Paid partnership with Austria Tourism
A tale of two cities
Sitting on opposite sides of Austria, Graz and Salzburg offer distinct yet equally captivating experiences.
The capital of Styria, in the south, Graz boasts a blend of medieval charm and modern innovation, with a UNESCO-listed historic centre, bustling markets and renowned festivals.
Clockwise from top left: The Mur cycle path in Graz main square; Gleinalm, a popular hiking area near Graz; Herrengasse, the city’s main shopping street; Das Frankowitsch Delicatessen shop.
In the east, Salzburg has been immortalised in “The Sound of Music” and as Mozart’s birthplace, combining baroque architecture and world-class music festivals with breathtaking alpine scenery.
Clockwise from top left: Groedig town with Untersberg mountains behind; Original Salzburger Mozartkugeln chocolates; Salzburg Festival at Kapitelplatz; The throne room at DomQuartier museum.
Both cities are cultural and technological hubs where tradition and innovation come together against an enchanting backdrop of Austria’s natural beauty.
Clockwise from top left: Cyclists along the Salzach River in Salzburg; The famous Salzburger Nockerl dessert; Mur Island in Graz; Lipizzaner Stud Farm in Piber.
Need to know
Getting there
Salzburg: The city is served by direct flights by British Airways from Gatwick and budget airlines from Luton and Stansted airports. There are also connecting flights from Manchester and Edinburgh.
Graz: There are daily indirect flights to Graz International Airport (Flughafen Graz) from Manchester, Edinburgh and all London airports, connecting via Munich, Frankfurt or Vienna.
Best time to go
Graz: Spring to autumn offers ideal weather for exploring Graz’s attractions.
Salzburg: Visit from mid-July to the end of August to experience the Salzburg Festival.
Where to stay
Graz: There are plenty of options in Graz for all tastes and budgets. Opt for the city centre for easy access
to attractions, with options including boutique hotels, cosy guesthouses and comfortable, modern apartments.
Salzburg: For an authentic experience, stay in Old Town, surrounded by historic charm and with easy access to iconic attractions. Alternatively, head out of town for picturesque alpine vistas and boutique guesthouses.
Why go
Graz: For its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, culinary delights, picturesque landscapes and welcoming atmosphere.
Salzburg: For its musical heritage, baroque architecture, breathtaking alpine scenery, beautiful Old Town and Mozartkugel chocolates.
How to do it
Graz: The public transportation system makes getting around easy. Buy a Graz Card to use public transport for free and explore the most important museums free of charge.
Salzburg: Explore the charming streets and Old Town on foot or by bike, or utilise the city’s reliable bus network for convenient transportation to key attractions.
Anything else
Graz: Savour culinary delights with must-try dishes like Styrian pumpkin-seed oil, Styrian breaded chicken salad and the iconic Styrian apple strudel. Be sure to also try the local wines.
Salzburg: Be sure to indulge in iconic delicacies such as Mozartkugel chocolates, traditional Mozartknoedel dumplings and the famous Salzburger Nockerl dessert.
More information
This article was brought to you in partnership with Austrian National Tourist Office.
Go to austria.info for more details, suggested itineraries and booking.
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