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12 Day Trips from Graz: Austrian Adventures by Train and Car
Discover authentic Austrian experiences within 3 hours of Graz, from wine valleys and thermal spas to medieval castles and alpine lakes.

Wine Tasting in South Styrian Wine Route
The South Styrian Wine Route near Ehrenhausen offers Austria's premier wine region experience just south of Graz. This picturesque area produces exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay wines amid rolling vineyard hills. Family-run wineries provide intimate tastings with passionate vintners who share generations of winemaking knowledge. The region combines stunning countryside views with world-class wines, making it perfect for wine enthusiasts and scenic drive lovers. Small villages dot the landscape, each offering unique cellar experiences. The area is Austria's answer to Tuscany, with gentle hills covered in meticulously maintained vineyards. Local wineries often include traditional Buschenschanken restaurants serving regional specialties alongside their wines.
How to get there from Graz. Drive south from Graz on A9 motorway toward Slovenia for about 45 minutes. Take Exit Ehrenhausen and follow signs to Weinstraße. Public transport requires regional bus connections from Graz Hauptbahnhof, but rental car provides flexibility to visit multiple wineries.
Major activities. Wine tastings at family-run wineries, scenic drives through vineyard landscapes, traditional Buschenschanken dining, cellar tours, harvest season participation, photography of rolling hills
Recommended restaurants. Traditional Buschenschanken serve regional dishes like pumpkin seed oil specialties, local cheeses, cold cuts, and seasonal vegetables. Many wineries offer food pairings with their wines in rustic tavern settings.
How to buy tickets. Most wineries accept walk-ins, but booking ahead ensures availability especially during peak season. Contact wineries directly or through local tourism offices for group tastings and special experiences.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the exceptional wine quality, particularly Sauvignon Blanc varieties. The scenic drive through vineyard hills receives consistent acclaim. Winery owners are noted for their hospitality and English-speaking abilities. Many highlight the authentic Austrian wine culture experience.
Limited public transportation makes car rental necessary for most visitors. Some wineries require advance booking, especially during harvest season. Language barriers occasionally occur at smaller family operations. Weekend crowds can impact the intimate experience.
Riegersburg Castle and Vulkanland Region
Riegersburg Castle stands dramatically on a volcanic rock outcrop in Austria's Vulkanland region, offering spectacular panoramic views and fascinating medieval history. This fortress showcases impressive architecture, witch trial exhibitions, and bird of prey demonstrations. The surrounding Vulkanland features volcanic landscapes, thermal spas, and charming villages. The castle museum displays authentic medieval artifacts and weapons collections. Interactive exhibits bring centuries of history to life through engaging storytelling. The region combines cultural heritage with natural beauty, making it perfect for history enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking an authentic Austrian experience beyond typical tourist destinations.
How to get there from Graz. Drive southeast from Graz via A2 highway to Gleisdorf exit, then follow signs to Riegersburg (approximately 45 minutes). Regional buses operate from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Feldbach, then transfer to local bus to Riegersburg village. Train service available to Feldbach station with bus connections. Car rental recommended for exploring the broader Vulkanland region efficiently.
Major activities. Castle tours, medieval exhibitions, bird of prey demonstrations, panoramic viewing, hiking trails, Vulkanland exploration, thermal spa visits, regional wine tasting, photography, historical reenactments
Recommended restaurants. Castle tavern serves traditional Austrian cuisine, local Gasthofs in Riegersburg village offer regional specialties, thermal spa restaurants in nearby Bad Gleichenberg, wine taverns (Buschenschanken) throughout Vulkanland region
How to buy tickets. Tickets available online through official castle website or at entrance. Online booking offers slight discounts and guarantees entry during busy periods. Combination tickets available for castle and bird shows.
Summary of reviews from
Riegersburg Castle sits dramatically on a volcanic peak in Styria, Austria, offering breathtaking panoramic views of countryside and vineyards. This 12th-century fortress features fascinating museums about witch trials, medieval weapons, and noble life. Visitors can hike up through vineyards or take a funicular. The well-preserved castle has 108 rooms and serves regional cuisine.
