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Provided by: Graz Tourismus

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Europe Austria Graz Do & See Main Square & City Hall

Overview

Main Square & City Hall

The guide was updated: 2023-10-26

In brilliant white the bride steps into the square before Rathaus town hall in a cascade of flowers and rice. Just across, a lively hip-hop show. The market stalls offer juices and sausages with mustard – scenes from the heart of the city, the Hauptplatz of Graz, cradled among magnificent buildings crowned by the town hall of Graz. It’s an impressive backdrop for the city’s colourful bustle and focal point for visitors and residents alike. From here you can reach all of the attractions of Graz in a jiffy.

Useful Information

Address: Hauptplatz 1
Website: www.graztourismus.at/en/see-and-do/sightseeing/sights/hauptplatz--town-hall_sh-1244
Email: info@graztourismus.at

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

Main Square & City Hall

Main Square & City Hall

In brilliant white the bride steps into the square before Rathaus town hall in a cascade of flowers and rice. Just across, a lively hip-hop show. The market stalls offer juices and sausages with mustard – scenes from the heart of the city, the Hauptplatz of Graz, cradled among magnificent buildings crowned by the town hall of Graz. It’s an impressive backdrop for the city’s colourful bustle and focal point for visitors and residents alike. From here you can reach all of the attractions of Graz in a jiffy.

Painted House

Painted House

A wall-tattoo on Herrengasse street? Sure! On the façade of the Herzoghof building in the centre of Graz, Greek and Roman Gods engage in a rendez-vous. The building was first painted as early as 1600. The Baroque painter Johann Mayer applied the ‘divine’ frescos in 1742, since which time it has been known as the ‘painted house’. If you take a moment to immerse yourself in the images, you enjoy an intense sense of submersion right there in the middle of the urban hustle and bustle.

Burg Garden

Burg Garden

A romantic picnic in the centre of the city? Where better than at the enchanting location of the Burggarten in Graz. This scenic park is, to all intents and purposes, a secret; who would expect to find such a romantic setting hidden away behind the regional government headquarters, above the Stadtpark? One particular highlight is the former orangery which, following careful and comprehensive renovation, now serves to host events and receptions of all kinds.

Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens

An armadillo in the mansion district? Resembling a large, exotic animal, the botanical garden greenhouses lie between art nouveau mansions in one of the most beautiful districts in Graz. They bring together exotic flora from four distinct climatic zones and world-class Graz architecture, without parallel. A place for science, inviting visitors to study, marvel, linger and unwind.

Mariatrost Basilica

Mariatrost Basilica

To travel hopefully… and arrive in Mariatrost. Located on Purberg hill in Graz, this church is one of the best-known pilgrimage destinations in Styria. Many pilgrims from all over Europe converge here to ascend the 216 steps to the basilica that towers gloriously toward the heavens. The holy shrine to the Virgin Mary in the heart of this Baroque-style church isn’t the only attraction. Beautiful frescos and the impressive pulpit also await you at the magnificent, twin-spired Mariatrost Basilica.

Graz Museum

Graz Museum

Follow the tracks of Graz’s history through time as you walk around the GrazMuseum. The chronological development of the city is traced vividly, showing history from today’s viewpoint and using the latest methods of interpretation. The GrazMuseum is an inspiring meeting-point for anyone interested in the city’s urban development, its political, economic and social history and in art and culture with an active link to Graz.

Fanciscan Monastery

Fanciscan Monastery

Cobblestones, beautiful buildings, as pretty as a picture. The Franciscan church is in one of the most beautiful and popular locations in Graz. Small, historic shops nestle against the exterior walls of this Gothic church and contribute to the square’s romantic image. Attached to the church is the Franziskanerkloster monastery, where a visit to the cloister, with its rose-covered courtyard, is well worthwhile. A place steeped in tranquillity and peace.

Giovannis Garden

Giovannis Garden

“A rose is a rose is a rose.” What Giovannis Garden offers, however, is not just a rose, and not just roses. This 2.5-hectare art garden is a creative ensemble of many rare plants, unique art objects, exotic scents, ancient Celtic truths and delightful oases of calm. Investigate the largest collection of roses in Austria and the arboretum while revelling in the romantic, perfumed atmosphere.

Graz Opera House

Graz Opera House

Brandishing a sword for the Opera House. Next to the imposing white edifice on Ringstrasse street skirting Graz city centre, the “Lichtschwert” sculpture stands for the protection of human rights. At the same time, it stands in agitating contrast with the neighbouring Opera House and is proof of the city’s cultural awareness. Formerly the city theatre, the Opera House itself is now a splendid stage for breathtaking productions in Graz ranging from musical theatre to ballet.

Palais Saurau

Palais Saurau

Assault from above? A man with a beard, turban and dagger gazes down threateningly, capturing the attention of passers-by. It’s OK, the well-known Turk under the roof decorates one of the finest buildings in the city. On a stroll through Graz it’s always worth taking in Palais Saurau. With its Baroque, richly decorated wrought iron gate, Renaissance arcades in the courtyard and splendidly decorated first-floor halls, the palace invites you to immerse yourself in the history of the Saurau family.

Children's Museum frida & fred

Children's Museum frida & fred

A day to remember at the museum. Children will discover a treasure trove of experiences at the Kindermuseum FRida & freD in the Augarten park, where exhibitions are developed with children and for children. Their motto is “Hands On – Minds On”: telling stories for 3- to 12-year-olds in the tangible form of experiments and objects. Touch, whisper, cuddle, listen, twist and try things out – anything’s allowed. Complex connections are explained in a child-friendly way.

Schell Collection - Lock and Key Museum

Schell Collection - Lock and Key Museum

The key to happiness – could you find it here? The Schell Collection, Austria’s museum of locks, keys, coffers, ornamental boxes and ornate cast iron, and also the biggest specialist museum of its kind in the world. Find the answers to questions such as “Why is there a key on a pocket watch chain?” or “Why would you need a funeral casket key?” … and “Are you sure that you found all of the secret compartments in your great grandfather’s desk?”

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