In the summer of 1884, Johannes Brahms wrote his Fourth Symphony, “The Mürzzuschlag Symphony,” at what is now the Brahms Museum in Mürzzuschlag. He stayed here during the summer months of 1884 and 1885. Music history is thus tied to a specific work and place—and can also be explored through historical instruments.

Brahms in the museum and along the trail

The Brahms Museum displays outstanding original exhibits, including the historic Streicher grand piano that Brahms played. The Brahms Trail complements a visit to the museum with a walk through the town: the circular route is about five kilometres long and takes approximately two hours. At 17 interactive stations, you can discover light-hearted and serious stories about Brahms and his friends. The route length and approximate duration provide a practical guide for planning your time; the stations each offer a different focus rather than simply presenting a sequence of information.

Those interested in Brahms can explore two different approaches to the subject: his music and the original exhibits in the museum, as well as the themes covered along the circular route. The Fourth Symphony and the piano represent specific historical connections; the stations broaden the perspective to include Brahms and his circle. Together, they form a key theme that connects the name Mürzzuschlag with music history.

Railway heritage and culture in town

Mürzzuschlag is located directly on the UNESCO World Heritage Semmering Railway. The SÜDBAHN Museum is among the attractions at Mürzzuschlag railway station, which marks the beginning or end of the World Heritage Site. Alongside music history, the railway offers another way to explore the town’s history. The museum also has a children’s discovery trail that leads through the exhibition halls.

The kunsthaus muerz offers another cultural dimension. It focuses on contemporary art in the fields of music, literature, visual arts and architecture. The Ratsburg, a historic building in Mürzzuschlag, offers a contrast in terms of history. The range of themes thus extends from Brahms and railway history to contemporary art and a historic building.

Nature and outdoor activities

There is a running track in the Mürzzuschlag Au. The public sports facility in the “Mürzer Au” is available free of charge for recreational sports; check the local rules before using it. You can also explore nature there along educational and discovery trails. The nature discovery trail has been open to visitors since 29 September 2011 and brings nature to life using current nature education methods. The “Waldemar Wurzel” nature trail takes you on a search for the “Green Jewel.”

Beyond individual walks and running routes, Mürzzuschlag is also connected to hiking and cycling trails. The town is a stop on the “From the Glacier to the Wine” hiking route. The BergRadlWallfahrt starts and ends in Mürzzuschlag and leads to the basilica in Mariazell before returning. These two routes offer different ways to experience the journey: one is designated as a hiking route, while the other is a cycling pilgrimage that starts and returns to the town.

When looking for a hotel in Mürzzuschlag, you might first consider what you want your stay to focus on: Brahms and the museums, railway heritage, or nature and outdoor activities. Check availability for your travel dates when looking at a specific offer.

Discover more destinations: Stanz in the Mürztal, Langenwang, Mürzzuschlag, Kindberg, Spital am Semmering, Veitsch, Mürzsteg, Krieglach, Semmering, Neuberg, Mürzhofen, Allerheiligen in the Mürztal, Mitterdorf in the Mürztal, Kapellen

Go to the main travel overview: Styria.