Home » Greece » Greece Travel News » Hungary Joins Austria, Greece, Bulgaria, Germany, Romania, And More In The European Wine Tourism Evaluation, Revealing New Opportunities For Wine Enthusiasts: New Report You Need To Know
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September 18, 2025
Hungary joins Austria, Greece, Bulgaria, Germany, Romania, and more as emerging wine tourism destinations in Europe, reflecting the growing interest in exploring unique wine regions beyond the traditional powerhouses. As the wine tourism industry continues to thrive, Hungary’s inclusion in the European Wine Tourism Ranking highlights its rising popularity, driven by its UNESCO-listed Tokaj wine region and a rich winemaking history. This emerging trend shows how the wine tourism landscape is evolving, offering new opportunities for travelers to discover lesser-known yet equally captivating wine regions across Europe.
Wine tourism has seen an unprecedented surge in popularity in recent years. As more travelers seek destinations that offer both relaxation and cultural experiences through the lens of winemaking, wine-focused travel has become one of the most sought-after sectors in global tourism. The rise of this industry is further evidenced by the latest European Wine Tourism Ranking, which has introduced Hungary alongside several well-established wine destinations like Austria, Greece, Bulgaria, Germany, and Romania as key emerging regions for wine tourism. This ranking, compiled by a comprehensive analysis of Europe’s top wine regions, offers valuable insights into which countries and regions are most attractive to wine enthusiasts.
The Growing Appeal of Wine Tourism
The appeal of wine tourism has grown steadily, with travelers increasingly eager to explore the vineyards, experience local wine production, and taste some of the best wines the world has to offer. According to recent studies, over 91% of travelers have expressed interest in wine and food-related experiences, demonstrating the massive demand for wine tourism. This rise in interest has prompted experts to compile the European Wine Tourism Index, offering a thorough assessment of the best countries for wine lovers to visit. The index ranks destinations based on a wide range of factors, including the size of vineyards, the diversity of wines, and the global recognition of each country’s wine-producing regions.
Methodology of the European Wine Travel Ranking
The rankings are based on a detailed analysis of five key categories, which highlight the essential attributes of each destination in terms of its wine tourism appeal. The factors considered include:
- Vineyard Surface Area: This measures the overall size of vineyards within each country, which impacts the amount and variety of wines produced.
- Area Dedicated to PDO and PGI Wines: The Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) and Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) designations ensure the authenticity and quality of wines. Countries with a larger proportion of their vineyards dedicated to PDO/PGI wines often offer superior wine experiences.
- Number of Registered Wines: This category reflects the diversity and the scope of wine varieties registered under PDO and PGI status, giving wine lovers an extensive range of options.
- Total Wine Production Volume: The overall wine production capacity indicates a country’s ability to meet both domestic and international demand for its wines.
- International Awards: Recognition at prestigious global competitions, such as the Decanter World Wine Awards, provides valuable insight into the quality and reputation of a country’s wines on the world stage.
These metrics are compiled from trusted sources, including Eurostat, the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV), and the Decanter World Wine Awards 2025, ensuring that the rankings are accurate and reflect the true potential of each destination.
France: The Wine Capital of Europe
France, as expected, tops the list of wine tourism destinations with a score of 85.2 out of 100. Known for its historic and iconic wine regions such as Champagne, Burgundy, and Bordeaux, France remains the undisputed leader in global wine tourism. The country’s rich heritage, combined with its commitment to producing exceptional wines, continues to attract millions of visitors each year. From the world-famous Champagne cellars to the scenic vineyards of Bordeaux, France offers some of the most immersive wine experiences in the world. The country’s dominance is further supported by its impressive number of international awards, making it the first choice for wine connoisseurs.
Italy: The Heart of Wine Heritage
Taking second place is Italy, a country that boasts a diverse range of wines, from the bold reds of Tuscany to the sparkling whites of Prosecco. Italy’s legacy of winemaking, which spans thousands of years, is reflected in its vast number of PDO wines. The regions of Piedmont, known for its Barolo and Barbaresco wines, and Tuscany, famous for Chianti and Montepulciano, continue to draw wine enthusiasts from across the globe. Italy’s reputation as a top-tier wine producer is cemented by its world-class wine regions and the high number of wines registered under PDO status. Its appeal as a wine tourism destination is further bolstered by the unmatched beauty of its landscapes and the strong connection between Italian food and wine culture.
Spain: A Vineyard Wonderland
Spain ranks third, with over 900,000 hectares of vineyards, making it one of the largest wine producers in Europe. More than 97% of Spain’s vineyards are dedicated to PDO and PGI wines, emphasizing the country’s commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect its diverse regions. From the bold reds of Rioja to the complex sherries of Andalusia, Spain offers a vast array of wine experiences. The volcanic wines from Lanzarote and the rich, full-bodied reds from Priorat provide a unique exploration of Spain’s diverse terroirs. Spain’s vibrant wine culture and remarkable diversity in wine offerings make it a must-visit destination for wine lovers.
Portugal: The Wine Lover’s Paradise
Portugal claims fourth place, thanks to its abundant vineyards, many of which produce award-winning wines. The Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards that line the banks of the Douro River, remains one of Portugal’s top wine regions. The country’s famous Port wine, a rich, fortified red wine, is just one of the many wine varieties that have put Portugal on the wine tourism map. Madeira and the wines from the Alentejo region also showcase the country’s commitment to producing high-quality wines. Wine cruises along the Douro River offer a unique way to explore Portugal’s wine culture, with panoramic views of vineyards and opportunities to sample some of the finest wines the country has to offer.
Greece: A Journey Through Ancient Vineyards
Greece, known for its winemaking history that dates back to the Mycenaean civilization, rounds out the top five. Greece’s unique climate and terrain support a variety of native grape varieties, including Assyrtiko in Santorini and Liatiko in Crete. These indigenous grapes, paired with Greece’s ancient winemaking traditions, create a wine tourism experience that blends history, culture, and incredible flavors. Wine tours in Greece often combine visits to ancient archaeological sites with tastings of some of the country’s most celebrated wines. The stunning landscapes of Greece’s wine regions make it an unforgettable destination for wine lovers.
Emerging Wine Destinations
While the traditional wine regions of France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece dominate the rankings, several emerging destinations are gaining significant attention among wine tourists. These countries are quickly becoming must-visit spots for those seeking new and exciting wine experiences.
- Germany (Ranked 6th): Germany is renowned for its exceptional Riesling wines, and the picturesque vineyards along the Rhine and Mosel rivers provide a beautiful backdrop for wine lovers.
- Romania (Ranked 7th): Dealu Mare, Romania’s premier wine-producing region, is known for its rich, powerful reds, drawing the attention of international wine enthusiasts.
- Hungary (Ranked 8th): The Tokaj wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its sweet wines, making Hungary an increasingly popular destination for wine connoisseurs.
- Austria (Ranked 9th): The Wachau Valley, known for its Grüner Veltliner wines, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an emerging wine destination in Europe.
- Bulgaria (Ranked 10th): Bulgaria, with its winemaking roots in ancient Thrace, offers rich and complex wines that are gaining recognition on the global stage.
These emerging wine regions are reshaping the European wine tourism landscape, providing travelers with new opportunities to discover unique wines and experiences in destinations that have long been overlooked.
The Future of Wine Tourism
The growing interest in wine tourism presents an exciting opportunity for wine regions across Europe. With younger travelers (aged 18–44) showing the strongest interest in food and wine-related activities, destinations that offer a mix of authenticity, culture, and gastronomy are well-positioned to capture this growing market. Wine tourism is not only beneficial for the economy but also helps to preserve vineyards and winemaking traditions, ensuring these cultural landmarks are maintained for future generations.
As wine tourism continues to grow, it is clear that the traditional wine regions will remain popular, while emerging destinations will continue to capture the attention of wine enthusiasts seeking new adventures. With the help of the European Wine Tourism Ranking, wine lovers now have a comprehensive guide to exploring the best of Europe’s wine regions. From the historic vineyards of France to the emerging wines of Hungary, the future of wine tourism is brimming with opportunities to discover new flavors, cultures, and landscapes.
Hungary joins Austria, Greece, Bulgaria, Germany, Romania, and more as emerging wine tourism destinations in Europe, driven by its UNESCO-listed Tokaj wine region and increasing recognition for its quality wines. This rise in popularity showcases the growing appeal of lesser-known wine regions in Europe.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious beginner, Europe’s wine tourism destinations offer something for everyone, ensuring unforgettable experiences and lasting memories with every glass.
