Graz Christmas Markets: How To Spend A Magical Day

Are you planning on hitting the Christmas Markets in Graz this year and have no idea on where to start? Then you are in the right spot!

I have lived in Graz for about three years, and Advent times were always my favorite. This year, I got to take my mum on a tour of the best Christmas markets in Graz.

If you only have one day in the city and want to make the best out of the Christkindlmarkt, then this guide is all you need!

Let’s get to it!

Graz Christkindlmarkt Walking Tour

1. Kunsthaus Graz
2. Murinsel
3. Freiblick – Kastner und Öhler (Lunch)
4. Uhrturm, Kasematten
5. Sporgasse
6. Graz Cathedral
7. Glockenspielplatz
8. Färberplatz
9. Hauptplatz
10. Ice Nativity Scene im Landhaus
11. Landhauskeller (Dinner)

Murinsel

On our way to the Christmas markets in the Old Town Square, we’ll walk over a bridge that will give us a nice view of the Murinsel.

The Murinsel, or “Island in the Mur,” is a unique floating platform in Graz’s Mur River. It was designed by New York artist Vito Acconci.

It resembles a giant seashell and is as a bridge between the riverbanks. It lights up real pretty in the evening.

Kastner & Öhler – Freiblick

Kastner und Öhler in Graz is the most iconic shopping center in the city. Just like the Galeriès Lafayette in Paris, they have an impressively decorated tree inside each year.

This is a great spot to get gifts and souvenirs – they have everything in that store!

But the true highlight of the shopping center is a Christmas Market on the rooftop terrace. From there, you’ll have a lovely view over the city of Graz and the Uhrturm.

It is super cozy and they have a lovely selection of hot mulled wine.

Schlossberg, Uhrturm and Kasematten

The Schlossberg is a tree-covered hill in Graz, from where you’ll have lovely views over the city. On top you can find the Uhrturm, or Clock Tower. The 28-meter-high structure is the official symbol of Graz.

During the Advent season, the Schlossberg is the venue for the “Aufsteirern” Christmas market. It is held over five weekends leading up to Christmas. This market is mainly famous for Styrian culinary delights and handcrafted goods.

The Kasematten, former fortress cellars, are now serving as an open-air stage. They also get festively decorated and you can find some market chalets there.

You can either walk all the way up there (it’s not too bad) or take a railway.

Sporgasse

After we head down from the Schlossberg, we’ll walk along the Sporgasse. It is a super cute, small alley that will lead you from the main town square toward the old cathedral.

I love this alley, because it has cute decorations and there are lots of small stores selling great Christmas gifts.

Graz Dome St. Giles

Next stop on our Christmas walk through Graz is the famous Dome of Graz. Graz Cathedral, also known as St. Giles’ Cathedral, is a beautiful landmark that you should definitely check out.

Inside, the cathedral shows Gothic structure with Baroque elements that were added in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. You can definitely sneak a peak inside – it is worth it!

Färberplatz and Glockenspielplatz

On our way back to the town center, we’ll pass by the Färberplatz and the Glockenspielplatz. This area of the historic old town is especially pretty, with small Christmas markets tucked in every corner.

All of these atmospheric Christmas markets are within walking distance of each other, so make sure to venture around here a bit, you might discover some really cute alleys with decorations.

Herrengasse

Next, we’ll stroll along the most famous shopping street in Graz, called Herrengasse. The Christmas lights here are the most beautiful in the entire city.

You can walk all the way toward Jakominiplatz, there you’ll also find a small market. Alternatively, only walk until you reach the Landhaus, our next stop.

You’ll find cute stores, lots of art displays and charming little chalets here. Don’t forget to eat a classic Austrian Sacher cafe at the famous Café Sacher.

Landhaus Ice Nativity Scene

Each Advent season, Graz presents a stunning life-size ice nativity scene in the Landhaus courtyard. It is one of the highlights of this tour.

This tradition, which began in 1996, features life-sized figures which are carved from approximately 35 tons of crystal-clear ice. The display is beautifully illuminated.

You can walk in there all day, no tickets necessary.