Maribor travel guide

Photo of Maribor, Slovenia by jarko7
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Introduction to Maribor

Maribor, known for its incredible Mariborsko Pohorje, Maribor Castle, and Vodni stolp - Water Tower, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This city municipality of Slovenia, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 112.4 thousand people, Maribor is truly one of the main highlights of Slovenia.

Travelers looking to experience the best of Slovenia often choose to stay in Maribor.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Maribor below!

History of Maribor

Maribor, Slovenia's second largest city, has a rich and vibrant history dating back to Middle Ages. The city was first mentioned in written documents in the 12th century, but its strategic position at the crossroads of trade routes led to its rapid growth.

Throughout the centuries, Maribor has been ruled by various powers, including the Habsburg Monarchy, Napoleon's French Empire, and the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Each ruling power left its mark, contributing to the city's rich cultural and architectural heritage.

The city's historical heart, Old Town, showcases a variety of architectural styles, from medieval fortifications to baroque houses. The city also boasts the oldest vine in the world, a testament to Maribor's long-standing wine tradition.

In more recent history, Maribor has become a vibrant cultural hub, recognized as the European Capital of Culture in 2012. Today, the city continues to charm visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and welcoming atmosphere.

Local culture and customs in Maribor

Maribor, Slovenia's second largest city, is brimming with cultural richness and local customs that are deeply rooted in its history. Slovenians value hospitality and this is evident in Maribor's warm and friendly locals. A handshake is the standard form of greeting, while maintaining eye contact signifies trust and respect.

Known for its wine culture, Maribor is home to the world's oldest vine and it's customary to participate in wine tasting sessions at the numerous vineyards. The city's cultural calendar is filled with numerous festivals like the Theatre and Summer festivals, which provide opportunities to indulge in the local arts scene.

Mariborians maintain a relaxed and slow-paced lifestyle. Sundays are traditionally a day of rest, with many shops and restaurants remaining closed. Slovenian is the official language, but English is widely spoken by the younger generation. To show respect, it is advisable to learn a few basic Slovenian phrases. Lastly, tipping is customary in Maribor, with a 10% gratuity generally expected in restaurants and taxis.

Currency information for travelers in Maribor

The official currency of Maribor, as with the rest of Slovenia, is the Euro (€). It is advisable to have some cash on hand for small purchases, tipping, and for establishments that do not accept cards. However, credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. ATMs are also easily accessible throughout the city, offering convenient cash withdrawals. Be aware of potential foreign transaction fees when using your card or withdrawing from ATMs.

Travelers are advised to budget accordingly as Maribor is generally affordable compared to other European cities. Dining out, public transport, and attractions are reasonably priced, but prices can vary. Prior knowledge of the cost of living can help in planning a cost-effective trip.

Language tips for travelers in Maribor

The official language in Maribor is Slovene, which can be challenging for English speakers. However, English is widely understood, especially among younger generations and in tourist areas. Nevertheless, learning a few basic Slovene phrases like 'Dober dan' (Good day), 'Hvala' (Thank you), and 'Prosim' (Please) can be helpful and appreciated by locals. Additionally, be aware that Slovene is a highly inflected language, so the same word can have different meanings depending on its use in a sentence. Do not be discouraged if initial attempts at communication are met with confusion; Slovenians are typically patient and willing to help.

Best time to visit Maribor

The best time to explore Maribor, Slovenia depends on the kind of experience you seek. Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are idyllic for outdoor enthusiasts. The weather during these seasons is mild, ideal for sightseeing, wine tasting, and hiking in the Pohorje Mountains. The city is less crowded in these periods, offering a more peaceful exploration. For winter sports enthusiasts, the period from December to February is perfect. Maribor Pohorje Ski Resort, the largest ski resort in Slovenia, offers a unique skiing experience. However, it also draws larger crowds. The city's vibrant cultural scene comes alive during summer, especially in July when the Lent Festival, the largest outdoor festival in Slovenia, takes place. This festival attracts an international crowd and offers a variety of music, theatre, and dance performances. With this in mind, the best time to visit Maribor truly depends on your personal preferences, whether that's enjoying the calm of off-peak seasons or diving into the city's energetic festival season.

Local tip for visiting Maribor

When exploring Maribor, make sure to venture beyond the city's popular attractions and explore the local neighborhoods. An insider tip from the locals is to visit the vibrant Lent district. This neighborhood, nestled on the banks of the Drava River, is the oldest part of the city and home to a plethora of historic buildings and charming narrow streets. Its name originates from the Slovene word 'lenta,' which means 'wooden river embankment.' Lent comes alive in the summer months with the Lent Festival, the oldest and largest outdoor festival in Slovenia. However, it remains a lively and atmospheric place to visit throughout the year. Locals suggest trying a 'lasko,' a Slovenian beer, at one of the many riverside bars or restaurants. So, while Maribor's popular sights shouldn't be missed, remember to also immerse yourself in the local culture and experience Maribor from a local's perspective.