No significant negative aspects were mentioned in the reviews. All visitors praised the castle's beauty, historical significance, and accessibility options.
Reviews summarized from between May 2025 and Sep 2025
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the stunning castle views, well-preserved medieval architecture, and engaging historical exhibits. The bird of prey shows receive excellent ratings for entertainment value. Many appreciate the authentic medieval atmosphere and knowledgeable staff. The castle's dramatic clifftop location creates memorable photo opportunities.
Some visitors find the steep climb to the castle challenging, especially in hot weather. Limited dining options within the castle disappoint some guests. Parking can be crowded during peak season. A few reviewers mention that exhibits could benefit from more English translations.
Thermal Springs and Historic Town Center
Bad Radkersburg combines Austria's southernmost thermal spa resort with a remarkably preserved medieval town center dating to the 13th century. The Parktherme spa features indoor and outdoor thermal pools fed by natural springs reaching 80°C, while the historic old town showcases Renaissance facades, ancient city walls, and charming cobblestone streets. This dual experience offers relaxation in mineral-rich waters alongside exploration of authentic Austrian architecture. The town sits on the Slovenian border, creating a unique cultural blend. Visitors can soak in therapeutic waters, then stroll through centuries-old streets lined with traditional Austrian buildings. The combination of wellness tourism and historical significance makes this an ideal day trip for those seeking both rejuvenation and cultural immersion.
How to get there from Graz. Take the regional train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Bad Radkersburg station, which runs several times daily. Alternatively, drive via A9 motorway south to A2, then exit at Bad Radkersburg. The train journey offers scenic countryside views through southern Styria.
Major activities. Thermal spa bathing, historic town center walking tours, city wall exploration, Renaissance architecture viewing, cross-border visits to Slovenia, cycling along Mur River, local museum visits
Recommended restaurants. Traditional Austrian gasthaus restaurants, spa cafe, local Styrian wine taverns, small cafes in town center, limited but authentic regional cuisine options focusing on local specialties
How to buy tickets. Spa tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online at parktherme.at for potential discounts. Online booking recommended for weekend visits during peak season to guarantee entry times.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the clean, well-maintained thermal pools with varying temperatures and the beautifully preserved medieval town center. Many highlight the reasonable spa prices, friendly staff, and the unique experience of combining wellness with historical sightseeing in one location.
Some visitors mention limited dining options in the town center and that the thermal spa can get crowded on weekends. A few note that English signage is minimal and the town feels quite small for extended visits beyond the spa experience.
Apple Road Cycling and Farm Visits
The Apple Road cycling route through Puch bei Weiz offers an authentic Austrian countryside experience combining scenic cycling paths with traditional apple farm visits. This 25-kilometer route winds through rolling hills dotted with orchards where families have grown apples for generations. Cyclists stop at multiple farms to sample fresh apple varieties, homemade apple cider, and traditional Austrian apple strudel. The route provides stunning views of the Styrian landscape while supporting local agriculture. Farm owners share stories about their heritage varieties and sustainable growing practices. The experience peaks during harvest season when visitors can pick apples directly from trees. This day trip perfectly blends active outdoor recreation with cultural immersion and culinary discovery.
How to get there from Graz. Drive 45 minutes northeast from Graz city center via A2 and B54 highways to reach Puch bei Weiz. Public transport requires taking regional bus 890 from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Weiz, then local bus to Puch bei Weiz. Rental bikes available at the starting point near Puch village center.
Major activities. Cycling through apple orchards, farm visits, apple picking, cider tasting, apple strudel making workshops, photography in scenic countryside
Recommended restaurants. Farm cafes serving apple strudel and traditional Austrian dishes, local gasthofs offering regional cuisine, picnic areas at participating farms with fresh apple products
How to buy tickets. Contact Puch bei Weiz tourism office or participating farms directly to arrange guided tours and ensure farm availability during your visit dates
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the authentic farm experiences and generous apple tastings. Families love the easy cycling terrain suitable for children. The stunning autumn scenery and friendly farm owners create memorable interactions. Fresh apple products and traditional recipes receive excellent reviews.
