. It’s not just full of colorful fresh fruits and vegetables arranged in perfect rows; it’s a vibrant scene of genuine human connections. Most vendors are local farmers who bring their own organic produce, handmade cheeses, aromatic herbs, and spices, each product telling a story of the earth and the hands that nurtured it. They share these stories enthusiastically, inviting you to taste the seasons. I love pausing at the honey stall, where the vendor proudly explains the delicate balance of beekeeping and ecology. Tasting freshly harvested honey, smooth and naturally sweet, feels like tasting the essence of Graz itself. This market is more than a shopping spot—it’s a celebration of life, community, and tradition.
4. Climb Schlossberg to Overlook the Entire City
One of Graz’s most iconic landmarks is the clock tower atop Schlossberg hill. While many tourists make the trek, I prefer to climb it at dusk. The journey up the hill becomes a quiet ritual as the city below transitions from day to night. As the sunlight softens into a warm glow and city lights begin to twinkle, the colors shift in a mesmerizing dance of shadows and illumination. From this vantage point, the entire city spreads out like a living painting—rooftops, winding streets, and the shimmering Mur River. Beyond the main paths, there are hidden trails and secret gardens that few know about, perfect for moments of peaceful reflection. Here, away from the crowds, the romantic essence of Graz comes alive, wrapping you in a calm that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
5. Taste Traditional Styrian Cuisine, Avoid Only Tourist Restaurants
What truly lingers in my memory of Graz is the rich, authentic taste of Styrian cuisine. While many tourists flock to city center restaurants that cater mainly to visitors, locals tend to favor small, unassuming eateries tucked away in quieter neighborhoods or near markets. These places serve hearty, traditional dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. I’ve found that the best way to enjoy Styrian food is by asking locals for recommendations—they often lead me to family-run restaurants where recipes have been passed down for generations. Favorites include roasted pork knuckle with crispy skin, creamy potato soup that feels like a warm hug, and vibrant salads dressed with the famous nutty pumpkin seed oil. These meals offer not just flavor but a deep connection to the land and the people who cultivate it, making every bite a story in itself.
6. Join Local Festivals to Feel the City’s Pulse
Graz hosts many local festivals and cultural events throughout the year, such as the vibrant spring flower festival that fills the streets with bursts of color and fragrance, the charming summer open-air cinema where locals gather under the stars to watch classic films, and the lively autumn harvest festival celebrating the rich agricultural traditions of the region. As a visitor, it’s easy to miss these authentic moments if you don’t seek them out, but by actively following local event listings or simply asking residents, you can join in the festivities. These gatherings are deeply rooted in community spirit, not staged tourist shows—they reveal the true heartbeat of Graz. Participating in them allowed me to witness the pride locals take in their heritage, the joy they find in simple pleasures, and the warmth with which they welcome outsiders into their celebrations.
7. Explore the City by Bike and Discover Hidden Corners
Graz is remarkably bike-friendly, thoughtfully designed with extensive cycling paths and convenient bike rental stations. Renting a bike and pedaling along the gentle curves of the Mur River gave me an entirely new perspective of the city. Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, I uncovered quiet residential neighborhoods with charming street art murals and small urban gardens tucked away from view. The bike allowed me to effortlessly glide past university campuses buzzing with student life and through lush parks where children played. This active way of exploring connected me to Graz’s everyday rhythm in a way walking or public transit never could. Riding through these lesser-known areas made me feel like I was discovering Graz alongside its locals, appreciating the city’s layers of history and modern creativity.
8. Visit the Modern Art District to Experience Innovation
While Graz is often celebrated for its historic architecture and centuries-old traditions, its modern art scene is equally compelling, especially in the Lendviertel district. This creative neighborhood pulses with youthful energy, filled with contemporary galleries, innovative design studios, and cozy cafés where artists and thinkers congregate. Walking through the streets, I encountered vibrant murals, experimental sculptures, and art installations that challenged conventions. I had the chance to meet several young artists passionate about pushing boundaries and blending different mediums. Their enthusiasm and openness revealed a side of Graz that’s adventurous and forward-thinking, a place where history and innovation coexist. This district gave me a fresh appreciation for how the city embraces diversity and creativity beyond the obvious tourist sights.
9. Enjoy a Quiet Afternoon in Ilberg Park
Ilberg Park is one of the largest green spaces in Graz and a favorite refuge for locals seeking a break from urban life. Many come here to jog, picnic, or simply relax with a book under the trees. I often found a secluded patch of soft grass where I could lie back and soak in the warmth of the sun while watching fluffy clouds slowly drift across the sky. The park is sprinkled with thoughtfully placed sculptures and modern art installations that invite contemplation and a deeper connection to the natural surroundings. The gentle rustle of leaves and distant bird songs created a peaceful soundtrack, helping me to fully unwind. In this tranquil oasis, the boundary between city and nature felt beautifully blurred, reminding me of the simple joys that a green space can bring to daily life.
10. Chat with Locals and Listen to Their Stories
The greatest surprise Graz gave me was its people. They aren’t as rushed as those in big cities; they have patience and warmth. Whether in a café, bookstore, or market, if you open up, you’ll hear many fascinating stories about life and history. Each conversation deepened my understanding of the city and made me feel Graz’s heartfelt human spirit.
Walking through Graz’s streets and alleys, experiencing its festivals and markets, and hearing the stories of its people, I finally realized that the city’s most moving aspect isn’t its famous landmarks but its delicate life rhythm and genuine emotions. On my first visit, I was no longer just a tourist—I became part of Graz’s life. In future travels, I will carry this tenderness and curiosity for life forward with me.
