Last Updated on 21st August 2023 by Sophie Nadeau
As you look across a pool of impossibly blue water, to the historic church in the centre, and over to the Julian Alps, you’ll understand why Lake Bled is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Lake Bled, as well as travel tips and what to know
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Why you need to go to Lake Bled
Lake Bled is one of the best tourist destinations in all of former Yugoslavia, and although it is very popular, it’s still somewhere where you can get into nature and enjoy some of Slovenia’s best beautiful natural scenery.
There’s something for everyone here. Take a boat across the lake, learn about the church’s unique history, hike around the water or just enjoy some local food and drink and take in the glorious views. Lake Bled has lots to offer in a small area, and it’s easy to access from Ljubljana.
Should you go on a day trip or multi-day?
There are quite a lot of things to do at Lake Bled – we’ll cover them later in this post! This means that if you want to stay in the area, you can by all means and you won’t get bored or run out of things to do.
Staying here will also give you the added benefit of enjoying Lake Bled before and after the day-trippers have left, meaning the opportunity to enjoy more of the place to yourself.
If you plan on staying in Lake Bled, it’s a good idea to reserve a hotel or hostel in advance, as the area isn’t big and accommodation may fill up. This is especially true during high season (i.e. the summer months).
In order to enjoy all that Lake Bled and its surrounding have to offer, you’ll want to set aside three or four days. This will give you time to go boating on the lake, go for some hikes, and also allow you the time to simply relax and soak up the beauty of Slovenian nature.
Hotel recommendations
Adora Luxury Hotel is one of the most-loved accommodation options in the area. It has gorgeous views over the lake and elegant rooms with luxurious features. Check prices and availability here.
Panorama Apartments are perfect for groups or families, with comfortable bedrooms and kitchenettes. Check prices and availability here.
Bled Hostel is perfect for backpackers, with affordable dorms, some with their own bathroom. There’s also a kitchen, laundry facilities, a bar and BBQ area. Check prices and availability here.
Lake Bled day trip
If you don’t have the time to spend a couple of days or more at Lake Bled, don’t worry! It’s a very feasible day trip from Ljubljana, and you can see the highlights in a few hours. If you’re staying in Ljubljana itself, then be sure to check out how to spend one day in Ljubljana.
You could do a guided tour like this one that takes you to Bohinj and Vintgar Gorge as well. Alternatively, there are public transport options or car rental companies operating in Ljubljana. Check car rental prices here.
How to get to Lake Bled from Ljubljana
If you have your own vehicle, it’s a short 45 minute drive between the two destinations. Or, direct buses take around an hour and depart regularly from Ljubljana Bus Station. Alternatively, you could take the train, which takes just over an hour and stops at Jezero Station.
This is on the western side of the lake, so you will need to transfer to another taxi, take a bus or walk for around an hour to reach the main attractions of Bled. If you would prefer to take part in an organised excursion where transport is taken care of for you, then you can book this guided tour.
Things to do at Lake Bled
From adventure to gastronomy, there are so many things to do at Lake Bled! So whether you’re looking to sample some local Slovenian cuisine or would alternatively prefer to spend a day partaking in watersports, there truly is something for everyone at Lake Bled.
Kayak to the island
Possibly the most popular thing to do at Lake Bled is to hire a kayak and travel to the island in the middle of the lake. You can rent kayaks for around 15 euros, paddle across to the island and leave the kayaks as you explore!
Bled Castle
Truth be told, the history lovers out there should be sure to check out Bled Castle, which is perched high above Lake Bled and looks akin to something out of a fairytale. The medieval castle dates back to the 11th-century and can be visited for a fee.
On site, Bled Castle has a restaurant where you can enjoy refreshments, as well as a winery where it’s possible to sample local Slovenian wines. The castle is open every day of the week, including on Sundays and during Bank Holidays. You can find more details on the Bled Castle website.
Do a Pletna boat trip
The Pletna boats are the traditional transportation that will take you from the lake’s shores to the central island. This costs 12 euros per person for a round trip; the boat waits for about half an hour at the island so you can have a look around. It’s pricier than renting kayaks if you’re travelling with at least one other person, but it’s a good option if you don’t want to paddle yourself.
Explore the island
Most famous for its 15th century gothic church called Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary, Bled Island has been the muse for many postcards and watercolour paintings throughout the years. However you get to the island, it’s worth exploring for a while.
You can climb to the church and take in some lovely lake views and even ring the church bells. Apparently, if you make a wish while ringing, it will come true!
Walk around the lake
Pull on your hiking boots and walk (or cycle) around the lake! It’s about six kilometres, and you’ll find some great vistas and swimming spots along the way. You can also rent a bike and cycle the distance.
Hike to a viewpoint
As Bled is nestled in the Julian Alps, there are lots of epic viewpoints that you can hike to and experience some of Slovenia’s best countryside views. Popular viewpoints include Mala Ojstrica and Mala Osojnica, both of which offer stunning vistas over the brilliantly blue lake and serene, historical church.
Go scuba diving!
Lake Bled is a stunner from the top, but it’s even more interesting below the water. With Bled Diving, you can see multiple different species of fish and fascinating water plants. You’ll need to book your experience in advance, but if you’re a keen diver it’s definitely a unique Bled activity.
Find a swimming spot
There are several designated swimming areas in Lake Bled. These are typically open from June to September each year, and some even feature floating platforms to relax on! Of all the things to do in Lake Bled, this is one of the most popular attractions.
You aren’t always guaranteed sunny weather in this part of Slovenia, but in the height of the summer, temperatures can reach the late twenties – which is perfect for a refreshing dip!
Try some local food
Slovenian food isn’t that famous, but there’s plenty for you to try here – including some Bled specialties. The most famous is perhaps Bled Cream Cake or Kremsnita, which is made from puff pastry, cream and egg custard. Or, visit a nearby winery and sample some local Slovenian wine; check out wine tasting Bled for more information!
From nature to history to gastronomy, there’s so much to enjoy in beautiful Lake Bled! Whether you visit this part of Slovenia on a day trip from the capital or for a longer stay, you’re guaranteed to have an absolutely magical time.
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Claire Martin is a travel blogger and freelance writer who specialises in overland adventures. She’s drove around Australia, travelled from Bali to London without flying, lived in Mexico and has spent many months exploring Europe. You can follow her adventures on her blog, Claire’s Footsteps.