Ptuj is the Best Cultural Heritage Town in Europe for 2026
Ptuj, a medieval town in northeastern Slovenia | Author Depositphotos
In a comprehensive study of more than 200 authentically historic towns across Europe, the European Best Destinations organisation has released a list of the Best Cultural Heritage Towns in Europe for 2026. This selection is based on UNESCO’s Cultural World Heritage Sites in Europe, a survey taken by international travellers about their favourite cultural and gastronomic getaways and expert curation by travel professionals who evaluated destinations based four criteria: integrity and preservation of historic architecture and landmarks, cultural richness through museums, festivals and year-round programming, sustainability and accessibility via walkability and eco-friendly transport, and authentic local cuisine and immersive nature experiences. “Ptuj is more than a preserved past – it is a town that lives and breathes history every single day,” says the European Best Destinations organisation.