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Graz has it all…without the crowds

Deep in the south of Austria is a city so enchantingly beautiful that UNESCO made its entire historic center a World Heritage Site. Yes, we’re talking about Graz, the country’s second biggest city and a place that unites rich history and modern ingenuity. Graz offers a unique set of experiences: history beyond compare, an outstanding food scene, and a youthful, creative population that gives the place a strong heartbeat. The best part? Graz is off the normal visitor track, so you can forget the crowds and lines. Get Graz and all it has to offer to yourself. Here’s how.

A gorgeous mix of rich history and contemporary marvels

Graz contains an eclectic mix of Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau architecture, giving it a true fairytale feel. Taking a long walk through its historic center feels a lot like journeying back in time to an Austria of old, where kings reigned and knights roamed. But Graz isn’t stuck in the past. In fact, it’s also a UNESCO City of Design, thanks to its embrace of architectural ingenuity. A few great examples of this are the futuristic “Friendly Alien” museum, the Murinsel (an artificial floating island built on the river Mur), and the Graz Main Station, known for its undulating form and masterful use of concrete.

Local flavors: traditional fare and new age deliciousness

Graz sits at a crossroads, just a short distance from Italy, Hungary, and Slovenia. When cultures mix, the quality of food generally soars, which is certainly the case for Graz. Exploring authentic Styrian food is a must. Start at the Kaiser Josef Markt, a beloved open market located beside the opera house. It’s the perfect place for regional produce as well as warm country bread, traditional preserved meats, and mountain cheeses. In the back, there are restaurants where you can eat farm-fresh eggs and bread straight out of the oven. For dinner, catch a sunset on the Murinsel, the floating manmade island while eating Styrian fried chicken or a modern take on the classic veal schnitzel. It will be an unforgettable mix of food and views.

An unparalleled creative spirit

As with many European cities, Graz is divided in two by a river. Each bank has its own personality. If you want to get a taste of young, creative Graz, the west bank is for you. Known for artsy neighborhoods like Lend and Gries, this section of the city is filled with design shops, artisan cafés, concert venues and vintage stores. Want to find that 19th century Austrian beer stein? This is where you have to go. Need a morning boost from a café that roasts its own beans in the back and serves your flat white in a handmade cup? Again, the west bank. With a coffee in hand and your antique purchases in your bag, meander around town. Get lost. Make discoveries. Feel the pulse of the city. You’ll be happy you did.

Schlossberg clock tower, Graz
Climb the Schlossberg Clock Tower for a stunning, unique view of Graz, Austria.

Things to consider before traveling

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Some tips to consider while traveling

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