The word “advent” means “arrival”. It’s a time of joyful anticipation and busy preparations for Christmas. Plus, it’s a time when the Graz Region shines with special splendour.
Numerous Christmassy highlights are waiting for you in an around Graz, helping you pass the time until Christmas Eve.
As early as mid-November, the provincial capital of Graz becomes a Christmas wonderland with many attractions. Among others, the following Christmas highlights attract visitors to the romantic alleys: The old town of Graz is romantic - especially when it is illuminated in atmospheric Christmas lights, as in Herrengasse. But why are the Christmas trees hanging upside down in Stempfergasse? Artist Werner Stadler explains: If the trees were hung "correctly," you would only see the trunk and the large branches from below. An idea that is as unusual as it is effective - and one that you should definitely see for yourself! The facade of the town hall shines as a giant Advent calendar in the most colorful colors. If you like Christmas markets, you will love the GenussHauptstadt in the run-up to Christmas! A variety of Christmas markets invite you to stroll and linger - all of them within easy walking distance.
The surrounding area of Graz also sparkles and glitters: the nativity scene exhibition at Rein Abbey is a special experience. The winter magic and Christmas market at Rabenstein Castle promises a romantic atmosphere. The life-size wooden nativity scene in Laßnitzhöhe, which shines year after year in the spa gardens, is impressive.
Special crafts and regional specialties are the focus of the small but exquisite Advent market at Piber Castle. Here, at the Piber stud farm, is also where the world-famous Lipizzaner horses are bred before the best of them are sent to the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.
Just a few kilometers north of Graz, you will notice the romantic "skyline" of Frohnleiten, which is especially worth seeing during the Advent season. Lumagica, a fascinating park of lights at the Murhof near Frohnleiten, offers an unforgettable experience for the whole family with more than 300 illuminated objects. You embark on a magical journey into a glittering wonderland, past an enchanted world with glowing forest creatures, majestic figures and a wondrously illuminated natural backdrop.
The NOVA Köflach thermal spa is located to the west of the provincial capital of Graz, in the Lipizzanerheimat region. Feel good and enjoy - with more than 1,000 m2 of thermal water, you can unwind in the 34.5°C water and enjoy a relaxing pre-Christmas experience. The breathtaking sauna world with panoramic views and numerous other attractions leave nothing to be desired as a source of strength and energy.
The winter circus of Cirque Noël at the Orpheum in Graz invites you to be amazed over the Christmas holidays. The award-winning company Cirque Le Roux showcases the many facets of new circus with its two productions "The Elephant in the Room" and "A Deer in the Headlights".
It's easy to shake off the stress of Christmas in the Graz Region. Simply get out into the clear winter air, take a deep breath and set off! As rich in contrast as this region is, the winter hiking offers are just as varied - from leisurely walks in the flatlands to snowshoe or ski tours on wonderfully snow-covered peaks. In and around Graz as well as in the south, you can go for wonderful hikes and walks in the cold season. Except for a few days a year, the paths here are free of ice and snow. The mountains surrounding Graz are particularly suitable for ski tours and snowshoe hikes.
Head off, vacation on in the Graz Region! Laugh, eat and experience something together. Here you can find even more inspiration for a stay in the region: