What to Do in Graz in Winter (From a Local)

Austrian Veganderlust contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy.

I’ve lived in Graz for 13 years and I’ve always loved the time before Christmas in the city, it’s so magical!

There are so many amazing things to do in Graz in December, from exploring the beautiful Christmas markets and ice skating to eating some delicious roasted chestnuts and drinking some mulled wine.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Graz this winter, here’s everything you won’t want to miss!

Table of Contents

1. Find Your Favourite Christmas Market

A beautiful nighttime scene at the Graz Christmas Market, with a large, illuminated Christmas tree and cozy holiday stalls under soft lights. The illuminated 'I ♥ GRAZ' sign adds festive charm, making this market a perfect winter destination for visitors exploring what to do in Graz in winter. — Christmas Market, or Advent Market, at the main square

The best thing to do in Graz in winter, at least before New Year’s, is to explore the Christmas Markets. There are several markets right in the city center, where locals meet to enjoy a warm punch or a cup of Glühwein (hot mulled wine).

The largest market is at Hauptplatz, the main square. A favourite of mine is the market on top of Schlossberg, which is only open on the weekends leading up to Christmas. Check out my guide to the best Christmas markets in Graz!

Tip: You have to pay a deposit for the cup, which makes the price a bit higher than what’s displayed. Be sure to return the cup to get your deposit back!

Local’s Tip: Christmas in Austria is celebrated on December 24th, and most market stalls close for the season that day.

2. Look at the Light Show at City Hall

Another highlight of the Christmas season is the light show at City Hall at Hauptplatz. Each evening leading up to Christmas, starting in late November, the building is transformed with a stunning light projection. It represents a giant advent calendar.

Right in front of City Hall, you’ll also find the city’s big Christmas tree, decorated with numerous lights, creating the perfect holiday scene. Be sure to catch this light show when you’re strolling through the main Christmas market.

3. Admire the Christmas Tree Inside the Popular Department Store

A towering Christmas tree adorned with large red ornaments spiraling around its green branches, set inside a brightly lit, modern shopping mall. Surrounding the base are festive decorations, small pine trees, and neatly arranged gift displays. — How cool is that Christmas tree?!

The popular department store, Kastner & Öhler, in the old town of Graz, is definitely worth visiting in the holiday season.

Inside, you’ll find a stunning Christmas tree stretching up three floors, filling the store with festive cheer and making it a popular spot for holiday photos.

The café on the top floor is one of the best cafés in Graz because of its great view.

4. Look at the Ice Nativity Scene

One of the most unique holiday attractions in Graz is the Ice Nativity Scene (Eiskrippe), located at Landhaus Courtyard. This life-sized nativity scene is sculpted entirely from ice!

The ice figures are illuminated, adding a magical glow to the courtyard and creating a serene winter scene that feels straight out of a fairytale. The Ice Nativity Scene is only on display in December.

5. Go Ice Skating

A festive outdoor ice skating rink at dusk, featuring a large illuminated reindeer sculpture at its center. Skaters, including children and families, glide on the ice surrounded by glowing fairy lights, colorful trees, and cozy wooden market stalls in the background. — Don’t forget a warm hat and gloves

Ice skating in Graz is a classic winter activity that’s now located at Jahngasse 3, after moving from its former spot at Karmeliterplatz. This outdoor rink is a wonderful place to enjoy the season, gliding across the ice always reminds me of when I was a kid.

You can rent skates on-site, so no need to bring your own. Just be sure to check the schedule, as the rink closes for 30 minutes every two hours for cleaning. It’s only open during the day, just Thursday, Friday, and Saturday it stays open later.

6. Eat Some Roasted Chestnuts

A close-up of a paper bag filled with roasted chestnuts held by a hand, with a green chestnut vendor’s stall visible in the background. The stall features a roasting barrel and signage, capturing the cozy street food atmosphere. — I love roasted chestnuts with a warm tea or punch

If you’re visiting Graz in winter, you have to try some roasted chestnuts. You’ll find vendors selling freshly roasted ones throughout the city, making them a perfect snack on a chilly day.

The chestnuts in their little paper cones are perfect for warming up your hands as you stroll through the wintery streets of Graz.

