How to Get Diagonale Tickets – Types, Prices, and Sale Dates 2027
Every spring, Graz transforms into the beating heart of Austrian cinema when the Diagonale Film Festival takes over the city's movie theaters. Whether you're a local film buff or traveling from abroad, securing your tickets early is the key to a smooth festival experience.
The festival runs for six days from April 7 to 12, 2027, with screenings spread across several historic cinemas and the opening gala at the Helmut List Halle. For an overview of the event, our Graz Festivals guide breaks down the venues, atmosphere, and highlights you can expect.
Understanding the Diagonale Film Festival in Graz
The Diagonale is Austria's premier showcase for domestic filmmaking, featuring around one hundred new productions in competition – from feature films and documentaries to shorts and experimental work. The festival dates for the 2027 edition are April 7–12, as officially announced on the Diagonale website.
Screenings take place at several venues across the city center, including Filmzentrum im Rechbauerkino, KIZ RoyalKino, Schubertkino, and Annenhof Kino. The festival forum is held at the Volkskundemuseum, while the opening gala and award ceremonies happen at the Helmut List Halle and Annenhof Kino.
Diagonale Ticket Types: Single, Multi, and Combo Explained
Ticket options at the Diagonale range from simple single-screen tickets to money-saving bundles. A single ticket gets you into one screening, while multi-ticket discounts kick in automatically when you buy in bulk – starting at ten tickets, each becomes cheaper.
For those planning to attend several films, volume discounts are worth exploring: the price per ticket drops when you purchase ten or twenty. Additionally, the festival offers special combo tickets for select programs, such as the 'And in the Middle' series, which bundles multiple films at a set price.
The official ticket page lists all current pricing and package details, including single and reduced rates. Since program selections change each year, checking the site for the specific combos available during your visit is a wise move.
Diagonale Ticket Prices and Discounts (Students, Seniors, etc.)
For the most accurate and up-to-date prices, consult the official ticket page. It lists a standard single ticket, a reduced ticket for eligible groups, and special prices for children's cinema and school groups with advance registration – all confirmed on that page.
Discounts apply to a wide range of visitors: pupils, students and apprentices up to age 27, seniors, conscripts, people with disabilities, Ö1 Club members, KlimaTicket Österreich holders, and customers of the Steiermärkische Sparkasse, among others. Always bring valid identification when using a reduced ticket.
The 'Hunger auf Kunst und Kultur' initiative, supported by the AK Steiermark, offers Kulturpass holders a reduced rate after their first free ticket, as detailed on the official ticket page. The free ticket is available only at the Kunsthaus Graz sales point during the early-bird period. Be aware that prices and conditions are subject to change, so verify the latest on the official site.
Where to Buy Diagonale Tickets: Online and in Graz
Tickets are sold through several channels. The primary online shop opens at diagonale.at when sales begin, typically on a set date in March. For in-person purchases, the main sales point is the Kunsthaus Graz, open daily from 10 to 18 hours starting from the first sale day.
Once the festival is underway, you can buy tickets at the individual festival cinemas, with desks opening one hour before the first screening. One notable exception is the Annenhof Kino, which opens its desk one day earlier. For detailed addresses and hours, refer to the official festival FAQ.
Ticket Sale Timeline and Important Dates
For the 2026 edition, tickets officially went on sale on March 14 at 10:00 AM, available both online and at the Kunsthaus Graz. For the 2027 festival, the exact sale start date has not yet been confirmed – the official website states details are to be announced, so keep an eye on diagonale.at for updates.
The festival program is usually published on the website shortly before the event, often in March. To avoid missing out on popular screenings, it's wise to check the program regularly once it's been released. The ticket hotline at +43 (0) 316 269 555 operates daily from 10 to 18 hours during the initial sales window.
Accessibility and Assistance for Wheelchair Users
All festival cinemas are accessible to wheelchair users, and companion seats are provided free of charge next to the wheelchair space. To reserve these places, you'll need to contact the ticket office by phone or visit a physical sales point, as they are not available through the standard online booking system.
The Diagonale also offers a limited number of free tickets for refugees, which can be requested via email or collected at the sales points with valid identification. For detailed accessibility information, including assistance services and audio description, the official website has a dedicated section.
Tips for Getting Tickets to Popular Screenings
For high-demand events like the opening film or the awards ceremony, it's essential to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale. Online sales are the most convenient way, but the Kunsthaus Graz sales point is equally valid during the early-bird period.
Since assigned seating is the rule, you won't be able to grab any spot – you'll need to choose your seat when booking. Late entry is strictly prohibited, so allow ample travel time between venues. If you miss out on tickets, 'resttickets' are often available: numbered cards are distributed 30 minutes before the screening at the respective cinema, offering a chance for unclaimed seats.
How to Plan Your Visit to the Diagonale
Start by reviewing the festival program as soon as it's announced, flagging the films you absolutely don't want to miss. Then map out your daily schedule, considering travel time between venues – the cinemas are spread across the city, but most are within walking distance or a short tram ride. For detailed transport options from the airport or train station, see our guide on how to get to Diagonale.
Booking your accommodation and transportation in advance can save you both money and stress. Our guide on where to stay for Diagonale covers the best areas and transport links, while first-timers can find additional etiquette and side-event tips in our dedicated feature.
Plan Your Visit
Getting Diagonale tickets is straightforward once you know the types, prices, and sale windows. Always verify current details on the official website, as dates and prices may change.
Whether you're a dedicated cinephile or a casual visitor, the festival offers a unique window into Austria's vibrant film landscape. Book early, plan your days, and enjoy the show.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Diagonale tickets go on sale?
For the 2026 edition, tickets went on sale on March 14 at 10:00 AM. The exact sale date for 2027 has not yet been announced, so check the official Diagonale website for confirmation.
How much do Diagonale tickets cost?
Ticket prices vary by type and eligibility. The official ticket page lists current single, reduced, and volume discount rates, as well as special prices for children and school groups. Check diagonale.at/tickets for the latest figures.
Where can I buy Diagonale tickets?
Tickets are available online at diagonale.at and at the Kunsthaus Graz sales point (Lendkai 1, 8020 Graz). During the festival, you can also buy tickets at the cinema box offices starting one hour before the first screening.
Are there discounts for students or seniors?
Yes, reduced tickets are available for pupils, students, apprentices up to 27, seniors, conscripts, people with disabilities, Ö1 Club members, and holders of certain cards like KlimaTicket Österreich and Steiermärkische Sparkasse debit cards.
How do I get wheelchair-accessible tickets?
Wheelchair places and companion seats can be reserved by phone or at the physical sales points. Companions sit free of charge. All festival cinemas are accessible.