When you visit Graz, you might first think of the Schlossberg, the Kunsthaus, or the Murinsel. But sometimes it's not the big sights that stick in your memory the most – it's the small, hidden places you discover almost by chance. Franciscan Quarter in the inner city is just such a place: centrally located, but surprisingly quiet; steeped in history, but never crowded.
Just a few steps from Graz's main square, a simple gate opens into a courtyard that seems to have stepped out of time. Gentle rays of light filter through the pointed arches, birds chirp, and the noise of the city remains outside the door. The cloister of the Franciscan monastery is a place to pause – for the curious, for those seeking peace and quiet, and for anyone who wants to experience Graz from its quiet side.
Tourists seeking a momentary escape from the hectic pace of the city will find this an ideal stopover: authentic, atmospheric, and steeped in history. The Franciscan monastery is one of the oldest religious buildings in the city—and its courtyard is definitely one of the underrated highlights of the old town.
The Franciscan Monastery Graz Founded in 1239, it is the oldest monastery in the city. The Franciscan Church, which is attached to the monastery, impresses with its Gothic architecture and its striking tower, which was built as a town tower in the 17th century.
Particularly worth seeing is the Gothic cloister, which encloses a quiet courtyard. The walls of the cloister are inscribed with the names and dates of important citizens and noblemen from the 15th to 18th centuries who found their final resting place here.
Visit the courtyard in the morning, when sunlight streams through the arcades, creating a special light show. Take a moment to sit on one of the benches and absorb the special atmosphere of this place.
Please accept Statistics cookiesto view the map.
We use Leaflet.js and OpenStreetMap – a GDPR-friendly alternative to Google Maps. When you load the map, your IP address is transmitted to OpenStreetMap's servers. Leaflet itself does not store any data.
Whether hidden courtyards, quiet squares or little surprises in the middle of the city – Graz has countless corners just waiting to be discovered.
Sign up for the exploreGRAZ newsletter and find out every month which places will truly surprise you. Personally selected, lovingly described—and guaranteed, nothing off the shelf.
The Franciscan Quarter is strategically perfectly located:
Enjoy a stylish breakfast with a view: The Freiblick on the roof of Kastner & Öhler offers you panoramas, atmosphere and enjoyment in the heart of Graz's old town.
Freiblick Rooftop at Kastner & Öhler
A real insider tip for gourmets: Delikatessen Nussbaumer in Paradeisgasse has been combining old town flair, personal advice and the finest specialities for over 100 years.
Nussbaumer Delicatessen
In the centre of Lend, the futuristic Kunsthaus building nestles up against the historic Eiserne Haus. The "Friendly Alien" is not only one of the most unusual buildings in Graz, but also home to exciting exhibitions of contemporary art and digital media.
Kunsthaus Graz
The Murpromenade is one of the most beautiful paths through Graz - over 13 kilometres along the river, past parks, bridges, cafés and highlights such as Murinsel and Augarten. Perfect for walking, cycling and switching off - right in the centre of the city.
Mura promenade
Baroque church with onion domes and a simple interior right on Mariahilferplatz - a spiritual place of peace in the centre of lively Lend.
Mariahilfer Church
English (UK) 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Français 
Slovenščina 
Español 
Magyar 
Čeština 
Polski