The second largest city in Austria, located in the southeast of the country, Graz is centred on the historic Old Town, which was granted UNESCO world heritage status in 1999.

Dominated by Schlossberg – a wooded hill looming over the city – Graz is a town of contrasts with remarkable contemporary architecture juxtaposed with gothic and renaissance masterpieces. Among the most important modern additions to the city is the striking Kunsthaus (Museum of Modern Art) which was designed by Peter Cook and Colin Fournier and has dominated views over the River Mur since 2003. The Mur Island – originally intended as a temporary exhibition to celebrate Graz's position as European city of culture in 2003 – has also proved popular, offering space for performances but also a resting place for sun-seekers.

The city's town hall, armoury, opera house and seminary all offer attractive short break options to visitors, while Graz's six universities are houses in some of the most interesting fascinating buildings in the city. Graz is also home to over 130 hotels, the majority of which are listed here, and also has its own airport.