Things To Do
in Šentilj
Šentilj is a small Slovenian municipality on the eastern edge of the country, serving as a gateway to the neighboring regions and countries. It sits in the Styrian countryside, where vineyards, farmland, and river valleys create a relaxed rural atmosphere. The town acts as a convenient base for exploring the nearby city of Maribor, the Haloze wine hills, and the Drava River corridor.
Visitors come for easy-access nature, local hospitality, and a calm pace that pairs well with day trips to larger nearby towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Šentilj and check into your cozy hotel or guesthouse. Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque town, breathing in the fresh morning air while admiring the quaint architecture and beautiful landscapes. Don't forget to grab a traditional Slovenian breakfast at a local café.
Visit the nearby vineyards and take part in a wine tasting tour to sample some of the best Slovenian wines. Enjoy a guided tour that explains the local wine-making process, and relish the scenic views of the rolling hills. Afterward, have lunch at a charming restaurant, savoring homemade dishes featuring local produce.
Return to Šentilj for a peaceful evening walk as the sun sets, illuminating the town in golden hues. Dine at a local eatery, indulging in traditional Slovenian cuisine while experiencing the warm hospitality of the locals. Cap off the night with a glass of wine from the day's tasting, reflecting on your experiences.
Start your day with a hiking adventure in the nearby Pohorje mountains. The cool morning air and beautiful natural surroundings will invigorate your spirit as you make your way through the forest trails. Look out for local wildlife and breathe in the aromatic scents of pine and wildflowers.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, taking advantage of the serene environment. Spend some time exploring the beautiful lakes and rivers in the area, perhaps going for a refreshing swim or just relaxing by the water. Visit a local artisan market to pick up handcrafted souvenirs and regional delicacies.
Head back to Šentilj just in time to witness a stunning sunset. Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Relax in the evening with a peaceful walk through the quiet streets of Šentilj, soaking in the tranquility.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚶Public transport ticket (one-way) | $1-2 |
| 🛏 ️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🍷Two-course dinner with wine | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming rural setting with easy access to Maribor and Haloze
- Good value for money and generous Styrian hospitality
- Scenic landscapes, wine culture, and relaxing pace
- Limited nightlife in the town itself
- Public transport options to remote villages can be infrequent
- Some restaurants focus on meat-heavy dishes; vegetarian options require inquiry
- "Dober dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Prosim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Kje je ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Koliko stane?" - How much does it cost?
- "Govorite angleško?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Šentilj
Visit one of these nice places.
Riverside views with the old town towers reflected in the water, especially picturesque at sunrise or blue hour.
Iconic photo spot capturing the historic bridge with the Drava and Baroque city backdrop.
Forest paths and lookout points offering sweeping views over the Drava valley and Maribor below.
Terraced hillsides and grape vines with rolling hills as a dramatic landscape shot, especially in late afternoon light.
Food in Šentilj
Šentilj Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rustic cornmeal mush often served with cracklings, milk, or stewed vegetables; a staple of Styrian home cooking.
Must-Try!
A warming bean and sauerkraut stew with potatoes and smoked pork or sausage.
A traditional rolled cake filled with walnuts, poppy seeds, or other fillings; common in bakeries and celebrations.
A classic Slovenian sausage often served with mustard and rye bread.
A comforting dish featuring cornmeal polenta topped with sautéed mushrooms; a regional comfort food.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market area in the Maribor vicinity offering fresh produce, cheeses, honey, bread, and regional snacks; excellent for sampling local ingredients.
A traditional market near Ptuj where locals buy seasonal fruits, vegetables, and regional specialties; great for a quick tasting stop during day trips.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and polite greeting (Dober dan or Zdravo) is common; address people with respectful forms like gospod/gospa.
Be punctual for arranged meetings; modest, friendly conversations are appreciated in social settings.
When visiting churches, dress modestly and observe quiet conduct.
Safety
Tipping in Šentilj
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up or leave about 5-10% if service is good and not already included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; euros are the local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with sunshine; occasional rain showers. Light clothing and sun protection recommended; ideal for river strolls and outdoor dining.
Harvest season in Haloze and surrounding hills; vibrant vineyard colors and wine tastings abound.
Cold, with possible snow in the Pohorje foothills; cozy inns and hearty meals are the norm.
Mild temperatures and blossoming landscapes; great for hiking, cycling, and market visits.
Šentilj at Night
Hiking in Šentilj
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wine country hikes with terraced vineyards and panoramic valley views.
Forest trails and easy to moderate hikes with viewpoints above Maribor.
Riverside trails suitable for day hikes and leisurely walks with river scenery.
Airports
How to reach Šentilj by plane.
Closest regional airport with limited domestic and international connections; short drive from Šentilj.
Main international gateway to Slovenia; frequent international and European flights; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Šentilj.
Major international hub in Austria; further away but well connected by road and rail; good option for connections to many destinations.
Croatian airport offering additional international connections; drive or rail links to northeastern Slovenia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Slovene; small local communities with hillside villages and cross-border connections in the region.
Attuned to cross-border travel and regional trade with Austrian and Croatian neighbors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and followed; local clubs and amateur leagues are active in the region.
Nearby Pohorje and surrounding hills offer winter sports suitable for families and enthusiasts.
Popular due to river routes and rolling hills through Haloze; road and mountain biking are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Šentilj.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose veg-filled soups, polenta dishes, fresh salads, and mushroom-based plates; request cheese or egg options where needed. Many places can adapt dishes by substituting meat with vegetables or legumes.