Things to do in Lake Bled near Ljubljana in Slovenia

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This post was updated in October 2018

One of the most popular destinations in Slovenia is Lake Bled. Situated only 55 kms north west of the capital Ljubljana. The lake and adjoining town of Bled can be found on the edge of Triglav National park. Surrounded by the Julian Alps (named after Julius Caesar) which stretch from Italy to Slovenia this is an area famed for its natural beauty.

Lake Bled is becoming a very popular destination for tourists so can be extremely busy in July and August. Don’t avoid visiting Lake Bled if this is the only time you can go. It really is like something out of a fairy tale – a stunning lake, a tiny island with a church and a castle perched on a cliff top overlooking it all.

Whilst it is possible to visit for a day trip though I would recommend a longer visit if you can as there are lots of ideas of what to do around Lake Bled.

These are my top recommendations of things to do in Lake Bled –

Take a pletna to Bled Island
Visit Bled Castle
Try the famous Bled cake
Take a swim in Lake Bled
Go for a stroll (or bike ride) around Lake Bled

THINGS TO DO IN LAKE BLED – TAKE A PLETNA TO BLED ISLAND

If you want to visit the tiny island in the middle of Lake Bled you will need to take a pletna. A pletna is a flat bottomed boat with a roof.

No motorised boats area allowed on Lake Bled so you are actually rowed to the island. It is a great experience and the views are spectacular of the castle and the island. If you are feeling energetic you could hire a boat and row yourselves but my view is that this is a great way to support the local people who own the pletna.

It cost us 14 Euros (return) each for the trip and once we arrived at the island we had half an hour to look around.

When you arrive at the island you alight at the 99 step South Staircase which was built in 1655. Traditionally brides are carried up the steps by their groom to ensure a long and happy marriage.

Take a stroll around the island and admire the views. Don’t forget to visit the 17th century Church of the Assumption and ring the wishing bell for good luck (€6 entry)

LAKE BLED THINGS TO DO – VISIT LAKE BLED CASTLE

Sitting atop a cliff looking over Lake Bled is Bled Castle. The oldest castle in Slovenia its first mention in historical documents was in 1011. While the castle walls are Romanesque all the other castle buildings are Renaissance in origin.

The castle became very famous during the 19th century when it was used as a sanatorium founded by Arnold Rikli. The rich and famous of that day flocked there to try his therapies.

As well as looking at the various historical artefacts in the castle you can see the castle printing works or try some of the local wines in the castle wine cellar.

The views of Lake Bled from the castle courtyard are superb too.

Tip – The walk up to the castle is very steep and can be slippery so wear suitable footwear.

Cost: Adults €11 Children aged 14 and under €5

EAT A BLED CREAM CAKE

Layers of puffed pastry, whipped cream, custard combine to produce the famous Bled cream cake. You can buy them everywhere in Bled and I highly recommend trying one.

We tried one when we were at Bled castle. It certainly was a cake with a view!

TAKE A SWIM IN LAKE BLED

It is one of the commonly asked questions – Can you swim in Lake Bled?

The answer is yes it is possible to swim in Lake Bled (I would only do this in high summer) and the clear turquoise water was very inviting. There were plenty of people taking a dip in the lake when we visited in the designated swimming areas.

If you prefer there are kayaks or rowing boats for hire around the lake.

TAKE A STROLL AROUND LAKE BLED

The walk around Lake Bled is 6 kms and will provide you with stunning views at every angle. The walk will take an hour (or two if you take lots of photographs. I have read that the path is not suitable for bicycles as there is no room for them and pedestrians.

BEST TOURS TO LAKE BLED FROM LJUBLJANA

There are a number of great tour options for day trips from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. This is what we did as we were short on time. This is an excellent option if you want to see Lake Bled but don’t want the hassle of trying to get there on public transport.

These are my top selections for Lake Bled from Get Your Guide.

Lake Bled and Bled Castle Tour

Bled and Bohinj Alpine Lakes Tour from Ljubljana – see Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj in this full day tour

Lake Bled and Cream Cake Tasting Tour from Ljubljana

HOW TO GET TO LAKE BLED

LJUBLJANA TO LAKE BLED

Lake Bled is easily accessible from Ljubljana by bus. The trip takes an hour and 15 minutes and costs under €13 for a return ticket (valid for 30 days). Click here to check the timetable and purchase a ticket.

If you (like us) prefer to take the train it is possible. Catch the train from Ljubljana to Lesce Bled which is 4 kms from the lake. From Lesce Bled take a bus to the lake.

Alternatively take a tour or hire a car and drive to Lake Bled.

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE BLED

There are numerous accommodation options around the lake.

Luxury

The Vila Bled which was the former residence of President Tito.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A STAY AT THIS HOTEL EXCEPTIONALLY LOCATED ON LAKE BLED

B&B

The Čarman Guest House which has its own private pier and wooden rowing boat for hire! Also located with excellent views across the lake.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A STAY AT THE GUEST HOUSE

WEATHER IN LAKE BLED – WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKE BLED?

The peak time to visit Lake Bled is during the summer months. With temperatures in the late 20’s and a lake warm enough for a dip this is a great time to enjoy the region. The only down side is the popularity of Lake Bled – it will be busy and crowded in summer.

However I have seen photographs and read about Lake Bled during the winter and it really does become a fairytale winter wonderland.

When to visit Lake Bled is entirely up to you – whichever season I am sure you will have a fantastic time.

Read more about what there is to do in Lake Bled during the winter months.

ESSENTIAL FACTS ABOUT SLOVENIA

Capital – Ljubljana

Population – 2 million

Official language – Slovenian

Currency – Euro

Time zone – Central European Time (GMT +1 or +2 in summer)

BLED LAKE SLOVENIA – BUCKET LIST

Take a pletna to Bled Island
Visit Bled Castle
Try the famous Bled cake
Take a swim in Lake Bled
Go for a stroll (or bike ride) around Lake Bled

These are my essential 5 things to do in Lake Bled Julian Alps Slovenia

Have a great trip!

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Author: Tracy

Tracy has lived and worked in 7 countries on 4 continents and travelled to over 50 more. A qualified school teacher with an interest in history, reading, photography, nature and wildlife she is always planning her next trip (preferably by train)

With a lifetime of travel experience, and a network of friends all over the world, she is also able to share genuine insider guides, recommended best book lists and train journey inspiration to help you travel authentically to some of the most beautiful places on earth.

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