7 days in Eastern Slovenia | Slovenia Tours

Route

This journey takes you from Ljubljana to Maribor and through the wine-growing and thermal regions of eastern Slovenia, passing historic towns, castles and rolling green hills.

Pace

Days unfold at a relaxed and pleasant pace, with short travel times and a balanced mix of culture, gastronomy and pure relaxation.

Highlights

Ljubljana and Maribor, the Podravje wine region, medieval Ptuj, castles and monasteries along the Sava River, and a final stay at one of the many thermal spas.

Accommodation

You stay in carefully selected Caractère hotels, well located for exploring cities, vineyards and wellness addresses.

Profile

Perfect for travellers who appreciate tranquillity, fine wines and comfort, and want to experience Slovenia through gentle landscapes, culture and moments of indulgence.

Day 1: Departure for Ljubljana

Whether you’re travelling by plane or by car, your journey begins in beautiful Ljubljana. Are you flying? Then pick up your hire car first before the adventure can begin. Are you driving? We’d be happy to help you plan the best route. Will you drive straight through to Slovenia or make a stopover in Italy? The choice is yours! You’ll spend your first two nights in Ljubljana at a Caractère hotel.

Day 2: Ljubljana

On day 2, you can relax with a visit to the beautiful university city of Ljubljana. In recent years, this city has become one of the most pleasant capital cities in Europe, boasting a lively atmosphere. The old town around the Old Market Square and Prešeren Square forms a mix of beautiful Baroque and Art Deco buildings, linked by characteristic bridges.

Day 3: Maribor, starting point of the Eastern Wine Route

Take the A-road to the university city of Maribor, with its medieval city centre and renowned for its vibrant arts and theatre scene. The riverbank is the heart of the old town, with numerous terraces and restaurants. Maribor is home to the world’s oldest fruit-bearing vine, and beneath the historic centre lie the largest wine cellars in Central Europe. A wine tasting here is a must! To explore the region to the full, you’ll stay for two nights in one of our Caractère hotels.

Day 4: The Podravje wine region, the Slovenian Tuscany

Podravje, bordering Austria and Hungary, is a very old wine-growing region. The region is also known as the Tuscany of Slovenia. Today, it is Slovenia’s largest wine-growing region. According to connoisseurs, the wines are among the best in the country. The warm climate and specific soil composition make the wines richer and more aromatic. The first stop on your tour is Radenci, an old spa town with its eponymous mineral water, idyllically situated amongst hills covered in vineyards. Continue your journey to the medieval town of Ljutomer through a lovely landscape towards Jeruzalem. The next stop is Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest town. Finally, drive 12 kilometres further south to visit the beautiful hilltop pilgrimage church.

Day 5: Imposing castles and fortified monasteries

The adventure continues along the River Sava, through the towns of Celje and Laško. Stop off at the Carthusian monastery of Pleterje. Continue your journey to Novo Mesto, situated on the steep banks of the River Krka and surrounded by seven hills. Here you will stay for another two nights in a Caractère hotel.

Day 6: Land of thermal springs and mineral waters

You’ll be amazed by the large number of natural thermal springs and spas in this region. To round off this adventure, you can enjoy a wonderful day of relaxation at one of the 16 accredited and professional spas found in south-eastern Slovenia.

Day 7: Back home

Unfortunately, your trip has come to an end and, after returning your hire car if applicable, you’ll fly or drive back home with a sense of fulfilment. Don’t feel like heading home just yet? Caractère will be happy to arrange for you to stay a few more nights.