One city I always like to visit in Austria is Graz. It’s a beautiful city with many sights to discover; it has a great size, not too small and not too big. In my case many memories are connected to Graz. The first things that come to my mind are my study exchange year, my first-time employment, my first boyfriend and the many concerts I have attended there.
It always feels familiar to come back and enjoy the city anew. Since my stays are limited for a few hours, I like to combine my activities, like going for a walk, doing some shopping and/or visiting the sights. Luckily the shops and the must-see sights in the city center are easy to reach. No matter where you go you will always see the clock tower (or “Grazer Uhrturm” how we call it) on the hill. In the middle of the Herrengasse you will find the Landhaus courtyard which is definitely worth taking  a break at to enjoy the beautiful Renaissance surroundings. The modern art museum (“Kunsthaus Graz”) is one of the most spectacular buildings of the city that also offers a glazed viewing platform called the “Needle”.
In case you would like to take some pictures of Graz I would recommend exploring the city in the early morning. During these times there are just a few people on the streets, you are in no rush and you can take a closer look at the old houses with their red-tiled roofs and beautiful facades.