Gračanica represents one of the masterpieces not only of Serbian medieval art but also of late Byzantine art and architecture in general. It is a five-domed structure with a cross-in-square plan, parakklesia-side chapels flanking the tripartite sanctuary, nave, narthex, catichoumena above it, and side aisles. There is a sense of increased verticality, achieved in part by the placement of domes and other architectural elements.

The church was built in alternate courses of brick and stone. The exonarthex was added subsequently, formed by massive pillars connected by arcades, that were later walled up, and during restoration works in the 20th century, shafts between columns and pillars were opened again and later covered with glass windows.