Finding where to stay in Graz as a first-time visitor can be a headache. That’s why, in today’s article, I will help you to find safe places to stay in Graz for first-time visitors.
I will share with you what I believe are the best and safe areas to stay in Graz for first-timers and tourists, along with a helpful map and areas to avoid. I’ll also share where I stayed in Graz and recommend some of the best hotels for various budgets.
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and modernity. Known for its well-preserved historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Graz boasts stunning architecture, including the iconic Uhrturm Clock Tower and the Schlossberg castle hill.
The city is also home to numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues. Additionally, with its thriving student population, Graz has a lively nightlife and a youthful atmosphere.
Graz has its own airport, Graz Airport, which offers domestic and international flights. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or public transportation to reach the city center.
The city is well-connected to other cities in Austria and neighboring countries by train. The Hauptbahnhof (main train station) in Graz is centrally located and easily accessible.
Is Graz safe to visit?
Yes, Graz is generally a safe place to visit. However, like many other cities in Europe, petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur, so it is essential to be aware of your surroundings, use good locks if you rent a bicycle, and take care of your belongings, especially in crowded areas like tourist spots, trams, or buses.
I advise you to use normal common sense, just as you would in any other city. This includes avoiding walking on dark streets and in parks at night, particularly at Stadtpark, Augarten, and Volkspark.
Summer temperatures can be very high, so drink enough water to stay hydrated. Heavy storms also occur in summer, so stay updated on weather reports and follow advice from local authorities.
Where to stay in Graz for the first time?
The best areas to stay in Graz for first-timers and tourists include Innere Stadt (Old Town), Gries, Lend, Geidorf, St. Leonhard, and Jakomini. Remember, while these areas are generally safe, it’s always a good idea to exercise basic precautions regardless of which area you choose to stay in.
In general, the Old Town is the most popular base in Graz for the first time. This is the historic heart of Graz, filled with narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and beautiful attractions like the Graz Cathedral, the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, and the Landhaus.
Gries, Lend, Geidorf, St. Leonhard, and Jakomini are great locations for visitors, especially if you want more of a local atmosphere, more budget-friendly accommodations, and don’t mind walking/ using public transport to the old town.
During my trip to Graz, I stayed in the historic old town at the mid-range NH Graz City. It was set in a prime location, close to everything, including major attractions like the 10th century Schlossberg Hilltop castle that has stunning views of the city and is accessed by a funicular. My room was cozy and clean.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Graz for first-time travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Graz, especially for first-time visitors. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Graz have been carefully selected by me from well-known and secure booking sites such as booking.com, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them.
If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best/Safe areas to stay in Graz for first-timers and tourists:
1. Innere Stadt (Old Town)
The Old Town is an unbeatable area to stay in Graz for tourists and those who want to be in the historic heart of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you’ll find the majority of the city’s historic sites, as well as many restaurants, cafes, and shops.
You’ll be within walking distance to important landmarks like the Grazer Burg (Graz Castle), the Hauptplatz (Main Square), the Schlossberg (Castle Hill), and the famous Uhrturm (Clock Tower).
Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter charming courtyards, hidden alleyways, and picturesque squares. Graz’s Old Town is not just a testament to its past but a thriving center of culture and heritage in the present day.
Best places to stay in Graz Old Town for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): NH Graz City, popular 4-star hotel located in the historic center of Graz, within walking distance from popular attractions like the Schlossberg, Cathedral & Mausoleum, and Clock Tower. It has a 24-hour front desk, a fitness center, excellent breakfast, and luggage storage space. There is a nice children’s playground nearby, and many reasonable restaurants on Zinzendorfgasse street.
Budget ($): Motel One Graz, 3-star hotel in central Graz, only a few mins walk from the Opera House, Glockenspiel and Grazer Landhaus. Great base for visiting major sights, easy access to public transportation, and for the Christmas market. It is also close to Herrengasse Shopping street, with many bars and restaurants. It has a 24-hour front desk, an elevator, and very good breakfast.
Mid-range ($$): Aiola Living Graz, great 4-star accommodation in prime location in the old town, a short walk from Casino Graz, Grazer Landhaus, and the Town Hall. Just be mindful, like many buildings in Graz, there are stairs to get to some rooms, so it might be a bit difficult with those with heavy luggages.
Luxury ($$$): Kai 36 – Hotel zwischen Fels und Fluss, 5-star little boutique hotel in the city center of Graz, featuring an indoor swimming pool, a private parking, a bar and a garden. Easy distance from major sights like the funicular, Schlossberg hilltop castle, the main square, and Clock Tower. You can find a tram stop nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN OLD TOWN2. Gries
Gries is a great option for those looking to experience local life in Graz while still having easy access to important attractions. This is a diverse and multicultural area located just south of the Old Town. This area has a vibrant market square, ethnic eateries, and parks.
