Getting Around: Graz

Public Transportation

Public Transit Systems

Holding Graz Linien manages Graz’s efficient public transportation system. It mainly consists of trams (Straßenbahn) and buses (Bus).

Network & Coverage

The network is well-connected and covers the entire city area.
Trams cover the main arteries, and buses fill in gaps.
Detailed route maps are available at major stops, online, and through the GrazMobil app.

Hubs & Operations

Jakominiplatz serves as the central hub. Hauptbahnhof is another major hub connecting to regional and national rail services.

Hours & Frequency

Trams and buses generally operate from approximately 5:00 AM to midnight.
During peak hours, trams run every 5-10 minutes. Off-peak, they run every 10-15 minutes.
Night buses operate on weekends.

Single Ticket

€2.80 for one continuous journey within Zone 101, covering the Graz city area.

Multi-Day Tickets

24-hour: €6.40. 72-hour: €13.50. Weekly: €19.80. Tickets must be validated upon first use.

Graz Card

Includes unlimited public transport (24, 48, or 72 hours) and free/discounted entries to many museums and attractions. Prices: €20 (24h), €30 (48h), €36 (72h).

Accessibility & Navigation Tips

Accessibility Information

Many trams and newer buses are low-floor, making them wheelchair accessible.
Major stops and hubs are also generally accessible.
While many public buildings make efforts towards accessibility, older parts of the Old Town may present challenges due to cobblestones and historical architecture.
Plan accordingly for individual needs.

Tips for Navigating Efficiently

Use the GrazMobil app or Google Maps for real-time schedules and efficient route planning.
Purchase multi-day tickets or the Graz Card for convenience and potential savings.
Validate your ticket immediately upon boarding to avoid penalties.
Familiarize yourself with the public transport network.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxi Identification & Hailing

Taxis in Graz are typically cream-colored and display a "TAXI" sign on their roof. Hail them on the street, find them at designated taxi stands, or book via phone or app.

Typical Fares & Payment Methods

Fares are metered. Base fare ~€3.50-€4.50, plus per-kilometer charge. Night surcharges apply. Cash accepted; many taxis accept credit/debit cards, but confirm with driver.

Recommended Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Bolt operate in Graz. Users can book rides via the app, presenting ease and cashless payment. Ensure driver and vehicle details match the app.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Minimum age 21 (surcharge under 25). Valid driver's license. An IDP is handy if your domestic license is not in English. Credit card for deposit. Major international companies operate in Graz.

Rental Info

Companies: Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Sixt, Budget at Airport & city locations.
Winter tires mandatory Nov 1 - Apr 15. Confirm rental includes them.
Austrian roads are generally well-maintained.

Bicycle Rentals

Graz is a bicycle-friendly city with an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and paths.

Bike Share & Shops

Nextbike Graz: popular bike-sharing system. Register via app.
Bike rentals from shops like Fahrrad Graz and Kaltenbrunner.
Helmets recommended for safety, not mandatory for adults.

Driving Regulations

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on motorways (unless otherwise signposted).

Laws

Austria has a low blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.05%.
A road tax sticker, "Vignette," is mandatory for motorways/expressways.
Rigorous enforcement of speed limits.

Parking Information

Parking in Graz city center is mostly paid. "Blue zones" (Blaue Zonen) offer short-term parking and require payment via parking ticket machines.

Parking Strategies

Multi-story car parks (Parkhäuser) are available but can be expensive.
"Park and Ride" (P+R) facilities on the outskirts offer cheaper parking with public transport connections.
Acquire Vignette at border crossings, petrol stations, or online before motorways.

Pedestrian & Cyclist Safety

Motorways are prohibited for pedestrians and cyclists.
Some narrow streets in the Old Town may become very crowded, making cycling difficult during peak times.
Use common sense regarding pedestrian safety.

Graz Old Town, an UNESCO site, is best explored on foot.
Schlossberg accessible via stairs, funicular, or glass lift.
Scenic walking and cycling paths run along the Mur River.

Specialized Transportation

Schlossberg Access

The Schlossbergbahn (Funicular) connects the city center directly to the top of the Schlossberg. The Schlossberg Lift (Glass Lift) is inside the Schlossberg hill.

Access Options

Funicular presents panoramic views during its ascent.
Glass Lift connects Schlossbergplatz directly to the Clock Tower and top plateau.
The lift gives an unique vertical experience and is faster for direct ascent.

Tour Services & Accessibility

Tour Buses and Hop-on-Hop-off services are available and offer a convenient overview of the city's main attractions.

Visitor Services

These tours enable you to see many sites without extensive walking.
Public transport, including trams and newer buses, is increasingly accessible. The Schlossberg Lift is also accessible.
While many public buildings make efforts towards accessibility, older parts of the Old Town may present challenges.

Walking

Graz Old Town, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, is best explored on foot.

Cycling

Graz is a very bicycle-friendly city with an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes and paths.

Schlossbergbahn

The funicular provides panoramic views during its ascent to Schlossberg.

Departure Guidance

No separate exit fees or taxes are typically paid upon departure from Austria. These charges are usually included in the airfare or train ticket price. For Graz Airport (GRZ): arrive at least 2 hours prior to scheduled departure for European flights; allow 3 hours for intercontinental flights (if connecting through a major hub). For Graz Hauptbahnhof (Hbf): arrive 15-30 minutes prior to departure for domestic and Schengen trains. Airport/station facilities are available for your convenience before departure.

Getting Around Graz