23 Best Museums in Graz: Which One Should You Visit?

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.

After living in Graz for 13 years, I’ve had plenty of time to explore the city’s museums. It’s such an amazing city to visit museums, especially with the Joanneum 24-hour or 48-hour ticket.

For a very reasonable price, you can visit as many Joanneum Museums as you like in a day, including some of the most famous museums in Graz, like the Styrian Armoury and the futuristic Kunsthaus.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the best museums included in the ticket, along with a few other hidden gems that are worth a visit!

Joanneum Museums – Great Combined Ticket

The following 10 museums are all part of the Universalmuseum Joanneum Graz, with a 24- or 48-hour ticket you can visit as many of these museums as possible. There are even more museums included outside of Graz.

1. Styrian Armoury

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

The Styrian Armoury (Landeszeughaus) is the world’s largest historical armory, with over 32,000 pieces of weaponry, armor, and military equipment from the 15th to 18th centuries.

It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Graz.

2. Kunsthaus

An aerial view of Graz, Austria, featuring the futuristic blue bubble-like architecture of the Kunsthaus Graz amidst a sea of traditional red-roofed buildings. The hills in the background create a scenic backdrop.

A long corridor inside the Kunsthaus Graz with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the city, including a nearby church tower. The sunlight streaming in highlights the modern design of the building.

The Kunsthaus Graz, known as the “Friendly Alien” for its futuristic design, is one of Graz’s most iconic attractions.

This contemporary art museum showcases rotating modern art exhibitions.

Don’t forget to visit the viewing platform on the top floor for amazing city views!

Insider Tip: The coffee shop inside the Kunsthaus is one of the most popular cafés in Graz.

3. Folk Life Museum

A rustic interior of an old, traditional farmhouse with dark wooden beams and vintage furnishings. The room features simple wooden benches, a large hearth, and a cozy living area, evoking a sense of historical rural life.

An exhibit featuring traditional Austrian folk costumes displayed on mannequins inside a glass case. The outfits include intricately detailed dresses and wide-brimmed hats, reflecting regional attire. In the background, a vibrant and colorful modern mural adds a contrast to the historical garments on display.

The Folk Life Museum in Graz offers a glimpse into traditional Austrian culture and everyday life.

The exhibits showcase different artifacts, from clothing and tools to furniture and religious items, all reflecting how people lived in rural Austria over the centuries.

There’s even an actual house inside the museum where you can see how people used to live.

4. History Museum

An ornate staircase inside the Graz History Museum, adorned with intricate wrought-iron railings and stone statues of cherubs holding lanterns. The ceiling above is beautifully painted with a fresco depicting mythological scenes, featuring clouds, angels, and architectural details in vibrant colors. The grand staircase and artwork offer a glimpse into the museum's historical elegance. — My favourite part is the building itself

The History Museum has rotating exhibitions about how things changed over time.

The last time I visited, there were three different exhibitions (history of radio, history of care work, and stories of the second world war). Only the exhibition about World War II included English translations, the other two were only in German.

The museum is located inside an old palace, that’s why it’s also called Museum im Palais Graz.

5. Eggenberg Palace (Schloss Eggenberg)

A front view of Schloss Eggenberg, a grand baroque palace in Graz, Austria, featuring ornate architecture with red-tiled roofs, tall towers, and surrounded by lush greenery. This historic landmark is a popular destination for visitors. — Photo: Universalmuseum Joanneum / Jare

This image depicts an ornate and grand hall with high ceilings, elaborate chandeliers, and large, classical-style paintings that decorate both the walls and ceiling. The floor is covered in a black-and-white checkerboard pattern, and the ceiling is richly adorned with intricate moldings and paintings. The chandeliers appear to be crystal, adding to the opulence of the space. Rows of chairs line the walls, giving the impression of a formal or ceremonial room. — Photo: Universalmuseum Joanneum/Gradischnigg

Eggenberg Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Austria’s main Baroque palaces. It’s still without electricity or heating in the state rooms. The highlight of any visit are the state rooms with the famous Planetary Room.

The state rooms are only accessible via guided tour (included in the ticket and available in English). They are closed during winter and you’re not allowed to take pictures inside.

You can also explore several other museums on the palace grounds.

6. Alte Galerie

A gallery room in the Alte Galerie in Graz, Austria, featuring religious artwork and sculptures. Large, colorful paintings adorn the walls, including detailed depictions of biblical scenes. The center of the room showcases glass display cases with intricately carved religious figurines, illuminated under soft lighting in a dark-walled space.

The Alte Galerie, located on the grounds of Eggenberg Palace, is an extensive art gallery for works from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period.

