You’re probably here because you’ve heard of Maribor Slovenia, but aren’t quite sure if it’s worth straying away from the beautiful capital of Ljubljana.. Am I right?

Before we dive into what Slovenia’s second largest city has to offer, let’s get one thing straight-  the country has a lot more to it than most travelers actually realize. A canal-lined capital, vast landscapes, underrated wine regions, castles, and a city ski slope. 

While Ljubljana makes for an excellent location to start your travels, you’d be missing out if you don’t explore its entirety. If you’re planning to be in Slovenia for a while, it’s actually quite doable to drive around the entire country- exploring the popular Eastern region, and lesser-known West.

Is Maribor Slovenia Worth Visiting? Let’s Find Out!

Getting to Maribor

On a good day, Maribor Slovenia is about an hour and a half from the capital of Ljubljana. Due to its size and road systems, the country in general is very easy to navigate, and most locals travel around by car outside the cities. 

The route is pretty straightforward, and will even take you through the charming city of Celje. Entering the country’s expansive wine region, you’ll be surrounded by rolling green hills on all sides- it’s really quite lovely. 

Personally, I’d opt to rent a car from Ljubljana and do a little road trip through the West. According to the tourism page, “parking in the Municipality of Maribor is payable on the majority of the parking spaces.” The city is quite compact and never too busy with tourists, so you shouldn’t have an issue here!

It’s also possible to hop on the hourly train from Ljubljana station straight to Maribor, which will get you there in a little over 2 hours (this will cost between 1–20 euros). It’s important to note that the Maribor station is a 15 minute walk to the waterfront where most hotels, restaurants, and businesses are located. 

If you’d rather have the ease of having everything planned and looking to meet fellow travelers, there are plenty of day tour options to Maribor too. Most of them incorporate a trip to the quaint town of Ptuj, too- which is an added bonus! 

Where to Stay in Maribor Slovenia

There’s plenty to do in Maribor to keep yourself occupied for a night or two. If you’re visiting Slovenia in the summer months and want to escape the Ljubljana crowds, then an overnight stay in Maribor is a must. Aside from incredible wine-tastings in the region, the small town of Celje is nearby (and is home to one of my favorite restaurants, Lalu Bistro). 

A few steps from the main square, Hotel Maribor is a home away from home in the city. The main building is where you’ll find the check-in area, spa facilities, and city apartment rooms. If you’re lucky to be in the garden rooms, these are a short walk down a narrow street, and are a little closer to the waterfront. 

I stayed in the garden rooms during my visit and thoroughly enjoyed the spacious rooms, private garden area, and the feeling of having my own little apartment in the city. A 3-minute walk to the main building, breakfast is served daily with pastries and local treats!

What to do in Maribor Slovenia

The World’s Oldest Vine

Did you know there’s a vine that still produces fruit, and it’s in Maribor, Slovenia? Visit the Old Vine House to discover the rich history of winemaking and enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard and cellar. You’ll end with a refreshing glass of Old Vine sparkling wine paired with some light nibbles, and a chance to read the placards documenting the history of the region. 

Kavarna HiKoFi

If you’re a coffee drinker, then you need to stop by this family-owned coffee-house. Sit out back in their outdoor garden area, and try samples of the local brews. Of course you’re welcome to enjoy the coffee shop and buy something, but if you sign up for a guided tour led by expert baristas and the chance to try two distinct coffee varieties.

LeVino Wine Shop

A charming wine shop in the city with a quaint indoor/outdoor area, LeVino offers intimate wine tastings guided by local sommeliers. Sample a selection of three exquisite wines paired with a delicious cheese platter! If they ask you to try the orange wine, do it!

Maribor Regional Museum

Aside from the luxurious gold and pink interiors of the Maribor Museum, the digital culinary table upstairs is something fun to whisk you back in time. Explore the intersection of technology and gastronomy while you interact with virtual culinary creations and discover the innovative techniques shaping the future of food.

MAK Restaurant

If you want a true culinary experience with entertainment, MAK is the place. Once you’re in the hands of chef David Vračko, the show begins. Guests are led without a menu and an improv-style table service takes place. Awarded by the Gault-Millau culinary guide and Michelin and dubbed one of the most extravagant restaurants in Slovenia, you can expect a quirky, varied, bold, and delicious experience!