Finding Your Tribe in Graz: Socializing Beyond the University

Graz is young, creative, and surprisingly social – once you know where to look. Whether you’re here for university, a new job, or a fresh chapter, making friends in Graz (Neue Leute kennenlernen Graz) doesn’t have to stop at your lecture hall or office.

As Austria’s second-largest city, Graz blends a vibrant student culture with an emerging tech and startup scene, creative energy (hello, UNESCO City of Design!), and a laid-back atmosphere that’s perfect for forging meaningful connections.

Here’s your local guide to meeting people in Graz and finding your social tribe – beyond the classroom.

1. Start with University Events – But Don’t Stop There

Universities in Graz (like Uni Graz, TU Graz, and FH Joanneum) offer more than lectures. There’s a whole ecosystem of student events, welcome weeks, cultural nights, and clubs waiting for you.

👉 Where to begin:

• ESN Graz – international student events, trips, and parties
• ÖH (Österreichische Hochschüler_innenschaft) – student reps that also organize events and workshops
• TUtheTOP or StartUp Spritzer – for students interested in entrepreneurship or tech
  

💡 Tip: You don’t need to be in your first semester to join – most groups welcome all.

2. Tap into the Startup & Tech Scene

Graz is booming in the startup and tech world – and that means meetups, coworking spaces, and events full of ambitious (and social) young people.

👉 Try:

• Unicorn Startup & Innovation Hub – great for workshops, hackathons, and founder talks
• Creative Industries Styria – design-focused events & exhibitions
• Start-up Spritzer Graz – recurring community get-together for founders and creatives

Even if you’re not a startup type, these events are great for meeting open-minded locals.

3. Explore Graz’s Cultural Side

Did you know Graz is a UNESCO City of Design? That’s not just a title – it reflects the city’s dedication to art, architecture, and creative spaces where people naturally come together.

🎨 Don’t miss:

• Lendwirbel Festival – street culture, music, food, and chill vibes
• Designmonat Graz – exhibitions, talks, and meetups every May
• Forum Stadtpark – indie concerts, readings, and exhibitions
  

💬 Cultural events in Graz are relaxed and social – perfect for striking up conversations.

4. Hang Out Where Students Do

There’s no better way to meet people in Graz than to hang out where they already are. The student scene here is friendly and down-to-earth, and many bars and cafés double as informal meetup spaces.

🍻 Local favorites:

• Parkhouse (Stadtpark) – day-to-night hangout with concerts and coffee
• Café Fotter – cozy, artsy, and perfect for a casual chat
• Postgarage – for nightlife with indie vibes
• Murinsel & Augarten – chill spots by the river, especially in summer

5. Use Social Platforms – Local & International

Want to get started right away? Apps and platforms help you connect with people who are also new to Graz or looking to expand their social circle.

📱 Try:

• City Mates – local events and real-life meetups with other newcomers
• Meetup.com – groups for everything from language exchange to yoga
• Facebook Groups like “Graz Expats” or “Neu in Graz”
• Spontacts – spontaneous activities you can join instantly

Final Thoughts: Graz Is Ready for You

Graz isn’t just a university city – it’s a place where students, startups, and creatives mingle. While it may not have the fast-paced buzz of Vienna, it offers something better for newcomers: a more approachable, relaxed way to build real friendships.

Whether you’re into design, startups, hiking, parties, or just good coffee – your people are already here.

👉 Join City Mates to discover events and make new friends in Graz