Some cyclists find limited shade during summer heat. Weather dependency can disappoint visitors during rainy periods. A few farms may be closed outside harvest season. Language barriers exist at smaller family-run operations without English-speaking guides.
Medieval Castle and Local Brewery
Kornberg Castle towers above Bruck an der Mur, offering panoramic views of the Alpine foothills and Mur Valley. This 13th-century fortress features well-preserved medieval architecture, interactive exhibits, and guided tours through ancient halls and courtyards. The experience pairs perfectly with Gösser Brewery, Austria's oldest brewery founded in 1860. Visitors explore traditional brewing methods, sample fresh pilsners and wheat beers, and enjoy hearty Austrian cuisine in the historic beer garden. The combination delivers authentic Austrian culture, from medieval history to modern brewing traditions, making it an ideal day trip for history enthusiasts and beer lovers seeking genuine local experiences beyond Graz's city limits.
How to get there from Graz. Take the S1 S-Bahn train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Bruck an der Mur station (45 minutes). From the station, walk 15 minutes uphill to Kornberg Castle or take local bus 880. Gösser Brewery is located 10 minutes from the train station by foot. Alternatively, drive via A9 autobahn (40 minutes) with parking available at both locations.
Major activities. Medieval castle tours, brewery tastings, historical exhibitions, panoramic viewing, traditional Austrian dining, guided walks through fortress grounds, beer production demonstrations, souvenir shopping
Recommended restaurants. Gösser Bräu restaurant serves traditional schnitzel, goulash, and sausages. The brewery beer garden offers lighter fare including pretzels and regional specialties. Castle café provides coffee and pastries with mountain views
How to buy tickets. Castle tickets available online or at entrance. Brewery tours can be reserved through Gösser website or by phone. Group discounts available for 10+ people. Combined tickets sometimes offered for both attractions.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the castle's stunning valley views and well-preserved medieval rooms. The brewery tour receives high marks for knowledgeable guides and excellent beer tastings. Many appreciate the authentic Austrian atmosphere and reasonable pricing. The combination creates a perfect day exploring local history and culture.
Some visitors find the castle tour brief for the entrance fee. Limited English signage can challenge non-German speakers. The uphill walk to the castle proves steep for mobility-impaired guests. Weekend brewery tours sometimes feel rushed due to larger crowds.
Alpine Lake and Mountain Railway
The alpine railway journey to Hochschwab Alpine Lakes near Aflenz Kurort offers breathtaking mountain scenery and pristine lake access. This historic cogwheel railway climbs through dense forests to reveal spectacular alpine panoramas. The destination features crystal-clear mountain lakes perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful contemplation. Multiple walking trails range from easy lakeside paths to challenging mountain routes. The area provides an authentic Austrian alpine experience away from crowded tourist destinations. Fresh mountain air and dramatic limestone peaks create an unforgettable day trip. Local wildlife sightings include marmots and alpine birds. The railway itself is an engineering marvel worth experiencing.
How to get there from Graz. Drive from Graz city center via A9 motorway north to Bruck an der Mur, then take B20 west to Aflenz Kurort. Total driving time approximately 90 minutes. Public transport requires train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Bruck an der Mur, then regional bus to Aflenz Kurort. The alpine railway station is located in the village center.
Major activities. scenic railway ride, alpine hiking, lake photography, nature walks, mountain climbing, wildlife watching
Recommended restaurants. mountain hut with traditional Austrian dishes, limited snack bar at railway station, packed lunch recommended
How to buy tickets. Railway tickets can be purchased at Aflenz Kurort station or online through local tourism office. Advance booking recommended during summer months and weekends to guarantee seats on preferred departure times.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the stunning mountain views and peaceful atmosphere. The railway journey itself receives excellent reviews for scenic beauty. Many appreciate the well-maintained hiking trails and clear lake waters. Families enjoy the moderate difficulty levels and good facilities.
