Slovenia's most remarkable wine region
The Štajerska Region, in Northeastern Slovenia, has been awarded a place among the Top 3 Best Destinations in Europe 2026, a distinction that confirms its rise as one of the continent’s most inspiring places to explore.
This is a region where landscapes, culture, gastronomy and wine blend into an experience that feels both refined and deeply authentic, CE Report informs via the European Best Destinations' official website.
Štajerska is first and foremost an exceptional wine region. Its rolling vineyards and unique micro-climates produce some of Europe’s most expressive whites — from elegant Šipon (Furmint) to vibrant Laški Rizling and crisp Sauvignon Blanc. The area’s wine tradition runs deep, yet its approach feels fresh and contemporary, with family-run estates, boutique wineries and panoramic tasting terraces that invite slow, immersive discovery. Nearby, Maribor — awarded Best Wine Capital in Europe 2026 — embodies this excellence, home to the world’s oldest vine and a proud ambassador of Slovenian viniculture.
Culture and history enrich the journey even further. Ptuj, the oldest city in Slovenia and newly crowned Best Cultural Heritage Town in Europe 2026, offers cobblestone charm, medieval rooftops and a castle overlooking the Drava River. Its compact centre feels like a living museum, yet full of warmth, festivals and local life.
Nature is ever-present in Štajerska. Vineyards melt into forested hills, while the Pohorje mountain range provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, skiing and year-round outdoor adventures. River valleys invite kayaking and gentle strolls, and the countryside is dotted with thermal spas perfect for a restorative break.
Gastronomy is another highlight. The region is known for dishes enriched with pumpkin-seed oil, locally grown produce, farm-fresh cheeses, artisanal breads, and creative menus that reinterpret traditional flavours. Meals feel both generous and thoughtful — a natural companion to the region’s wine culture.
Štajerska is a destination that invites you to taste, explore and feel. In 2026, it stands proudly among Europe’s finest places — a region where wine, heritage, nature and creativity come together in a way that stays with you long after you leave.
Copyright: Štajerska Region