Best places to stay in Graz in Gries for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): Grand Hôtel Wiesler, popular 4-star hotel located in Gries, right next to the Mur River, on the edge of the old town. It is only a short tram ride from the main train station and a few mins walk from The Kunsthaus museum, Mur Island, and Schlossberg Funicular. It also has wonderful breakfast, onsite parking, bicycles/e-Vespas rental services.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Weitzer Graz, great 4-star hotel conveniently located in Gries, within walking distance to the river and the historic center and its main square.
Budget ($): Albert Schweitzer Center Graz, 3-star apartment complex in Graz, 15 mins walk from the city center and its importation attractions. It features one and two-bedroom apartments, which are great for couples, groups, and families of 4 to 6. Each apartment comes with a seating area, kitchen, and private bathroom.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN GRIES3. Lend
Lend is a lively district known for its artistic vibe and alternative scene. Here you’ll find trendy cafes, galleries, and street art, as well as the Kunsthaus Graz (Graz Art Museum), an iconic architectural landmark. Lend is popular among young locals and visitors interested in contemporary culture.
Best places to stay in Graz in Lend for first-timers:
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Feichtinger Graz, 4-star hotel located in a quiet area in Lend, only a few mins walk from Graz Art Museum and the historic center. It has sound-proofed rooms, excellent buffet breakfast, and family rooms.
Mid-range ($$): Hotel Mercure Graz City, 4-star hotel conveniently set in a fairly central location, on Lendplatz, an interesting part of Graz, easy distance from the old town, Schlossberg, the clock tower. It has a fitness center, a spa, and 24-hour reception.
Budget ($): City-Apartments Graz, 3-star self-catering apartment conveniently located right next to Lendplatz Square, within walking distance from Volksgarten Park and Kunsthaus Graz. It has a one and two-bedroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen. You can find a farmers’ market, as well as various Restaurants, shops, and bars nearby.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN LEND4. Geidorf
Geidorf is a residential area located northeast of the city center. It’s known for its leafy streets, parks, and upscale ambiance. This area offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to green spaces like the Stadtpark and the Mur River.
Accommodations in Geidorf are mostly apartments, guest houses, and Bed & breakfast. Many accommodations offer free parking, which is a bonus for those who travel by car. You can park a car here, and take public transport to visit major sights in the old town.
Best places to stay in Graz in Geidorf:
Budget ($): Gästehaus Moßhammer, great 3-star adults-only accommodations conveniently located near the old town, right next to the Graz Park, a few mins walk from the Double Spiral Stairs, and Cathedral & Mausoleum. You can find a tram #7 nearby, offering services to MedUni, and the train station.
Budget ($): urban stay graz – serviced apartments with free parking, great 3-star hotel, located a bit removed from the city center, but conveniently base for those who have a car and looking for free underground parking. All units include a fully equipped kitchen. 5 mins walk to a tram stop, for services to the old town, 5 stops away. You can also enjoy skiing and hiking nearby.
Budget ($): Cosy Splendor / City Center, 3-star hotel in the Geidorf district of Graz, close to the river and the hilltop castle. It has free private parking, a lift, family rooms, and a mini-market.
MORE HOTEL DEALS IN GEIDORF5. St. Leonhard
St. Leonhard, just east of the old town, is a great choice for those seeking a quieter stay while still being within walking distance of the city center. It is a charming neighborhood characterized by its historic buildings and narrow streets. This area is known for its cozy atmosphere and local shops.
Best places to stay in Graz in St. Leonhard:
- Mid-range ($$): Parkhotel Graz – Traditional Luxury
- Mid-range ($$): Blackhome Graz I contactless check-in
- Budget ($): Helles Apartment im Zentrum
6. Jakomini
Jakomini, located next to the old town, is another great base for local vibe and easy access to popular points of interest. You can find some great hotels in this area.
Best places to stay in Graz in Jakomini:
- Mid-range ($$): Augarten Art Hotel
- Mid-range ($$): Best Western Plus Plaza Hotel Graz
- Budget ($): Grazer Schwalbe
In conclusion, Innere Stadt (Old Town), Gries, Lend, Geidorf, St. Leonhard, and Jakomini are the best places to stay in Graz for first-timers and tourists. These are generally safe areas, where you can find some accommodations, and easy access to major attractions on foot and by public transportation.
You can continue reading about other destinations in Australia in these article:
- Best areas to stay in Salzburg first time
- Best areas to stay in Vienna first time
- Best areas to stay in Innsbruck first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the most popular and safest neighborhoods that you can stay during your first trip to Graz. I hope you enjoyed my article and find it both informative and helpful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.