Looking for the best wine lovers countries in Europe? This guide has you covered!
I have been exploring Europe for over 20 years. Lately, my driving force behind visiting is to find amazing wine.
Of course, you have destinations like France and Italy known for epic wine. But there are so many other places you wouldn’t even know created world-class vino!
Let’s dive in and look at the best wine destinations in Europe that I think are worth visiting or just ordering some wine from (just invest in a good decanter)
1. Hungary
When you type into Google ‘Wine lovers countries’, Hungary is never the first to appear.
But full of incredible local wines this is the perfect European destination to un-wined (especially if you are on a budget).
My trip to Budapest surprised me as I had never thought of it as having a huge wine culture and now I CONSTANTLY recommend it to anyone looking for wine holidays in Europe! 😍
My first experience here was when I ordered a house wine and expected a normal semi-dry wine, however, I was mind-blown that my order was a large glass of Hungarian wine for under 2 euros.
It was much needed after my feet were hurting after exploring all day- good shoes will be your saviour here, especially in the winter!
Hungarian wine is also the most perfect dessert wine.
This type of wine is called Tokaji (if you live in the UK you may have seen it sold in LIDL). It is from the Tokaj wine region in Hungary (there is also an adjoining region in Slovakia).
Make sure you continue your wine journey with a tasting under the castle where you can explore some of the wine produced by the 22 regions in Hungary.
The venue is a candle-lit old stone room with a variety of tasting options which all come with freshly cooked scones.
This experience is one of the many reasons why I think this is one of the best wine countries in Europe to visit year-round.
2. Greece
If you are watching the sunset in Athens or sharing a meal in Crete, wine will always be something you remember from your trip.
The amazing thing about Greek wine is that you will always find the perfect wine for your budget and taste!
I have visited all across Greece and it’s Islands
Retsina is a must-try wine on your trip.
This wine is made from pine and is truly unique. So make sure you grab a glass to try this authentic Greek wine which has been produced for over 2,000 years.
If you want a day out or a change of scenery, book to go to a local vineyard.
A Greek Vineyard is the most magical way to experience the local produce! 🤩
The usual cost is about 15 euros each if you go directly to the vineyard, but if you go through an excursion company, you may be paying a bit more.
My visits to the Greek vineyards have not only given me knowledge of the wine made in Greece but the perfect red wine for those warmer days.
Even if you prefer white or red wine, these vineyards tend to have a wine or two for everyone. This is why you will find the best wine tasting in Europe here!
3. Romania
If you are in search of wine lovers countries full of surprises, stop by Romania.
I didn’t know what to expect from Romania when I arrived. Another one of my winter trips usually means a lot of food and beer to keep warm.
However, you will instantly fall in love with the wine here and will become one of your favourite wine lovers countries.
If you head to one of the cities, go and find a window seat in a local wine bar.
The wine is always amazing and the staff have so much knowledge about the produce. But for the ultimate experience, book a Romanian wine tour!
4. France (Some Of The Best Wine In Europe)
Sampling wine in the French countryside is always the perfect way to spend an afternoon to unwind.
France is one of the most popular and loved wine lovers countries in Europe and you can easily see why!
There are endless places to try wine for all tastes and budgets within France.
I am always amazed at the quality of wine sold in local supermarkets for such low prices.
So why not try picking up a few bottles and doing your own wine tasting when you get back to your accommodation?
An evening sitting in the French Summer air is the best way to de-stress. And European wine is generally a lot healthier for you so it would be rude not to 💁♀️
5. Portugal
A trip to Portugal is full of amazing food, history and beaches. but the wine is on another level!
This is one of the top wine destinations Europe has to try a variety of local wines and just watch the world go by.
When I first visited December 2019 I couldn’t get enough of the hot Sangria they were selling at the Christmas markets. I’m usually not a fan on hot wine but this was incredible!
But if you are looking for something truly unique grab a glass of Vinho Verde, Green wine.
The wine gets its name from being released only 3-6 months after being harvested, so is known in Portugal as young wine.
Green Wine is produced in Northern Portugal and is Very Crisp and aromatic- the perfect summer drink!
Wine Destinations In Europe Final Thoughts
From the volcanic vineyards of Gran Canaria to the rolling hills of Wales, you will not struggle to find unique and wonderful wine regions throughout Europe.
But like any location, there will always be some showstopping places that will make your trip.
These 5 destinations are some of the very best destinations I have tasted wine across Europe that are worth going if you are a wine lover.
Just make sure you book any tours or experiences in advance, especially in the summer months!
Lowri Thomas is the creator of Many Other Wines. With her 10+ years exploring the many wine regions across Europe, she has now made one of them her home. Combined with her WSET qualification, she now helps other wine lovers taste the best of Europe!
