Explore Graz responsibly
How can you experience Graz through public transport, regional cuisine and certified accommodation?
Discover practical ways to experience Graz – from getting around by public transport or bicycle to enjoying regional cuisine and choosing accommodation with recognised environmental certifications.
Along the way, you can discover local businesses and experiences and get to know the city from different perspectives.
By the way: the checkfelix booking portal ranked Graz among the top 3 in the world in the 2023 city index for responsible travelers (article only in German language).
Personal tips by travel blogger and author Elena Paschinger
#DiscoverGrazRegion
Planning a trip to Graz and the Graz Region? Travel blogger and author Elena Paschinger has explored the destination many times and shares her experiences in a compact eBook. Download it to your smartphone, tablet or laptop and discover practical tips on public transport, accommodation with recognised environmental certifications, regional cuisine, nature and culture – along with personal recommendations, photos and videos to help you plan your visit.
Guide to Exploring Graz
Discover Graz through its green spaces, walkable historic centre and regional experiences. Around 70% of the city area consists of green spaces, while the UNESCO-listed Old Town is easy to explore on foot. Visitors can enjoy regional cuisine, browse second-hand and fair fashion stores, discover cultural highlights and reach nearby hiking areas with ease. This guide also introduces practical information on public transport, environmental initiatives and local experiences to help you plan your stay.
Sleep
Graz offers a wide range of accommodation, including numerous owner-managed hotels. Many of these establishments have been family-run for generations and are closely connected to the city. Some accommodation providers in Graz also hold recognised environmental certifications. Below you can find hotels certified with the Austrian Ecolabel or Green Key, as well as a selection of owner-managed hotels.
Accommodation with Environmental Certifications in Graz
Selection of owner-managed hotels in Graz:
Eat
The best way to get to know Graz is by exploring the foodie scene. Graz is Austria’s Foodie Capital and has a lot to offer. Explore the city on a culinary city tour (only offered in German language) or visit our colourful farmers‘ markets and of course have a meal in one of partner restaurants of the "Capital of Delight". Regional and seasonal products play an important role at the partner restaurants of Austria’s Foodie City. Fast fact: Graz offers a high density of vegetarian/vegan restaurants.
Shopping
Graz is home to a variety of shops and initiatives offering second-hand fashion, upcycled products, regional goods and other locally made items. Some businesses also combine retail with social projects or employment initiatives.
Looking for a souvenir from Graz? Visit the Tourist Information Office, where you will find a selection of Graz souvenirs produced in Austria, including products from regional producers and craftspeople.
A Selection of Shops for Fair Fashion, Second-Hand and Vintage
in Graz
- Zerum (Mariahilferstraße 13)
- Nachhaltige Kreisslerei (Sporgasse 24)
- Kastner & Öhler (Sackstraße 7–13): Own sustainability area with fair fashion on the 2nd floor
- Kauf dich glücklich (Murgasse 6)
- Grüne Erde (Sporgasse 27)
- mützenmafia (Mariahilferstraße 32)
- Mafee (Kollonitschstraße 50a)
Sightseeing
The best way to explore Graz is by walking, as the city is compact, relaxed and very easy to navigate. Make sure to join one of our many guided tours with our knowledgeable tour guides who have the best stories and all the history at hand. Easy to book directly through our website.
Tip: The Graz Card is a great deal to make the most out of your stay. It gives you free access to the most important museums of the city and free use of public transport, plus various reductions on tours and more entrances to museums in the region around Graz.
Insider Tips
Explore more ideas for getting around Graz, discovering local experiences and planning your stay on the Sustainable Cities website and here: