The global European Best Destinations platform has ranked Maribor as Best Wine Capital in Europe 2026.
Top 5 Reasons Maribor Leads Europe’s Wine Scene
In Maribor, wine shapes the rhythm, identity, and stories of the city. Here, the hills of Slovenian Styria meet a dynamic urban spirit, creating a wine destination where authenticity, character, and unforgettable experiences come naturally.
Ready to discover why Maribor earned its place at the top?
1. Home to the World’s Oldest Grapevine – 450 Years, Noble and Still Growing
Listed in the Guinness World Records, this living monument is the oldest noble vine in the world that still bears grapes, symbolizing the endurance of Maribor’s winemaking tradition and the vibrant spirit of the city.
2. Vinag, One of Europe’s Largest Historic Wine Cellars
Beneath the old city lies the Vinag Wine Cellar, an astonishing 2.1 km labyrinth and one of the largest traditional wine cellars in Europe.
3. Custodians of the Vine: The Maribor Wine Queens
Every two years, Maribor welcomes a new custodian of its wine heritage as the Maribor Wine Queen is crowned.
She embodies the legacy of the World’s Oldest Grapevine, the mastery of local winemakers, and the cultural richness of Styrian viticulture.
4. Among the Top 4% of the World’s Best Wine-Growing Regions
The steep, hand-tended vineyards of Štajerska produce wines of outstanding freshness and character. Dramatic temperature swings between day and night – up to 15 °C – bring vibrant acidity and aromatic intensity. Indigenous grapes like Ranina and Ranfol add a distinct, local signature found nowhere else. Browse our wine selection...
5. From Roman Roots to Modern Mastery
Winemaking here dates back to the Celts and Romans and evolved through centuries of craftsmanship and creativity. Today, boutique family wineries continue that legacy, experimenting with clay amphorae, concrete eggs, and sustainable viticulture, crafting wines that honor the past while embracing the future.
Wine Story Through Time
Klopotec, a traditional wooden wind-rattle found in Styrian vineyards, is one of the region’s most distinctive cultural symbols. More than a functional tool designed to protect the grapes, it represents the heritage of local viticulture and remains an integral part of harvest celebrations and wine-tourism experiences.
This centuries-old tradition is still alive today, its rhythmic sound echoing across the vineyards each autumn.
Velvet Dinner is Maribor’s signature open-air gourmet event, celebrating the city as a leading culinary and wine destination.
More than 150 guests gather at a long table beneath the stars, where togetherness, nature, and the joy of sharing meet a refined menu paired with award-winning Styrian wines.
A Small City with an Exceptional Wine Selection
Perfect for every wine enthusiast — from curious beginners to seasoned connoisseurs — Maribor offers intimate wine cellars, characterful tasting rooms, and authentic local vinotecas that bring the region’s rich wine tradition to life.
World's Oldest Grapevine Winery
Treasury of wines from Maribor and its surroundings
Wine-o-theque Rožmarin
We mature more than 1000 labels.
Vinag Wine Bar
The ideal destination for wine lovers seeking local flavors...
Evino wine shop
Your guide to the world of fine wines.
Wine Shop Deliz
Paradise for wine connoisseurs and gourmets
Wine Bar Finesa
Get ready for an amazing wine experience
Wine Shop Maribor – Water Tower
Contemporary winery between old walls.
Experience Wine Like a Local
Explore our tips for truly authentic wine experiences and let the local vineyards, cellars, and winemakers guide your journey.
Wine tastings at the World's Oldest Grapevine
The World's Oldest Grapevine, a gastronomy, heritage, and...
Secrets of the World's Oldest Grapevine: From museum to wine tasting
Discover the secrets of the World's Oldest Grapevine on a...
Visit to the Vinag Wine Cellar - for individual guests
Visit one of the oldest wine cellars in Europe!
Rock'n'Roll of tastes
A crazy Maribor mix of food, wine and music.
Romantic view surrounded by vineyards
Visit the famous heart-shaped road!
TOP accommodations among the vineyards
If you're dreaming of waking up among rolling vineyards, enjoying homemade breakfasts, or relaxing in the peaceful embrace of nature, you’ll find your haven in one of the many farm stays and vineyard retreats scattered across the hills of Štajerska.
Farmstay Pri Kovačniku
Delicious home-made food
Tourist farm Kaloh
Eco farm on Maribor wine-tourist road.
Protner Farmstay
An authentic nature experience and a close-up view of...
Firbas Homestead
Learn about the life on a farm
Wine and tourism Lilek
Aunt Mime's house was transformed into a poetic fairy tale.
The Slovenian Styria Wine-Growing Region
The Štajerska Slovenija wine-growing region is shaped by remarkable contrasts — from the ampelographic vineyard at Meranovo to the rich wine archive of the Ptuj Cellar, located in Ptuj, the Best Cultural Heritage Town in Europe for 2026. Its character is further defined by the renowned sparkling wines of Radgonske gorice and the gentle melody of the klopotec, echoing across the sun-kissed hillsides and expressing the region’s deep-rooted love for wine.
