Uhrturm, Graz

Monument, Tower and Viewing Point in Graz

Uhrturm
Uhrturm
CC BY-SA 4.0 / C.Stadler/Bwag

Perched on Schlossberg hill above the UNESCO-listed old town, the Uhrturm (Clock Tower) is Graz's most recognizable landmark and a must-see viewpoint for first-time visitors. You'll spot it from many streets along the Mur river, but the real magic is heading up the hill to stand right beside the tower and look out over the city's red rooftops.

Most travelers experience the Uhrturm as part of a walking tour through the historic center, then continue up to Schlossberg for panoramic views. The best places to see it are from Schlossberg itself (for close-up details) and from the old town below (for classic skyline photos with the tower on the ridge).

History and Significance of the Uhrturm

The Uhrturm is more than a pretty photo stop: it's a symbol of Graz and a reminder of the city's fortress past. Schlossberg was once heavily fortified, and the tower served practical roles over the centuries, including as a lookout.

A defining moment in its story came in the early 19th century, when much of the Schlossberg fortifications were destroyed during the Napoleonic era. The Uhrturm survived and became even more meaningful to locals as a cherished landmark that anchors Graz's identity.

Today, the tower's silhouette is part of everyday life in Graz, visible from squares, bridges, and café terraces. Visiting it adds context to the city's layout: you can literally read Graz from above, from the medieval core to newer neighborhoods spreading outward.

Things to See and Do in the Uhrturm

Start by circling the tower to appreciate its proportions and the way it crowns the hilltop. Then take your time at the surrounding terraces and paths, which offer multiple angles over the old town, the Mur river corridor, and the hills beyond.

Schlossberg is also a small “choose your own adventure” zone: you can pair the Uhrturm with a relaxed stroll through landscaped paths, a quick ride up and down via lift or funicular, or a longer wander that links viewpoints and small attractions around the hill.

For a simple, high-reward plan: arrive near golden hour, enjoy the views as the light warms the rooftops, then stay a little longer as the city begins to glow after sunset. Even if you only have 30 minutes, the Uhrturm delivers a memorable Graz moment.

How to Get to the Uhrturm

The nearest major airports are Graz Airport (GRZ) for the quickest arrival, or Vienna International Airport (VIE) if you're combining Graz with a bigger Austria itinerary. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Graz on Booking.com.

Graz is well-connected by rail, and arriving at Graz Hauptbahnhof makes it easy to continue by tram, taxi, or on foot toward the old town and Schlossberg access points. You can easily check timetables and book train tickets through the ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) website. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare routes, prices, and departure times all in one place.

If you’re traveling by car, aim for a central garage on the edge of the old town and continue on foot to avoid narrow streets and limited parking near the center. If you are looking to rent a car in Austria I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Uhrturm

  • Official website: https://www.graz.at/cms/beitrag/10267235/7776010/der_grazer_uhrturm.html
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Go early morning for quieter viewpoints, or late afternoon into sunset for the most dramatic light over the rooftops.
  • How long to spend: Plan 30–60 minutes for the tower area itself, or 2–3 hours if you want a full Schlossberg loop with stops.
  • Accessibility: The hill is steep in places; use the Schlossberg lift or funicular to minimize stairs and make the visit easier.
  • Facilities: You'll find cafés and restrooms around Schlossberg, plus plenty of benches and open space for breaks.

Where to Stay Close to the Uhrturm

Base yourself in Graz's Old Town (Innere Stadt) for the easiest walk to Schlossberg viewpoints, restaurants, and evening strolls.

Hotel Wiesler A stylish, design-forward stay near the Mur river with an easy walk into the historic center and quick access to Schlossberg routes.

Grand Hôtel Wiesler Included for travelers who want a classic Graz address with a lively atmosphere and a strong location for sightseeing on foot.

Schlossberghotel A favorite for proximity: you're close to Schlossberg access points, and it's ideal for early-morning visits before day-trippers arrive.

Hotel Daniel Graz Great for rail travelers thanks to its location by the main station, with straightforward transit into the center and a practical, modern vibe.

NH Graz City A dependable central option near key old-town sights, making it easy to build a walk that includes the Uhrturm and nearby museums.

Is the Uhrturm Worth Visiting?

Yes, the Uhrturm is absolutely worth visiting: it's the single best “Graz in one view” experience, and it's easy to fit into almost any itinerary. Even if you're only in town for a day, the combination of landmark + panorama makes it a high-impact stop.

Honest Pivot: If you dislike hills, viewpoints, or crowds at popular photo spots, you might skip the climb and simply enjoy the tower from below in the old town. Also consider skipping during bad weather, when visibility is low and the paths can feel less rewarding.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (8,310)

Landmark hilltop 13th-century medieval clock tower with a garden & panoramic town views.

Mahsa Hafezi
3 weeks ago
"Visiting the Uhrturm is a "must-do" that actually lives up to the hype. It offers the best panoramic views of the city's red-tiled roofs and thefuturistic "Friendly Alien" (Kunsthaus Graz) across the river. The surrounding gardens are meticulously kept, making it a favorite for both sunset-seekers and locals on a coffee break. Pro Tip: After you’ve enjoyed the view, you can take the Schlossberg Slide (the world’s tallest underground slide) to get back down to the bottom in about 40 seconds!..."
Debjyoti Banerjee
2 months ago
"Uhrturm, a historic clock tower, stands somewhere in Graz, built up in the 13th century. It’s a popular tourist destination, offering breathtakingviews of the entire city due to its high altitude. The surrounding environment is stu ing, with lush greenery and a beautiful landscape. Surprisingly, there’s no entry ticket required. However, you can purchase elevator tickets for €2.50 per person to reach the top. Alternatively, there’s a step-and-sloping path that leads to the top, although it can be quite tiring. The bottom of the Uhrturm is conveniently accessible by tram from the city centre...."
Olly Gronau
6 months ago
"Beautiful landmark. Cool lift to get up to the tower at a decent price. Once at the top you get rewarded with the most amazing views. It's evenpossible to go on a massive slide to get you back down. If you are in Graz or anywhere nearby go and have a look. You won't be disappointed. Very, very nice. Give it a try it's lovely...."

