If you are visiting Graz, Austria, it’s probably because it is a UNESCO World Heritage City, as well as a UNESCO City of Design. Even if you are visiting Graz on a business trip, you’ll still want to take advantage of this beautiful, pedestrian-friendly city. With that in mind, I recently stayed at the four star Grand Hotel Wiesler, located next door to the Graz Art Museum and overlooking the River Mur. With its convenient location to old town, I was able to fully explore Graz in a matter of days.
Built in 1909, the historic hotel was completely renovated in 2018. With 107 rooms, the hotel designers did a nice job of bringing together modern art and amenities, while keeping the old world charm of the building. The hotel does laid-back right; with its art installations and touches of whimsy. There are plenty of chandeliers in public areas and guest rooms, but the hotel also features an on-site barber shop for a bit of fun. Fancy a shave and haircut during your stay?
My king room with a River Mur view was called the Grand Independent. There are seven different hotel room categories, so standard to suite, there is something to fit every budget.
I loved the high ceiling, white washed walls and comfortable king bed in my hotel room. My favorite part of the day was checking the little candy dish next to my bed, featuring Austrian soft caramels. It’s little things like the local candies and in-room complimentary bottled water that made me appreciate this grand hotel.
Room rates start as low as € 105 per night, not including mandatory city tax. There is an additional fee for pets. Parking is available in the private lot behind the hotel.
You won’t need your car in Graz; I walked everywhere during my week long stay in the city.
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Restaurant and dining options
If this is your first time to Graz, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with all of the food choices. There are farmers markets galore and plenty of sausage stands in old town. However, Grand Hotel Wiesler has plenty of food options if you prefer to dine in.
Speisesall restaurant features breakfast, lunch and dinner. I selected a hotel package that included the daily breakfast buffet. The bountiful buffet included both hot and cold items, from eggs, ham and sausage, to lovely pastries, local meats and cheeses, fresh fruit, yogurt and even fresh fruit with chocolate fondue. There’s also a fancy espresso machine and fruit smoothies of several varieties.
If you prefer breakfast in bed, room service is available. Save room for afternoon tea and cake made in house. Dinners feature southern Austrian casual cuisine and a hardwood charcoal grill for steaks and specials.
The hotel offers specials, including seasonal and weekend deals, so check the website. Rates start at € 105 and continue skyward if you opt for the Arnold Schwarzenegger suite. This room is actually called the Grand Suite, starting from €310, it includes a free standing bath, rainfall shower, king-size bed, in-room safe, air-conditioning, fancy Talavera sink, hair dryer, flatscreen television, mini bar and parquet wood floors.
You can go to sites such as Hotels.com or Expedia to compare rates and look for a better deal before making your reservation.
Many celebrities have stayed in this room, including The Terminator himself, a local Austrian boy. Pictures in the main hallway by the staircase show other celebrities who have stayed at Hotel Wiesler, including Mick Jagger.
Hotel review and photography supplied by San Francisco Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown. She received a complimentary stay for review purposes while attending Propel Graz Conference. Thanks to Graz Tourism for introducing me to your city.
