A stunning European city with a countryside soul is the perfect spot for your next weekend getaway.

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city is split by the meandering Mur River and is just two hours away from the Austrian capital, so you can even visit both as part of your trip.

The city is smaller than Vienna and attracts much fewer tourists. In 2023, 17.3 million people visited Vienna, whereas only 1.3 million people visited Graz. Still, Graz oozes Austrian charms and it’s many landmarks make it well worth a visit.

Graz is home to the region’s provincial armoury, which is the world’s largest historical collection of late mediaeval and Renaissance weaponry. It has been preserved since 1551.

In the 15th century, it was chosen as the residence of the Habsburgs, the powerful royal family of Austria. Numerous buildings from this period, such as the Schlossberg with its Clock Tower and the Styrian Arsenal, bear witness to the city’s importance. 

This incredibly laid back city is extremely walkable with the historic centre pedestrianised and across Graz you will find walkable streets and high-quality public spaces.

Graz has one of the largest and most impressive old towns in Europe. At its heart is Hauptplatz, the city’s main square, this is where Graz really comes alive. The lively square holds numerous festivals throughout the year and right next door to Herrengasse is Graz’s main thoroughfare, a busy shopping street.

As you stroll around the city’s main squares, you’ll find a sea of street food stalls ideal for eating on the go at low prices and perfect for trying out the local cuisine.

Local ingredients are heavily valued in Graz with the city priortising sustainable dining. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

If you’re the type of person who likes to visit a museum, the Universalmuseum Joanneum is the place to go.

This museum will take around one to two hours to make your way around and it holds the Neue Galerie Graz and Natural History Museum. As the second largest museum in Austria, this museum is a treasure trove of art and history.