This small Styrian town preserves Roman ruins from ancient Flavia Solva and has a 17th-century baroque castle surrounded by vineyards along the Sulm River.
Leibnitz sits in South Styria, Austria, where vineyards cover the rolling hills. You can explore Roman ruins at Flavia Solva, taste Welschriesling wine at family-run taverns, or climb to the blue-and-gold frescoed Wallfahrtskirche church. The town's 18th-century main square buzzes with café life, while narrow streets lead to traditional bakeries and wine cellars.
Main Square and Architecture
The Hauptplatz forms the heart of Leibnitz, where 18th-century baroque buildings house cafés with outdoor seating. Two churches dominate the skyline - the Stadtpfarrkirche with its 45-meter spire and the Kapuzinerkloster monastery. Stop at a café to try an einspanner coffee topped with whipped cream while watching locals go about their day. The surrounding streets have family-run bakeries selling fresh Styrian bread and pastries.
Wine Culture and Buschenschanken
Vineyards stretch across the hills surrounding Leibnitz. Local winemakers focus on white wine varieties, especially Welschriesling with its crisp citrus and green apple flavors. You'll find traditional wine taverns (buschenschanken) throughout the countryside, where families serve their own wines paired with regional cheeses, cured meats, and homemade preserves. Many vineyard owners give tours explaining their wine-making process from grape to bottle.
Ancient Roman Site of Flavia Solva
The Roman ruins of Flavia Solva spread across several hectares in nearby Wagna. Walk along elevated pathways to see the excavated foundations of this former Roman settlement. The museum displays artifacts like pottery, tools, and everyday items used by Romans who lived here over 2,000 years ago. Active archaeological work continues, with new findings emerging regularly.
Wallfahrtskirche and Hilltop Views
The Baroque Wallfahrtskirche am Frauenberg rises above Leibnitz on a hilltop. Step inside to see the intricate blue and gold frescoes covering the walls and ceiling. A small farm shop on the church grounds sells regional specialties including pumpkin seed oil and local chocolate. The walk up takes about 30 minutes, rewarding you with views across vineyards and valleys.
Getting Around and Day Trips
Reach Leibnitz in 45 minutes from Graz by car or train. You can walk or cycle around the town center easily. To explore the surrounding wine regions and villages, you'll need a car. Graz Airport lies 30 minutes away by car. Many travelers use Leibnitz as a base to explore the South Styrian Wine Route and nearby towns like Bad Radkersburg.
