With its red roofs, medieval architecture and winding cobbled streets, Maribor is full of Eastern European charm. The second largest city in Slovenia is nestled between vine-clad hills of the country’s alpine region, and has a provincial, off-the-beaten-track vibe. While it may be small, this wine-fuelled city is certainly not sleepy – discover life through its central streets, riverside districts and seasonal events, like the 10-day Old Vine Festival. Maribor is also the perfect jumping-off point to some of the region’s world-class skiing slopes.
Stay at a Maribor hostel in the heart of the city or towards the mountains near cosy skiing resorts. You can expect to find modern hostels with airy communal spaces filled with cable TV, pool and upbeat bars. There are also stays with fruit-filled gardens and chilled outdoor eating areas. For meal times, you’ll find on-site restaurants as well as shared kitchens in Maribor hostels with apartment-style rooms. Most hostels in Maribor have convenient features like free Wi-Fi, 24-hour reception and parking.
With the River Drava weaving its way through the city, Maribor is divided into two regions. To the north of the river, you’ll find the Old Town along with the main train station and a string of cafés. It’s also where the main square, Glavni Trg, and the information centre can be found. This area is flanked by the town’s wine-growing hills and rose-perfumed Mestni city park. Head southwest of the river and you’ll approach the foothills of Pohorje Mountain.
Make some time to get lost in the Old Town’s winding streets, stopping at wine cafes and charming shops. The Old Vine House is worth a visit – it has the world’s oldest grape vine and a museum offering wine tastings. Venture out of town on a boat cruise along the River Drava, or head to nearby Pohorje National Park for hiking trails around the mountains. Just a 30-minute drive from Maribor is Ptuj, one of Slovenia's oldest towns, made up of colourful streets and a hilltop castle.
Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport is 9km from the city centre and has international flights. From the city's large bus station, Maribor Busbahnhof, you can connect to popular stops across Slovenia or head on to Munich, Sarajevo and Vienna. Hop on a local bus to get around the town and its outskirts. If you want to strike out on your own path, hire a bike from the main information centre near the Old Town and explore the streets at your own pace.