7. Hike up Schlossberg

A snowy view of Graz with the iconic Uhrturm (Clock Tower) in the foreground, its roof dusted with snow. The cityscape stretches into the background, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings under an overcast sky. — Snow is very rare in Graz

I know walking up to Schlossberg and visiting the Clock Tower on top are not specific winter things to do in Graz but they’re so iconic, you just can’t miss them, no matter when you visit.

The steps to Schlossberg are closed in winter, but you can stroll up the path starting at Karmeliterplatz. If you’re lucky, you’ll get some snow, which makes the view prettier, but there are usually only a few snowy days each year.

For other must-see sights, check out my post about the best attractions in Graz.

8. Buy Graz Inspired Christmas Baubles

A vibrant store display in Graz featuring Christmas baubles representing iconic landmarks like the Grazer Oper, Uhrturm, and Grazer Rathaus. This festive shop is a must-visit for those exploring Graz in winter or any other time of the year, offering handcrafted ornaments that showcase local culture. — These Christmas Baubles make for a great souvenir!

For a unique Graz souvenir, stop by the charming shop Kitsch & Kunst, where you can find Christmas baubles inspired by iconic Graz landmarks.

Their collection includes beautifully crafted ornaments of Grazer Landmarks like the Clock Tower or Kunsthaus, perfect for adding a bit of Graz to your holiday decorations.

They also have plenty of other baubles, I got a turtle shaped one for my mum and a camper van shaped one for my dad once.

Fun fact: Kitsch & Kunst sells these baubles year-round, making it a quirky and memorable activity to do in Graz no matter the season.

9. Check Out Some Museums

A row of medieval suits of armor displayed inside the Landeszeughaus, the Styrian Armory in Graz, Austria. The dimly lit room is filled with armor and weaponry, showcasing the history of military equipment. The Landeszeughaus is one of the most significant museums in Graz, offering a glimpse into its extensive collection of arms and armor from the past. — The historic armoury in Graz city center

Exploring a museum is an ideal activity in Graz when the weather outside is too cold. While it’s not christmasy at all, it’s still one of the great things to do in Graz in winter.

From the contemporary art at the Kunsthaus, with its iconic “friendly alien” design, to the impressive Landeszeughaus, home to the world’s largest historic armory, there are plenty of fascinating museums in Graz waiting to be explored.

Schloss Eggenberg is the only museum that closes for the winter season, all others stay open year-round.

10. Relax in a Sauna

Warming up in a sauna is the perfect way to relax on a cold winter day in Graz. You can enjoy a relaxing sauna session at the Auster or Bad zur Sonne, both popular public baths in Graz.

If you’re up for a special spa experience, I highly recommend a day trip to Bad Blumau, my favorite thermal bath, where you can soak in some natural hot water.

Fun fact: Saunas in Austria are typically mixed-gender and nude! Only hotel saunas permit swimwear, as they cater to international guests unfamiliar with this tradition.

11. See the Krampus in a Neighbouring Town

A person dressed in a traditional Krampus costume with fur, horns, and a menacing mask, carrying a bundle of branches, walks down a snow-covered street in Austria. — A Krampus in a small town in Austria

You may have heard of Austria’s unique Krampus tradition, where people dress as terrifying, horned demons and roam the streets alongside Saint Nicholas, who brings treats like nuts, oranges, and chocolates for well-behaved children.

Graz used to host a major Krampus parade with hundreds of costumed Krampuses marching down Herrengasse, the city’s main shopping street. However, this large-scale event hasn’t taken place in recent years due to budget cuts.

You can still experience this unforgettable tradition in nearby towns, where Krampus parades are alive and well. Check out this list of parades close to Graz to see where you can catch a Krampus run!

Final Thoughts: Winter in Graz

If you’re considering a winter visit to Graz, late November to December is perfect. The Christmas markets are lively, the streets glow with lights, and with cups of hot punch and the scent of roasted chestnuts, Graz in December is truly magical.

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend visiting in January, though. With the markets closed and the skies often a bit grey, the city does lose its festive spark.

So if you’re looking for the best time to visit, stick to December. And before you plan your stay, check out my post on where to stay in Graz for the best spots in the city centre.