Some visitors mention limited food options at the destination. Weather dependency can disappoint travelers during cloudy conditions. The railway schedule is restrictive with limited daily departures. Parking can be challenging during peak summer weekends.
Stübing Open Air Museum
The Austrian Open-Air Museum Stübing showcases Austria's rural heritage through authentic historic buildings from across the country. Over 100 original farmhouses, mills, and village structures span six centuries of architecture. Each building was carefully relocated and reconstructed to preserve traditional craftsmanship and regional building styles. Interactive demonstrations bring history to life as costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional trades like blacksmithing and weaving. The 66-hectare site offers walking paths through different Austrian regions, making it Europe's largest open-air museum. Perfect for families and history enthusiasts seeking an immersive cultural experience beyond typical city attractions.
How to get there from Graz. Take regional train S1 from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Stübing station, then walk 15 minutes to the museum entrance. Alternatively, drive via A9 motorway north from Graz for 20 kilometers, taking the Stübing exit. Public bus connections are limited, making train travel the most convenient option for visitors without cars.
Major activities. Historic building tours, traditional craft demonstrations, seasonal festivals, guided walks, photography, picnicking in designated areas, educational workshops for children
Recommended restaurants. On-site restaurant serves traditional Austrian cuisine and regional specialties. Several picnic areas available throughout the grounds. Limited snack options at visitor center.
How to buy tickets. Tickets can be purchased online at the museum's official website or at the entrance. Online booking offers slight discounts and guarantees entry during peak season. Group discounts available for 15 or more visitors.
Summary of reviews from
This Austrian open-air museum showcases authentic historical buildings from all regions. Visitors enjoy freshly baked bread, seasonal markets, and hands-on activities. Set in a forest with free parking and tractor transport to entrance. Full day experience with watermills and demonstrations of traditional life.
Limited English translations make it difficult for international visitors. Weak internet signal prevents using translation apps. High entrance fee of 14.50 euros may deter some visitors. Requires full day commitment and parking is several kilometers from entrance.
Reviews summarized from between Jun 2024 and Aug 2025
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the extensive collection of authentic buildings and engaging live demonstrations. Families appreciate the spacious grounds and educational value. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved exhibits that showcase Austrian rural life effectively.
Some visitors find the site too large to cover in one day and note limited dining options. Others mention that certain buildings may be closed during off-season visits. Walking distances between exhibits can be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Lipizzaner Horse Farm Visit
The Lipizzaner Stud Farm in Piber houses Austria's legendary white horses, birthplace of the famous Spanish Riding School stallions. This working stud farm offers guided tours through historic stables where visitors witness these magnificent baroque horses in their natural environment. The 400-year breeding tradition continues today with expert handlers sharing fascinating insights about bloodlines, training methods, and daily care routines. Spring and summer visits provide opportunities to see foals and mares in pastoral fields. The experience combines equestrian history, Austrian heritage, and stunning Styrian countryside. Photography opportunities abound with the contrast of white horses against green alpine meadows.
How to get there from Graz. Take regional train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Köflach station, then catch connecting bus 890 to Piber village. Alternatively, drive via A2 motorway toward Klagenfurt, exit at Voitsberg, follow signs to Piber. The farm sits just outside the village center with clear directional signage.
Major activities. Guided stable tours, horse demonstrations, foal viewing, breeding facility visits, photography walks, educational presentations about Lipizzaner history
Recommended restaurants. Small on-site cafe with basic refreshments, traditional Austrian gasthaus in Piber village, limited dining options requiring advance planning
How to buy tickets. Book tours online at piber.com or by phone +43 3144 3323. Group rates available for 10+ people. Tours run April through October with limited winter scheduling.
Summary of reviews from
Beautiful countryside location featuring stunning Lipizzaner horses that visitors can interact with and pet. Rich historical significance makes exploring fascinating. Well-organized tours provide entertaining and informative guidance. Additional activities include zip-line and climbing park. Warm, welcoming staff create memorable experiences. Church visits offer unique organ concerts.
