Introduction to Graz
Graz, the second-largest city in Austria, is a fantastic destination for families looking for a fun-filled, culturally rich vacation. With its beautiful architecture, charming old town, and vibrant cultural scene, there’s something for everyone in Graz. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top family-friendly attractions and activities in Graz. From exciting museums and parks to fascinating historical sites and delicious food, get ready to create lasting memories with your loved ones in this beautiful city.
💡 Top Family-Friendly Activities in Graz
- Schloss Eggenberg and Eggenberg Park
- Children’s Museum FRida & freD
- The Graz City Park & Playground
- Zoo Schmiding
- Austrian Open-Air Museum
- Graz Natural History Museum
- Styrian Armoury
- Boat Tours on the River Mur
- UFO Observation Deck
- Graz Botanical Gardens
Schloss Eggenberg and Eggenberg Park
Schloss Eggenberg is a Baroque palace situated in the picturesque Eggenberg Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for a family outing. With its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and peacocks roaming around, there’s plenty to explore. Kids will enjoy the Children’s Adventure Tour, where they can learn about the palace’s history through interactive games and hands-on experiences.
Children’s Museum FRida & freD
The Children’s Museum FRida & freD is a must-visit for families with young children. Designed for kids aged 3 to 12, this interactive museum offers a variety of exhibits that encourage learning through play. From workshops and play areas to themed exhibitions, kids can explore various topics such as science, technology, and the arts.
The Graz City Park & Playground
Located in the heart of Graz, the City Park provides a relaxing green space for families to unwind. With its vast playground, kids can enjoy a variety of play structures, including swings, slides, and climbing equipment. Parents can relax on the park benches while their kids play, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the park’s beautiful gardens.
Zoo Schmiding
Take a day trip to Zoo Schmiding, located just an hour’s drive from Graz, for a fantastic family adventure. This zoo offers a unique combination of wildlife park, adventure playground, and bird park, making it a perfect day out for animal lovers of all ages. Get up close and personal with exotic animals, enjoy the petting zoo, and learn about different species through educational exhibits.
Austrian Open-Air Museum
Step back in time at the Austrian Open-Air Museum, where you can explore over 90 historical buildings from different regions of Austria. This living museum offers a fascinating insight into the country’s rural life and traditions. Kids can participate in various workshops such as pottery, bread baking, and traditional crafts, making it an engaging and educational experience for the whole family.
Graz Natural History Museum
Discover the wonders of nature at the Graz Natural History Museum. This family-friendly museum offers interactive exhibits covering topics like geology, mineralogy, paleontology, and zoology. With its fascinating displays, hands-on experiences, and educational programs, the museum is sure to spark curiosity and inspire young minds.
Styrian Armoury
The Styrian Armoury is an impressive historical museum, housing one of the largest collections of medieval weapons and armor in the world. A visit to this museum is sure to captivate both kids and adults, as they explore the fascinating world of knights and warfare. Guided tours are available, making it an informative and engaging experience for the whole family.
Boat Tours on the River Mur
For a unique and leisurely way to explore Graz, hop on a boat tour along the River Mur. These guided tours offer a different perspective of the city, as you cruise past historical sites and beautiful scenery. Kids will love the adventure of being on the water, while parents can sit back and enjoy the views.
UFO Observation Deck
For an out-of-this-world experience, head to the UFO Observation Deck, a futuristic viewing platform located on the top of the Schlossberg hill. Offering panoramic views of Graz, this unique attraction is a great way to see the city from above. A funicular railway takes you up the hill, making it a fun and easy trip for families with young children.
Graz Botanical Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Graz Botanical Gardens. This peaceful oasis offers a variety of themed gardens, including a tropical greenhouse and a butterfly house. With its beautiful plants, tranquil ponds, and winding paths, the gardens provide a serene setting for families to enjoy a leisurely stroll or picnic.
🍽️ Family-Friendly Dining in Graz
When it comes to dining out with the family, Graz has plenty of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Some family-friendly restaurants in Graz include:
- Gasthaus Stainzerbauer – Traditional Styrian cuisine
- Café Rosenhain – Café with a fantastic view and playground
- Pomodoro – Italian restaurant with a kids’ menu
- Veggiezz – Vegetarian and vegan dishes
- MyMuesli – Healthy breakfast and lunch options
🏨 Family-Friendly Accommodation in Graz
When looking for family-friendly accommodation in Graz, consider the following options:
| Hotel | Features |
|---|---|
| Hotel Mariahilf | Spacious family rooms, central location |
| Hotel Wiesler | Family suites, stylish design, close to attractions |
| Hotel Drei Raben | Family rooms, playground, pet-friendly |
| Hotel Daniel Graz | Contemporary design, family lofts, close to public transport |
| Augarten Art Hotel | Spacious apartments, indoor pool, playground |
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and family-friendly attractions, Graz is a fantastic destination for a memorable vacation with your loved ones. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip full of exploration, fun, and quality time spent together. Safe travels! 🧳✈️🇦🇹