The gallery showcases mainly religious paintings and sculptures.

7. Archaeology Museum

A sign for the Archaeology Museum in Graz, Austria, situated along a pathway next to a white columned fence and wooden gate. The sign features the text "Archäologie Museum" with an arrow pointing ahead, along with an image of a historical artifact resembling an ancient chariot. The scene is bright and sunny, with autumnal trees and blue skies in the background. — Don’t miss the Archeology Museum, it’s a bit hidden

The Archaeology Museum is also located at Eggenberg Palace.

Its collection spans thousands of years, with artifacts from the Stone Age to Roman times.

8. Coin Cabinet

At the Museum Coin Cabinet, also at Eggenberg Palace, you can admire coins which where used in Styria from Antiquity to the Baroque period.

Museums at Joanneumsviertel

In the city center of Graz is one square with 3 different museums, these are also included in the 24-hour and 48-hour museum ticket for Graz.

9. Natural History Museum

A natural history museum exhibit showcasing taxidermied animals, including birds and a deer. The room is lined with botanical illustrations of plants and flowers, and various displays feature preserved specimens of wildlife in glass cases, offering a detailed look at nature.

The Natural History Museum in Graz showcases over 2 million exhibition pieces in the areas of botany, geology, mineralogy, mycology, paleontology and zoology.

10. Center of Science Activities

A museum exhibit featuring a smiling woman in a white lab coat interacting with a medical mannequin in a hospital bed. The background displays a large graphic of a DNA strand and scientific information, giving the scene a futuristic and educational atmosphere. — I loved playing doctor in the museum

The CoSA, or Center of Science Activities, is a fun and interactive museum designed to create curiosity about science and technology.

It offers hands-on exhibits that explore topics like physics, robotics, and the human body.

I really liked the room where you play doctor and have to figure out what disease the patient has. (Available in German and English)

11. Neue Galerie

A grand staircase with ornate white molding on the ceiling, leading up to a colorful modern art exhibit. The artwork features bold, geometric patterns and vibrant collages, creating a striking contrast with the historical architecture of the building.

The Neue Galerie Graz and BRUSEUM, located in Joanneumsviertel, features Austrian and international works of modern art from the 19th century to the present, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.

I really like the contrast of the modern art in such a historical building.

12. Graz Museum

A detailed model of the historic city of Graz, showcasing the old fortress on top of Schlossberg hill and the surrounding buildings. The model is enclosed in glass, and in the background, there are framed historical images and documents on the wall, providing context to the city’s architectural and historical development.

A commemorative plaque honoring Archduke Franz Ferdinand, written in German. The inscription states that Franz Ferdinand, heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne, was born in this house on December 18, 1863, and was assassinated in Sarajevo on June 28, 1914. The plaque has a weathered stone appearance with Gothic-style red lettering.

The Graz Museum is all about the history of Graz.

There is one free room at the entrance with a very cool miniature of Graz old town.

Fun fact: Archduke Franz Ferdinand was born in the building that houses the museum. His assassination in Sarajevo started the First World War.

There’s a second location of the museum on top of Schlossberg, which focuses on the history of Schlossberg, the Castle Hill in the center of Graz.

13. Shell Collection

An intricate metal chest displayed with its lid open, revealing an elaborate mechanism of gears, locks, and decorative engravings on the underside of the lid. The exterior of the chest features detailed reliefs of figures and ornate designs, with a black satin interior lining. The artifact is part of a museum exhibit, showcasing craftsmanship and historical artistry.

The Shell Collection, or Lock and Key Museum, is the world’s biggest collection of locks and keys and a true hidden gem in Graz!

I highly recommend taking a guided tour (if you prebook, you can get one in English).

They showed us exactly how treasure chests locked and how to look for hidden compartments, it was super interesting!

14. Diocese Museum

The Diocese Museum in Graz showcases religious art and artifacts, offering a look into the spiritual and cultural history of the region.

It’s located opposite of Graz Cathedral and the Mausoleum of Graz, two of the main sights in Graz.

15. Botanical Garden

The interior of a greenhouse at the Graz Botanical Garden, showcasing tall cacti and various desert plants. The space has a glass dome structure allowing natural light to flood in, highlighting the lush greenery and carefully labeled plants in the arid-themed environment.

The Botanical Garden in Graz, run by the University of Graz (where I studied!), is a peaceful spot perfect for a relaxing stroll.

It has multiple glasshouses with plants from different climates, plus lovely outdoor gardens with local plants.

The entrance to the glasshouses is free but make sure to check the opening times before hand.