Guided tours are only available in German, limiting accessibility for non-German speakers. The destination primarily appeals to horse riding enthusiasts, so visitors without interest in horses may find limited appeal. Some visitors prefer to skip tours and explore independently instead.
Reviews summarized from between May 2024 and Aug 2025
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides who share passionate stories about horse breeding traditions. The peaceful rural setting and well-maintained facilities impress families. Many highlight seeing newborn foals during spring visits and appreciate the authentic working farm atmosphere rather than touristy presentations.
Some visitors find limited indoor activities during bad weather and note that tours can be cancelled for horse welfare reasons. A few mention that the gift shop selection is small and that refreshment options are minimal. Language barriers occasionally occur with German-only tour guides.
Mariazell Basilica and Railway Journey
The Mariazell Basilica journey combines Austria's most important pilgrimage site with an unforgettable vintage railway experience. The historic narrow-gauge Mariazellerbahn steam train winds through stunning Alpine scenery from St. Pölten to reach the baroque Basilica of the Birth of the Virgin Mary. This 19th-century basilica attracts millions of pilgrims annually with its miraculous wooden statue and ornate interior. The scenic railway journey itself becomes part of the spiritual experience, offering panoramic mountain views and charming Austrian countryside. The combination of religious heritage, architectural beauty, and nostalgic train travel creates a unique day trip that appeals to history enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and railway fans alike.
How to get there from Graz. Take a train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to St. Pölten (approximately 2.5 hours), then board the historic Mariazellerbahn narrow-gauge railway for the final scenic 1.5-hour journey to Mariazell. Direct bus connections from Graz are also available but take longer.
Major activities. Touring the baroque basilica, riding the historic Mariazellerbahn steam train, visiting the treasury museum, exploring the pilgrimage church interior, walking the town's historic streets, and enjoying Alpine mountain views during the scenic railway journey
Recommended restaurants. Traditional Austrian gasthaus restaurants serve local specialties, small cafes offer coffee and pastries, pilgrimage-themed eateries provide simple meals, and limited international dining options are available in the town center
How to buy tickets. Railway tickets can be purchased online at mariazellerbahn.at or at St. Pölten station. Advance booking recommended during peak seasons and weekends for guaranteed seating on the historic trains.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the breathtaking mountain scenery during the train journey and the spiritual atmosphere of the basilica. The vintage railway experience receives particular acclaim for its nostalgic charm and comfortable seating. Many appreciate the well-preserved baroque architecture and peaceful pilgrimage atmosphere.
Some visitors find the total travel time from Graz quite long for a day trip. The railway can be crowded during peak pilgrimage seasons and weekends. Limited dining options in the small town of Mariazell disappoint some travelers expecting more variety.
Herberstein Animal Park and Castle
Herberstein Animal Park combines a historic 13th-century castle with one of Austria's premier zoos spanning 40 hectares. The park houses over 600 animals from around the world in spacious, naturalistic habitats including big cats, primates, and exotic birds. The medieval castle offers guided tours through ornate baroque rooms and provides stunning views of the surrounding Styrian countryside. Families appreciate the educational programs, adventure playground, and petting zoo areas. The combination of wildlife conservation, historical architecture, and interactive experiences makes this an engaging full-day destination that appeals to visitors of all ages.
How to get there from Graz. Drive southeast from Graz via A2 highway toward Gleisdorf, then follow signs to Stubenberg am See and Herberstein. The route takes about 45 minutes by car. Public transport requires taking a regional bus from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Stubenberg am See, then a short taxi ride to the park entrance.
Major activities. Zoo tours, castle visits, animal feeding experiences, adventure playground, educational programs, guided historical tours, nature walks, petting zoo interactions
Recommended restaurants. Castle restaurant serving Austrian cuisine, snack bars throughout the park, picnic areas available, limited vegetarian options, seasonal outdoor dining
How to buy tickets. Tickets can be purchased online at herberstein.co.at for potential discounts or at the entrance. Online booking recommended during peak season and weekends to avoid crowds and secure preferred time slots.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the well-maintained animal enclosures, diverse wildlife collection, and beautiful castle grounds. Families love the interactive exhibits, educational programs, and children's playground areas. The combination of history and nature receives consistent acclaim.
