General information:  

Graz is the second largest city in Austria and the capital of Styria with a population of about 300.000 inhabitants. The river Mur builds a natural border between the city´s historic centre and its vibrant multicultural as well as artistic districts. Graz` role as an important junction and meeting point for culture and economic exchange arose back in the days of the Roman Empire and until today it is one of the fastest growing conurbations in the country. In 2003 Graz was elected “European Culture Capital” which benefited the city`s cultural appreciation and growth within but also outside the community. Furthermore unique sights as the historic center and “Schloss Eggenberg “ were added to the UNESCO world cultural heritage list in 1999.

Graz has a long tradition as a student city, hosting four main Universities (Karl-Franzens-Universität Graz, Technische Universität Graz, Medizinische Universität Graz and Universität für Musik und darstellende Kunst). In addition the city offers two additional colleges of higher education (Fachhochschule Joanneum and Fachhochschule Campus 02) and two universities for education (Pädagogische Hochschule, Kirchliche Pädagogische Hochschule). The 50.000 students are the city`s heart and soul, contributing to the vibrant city life.

For further information you can look up the website of tourism of Graz.

Sightseeing in Graz:

Grazer Schlossberg

Located at the city centre the “Schlossberg” is one of the most impressive sights offering its visitors a 360 degree panoramic view of the city. On top the landmark of Graz can be found. A 28 meters high Clock tower accommodating the heaviest Bell of Graz, called “Liesl”. The stage of the Kasematten, which is situated partly in a tunnel under the “Schlossberg”, offers a unique and breath-taking ambience for concerts and theaters. To climb the top you can chose between the 260 steps or take the elevator to get up.

Grazer Murinsel 

The Mur-island was conceptualized and built in 2003 as a contributing part to the “European Cultural Capital”. It’s an island of steel held by an anchor which is floating on the river. On top a small cafè offers cool drinks and a relaxing atmosphere during hot summer day. Throughout the year you can join various events held on the island.

Schloss Eggenberg

Close to the city center resides Schloss Eggenberg within a gorgeous park, including a Rose garden and hidden places under old trees. The unique architecture of the Castle was built by the architect Pietro de Pomis. The castle offers exhibitions (April to October) and during the summer months exquisite classical music and concerts may be enjoyed in one of the old Baroque halls.

The cathedral

The cathedral of Graz was built as court and parish church in 1438. Since 1786 it has been a cathedral. The exterior part, which looks very plain today, was covered with frescos during the gothic period. The most precious objects are the two reliquaries to the left and the right of the entrance.

Glockenspiel

The Glockenspiel is located at the “Glockenspielplatz” in the historic centre and plays its music of 24 bells three times a day (11 am, 3 pm, 6 pm). According to specific seasons and festivities different harmonies sound across the square, for example yodeling or Christmas music. While the bells are ringing visitors can watch the “dance” of two dolls.

Museums

A multitude of different museums offer a broad variety of local as well as international artists. The Universalmuseum Joanneum, which was built in 1812 by order of Archduke Johann, has a large spectrum of exhibitions including those in the “Landeszeughaus”. There you can find 32.000 authentic objects of the Habsburg Empire armory. Those who are interested in modern art should visit “Kunsthaus Graz”, which displays sculptures and paintings after 1960. Near the University you can find the Botanical Garden which is used as recreational area in summer. Furthermore it houses a huge variety of different local and exotic plants to be explored. 

Below we have divided some more information into topics that might also be important for you! But also the university itself has a lot of helpful information ready, especially concerning the life of students in Graz, such as here the TU Graz.