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European best destinations and events

Check out which Slovenian destinations and events have been ranked among the best in Europe by European Best Destinations.

 

The best of Slovenia according to world travellers

Are you searching for perfect vacation ideas in 2026? Find inspiration in the selection of European Best Destinations, which this year again includes destinations and events in Slovenia. Travellers from all over the world, who were able to vote for destinations selected by experts within European Best Destinations, were impressed by Štajerska as one of the best European destinations, Ptuj with its cultural heritage, Maribor with its wine tradition and experiences, and the Pogi Challenge and Volleyball on Water sporting spectacles. You are warmly invited to experience them with us in the best possible way.

Štajerska among top 3 destinations in Europe

Štajerska is a region where landscape, culture, gastronomy, and wine intertwine to create an experience that is both refined and authentic. The focus is on the rich wine tradition, dominated by top-quality white wines: Šipon, Laški Rizling and Sauvignon. The shape of the heart is drawn among the vineyards, reflecting the dedication and kindness of Štajerska winemakers. Wine blends perfectly with the culinary image of Štajerska and its authentic flavours, whether it be traditional cuisine or fine dining. The wine-growing countryside blends with the urban pulse of cities such as Maribor and Ptuj, with their rich history and cultural heritage. The diverse landscape ranges from wine-growing hills to the forested Pohorje region, offering active experiences in all seasons.

Experience Štajerska

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Štajerska is a destination that invites you to taste, explore, and experience it. It proudly ranks among the best places in Europe in 2026 - a region where wine, heritage, nature, and creativity intertwine in a way that stays with you long after you leave.

European Best Destinations

Ptuj: the European destination of cultural heritage

A visit to Ptuj is a journey through various historical periods and an opportunity to discover the town’s rich cultural heritage. On a walk through the town, you will discover traces of the former Roman settlement of Poetovia, interspersed with mighty medieval buildings, including Ptuj Castle. The town is known for its kurenti, characteristic carnival characters whose parades in the Ptuj area are listed as UNESCO heritage. The town's oldest wine cellar, tucked away in the town centre, reflects the rich wine tradition of the town and its surroundings. Former monasteries are now centres of cultural activity where a variety of festivals and cultural events take place. In addition to cultural heritage experiences, Ptuj also offers opportunities for active recreation and relaxation in its thermal spas.

Explore the cultural heritage of Ptuj

Logo "Best Cultural Heritage Town in Europe - Ptuj"

Maribor - the best European wine capital

If you are a wine lover and enjoy wine-related experiences, Maribor will definitely be high on your list of places to visit. According to European Best Destinations, it ranks among the top wine destinations. The oldest vine in the world, over 450 years old, grows in this city on the Drava River. You can taste many premium wines originating from the wine region of Maribor at the Vine House at Lent. The autumn Festival of the Oldest Vine, which takes place from the grape harvest to St. Martin's Day, is also dedicated to all vines. A visit to the Vinag Wine Cellar, one of the largest in Slovenia, or a culinary journey through Maribor's restaurants and modern wine bars is also a special experience. In addition to the wine tradition, you can savour the lively cultural scene in Maribor or head to nearby Pohorje, where you can enjoy active experiences in nature.

Taste and explore the charms of Maribor

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The town on the Drava River in the heart of Slovenia's largest wine-growing region combines deep tradition with youthful, creative energy: a place where ancient vineyards meet modern wine bars and where the rhythm of the grape harvest can be felt in every street.

European Best Destination

Pogi Challenge and Volleyball on Water among best events in 2026

Slovenia is known for its many top athletes and as an excellent organiser of international sporting events. This is confirmed by the selection of the 12 most attractive sporting events in Europe, which includes two from Slovenia - the Pogi Challenge offers a unique cycling experience in which recreational cyclists can compete in a cycling challenge with the world's best cyclist, Tadej Pogačar. Volleyball on Water attracts crowds of visitors to enjoy volleyball and music, acrobatic, and dance theatre performances on the floodlit court by the Ljubljanica River.

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Come and experience. Slovenia. The best way.

Visiting Slovenia is more than just walking around. At every turn, opportunities open up, allowing you to experience it in the best possible way. With exceptional experiences. Stunning scenery. Gourmet delights. Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene. Enjoy activities in nature. Or simply take time for yourself to relax and enjoy.

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