Some visitors find the entrance fees expensive, especially for larger families. Limited dining options and crowded conditions during peak summer weekends are common complaints. A few mention that certain animal exhibits could be larger.
Rein Abbey and Surrounding Vineyards
Rein Abbey is Austria's oldest Cistercian monastery, founded in 1129. The Baroque church features stunning frescoes and intricate wood carvings that showcase centuries of craftsmanship. Surrounding vineyards produce excellent Styrian wines, particularly Sauvignon Blanc and Welschriesling. The abbey's peaceful courtyards and gardens provide tranquil spaces for reflection. Wine tastings at local vineyards offer authentic regional flavors paired with panoramic valley views. The combination of spiritual heritage and wine culture creates a uniquely Austrian experience. Guided tours reveal fascinating monastic history while vineyard walks showcase traditional winemaking methods that have defined this region for generations.
How to get there from Graz. Take regional train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Gratwein-Gratkorn station, then local bus 161 to Rein Abbey. Alternatively, drive via A9 Phyrn Autobahn to Gratwein exit, then follow signs to Rein Abbey. Car rental provides flexibility to visit multiple vineyards.
Major activities. Guided abbey tours, wine tastings, vineyard walks, church visits, monastery museum exploration, regional wine purchases, photography in historic courtyards
Recommended restaurants. Abbey restaurant serves traditional Austrian cuisine with local wines. Nearby Gasthof zum Kirchenwirt offers hearty regional dishes. Several vineyard restaurants provide farm-to-table dining with wine pairings.
How to buy tickets. Abbey tours can be booked online through official website or purchased at entrance. Wine tastings typically require advance booking directly with individual vineyards, especially during harvest season.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the abbey's remarkable preservation and knowledgeable guides who bring history to life. Wine enthusiasts love the high-quality local varietals and scenic tasting experiences. The peaceful atmosphere provides perfect escape from city crowds.
Some find limited English-language tour options frustrating. Weekend crowds can make vineyard tastings feel rushed. Public transportation connections require careful planning and multiple transfers that can be confusing.
Bad Gleichenberg Spa Town and Parks
Bad Gleichenberg offers Austria's premier thermal spa experience in a charming 19th-century resort town. The historic spa facilities feature healing sulfur and carbon dioxide springs that have attracted visitors for over 160 years. Beautiful parks surround the spa buildings, creating peaceful walking paths through manicured gardens and century-old trees. The town maintains its elegant Belle Époque architecture while providing modern wellness treatments. Perfect for relaxation after exploring Graz's urban attractions. Multiple thermal pools operate year-round at different temperatures. The combination of natural healing waters and scenic parklands makes this destination ideal for wellness tourism and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
How to get there from Graz. Take regional train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Bad Gleichenberg station, which runs hourly during peak times. The journey requires one connection in Feldbach. Alternatively, drive south on A2 highway toward Klagenfurt, then take exit toward Bad Gleichenberg via B66 and local roads. Public bus service also available but less frequent than train options.
Major activities. Thermal spa treatments, park walking, mineral water therapy, wellness programs, historic architecture tours, garden strolls, relaxation pools, and therapeutic treatments
Recommended restaurants. Hotel restaurants serving traditional Austrian cuisine, local cafes with regional specialties, thermal spa dining facilities, and limited but quality regional food options
How to buy tickets. Day passes for thermal facilities can be purchased on-site or online through the official Bad Gleichenberg spa website. Advanced booking recommended for specific treatments and during peak wellness tourism seasons.
Summary of reviews from
Visitors praise the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich thermal waters and professional spa treatments. Many appreciate the beautiful park setting and well-maintained historic architecture. Guests highlight the peaceful atmosphere and effective relaxation experience.
Some visitors find the facilities outdated compared to modern spa resorts. Limited dining options disappoint certain travelers. A few guests mention higher prices than expected for treatments and accommodation in the small town setting.
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