Social Event

We are delighted to announce that the ECDP2026 social event will be held at the spectacular SCHLOSSBERG Graz venue (Schlossberg, Am Schlossberg 7, 8010 Graz, Austria) on 19 June at 19:00. You can find more information about the location on their official site: https://www.schlossberggraz.at.

SCHLOSSBERG Graz is a unique and atmospheric event location set high above the rooftops of the historic city of Graz on the iconic Schlossberg hill. This celebrated hilltop site, once the location of a historic fortified castle, now offers panoramic views across the city and the surrounding region, combining cultural heritage with contemporary event spaces.

The venue itself features a variety of inspiring spaces including a panoramic restaurant, stylish SkyBar, traditional beer garden, and flexible halls and salons that can cater to both relaxed social gatherings and more structured programmes. Whether mingling with a drink at the SkyBar or enjoying the views from the terrace, attendees will experience both the charm of Graz’s cultural heart and the lively ambiance of this remarkable setting.

The distance from the Messecongress Graz (located at Messeplatz 1, 8010 Graz), where the main ECDP2026 conference is taking place, to Schlossberg Graz is approximately 2.5 km by foot or road. This makes the venue easily accessible — a short taxi or tram ride, a scenic walk through the city centre, or a fun funicular ascent up the Schlossberg are all straightforward options for getting there on the evening of the event.

We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable evening!

Note: The last funicular (Schlossberbahn) departs at 2:00 a.m., and the lifts run until 00:30 a.m. After that, you can still walk down the stairs.

How to get from Stadthalle Graz to Schlossberg Restaurant our Social Event Place on Friday, 19th of July, starting at 19:00 / 7 p.m.

Schlossberg Restaurant is located on top of Schlossberg (Graz central hill), directly by the mountain station of the Schlossbergbahn.
The easiest public transport connection from Stadthalle Graz is tram line 5 in the direction of Andritz.

Option 1, most convenient route Take tram line 5 from Stadthalle in the direction of Andritz and get off at Schloßbergbahn (this is one stop after Schloßbergplatz). From there, take the Schlossbergbahn funicular directly to the top of Schlossberg. The mountain station is directly next to Schlossberg Restaurant, making this the most convenient and most accessible option. For Schlossbergbahn valid Graz zone 101 tickets can be used.

Option 2, sporty route with nice views Take tram line 5 from Stadthalle in the direction of Andritz and get off at Schloßbergplatz/Murinsel. Go tot he small square and you will see the zig-zag stone stairs built into the rock. Climb up approximately 260 stairs towards the Uhrturm (iconic Clock Tower). This is the most scenic option, with beautiful views over the old town of Graz. After reaching the Uhrturm (clock tower) area, follow the paved path upwards for another 5 minutes, following the signs for "Schloßberg Restaurant. Duration: Approx. 15–20 minutes from the tram stop. Recommended for participants who are comfortable walking uphill and climbing stairs.

Option 3, adventurous route through the mountain Ideal for those who want to see the interior of the mountain and take the glass elevator. Take tram line 5 from Stadthalle in the direction of Andritz and get off at Schloßbergplatz/Murinsel. From Schlossbergplatz, the small square. Enter left tunnel into the Schlossberg and follow the signs to the Schlossberglift (elevator). Take the elevator up through the inside of the mountain. After the exit you will see the Uhrturm (clock tower) area, follow the paved path upwards for another 5 minutes, following the signs for "Schloßberg Restaurant“. The elevator single ride for adults costs € 2.50, payment machine is located inside the tunnel. Standard Graz public transport tickets are not valid for the elevator.