Top services in Maribor

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Maribor, Slovenia. Browse the 2 top-rated tours available to you in Maribor. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of places to stay in Maribor and the 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Maribor.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Maribor, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Maribor on your vacation in Slovenia.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Maribor from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Maribor!

Learn more about Slovenia

There are many reasons to visit the city of Maribor, but a trip to Slovenia needs no explanation.

Exploring Slovenia, which spans 20,273 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Slovenia offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Mariborsko Pohorje, Maribor Castle, and the Vodni stolp - Water Tower, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Slovenia.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Slovenia.

What to see in Maribor

Photo of Maribor, Slovenia by jarko7

Maribor has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Maribor.

Top attractions in Maribor

Home to plenty of top attractions, Maribor is more than just a wonderful city in Slovenia. Maribor is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Slovenia.

One fascinating sight in Maribor is the unforgettable Mariborsko Pohorje. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Maribor.

Mariborsko Pohorje is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Pohorska ulica 60, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Slovenia, check out our list of top attractions in Maribor below. Discover the best places to visit in Maribor, including the fascinating Mariborsko Pohorje, Maribor Castle, Vodni stolp - Water Tower, Plague Column, and Stražun.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Maribor.

Things to do in Maribor

Photo of Maribor, Slovenia by Leo Castrum

Enrich your travel experience in Maribor by joining tours and activities. Maribor offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Maribor below.

Most popular experiences in Maribor

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Maribor.

Maribor offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Thermal Spas & Hot Springs, Day Spas, and Walking Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Slovenia.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Maribor by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Maribor

Travelers in Maribor can choose from 5 categories of top-rated tours and tickets.

By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Maribor one of the best travel destinations in Slovenia.

Maribor also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Private transfer from Maribor to Ljubljana city is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Transportation Service. This experience costs around 229 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Maribor.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Maribor and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Maribor below.

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Search for things to do in Maribor

Discover the best things to do in Maribor. Choose from 2 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Maribor. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Maribor

Maribor, Slovenia's second-largest city, offers a delightful culinary experience that combines traditional Slovenian cuisine with a modern twist. The city center and Lent district are among the best places to eat in Maribor, offering a range of dining options from cozy bistros, street food stands to high-end restaurants. For a taste of traditional Maribor, try the 'potica' - a rolled pastry with various fillings or 'kranjska klobasa' - a local sausage dish usually served with 'žganci', a type of buckwheat spoonbread. The city is also renowned for its wine, so don't miss the chance to visit the Vinag Wine Cellar, one of the oldest and largest classic wine cellars in Europe. For a more upscale dining experience, visit Mak Restaurant, known for its innovative interpretations of Slovenian cuisine. Being in the heart of the city, it's easy to find a place to eat, but it's recommended to make reservations for dinner, especially during the weekend.

Nightlife in Maribor

As the sun sets, Maribor's vibrant nightlife comes alive, offering a range of experiences for every type of night owl. The best area for bars in Maribor is around Poštna Street, where you'll find an eclectic mix of pubs, wine bars, and cocktail lounges. Here, the popular Jazz Club Satchmo is a must-visit, known for its outstanding live music and inviting atmosphere. For beer lovers, Pivnica Union is the city’s oldest pub and serves a great selection of local brews.

Maribor's unique night culture extends beyond bars and clubs. The city is known for its late-night wine tastings in the Vinag Wine Cellar, one of the oldest and largest wine cellars in Europe. It's also worth visiting the riverfront Lent district, where the vibrant nightlife reflects Maribor’s rich history and culture. Here, you can dine al fresco in one of the waterfront restaurants or enjoy a late-night stroll along the Drava River. Whether you're looking for a quiet evening sipping wine or a night of dancing, Maribor offers a memorable night out.

Best shopping in Maribor

Maribor, Slovenia's second-largest city, offers a charming mix of traditional crafts and contemporary fashion. The best place to go shopping in Maribor is the heart of the old town. Here, you'll find Koprska Ulica, the city's main shopping street, filled with a variety of boutiques and specialty shops. The Europark Maribor, Slovenia's largest shopping center, is another must-visit. With over 120 stores, it's a haven for fashion-forward tourists seeking international and local brands.

In the Lent district, local craftspeople sell their work, making it a perfect spot for unique and authentic souvenirs. Look out for handmade jewelry, traditional Slovenian lace, and honey from the Pohorje mountains. If you're visiting in December, don't miss the magical Christmas market in Grajski Trg, a winter wonderland of local crafts and culinary delights.

