We visited Graz for one full day, two nights, in July 2002. Surprisingly, Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, after Vienna. Its historic centre (Altstadt) is said to be one of the best-preserved city centres in Central Europe.
Our visit focussed almost exclusively on the so-called Schlossburg (Castle Hill) a hill dominating the historic centre, site of a demolished fortress, and the city’s Uhrturm (Clock Tower).
Schlossbergbahn
We found the gardens on the hill top a little underwhelming, but I understand that they are far more attractive today than in 2002. However, the ride up and down on the Schlossbergbahn (funicular) was certainly interesting, and the views from the top were impressive (photographs below are from 2002).
Our hotel
We found an interesting hotel that was, and still is, attached to the side of the Schlossburg. So not surprisingly it’s called Schlossberghotel. It looks to have been totally renovated, and re-invented as a Kunsthotel, or art hotel. But it still has a small pool and terrace hanging on the side of the hill (photograph from 2002).
