Between tram lines, townhouses, and multicultural hustle and bustle lies one of Graz's most surprising parks – the Volksgarten. At first glance, it appears to be a completely normal green space, but a few steps inside quickly reveal that this is the heart of Lend. The Volksgarten is a retreat, playground, cultural space, and meeting place all in one.
Whether you're just looking to relax, out with kids, get some exercise, or appreciate urban street art and subtle monuments—this park has many faces. It's not perfectly manicured like a palace garden, but vibrant, colorful, and authentic. That's precisely what makes it so special. Here you can breathe deeply, people-watch, discover culture—and, along the way, experience a piece of authentic Graz.
The Volksgarten was created in the 19th century as a counterpart to the Stadtpark on the other side of the Mur River. A public park was created in 1872 on the site of the former Reinitzergarten, and it quickly developed into an important social gathering place. Amidst the historic tree-lined avenues, you can still find the Karl Morre Memorial (1907), a bandstand (1899), and the Kreuzkirche (Church of the Holy Cross), built directly on the park's edge at the beginning of the 20th century.
The atmosphere is urban, but never hectic. Plenty of greenery, large meadows, shady spots, and a healthy dose of Graz serenity make the park a popular place to hang out – for families, athletes, seniors, students, and everyone in between.
The Volksgarten is more than just a green space—it reflects the diversity of Graz. A wide variety of people meet here: to play basketball, have a picnic, go for a run, or simply sit and relax. The park symbolizes the openness of the Lend district.
A special highlight is the Peace Stupa, which was personally inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in 1998 – as a symbol of intercultural dialogue, tolerance, and global togetherness. You'll also find a skate park, a water wheel, playgrounds, and a constant stream of new street art – some of it official, some more hidden.
Come in spring, when the park is in full bloom. Sit on one of the park benches by the small pond with a coffee to go from the Lendplatz, or lie down on the lawn near the Kreuzkirche. If you're lucky, someone might be practicing the saxophone, a DJ might be spinning soft beats—or you might stumble upon a small open-air event that's never on an official schedule, but is all the more authentic.
Address:
Volksgartenstraße, 8020 Graz
Journey:
You can reach the Volksgarten by tram lines 1, 3, 6, and 7 (Südtiroler Platz/Kunsthaus or Roseggerhaus stations) or by bike along the Mur cycle path. From the Volksgarten square, it's just a few minutes' walk.
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Whether hidden courtyards, quiet squares or little surprises in the middle of the city – Graz has countless corners just waiting to be discovered.
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A real gem awaits you in the centre of the Lend district of Graz: the Mühl-Schlössl. The small baroque residence from the 16th century is quietly located on the edge of the Volksgarten and quietly tells stories from the past. Perfect for anyone who wants to discover Graz off the beaten track.
Mühl-Schlössl
Tucked away in a side street near Griesplatz is one of the oldest and quietest places of worship in Graz. The Bürgerspitalkirche combines Gothic austerity with Baroque splendour - and is a real insider tip for anyone who wants to discover history off the beaten track.
Bürgerspital Church of the Holy Spirit
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
Farmers' market at Lendplatz - truly Styrian! Fresh produce straight from the farms, right in the centre of Graz. This is where regional diversity meets lively city life - ideal for breakfast, shopping and a market atmosphere.
Farmers' market at Lendplatz
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
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