For Different Travelers

The Uhrturm works well for most visitors because it's flexible: you can make it a quick photo stop or a longer Schlossberg outing. How you approach it depends on pace, mobility, and what you want from Graz.

Families with Kids

Kids often enjoy the “castle hill” feeling and the sense of being up high above the city. Keep the visit fun by turning it into a short loop walk with frequent breaks and a snack stop.

If you want to reduce complaints about stairs, use the lift or funicular to get up and save energy for exploring the paths around the tower. The open space around Schlossberg also makes it easier to pause without feeling confined.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

For couples, the Uhrturm is a classic Graz date spot, especially around sunset when the city turns golden and the viewpoints feel cinematic. It's an easy place to slow down, take photos together, and linger over the skyline.

Pair it with a relaxed old-town walk and a dinner reservation afterward, and you have a simple, memorable evening plan. Staying nearby also lets you return later for a quieter nighttime look.

Budget Travelers

The Uhrturm is one of the best-value experiences in Graz because the landmark and views don't require a ticket. You can spend as long as you like wandering the hill paths and scouting photo angles.

To keep costs low, walk up via the stairs and bring a refillable water bottle and a small snack. If you’re watching every euro, save paid rides for the descent when your legs are tired.

History Buffs

History lovers will appreciate how Schlossberg frames Graz's defensive past and how the Uhrturm became a civic symbol after the Napoleonic era. The setting helps you visualize why this hill mattered strategically.

For deeper context, combine the tower with nearby Schlossberg features and a city-history stop in the old town. Seeing the skyline from above also helps connect historical districts to modern Graz.

FAQs for Visiting Uhrturm

Getting There

Walking up is rewarding if you like viewpoints along the way, but it’s steep. The lift or funicular is best if you want to save time or energy.
A good approach is from the Schlossberg area at the edge of the historic center, then follow signs upward. Starting from central squares keeps the route scenic and straightforward.
Yes, many city walks naturally lead toward Schlossberg, and the Uhrturm is often the highlight. If your tour doesn’t go up, you can easily add it afterward.

Tickets & Entry

No ticket is needed to visit the tower area and viewpoints. You only pay if you choose transport like the lift or funicular.
Some transport options offer bundled rides, which can be convenient if you plan to go up and down the hill efficiently. Check current options at the lift or funicular stations.
For the Uhrturm itself, no booking is required. Advance planning only helps if you’re coordinating a guided tour or a timed activity nearby.

Visiting Experience

The panoramic view is the star: it’s the best way to understand Graz’s layout at a glance. The tower also makes a great landmark photo from multiple angles.
It can be busy in peak season and around sunset. If you prefer quiet, go early in the morning or later in the evening.
If visibility is low, the views lose impact. On rainy or foggy days, consider focusing on museums and return when the sky clears.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Do the old town first, then head up to Schlossberg for the Uhrturm and views. Finish with dinner back in the center so you’re not rushing downhill.
Combine it with a Schlossberg walk and a stop at a café on the hill. You can also link it with nearby old-town landmarks for a balanced day.
A guided tour helps if you want historical context and a curated route through the old town. If you mainly want views and photos, self-guiding is easy.

Photography

Golden hour and blue hour are ideal for warm rooftops and city lights. Midday works for clarity, but the light can be harsh.
The terraces around the Uhrturm give classic skyline shots. Also look for angles from the old town below for the iconic “tower on the hill” silhouette.
Yes, the city lights look great from Schlossberg after dark. Bring a steady hand or a small tripod if you want sharper low-light shots.

Accessibility & Facilities

Yes, use the Schlossberg lift or funicular to reduce stairs and steep paths. Once on top, stick to the smoother main paths.
Facilities are available around Schlossberg, including near cafés and activity areas. Plan a quick stop before longer walks.
Yes, there are benches and open areas around the hill. It’s easy to pace the visit with short breaks.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, Schlossberg has café options that make a convenient break with a view. They’re especially nice for a mid-walk pause.
It’s smart to bring water, especially if you’re walking up. A small snack helps if you plan to explore the hill paths for a while.
Head back into the old town for the widest choice of restaurants. It’s easy to turn the visit into a relaxed lunch or dinner plan.

Safety & Timing

Schlossberg is generally comfortable for an evening visit, especially around the main paths and viewpoints. Use normal city awareness and stick to well-lit routes.
For sunrise, arrive a bit early to find your preferred viewpoint. For sunset, come 30–60 minutes ahead to enjoy the changing light and avoid feeling rushed.
Wear shoes with good grip, since paths can be steep and sometimes slippery. Bring a light layer because it can feel breezier on the hill.

Nearby Attractions to the Uhrturm

  • Schlossberg: The hilltop parkland around the Uhrturm with paths, viewpoints, and multiple ways up and down.
  • Grazer Altstadt (Old Town): A UNESCO-listed historic center packed with courtyards, façades, and walkable streets.
  • Hauptplatz: Graz's main square, perfect for people-watching and spotting the Uhrturm on the skyline.
  • Kunsthaus Graz: The city's contemporary art museum, famous for its bold “friendly alien” architecture.
  • Murinsel: A modern floating island structure on the Mur river with a café and striking design.

The Uhrturm appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Graz!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Am Schlossberg, 8010 Graz, Austria
Graz: 1 km
Telephone: +43 316 8075
Official Website

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