Its construction started in 1996 and it officially opened its gates in July 1997. Among other things in the past it was named after the famous actor and former US senator from California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, because he was born in Thal which is near Graz. Its capacity is 16,364 seats and many times it has hosted matches of the Austrian national team. It is a modern stadium that provides everything to its guests.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT TO STURMSTADION
*** BUS: 4
*** TRAM: 4, 13
GRAZ: FABULOUS FAIRYTALE CITY!
When you walk through the city, you feel like you’re living in a fairy tale. Its beautiful castles, its wonderful squares and the combination of cultures and history make up a magical “puzzle” of images. You will see sights of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, some of which date back to Roman times.
Currency: Euro
Calling Code: +43
Nearest airports from city center: Graz Airport (9km), Zagreb Airport (195km), Ljubljana Airport (196km), Vienna Airport (203km), Linz Airport (213km), Salzburg Airport (282km),
TOP – 10 SIGHTSEEING
*** OLD TOWN GRAZ
Your city tour should definitely start from the old town. Walk through the cobbled streets and let your eyes be filled with fairy-tale images.
*** SCHLOSSBERG AND UHRTURM
The famous hill was a fortress in the 10th century and is now an impressive public park. From there you will see the panoramic view of the city and dominate the Clock Tower which dates back to the 15th century and is a symbol of the city.
*** KUNSTHAUS GRAZ (Lendkai 1, 8020 Graz)
The museum with its collection of modern art from the 1960s stands out not only for its exhibits, but also for its strange blue shell roof canopy.
*** LANDESZEUGHAUS (Herrengasse 16, 8010 Graz)
The largest collection of weapons, armor, cannons, spears and various other war supplies are here! Over 30 thousand objects you have the opportunity to enjoy up close. The region of Styria had been one of the most important points of conflict against the Ottoman Empire.
*** EGGENBERG PALACE (Eggenberger Allee 90, 8020 Graz)
If you want to know the history of both Styria and Graz, then this is the most suitable place! It was part of the statement of wealth of the generals of Styria and has beautifully decorated rooms, awesome frescoes, excellent gardens and an atmosphere that will enchant you. The Alte Galerie museum is also located there.
*** MURINSEL (Lendkai 19, 8020 Graz)
In 2003, the artificial island was built as part of the designation of Graz as the cultural capital of Europe. It is located in the middle of the Mur River and the building, surrounded by glass, gives a feeling of floating on the river.
*** ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER MUSEUM (Linakstraße 9, 8051 Thal)
About 20 minutes away from Graz is the building where you will find many personal belongings of the famous Hollywood actor.
*** MARIATROST BASILICA (Kirchplatz 8, 8044 Graz)
It opened its gates in 1717 and became the holy place of pilgrimage in the region of Styria. See the statues of angels and historical figures, the frescoes and the baroque style of the building. Nearby is the tram museum, which, if you have time, is worth a visit.
*** HERZ JESU KIRCHE (Sparbersbachgasse 58, 8010 Graz)
It was built in 1891 and is the largest temple in the city. The Neo-Gothic style of architecture, its impressive facade, the third highest bell tower in Austria and the interior of the church will leave you speechless.
*** RATHAUS DER STADT GRAZ (Rathaus, Hauptplatz 1, 8010 Graz)
In the heart of the old town is the impressive building that was and is the town hall for centuries! It has undergone some changes since the Renaissance to its current neoclassical form, but it remains one of the most important sights of the city!
ΤΗINGS TO DO
*** Graz Cathedral is an important church, not particularly impressive, but with a rich history dating back to 1438!
*** The Botanical Gardens of the city are a nice choice for all those who have a weakness for nature, plants and flowers.
*** Well worth a visit is the Landhaus Courtyard, which is a renaissance style mansion and now the Styrian parliament building.
*** The Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Ferdinand II was Holy Roman Emperor from 1619 to 1637.
*** If you like Museums, it is worth a walk to the Museum für Geschichte to see the History of the area.
*** The Franciscan Church has an impressive tower and a modern renovated interior.
FOOD AND DRINK
The city has some of the nicest restaurants. The schnitzel should definitely be one of your choices. But Graz is famous for its juicy fried chicken or pork knuckle soup. Locals also eat local varieties such as Brettljause, Verhackert accompanied with local wine. Also try the Scarlet Runner Bean Salad which is a local specialty. Otherwise, it has cuisines from all over the world, from Asia and America to Europe.
WHERE TO STAY
The ideal would be to book a room close to the old town, so that you can have most of the attractions next to you. But there are many hotels for all budgets and at a distance of more than 1 kilometer away from the old town.
FUN AND SHOPPING
*** If you are looking for an alternative tourism to have a good time and exercise your body, then go to Park Graz and you will spend your time extremely well.
*** Excellent options for walking in a green oasis are Augarten, Burggarten and Volksgarten.
*** A ride on The Graz fairytale train is mandatory.
*** If you want to combine your trip with watching ballet or classical music, then visit Opera Graz.
*** In addition to the old town where you can find everything you want for your shopping, there are also shopping centers such as Murpark, Shopping Nord and Citypark.
*** Streets and squares that have a lot of shops are Herrengasse, Jakominiplatz & Hauptplatz.
HOW TO GET AROUND
The most beautiful way to get around the city is on foot, by bike or by tram.
CITIES NEAR GRAZ
Major cities close to Graz are Maribor (70km), Klagenfurt (134km), Zagreb (183km), Ljubljana (194km), Vienna (197km), Linz (219km), Bratislava (265km) and Salzburg (276km).