Remember that most stores close early on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays. Using Slovenia's currency, the Euro, will be necessary for many smaller shops. Enjoy the city's laid-back atmosphere, take your time, and immerse yourself in Maribor's unique shopping experience.

Best Free Things to Do in Maribor

Maribor, Slovenia's second-largest city, offers a wealth of experiences that won't cost you a cent. Among the best free things to do in Maribor is visiting the historical Old Vine House, home to the world's oldest vine, where you can learn about the city's rich wine heritage. For outdoor enthusiasts, Maribor City Park is a tranquil oasis perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, or feeding the park's charming ducks. A hike up Pyramid Hill rewards you with panoramic views of the city and its surrounding vineyards. Stroll around the picturesque Lent district, Maribor's oldest part, with its charming medieval buildings, including the Water Tower, a remnant of the city's old defensive walls. Don't miss the Maribor Cathedral and the Main Square, both steeped in centuries of history. Lastly, immerse yourself in Slovenian culture by watching a performance at the Summer Theatre Lent, which hosts free concerts during the summer. Thus, Maribor offers an array of cost-free options for experiencing its rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

Vacation packages in Maribor

Photo of Maribor, Slovenia by Leonhard Niederwimmer

The best and easiest way to visit Maribor is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Slovenia.

Booking a vacation package to Maribor means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Maribor to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Maribor is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Maribor, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Maribor.

Find vacation packages in Maribor

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Maribor.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Maribor get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Slovenia. Your customized holiday package to Maribor is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Maribor

To get to the city of Maribor the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Slovenia can travel by plane.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Maribor, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you.

Find cheap flights to Maribor

Photo of Maribor Slovenia, by Leonhard Niederwimmer-roofs

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Maribor, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Slovenia.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Slovenia and the city of Maribor from your city of departure.

Where to stay in Maribor

Photo of Maribor Slovenia, by Leonhard Niederwimmer-maribor

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Maribor is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Maribor usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Maribor offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Maribor and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Maribor planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Maribor, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Slovenia can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Maribor. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Maribor.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Maribor in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Maribor

A trip to the fascinating Maribor, Slovenia, means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 112 hotels, 97 vacation rental apartments, 16 cottages, 4 resorts, 3 bed & breakfasts, 3 guesthouses and 1 hostel. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Maribor provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Hotel City Maribor is one of the top picks of travelers in Maribor.

The hotel is located at Ulica Kneza Koclja 22, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, Air conditioning, and Airport shuttle.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Maribor. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Maribor, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Blazic I. For approximately 42 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Double Room at this popular cottage.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Maribor. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Maribor

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Maribor for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 236 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Maribor provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Maribor are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Maribor.

Hotel Habakuk offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Maribor. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel City Maribor, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Maribor, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Pension Black Baron, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Maribor. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Maribor

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Maribor on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Maribor that match the information provided.

Transportation in Maribor

Maribor, the second largest city in Slovenia, offers an efficient and diverse range of transportation options. The city's public transportation system, run by Marprom, features an extensive network of bus routes that cover the city and its surrounding areas. Tickets can be purchased on board or in advance at Marprom offices and selected newsstands.

Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive in Maribor. Many taxi companies operate in the city, and rides can be easily hailed on the street or booked in advance.

Rental car services are also available in Maribor, with several well-known international and local companies operating in the city. This option offers flexibility to explore the city at your own pace.

For a unique local transportation experience, try the Maribor Pohorje Cable Car. This gondola lift connects the city with the ski resort of Pohorje, offering stunning views of Maribor and the Drava River.

Car rental in Maribor

Photo of Maribor, Slovenia by Miha Turnsek

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Maribor. Maribor has 3 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Maribor start from 25.36 EUR per day or 177.54 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is an Opel Astra 5 Doors Automatic Diesel/Petrol.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Maribor, starting from 16 EUR per day or 112.02 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Vw Up 4 Doors.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Maribor, Slovenia, below.

Popular types of car rental in Maribor

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Maribor to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Maribor can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Slovenia at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Maribor is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Maribor is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Maribor.

Check out all options available in Maribor and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Slovenia below.

Search for car rental in Maribor

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Maribor. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Maribor, Slovenia, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Maribor

Photo of Maribor, Slovenia by Miran Lesnik

The city of Maribor is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Slovenia. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Slovenia has it all.

Slovenia is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Slovenia that are as magical as the city of Maribor. The most popular travel destinations in Slovenia are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Slovenia

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Slovenia. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Maribor

Photo of Maribor Slovenia, by Leonhard Niederwimmer-slovenia

A taste of Slovenia through a visit to Maribor can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Maribor to another remarkable destination in Slovenia.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Maribor to other spectacular locations in Slovenia, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Maribor

Traveling to another city or region in Slovenia? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Maribor to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Slovenia on the selected dates.

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