Graz: Austria's Hidden Gem

• HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
• GoodbyeAuf Wiedersehen
  [owf vee-der-zay-en]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNein
  [nine]
• Please/You're welcomeBitte
  [bih-teh]
• Thank youDanke
  [dahn-keh]
• Excuse me/SorryEntschuldigung
  [ent-shool-dee-goong]
• How are you?Wie geht es dir?
  [vee gayt es deer]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Und dir?
  [goot oont deer]
• Do you speak English?Sprechen Sie Englisch?
  [shpre-khen zee eng-leesh]
• I don't understandIch verstehe nicht
  [ikh fer-shtay-eh nikht]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIch möchte bitte die Speisekarte sehen
  [ikh mer-kh-teh bih-teh dee shpy-zeh-kahr-teh zay-en]
• I don't eat meatIch esse kein Fleisch
  [ikh es-seh kine flysh]
• Cheers!Prost!
  [prohst]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIch würde gerne bezahlen, bitte
  [ikh voo-der gehr-neh beh-tsah-len bih-teh]

• Help!Hilfe!
  [hil-feh]
• Go away!Gehen Sie weg!
  [geh-en zee vekh]
• Call the Police!Rufen Sie die Polizei!
  [roo-fen zee dee po-lee-tsai]
• Call a doctor!Rufen Sie einen Arzt!
  [roo-fen zee i-nen artsht]
• I'm lostIch habe mich verirrt
  [ikh hah-beh meekh feh-rihrt]
• I'm illMir ist schlecht
  [meer ist sh-lekht]

• I'd like to buy...Ich möchte kaufen...
  [ikh mer-kh-teh kow-fen]
• I'm just lookingIch schaue nur
  [ikh sh-ow-eh noor]
• How much is it?Wie viel kostet es?
  [vee feel koh-stet es]
• That's too expensiveDas ist zu teuer
  [dahs ist tsoo toy-er]
• Can you lower the price?Könnten Sie den Preis senken?
  [kern-ten zee den prise zehn-ken]

• What time is it?Wie spät ist es?
  [vee shpeht ist es]
• It's one o'clockEs ist ein Uhr
  [es ist iyn oor]
• Half past (10)Halb elf
  [halb elf]
• MorningMorgen
  [mawr-gen]
• AfternoonNachmittag
  [nakh-mit-tahg]
• EveningAbend
  [ah-bent]
• YesterdayGestern
  [gehs-tern]
• TodayHeute
  [hoi-teh]
• TomorrowMorgen
  [mawr-gen]
• 1Eins
  [ines]
• 2Zwei
  [tsvai]
• 3Drei
  [dry]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Fünf
  [foontf]
• 6Sechs
  [zeks]
• 7Sieben
  [zee-ben]
• 8Acht
  [ahkt]
• 9Neun
  [noyn]
• 10Zehn
  [tsayn]

• Where's a/the...?Wo ist ein/der...?
  [vo ist iyn/dehr]
• What's the address?Was ist die Adresse?
  [vas ist dee ah-dreh-say]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Können Sie mir das zeigen (auf der Karte)?
  [kern-en zee meer das tsai-gen (ouf dehr kahr-teh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wann kommt der nächste (Bus)?
  [vahn kommt dehr nykh-ste (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eine Fahrkarte (nach ...)
  [i-ne fahr-kahr-teh (nakh)]

The history of Graz dates back to the Roman era when it was a small settlement known as 'Ad Murum'. The strategic location along the Mur River made it an important site for trade and military operations. Archaeological finds in the area highlight the significance of this early settlement in the Roman province of Noricum.

In the Middle Ages, Graz developed around a fortress built on the Schloßberg, a hill that overlooks the city. The fortress was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 12th century. It served as a defensive stronghold for the Duchy of Styria, protecting the region from invasions by Hungarian and Ottoman forces.

Graz became a crucial administrative center under the Habsburg dynasty in the late 16th century. Archduke Charles II of Austria established his court in Graz, which led to significant cultural and architectural developments. The city's Renaissance and Baroque buildings, such as the Landhaus and the Mausoleum of Emperor Ferdinand II, are remnants of this prosperous period.

The University of Graz, founded in 1585 by Archduke Charles II, is one of the oldest universities in Austria. It has been a center of education and research for centuries, contributing significantly to the intellectual and cultural life of the city. Notable alumni include Nobel Prize-winning physicist Erwin Schrödinger.

During the Napoleonic Wars, Graz experienced significant turmoil. In 1809, the city was occupied by French troops under the command of Napoleon Bonaparte. The Schloßberg fortress was partially destroyed, and the city had to endure heavy taxation and requisitioning by the occupying forces.

The 19th and 20th centuries saw Graz transform into a modern urban center. The construction of railways and industrialization spurred economic growth. The city expanded beyond its medieval core, with new neighborhoods and infrastructure. Graz also became a hub for the automotive and steel industries, further boosting its economic stature.

In 2003, Graz was designated as the European Capital of Culture. This recognition highlighted the city's vibrant cultural scene, which includes numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Kunsthaus Graz, an iconic contemporary art museum, and the Murinsel, an artificial island on the Mur River, are symbols of the city's commitment to modern art and architecture.

The historic center of Graz and the Eggenberg Palace were designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1999 and 2010, respectively. The recognition celebrates the city's well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, as well as its cultural and historical significance. These sites attract visitors from around the world, eager to explore Graz's rich heritage.

Graz is easily accessible by various means of transportation. The nearest international airport is Graz Airport (Flughafen Graz), located about 9 kilometers south of the city center. Direct flights connect Graz with several major European cities. Alternatively, Vienna International Airport is about 2.5 hours away by train, offering more extensive international connections. Graz is also well-connected by train, with frequent services from Vienna, Salzburg, and other Austrian cities. If you prefer driving, Graz is accessible via the A2 and A9 motorways.

Graz has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and regional trains operated by Graz Linien. A single ticket is valid for both trams and buses, and you can purchase tickets at vending machines, ticket offices, or via mobile apps. For short distances, cycling is popular, and there are bike rental services available throughout the city. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone or apps. For exploring the surrounding regions, renting a car is a convenient option.

The official currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Graz, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, and tips. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most banks offer currency exchange services. Contactless payment methods are increasingly common and accepted in many places.

Graz is generally a safe city for tourists. However, standard safety precautions should be taken. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like public transport hubs and tourist attractions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. While Graz does not have specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical emergency services. Graz has several hospitals and clinics, including LKH-Universitätsklinikum Graz, which provides comprehensive medical care. Pharmacies (Apotheken) are widely available, and many have 24-hour service. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smartly and comfortably. Austrians appreciate well-dressed individuals, especially in formal settings. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in churches and upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and keep your voice low. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't eat, drink, or play loud music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Grüß Gott' (Hello). A firm handshake is customary for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Styrian pumpkin seed oil and schnitzel. Don't rush meals; Austrians enjoy leisurely dining experiences.

To experience Graz like a local, visit the Farmers' Market at Kaiser-Josef-Platz for fresh produce and local delicacies. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its narrow streets and hidden courtyards. For a unique view of the city, hike up to the Uhrturm (Clock Tower) on Schlossberg hill. Engage with locals at traditional coffee houses or 'Heurigen' (wine taverns) for an authentic cultural experience. Don't miss out on seasonal events like the Styriarte Festival in summer or the Advent markets during the Christmas season.