Maribor & Styria Tour with Wine Tasting

If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia and want to see a side of the country that combines lush landscapes, historic towns, and fantastic wine, the Maribor & Styria Tour with Wine Tasting might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, I’ve looked into it thoroughly and can share what makes it a solid option for those wanting a well-rounded day outside Ljubljana.

What I really appreciate about this experience are the small-group setting—which usually means more personalized attention—and the chance to visit multiple highlights in one day: from historic sites to Slovenia’s oldest grapevine. One thing to keep in mind is that the day is packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have specific interests, it’s good to be prepared. This tour feels best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the region without multiple days of travel.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines towns, historic sites, and wine tasting in one day.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants for a more intimate vibe.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable local guides share insights about Slovenia’s culture and wine heritage.
• Diverse Highlights: From the oldest grapevine to ancient monastery remains and vibrant towns.
• Flexible & Convenient: Central Ljubljana pickup and drop-off make logistics easier.
• Good Value: Includes transportation, guide, and several attractions, with optional extras paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This full-day journey offers a rich slice of Slovenia’s eastern region, the land of rolling vineyards, historic farms, and charming villages. You’ll start in Slovenske Konjice, a town that exudes a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for soaking in local life and maybe grabbing a quick coffee before heading further east. Then, it’s on to ie, where you’ll see the impressive remains of a historic Charterhouse—a site that whispers stories of monastic life and spiritual pursuits from centuries ago. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot that offers a peek into the area’s past.

Next up is Maribor, Slovenia’s second-largest city, which is the heart of this tour. Here, the world’s oldest grapevine in the Guinness Book of Records grows — a true highlight for wine lovers. The vine has survived over 400 years, and standing next to it is surprisingly humbling. As you wander through the streets, you’ll notice the beautifully preserved architecture, lively cafes, and the Drava River framing the city.

Finally, the trip culminates in a wine tasting session. You’ll savor regional wines, enjoying their unique flavors that reflect the terroir of the area. The wine cellar visit, such as at Vinag 1847, offers guided tasting with some samples, making this a real highlight for those who appreciate a good glass of wine and want to learn more about Slovenia’s winemaking traditions.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day kicks off with pickup from Dalmatinova ulica 1 in Ljubljana, with a comfortable minivan taking you through the picturesque landscapes. The morning starts with a stop in Slovenske Konjice, which lasts around 30 minutes. Here, you can enjoy some pictures of the charming streets and maybe grab a coffee before heading to ie.

The ie Charterhouse visit takes about 45 minutes and is a standout for history buffs. The site’s peaceful ruins and surrounding scenery make for a contemplative experience, and you’ll see what remains of the once-bustling monastic community. The site’s atmosphere is quiet, and it’s a nice breath of fresh air after city sightseeing.

After the Charterhouse, there’s a brief 15-minute stop, possibly for photos or a quick refreshment, followed by a 45-minute drive to Maribor. Once there, you’ll have around four hours for a variety of activities—lunch, sightseeing, and the wine tasting. The walking tour of Maribor is ideal for strolling along the riverbanks, admiring the architecture, and soaking in the lively vibe of this historic city.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit a cellar, such as Vinag 1847, where guided tastings include 3 or 4 wine samples, often at a cost of around 20-25 euros per person. The Oldest Grapevine is another must-see, where you’ll learn about its legacy and importance to Slovenian viticulture. For those interested in history, the Regional Museum may also be available for a small fee.

The return trip wraps up with a 1.5-hour drive back to Ljubljana, arriving at your original meeting point. The entire experience is carefully designed to balance sightseeing, relaxation, and education, making it a comprehensive day in the region.

What We Loved

One of the biggest highlights is definitely the vineyard and wine experience. The fact that Slovenia’s oldest grapevine still produces grapes is quite remarkable and offers a tangible connection to centuries of tradition. The wine tasting at a cellar like Vinag 1847 is a great way to end the day, giving you insights into the local varieties while enjoying some excellent wines.

Plus, the stunning scenery along the way shouldn’t be underestimated. The landscapes of rolling vineyards, lush hills, and historic towns make for beautiful photo opportunities. We also appreciate that the tour is kept intimate, with small groups, which means you can ask questions and get a more personal experience—not something always guaranteed on larger commercial tours.

Most reviews mention the peaceful atmosphere at ie and the overall warmth of the guide, which helps put the region’s history and culture into context. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “All excellent,” highlighting how well-organized and enjoyable the experience was.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

Given the packed schedule, this is not a tour for those wanting a slow, leisurely day. If you’re not big on walking or prefer more downtime, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since the tour is around 10 hours, it involves a fair amount of driving, so if you’re prone to car fatigue, keep that in mind.

The costs for some attractions and tastings are extra, which means you’ll need to budget accordingly if you want to visit everything. For example, the ie Charterhouse and wine cellar tours typically have an additional fee. The tour’s price, when combined with these extras, adds up, but it’s generally good value considering the number of sights and experiences you get.

Another consideration is that not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, as the terrain and site access might be limited. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and warmer or cooler weather, depending on the season.

More Great Tours Nearby

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys small-group tours with a mix of history, culture, and good wine, this trip is a solid choice. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, and anyone curious about Slovenia’s wine heritage. You’ll love the scenic drives and the chance to see a variety of sights in one day.

Those seeking a more relaxed pace or with specific mobility needs might find it a little too busy. But if you’re eager to experience Slovenia’s viticultural traditions and historic towns without the commitment of multiple days, this tour offers a great balance. It’s especially valuable if you want a guided experience that combines storytelling with tasting.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and tastings.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers a professional English-speaking guide, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and pickup/drop-off in central Ljubljana.

Are there optional attractions?
Yes, attractions like ie Charterhouse, Vinag 1847 cellar, and the Regional Museum are optional and have additional fees.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not specifically designed for children, mainly due to the walking involved and alcohol tastings. The minimum drinking age is 18.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking and the weather are recommended.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchairs or strollers?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, as some sites may have limited access.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins opposite the City Hotel in Ljubljana and returns to the same pickup point.

Final Thoughts

The Maribor & Styria Tour with Wine Tasting offers a well-rounded glimpse of Slovenia’s eastern countryside—combining historic sites, scenic towns, and sumptuous wines. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a mix of culture, nature, and gastronomy in a small-group setting. While it’s quite full on the itinerary, the variety of experiences and the quality of the guides make it a worthwhile pick for most travelers eager to see more of Slovenia beyond Ljubljana.

If you’re after a day with meaningful sights, good wines, and local flavor, this tour could be a real highlight of your trip. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and your comfortable shoes.

You can check availability for your dates here: