Schlossberg

The Schlossberg is the forested hill at the centre of Graz, rising 473 metres above sea level and offering the best views over the city's orange-tiled rooftops and the Mur river valley. The hill is accessible on foot via 260 steps, by funicular from Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Kai, or by glass lift cut through the rock from Schlossbergplatz — the lift alone is worth the experience.

At the summit you'll find the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), Graz's most recognisable symbol, and the Glockenturm (Bell Tower). The terraces and gardens around them are a genuine urban park: Graz residents come here to read, eat lunch, or simply sit above the city noise. There is a café and restaurant up top, but the views are free. The hill is open at all times.

things to do sight park
A story
The Schlossberg was the original fortress of Graz, and Napoleon tried twice to take it — and failed. When he finally controlled the city in 1809, the Treaty of Schönbrunn compelled Graz to demolish the castle. The citizens, unwilling to lose their landmark entirely, raised funds to buy back two of its towers. The Clock Tower and the Bell Tower still stand; everything else was blown up.