Maribor as the Best Wine Capital in Europe 2026

As Mariborians, we are proud that our wine culture has grown into a world-class wine destination, as we possess tradition, knowledge and courage.

In Štajerska, life has always revolved around viticulture. Even today, almost every extended family owns a vineyard somewhere, or at least has grapevines growing by their house. That is why we like to joke that there is already 0.05% alcohol in the air anyway. But that is not all.

We have wines with a distinct personality and an enviable wine history, we have wine schools and institutions, we have wine festivals, we have wine queens, we have young people who see their future in wine, we have infrastructure. And yes, we have The World’s Oldest Grapevine. There is no such thing as coincidence then!

The story of The World’s Oldest Grapevine is a testament to resilience, perseverance and the will to live. In 2004, it was entered into the Guinness Book of World Records. After centuries of Ottoman sieges (second half of the 16th century), numerous fires (17th century), the spread of grape phylloxera (1870), bombing of the city (1944) and the nearly disastrous dam on the Drava (1963), its toughest times are finally behind it. The World’s Oldest Grapevine yields between 35 and 55 kg of grapes each year. Visit it next to Fani & Rozi – just turn left, continue along the promenade and in 5 minutes you will find yourself in front of it. Step inside The Oldest Vine House, then explore its square and The Oldest Vine Museum.

Here at Fani & Rozi, we believe that wine is life, sunshine in a glass, and far more than just an intoxicating liquid. Here are a few tips for you, our dear guests. Explore Maribor as the Best Wine Capital in Europe 2026, along with its gorgeous hinterland.

The World’s Oldest Grapevine

The perfect place for quick wine tastings for parents and fruit juices for children, as well as a stroll along the Drava riverbank promenade. You can also visit the Oldest Vine Museum just a stone’s throw away. Here, you can explore the history of Lent and Maribor as the wine-growing centre of Štajerska.

VINAG (since 1847) – The largest tunnel wine cellar

With over two kilometres of underground tunnels and a footprint of 15,000 square metres, it is one of the largest and oldest traditional urban wine cellars in Europe. Today, the underground space often hosts concerts, parties and corporate events. Vinag’s archive holds more than 85,000 bottles of the finest wine, dating as far back as 1946. Another massive complex can also be found in nearby Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest town.

Vodole Wine Fountain

This is the starting point for cycling tours along the Maribor Wine Road and hosts casual events. You can also visit Winery Kaloh, our friends.

A culinary journey through vineyards

Just half an hour’s drive from Maribor, you will find yourself surrounded by unspoilt green countryside, covered with vineyards, churches, beautiful old villas and farmhouses. Visit Svečinske gorice, best known for the heart-shaped road winding through the vineyards, which is one of the most photographed spots in Slovenia. There are many wineries there, both old and modern: Vino Šerbinek – Kušter, Vračko Winery, OPOK27 restaurant and winery, Doppler Wine House & Restaurant, Valdhuber Winery and Restaurant, Dveri Pax, Zlati Grič and Jeruzalem in Prlekija.

Wine bars of Maribor

Head out to the wide array of wine shops and wine bars for some casual mingling: start from here at Fani&Rozi's, then slowly make your way to Water Tower Maribor Wine Bar, LeVino Wine Bar, The Oldest Grapevine, Deliz Wine and Deli, Rožmarin, and Polek Wine Bar and Shop.

CHEERS!