Graz, the second-largest city in Austria, is located on the Mur River and has long been a popular stop for tourists. It boasts many historical buildings with Baroque facades, especially in the Old Town. Museums, castles, palaces, and churches have made Graz famous. The surrounding areas are equally captivating. If you’re looking for a best day trips from Graz, just choose one of the suggested locations, and you won’t be disappointed!
Best day trips from Graz: Gamlitz
Gamlitz is an excellent destination for a day trip from Graz. Here you’ll find Gamlitz Castle, a beautiful historic building with a wine museum and a wine tasting hall. From here, you can embark on a tour of the Southern Styrian Wine Road to sample some of Austria’s finest wines.
Lurgrotte Cave
Lurgrotte Cave is a magnificent underground world that is definitely worth exploring. One of Austria’s largest and most impressive caves, it stretches over five kilometers. Numerous chambers and passages are adorned with dazzling stalactites and stalagmites, some of which are over a million years old!
Best day trips from Graz: Hochosterwitz Castle
The legendary medieval Hochosterwitz Castle, built in the 9th century, is one of the symbols of Carinthia. It is believed that this fortress served as the inspiration for the castle in Walt Disney’s “Snow White” animated film.
Klagenfurt
Klagenfurt is a city of leisure and culture. As the capital of Carinthia, located on the eastern shore of Lake Wörthersee, it offers an amazing combo of cultural heritage sites and nearby mountains. In Klagenfurt, you don’t have to choose between culture, adventure, or relaxation—everything is available at once!
Best day trips from Graz: Grüner See
Grüner See (Green Lake) is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Styria. In recent years, it has become an extremely popular recreational spot. Its distinctive feature is the almost turquoise-blue color of the water, which, together with the mountainous landscape, creates a captivating backdrop.
Lockenhaus Castle
Settlements in this area date back to the Stone Age, and the castle itself was built around the year 1200 for the purpose of defending the territory against the Mongols. It was first mentioned in written sources in 1242. The castle was destroyed in 1337 during the reign of Charles I of Hungary. After that, Lockenhaus changed owners frequently. The complex was significantly expanded in 1636.
Best day trips from Graz: Maribor
If you’re tired of Austria, you can escape to neighboring Slovenia for a day. The main attractions of Maribor are located in the city center, which will delight you with its historic buildings. It’s an excellent location for a day trip from Graz!
