Sometimes it's not the major sights, but the quiet streets that truly bring you closer to the soul of a city. Peterstalstraße in Graz's St. Peter district is just such a place. There's no hustle and bustle, no neon signs, no tourist trappings – instead, there are old trees, manicured gardens, hidden courtyards, and a relaxed atmosphere that immediately slows you down.
The road winds along a green slope, past old manor houses, small chapels, farms, and contemporary residential architecture. It connects the present with the past: What was once a rural area with vineyards, fields, and small farms is now a green retreat steeped in history – and a true sense of the good life. People who don't seek the hustle and bustle live here – and travelers who find their way here are rewarded with a very special piece of Graz.
A true sense of life unfolds around Peterstalstrasse – one you won't find in a guidebook, but rather on a walk with your eyes wide open. Perhaps past the Petersbach stream, perhaps to Lustbühel Castle, or simply through the quiet side streets where lilacs grow over the fences and the golden sun shines through the treetops.
Peterstalstrasse leads through one of the most original districts of St. Peter – an area that was used for agriculture centuries ago. To this day, the structure has retained some of its village character: scattered old wall remnants, simple single-family homes, and modern urban villas stand side by side, all in a kind of unpretentious juxtaposition. This is precisely what makes this area so appealing – it seems to have grown naturally, not been planned.
A special place in the area is Lustbühel Castle. Once a country estate, later an observatory, and now a local recreation area, the castle is just a few minutes' walk away and, with its park and gentle views of Graz, is a popular destination for walkers. The nearby Lustbühel Nature Reserve also invites you to experience nature in the heart of the city.
What makes Peterstalstraße special is its complexity. You're in Graz—and yet a little outside of it. You're in peace—and yet you're quickly back in the heart of the city. The street is a lifeline, but not one pulsating with traffic; rather, life flows leisurely along it.
For explorers who appreciate the local flair, this is a little insider tip. Here, you'll experience Graz not as staged, but simply as it is – charming, understated, and surprisingly diverse.
Set off along the Petersbach stream and stroll to Lustbühel Castle. Especially in spring, when nature is in full bloom, or in autumn, when the leaves glow golden, the surroundings unfold their very own magic. And if you have time, sit on one of the benches in the castle park, enjoy the view over Graz, and simply let the moment sink in.
Address:
Peterstalstraße, 8042 Graz
Journey:
Take bus lines 64 or 64E to the “Pachernweg” stop, then walk for a few minutes – or cycle along one of the many small side paths through St. Peter.
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.
Schloss Lustbühel in Graz-Waltendorf is a relaxed mix of petting zoo, wine tavern, walking trails and panoramic views - perfect for families, those seeking peace and quiet and Graz explorers.
Lustbühel Castle
The Ruperti Church in Hohenrain is a quiet, spiritual place with a long history and a wonderful view over Graz - perfect for anyone who wants to experience quiet places and genuine culture.
Ruperti Church
The Petersbergen local chapel is a quiet jewel in the south-east of Graz - ideal for anyone looking for peace, history and a real atmosphere when exploring the city.
Petersbergen local chapel
The parish church of Graz-St. Peter is a baroque jewel in the east of Graz - quiet, steeped in history and atmospheric. A real insider tip for anyone who wants to go off the beaten track away from the historic city centre.
Parish Church of Graz-St. Peter
The Graz primeval forest on Messendorfberg is a natural retreat in the St. Peter district - wild, diverse and surprisingly unspoilt. Ideal for nature lovers, those seeking peace and quiet and anyone who wants to experience Graz in a different way.
Graz Primeval Forest
English (UK) 
Deutsch 
Italiano 
Français 
Slovenščina 
Español 
Magyar 
Čeština 
Polski