Things never get boring in Munich, but as soon as the long winter is over, we quickly feel the urge to travel again. If you want to plan your vacation days in the best possible way, we have a special tip for you: How about a short trip to Graz? The famous Forbes magazine has included Austria’s second-largest city in its list of the top 10 travel destinations for 2026.
Every year, the ranking lists the best places in Europe that are particularly worth visiting on vacation.This year’s list is headed by Nicosia in Cyprus. But even though no German city made it into the top 10, Graz is attracting all the more attention. The trip from Munich is worthwhile for a variety of reasons. Graz offers unique sights, from culture and history to nature and cuisine to action and nightlife. Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss in the Styrian capital.
1. Enjoy the view from the Schlossberg
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When traveling to Graz, a visit to the Schlossberg is a must. It is the city’s landmark! Whether on foot, by Schlossbergbahn funicular, or by glass elevator, a magnificent view of Graz awaits you at the top . You don’t have to struggle down the hill on the way back, because there is the Schlossberg slide, the longest underground slide in the world. It is 170 meters long and you can reach speeds of up to 25 km/h. Is there a better way to slide down a mountain?
2. Walk through the old town
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When you arrive in the old town of Graz, you always feel a bit like you’re in Italy. The beautiful city center has numerous charming alleys and well-preserved historic buildings. No wonder the old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999! The most important sights and activities can be easily explored on foot, as they are all close together. These include the main square, Graz Cathedral, and the mausoleum.
3. Enjoy a coffee on the floating Murinsel
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And even though Graz is brimming with culture and history, modernity is also at the heart of the city. The Murinsel is one of Graz’s most striking modern landmarks, combining contemporary architecture with urban lifestyle. In 2003, New York artist Vito Acconci created the floating island for the Capital of Culture year . It can be reached from both banks via two pedestrian bridges. The glass-enclosed, weatherproof area houses a café offering regional specialties, coffee, and cocktails—with a unique view of the Mur River and the old town.
4. Experience modern romance at Candlelight Bridgerton
Photo: Candlelight Bridgerton
Candlelight brings a very special highlight to Graz: inspired by the Italian atmosphere, you can immerse yourself in a particularly atmospheric setting in the style of the Regency era at the Evangelische Heilandskirche. The concert series transports you into the world of the popular Netflix series “Bridgerton.” A string quartet interprets classic melodies and modern pop hitsfrom the series: from “Dancing on My Own” to “Bad Guy.” Surrounded by warm candlelight, you will experience romance, elegance, and pure Bridgerton atmosphere.
4. Double spiral staircase
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One of the most fascinating sights in Graz is the double spiral staircase. It is an architectural masterpiece of the late Gothic period and definitely worth seeing! Two opposing, intertwined spiral staircases briefly join on each floor and then separate again. This principle is often interpreted as a symbol of separation and reconciliation, which is why the staircase is also called the “Reconciliation Staircase” or, colloquially, the “Kiss Staircase.”You can find everything you need to know about this unique architectural marvel here.
5. Discover culture at the Kunsthaus Graz
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When you see the Kunsthaus Graz, you sometimes wonder if you have landed on a foreign planet.Its organic, biomorphic shape is often referred to as a “friendly alien.“ This is because the Kunsthaus deliberately stands out from the baroque rooftops of its surroundings and looks like a futuristic creature that has landed in the middle of Graz. It is a museum of contemporary art and hosts changing international exhibitions.
6. Immerse yourself in history at the Landeszeughaus
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One of the most special things to do in Graz is definitely a visit to the Landeszeughaus. It is the largest historical weapons arsenal in the world! Around 32,000 suits of armor, helmets, swords, firearms, and cannons from the 15th to 18th centuries are on display across four floors. Here you can gain exciting insights into history.