16. Museum of Perception

A visitor smiles while peeking into a circular mirror at the Muwa Museum, which features interactive and modern art installations. The background shows exposed brick walls, minimalist seating, and colorful abstract shapes on the wall, creating a blend of historical and contemporary elements.

The Museum of Perception (MUWA) in Graz is a very small museum next to the Augarten park in Graz.

There were some cool exhibition pieces right at the entrance and the lovely lady working there explained how they work, that was very interesting.

But otherwise, I don’t really think it’s really worth visiting. There are just so many better perception museums out there.

17. FRida and FreD Kids Museum

A colorful children's museum exhibit with a red draped ceiling. The display includes a small stage for shadow puppets, with wooden stools arranged for an audience, and illustrated pigs with humorous expressions on the wall, creating a playful, imaginative space. — Shadow Theatre for the small ones

FRida & freD is a museum designed specifically for kids, making it a must-visit for families in Graz.

The museum features two changing, interactive exhibits: one for children aged 3 to 6 and another for those aged 6 to 12.

There are also free workshops in the museum.

18. Johann Puch Museum

A vibrant display of vintage red Fiat cars, including models from the Monte Carlo rally, surrounded by motorcycles and bicycles inside a spacious industrial-style museum. Informational panels and memorabilia add to the historical context of the collection.

The Johann Puch Museum is dedicated to the founder of the Puch automotive company, Johann Puch.

The museum showcases a variety of Puch’s creations, from bicycles and motorcycles to cars.

The oldest bicycle on display is from 1889!

19. Tramway Museum

The Graz Tramway Museum is a hidden gem showcasing a collection of historic trams mainly from Austria but one tram is even from New York City!

Unfortunately, it’s only open a few weeks each summer.

On special occasions, like the weekends before Christmas, you can see the historic trams in Graz. So, if you visit Graz in winter keep an eye out for the historic tram.

Best Museums Just Outside Graz

The following museums are not in Graz anymore, but they are just so good, I didn’t want to skip them. You can reach them by bus or by car from Graz.

20. Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum

A Harley-Davidson motorcycle is displayed in front of a large mural of Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator pointing a shotgun, under the quote “HASTA LA VISTA, BABY!”

The Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum in Thal, just outside Graz, is set inside Arnie’s childhood home.

Each room showcases a different chapter of his life, from his modest beginnings to bodybuilding trophies, Hollywood films, and his time as governor.

Wondering if it’s worth a visit? Check out my full post about the Arnold Schwarzenegger Museum here.

21. Sculpture Park

A dynamic sculpture composed of deconstructed airplane parts, stacked in a striking configuration against a bright blue sky. The artwork is situated on a grassy hill, with scattered trees in the background, adding contrast to the industrial sculpture. — One of the many sculptures

The Austrian Sculpture Park (Skulpturenpark) is an amazing free open-air museum with numerous modern sculptures spread across beautifully landscaped gardens.

It’s a great place for a walk on a sunny day.

22. Austrian Open-Air Museum Stübing

This image shows a rustic outdoor scene from the perspective of a covered porch or balcony. In the foreground, there are wooden beams and a fence, framing a view of lush green grass, a vegetable garden, and traditional wooden houses with thatched and shingled roofs in the distance. The backdrop is a serene landscape with trees and rolling hills, evoking a peaceful, countryside atmosphere.

The Austrian Open-Air Museum Stübing (Freilichtmuseum), part of the Joanneum Museums, is the perfect place to learn how people in Austria used to live in the past.

It features over 100 historic rural buildings from across Austria, carefully relocated to this location.

23. Museums in Schloss Stainz

A view of Schloss Stainz, a historical building featuring rows of tall, arched windows and warm, mustard-colored walls with white trim. The courtyard is bordered by manicured greenery, with a small tree centered in the scene, providing a tranquil atmosphere. — The courtyard at Schloss Stainz

Schloss Stainz, part of the Joanneum Museums, is a castle located in the Styrian countryside, just a short drive from Graz.

The castle itself is a beautiful Baroque building with impressive architecture. Inside are two museums, one focusing on hunting and one on agriculture.

Final Thoughts: Which Museum Should You Visit?

If you’re wondering whether to get the Joanneum 24-hour ticket, it’s definitely worth it, especially if you plan to visit more than one museums, as the ticket quickly pays for itself. However, your choice really depends on what interests you most.

Just remember to check opening hours before you go, as some museums have limited hours and aren’t open every day.

Make sure to check out my guide on Where to Stay in Graz for the best accommodation options nearby so you can visit even more museums!