Lake Bled Slovenia–Travel Guide
Get top tips for visiting Lake Bled, Slovenia—learn about the island, the cream cake, and must-see sights. Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s true gems!
Lake Bled is one of the most visited and popular tourist destinations in the country, attracting local and foreign guests with its unique beauty on the edge of the Triglav National Park with stunning views of the highest peaks of the Julian Alps.
There’s plenty of information online about Lake Bled, including transportation, accommodation, and local events to help you plan your holiday or day trip. To make things easier, we’ve created a helpful article with a summary of the most common questions and answers—so you can find everything you need in one place.
For a better overview of the area, we recommend checking the Lake Bled Slovenia map online, where you’ll see the exact locations of the main attractions.
You’re also welcome to visit our office in the town center, just a short walk from the lake. Our team will gladly help you choose the best Lake Bled activities, ensuring you enjoy an unforgettable day outdoors with our experienced guides. Most of our adventures begin right here at our office, and we’ll take you from Bled to some of the top destinations in the Triglav National Park.
What is Lake Bled famous for?
Bled castle, standing on a 130-meter high cliff, is one of the top attractions in this beautiful alpine town. You can climb the stairs that lead from the lakeshore or you can get there by car. It is a short walk uphill from the parking lot to the entrance of the medieval fort. You can take a tour through the Bled Castle. At the gate, you can buy an entrance fee and see:
- The Museum of Complete History of Bled
- Gallery in the Tower
- Printing Works
- Wine Cellar
- Bled Castle Medieval Forge
In the heart of Lake Bled, a tiny island invites you to climb its 99 stone steps and discover the historic St. Mary’s Church. Inside, ring the legendary Bell of Desire—said to grant wishes—and admire the elegant Baroque interior. Surrounded by alpine waters and wrapped in centuries of tradition, this magical spot blends natural beauty, folklore, and peaceful charm into one unforgettable visit.
Looking for things to do at Lake Bled, Slovenia?
The charming town offers an excellent opportunity to visit the top sights, including the Bled castle and the Bled island in the middle of the lake. You can also take a stroll along the lakeshore or taste the culinary delights in one of the restaurants. For those who want to see the top 3 Lake Bled viewpoints, the Bled 360° Hiking Tour is the perfect choice.
However, if you are more into sports and adrenaline adventures, we have prepared many offers for Lake Bled Slovenia activities. Adrenaline Lake Bled activities are suitable for couples, families with children, single travelers, and groups. Whether you come in summer or winter, you will find the most exciting and memorable tours, such as:
- Paragliding or ballooning above the lake with the most amazing panorama views
- Adventures on the river: kayaking, rafting, canyoning and river tubing
- Discovering the high mountain world: climbing Via Ferrata, climbing Mount Triglav tours
- Unforgettable winter adventures: ice climbing, ski touring, snowshoeing, winter hiking in the Julian Alps, sledding
Can You Walk around Lake Bled?
A scenic 6-kilometre trail circles Lake Bled, perfect for a relaxing walk or light outdoor activity. Begin your walk beneath Bled Castle, continue through the vibrant lakeside centre, and follow the shore to the peaceful village of Mlino. Benches line the route, offering plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the view. Prefer cycling? You can rent a mountain bike or an e-bike directly from our office for a fun ride around the lake.
Best locations to take photo in Lake Bled
Alternatively, you can go on a Lake Bled Slovenia hiking trail, which will lead you to the top of the hills above the lake, offering breathtaking views of the town and the lake. These hills are:
- Straža
- Ojstrica
- Osojnica
- Ravnica
- Višce
Alternatively, join our Bled 360° Hike – visit the top 3 viewpoints, explore Bled Castle, and enjoy a traditional cream cake.
Which animals live in Lake Bled?
Below the lake’s surface live different species of fish, such as:
- Wells catfish
- Pike and pikeperch
- Trout
- Carp and grass carp
- Tench
- Asp
You can go on a carp fishing adventure, which makes an excellent opportunity for all enthusiasts of fishing in unspoiled nature. You need to purchase individual fishing permits. When buying permits, they will also explain the additional rules for fishing, mainly as regards the conservation period for fishing carps, permitted daily limits, fishing methods, and other information.
Above the lake’s surface live feathered animals and water birds, among which you can see ducks, common coots, cormorants, and mandarin ducks while walking along the lakeshore. The biggest attraction and trademark of the town are the elegant swans, which mostly linger along the promenade, between Vila Prešeren and Grand Hotel Toplice.
Can you swim in Lake Bled Slovenia?
Swimming is permitted anywhere in the lake at your own risk, except on the eastern side of the lake, in the lakeshore city center. You can find your spot under the sun along the lakeside or spend your summer days on Lake Bled beach, such as:
- Grajska beach: swimming pools, water slides, rafts on the water and children’s playground. There is also a restaurant, a diving center, and a kayak rental.
- Velika Zaka beach: deckchairs and parasol rentals, showers, restaurant, bar, rowboat rental
- Mala Zaka beach: olympic rowing center, SUP rentals, bar and grill
Swimming in Lake Bled is generally free, except on the eastern shore where Grajska Beach, located below the castle, requires a paid entrance. Other popular swimming spots like Velika Zaka and Mala Zaka are open to the public at no cost.
How warm is Lake Bled for swimming?
Lake Bled’s average annual water temperature is around 12°C. In the peak summer months of July and August, the lake can warm up to a pleasant 25°C, making it ideal for swimming. The bathing season typically starts in June when the water reaches around 19°C and lasts until the end of September. Thanks to the lack of major inflowing rivers—only a few small creeks feed into it—Lake Bled warms up relatively quickly each year.
Particularly fascinating are the thermal springs near the east lakeshore, whose temperatures do not drop below 20°C throughout the year. The thermal springs are ladled in the pools of the Grand Hotel Toplice. There is also a private Lake Bled beach in front of the hotel.
In winter, Lake Bled transforms into a peaceful icy landscape. When temperatures drop low enough, the lake surface freezes over. On rare occasions when the ice is thick and stable, visitors can enjoy ice skating directly on the lake.
How to get around with Lake Bled boat?
Cruising across Lake Bled in a traditional wooden boat known as a pletna is one of the area’s most iconic experiences. This flat-bottomed vessel, similar in style to a Venetian gondola, is steered by a standing rower and takes you to the picturesque island in the middle of the lake, home to a charming church and centuries of legends.
A trained helmsman rows the traditional 18-passenger pletna boat using a unique stand-up, two-oar technique. This allows you to sit back, relax, and take in the scenic alpine views as you glide across the lake. While advance booking isn’t always necessary, it’s a good idea to call ahead or reserve shortly before your visit—especially during the busy summer season.
You can board a boat from one of the main departure points:
Rent a Boat in Lake Bled
Alternatively, you can rent a small wooden rowboat for two to five people and enjoy a fun, private cruise to the island.
These are the places to hire a private rowboat:
Which are the best restaurants near Lake Bled?
Most restaurants, cafés, and snack bars are found in the town center and along the lakeshore. In the cosy lakeside cafés with stunning views, you can also try the iconic Bled cream cake, known as kremšnita.
- Cafe Park: original cream cakes, made fresh every day
- Cafe Belvedere: a historic Tito residency offers a stunning views over Lake Bled and an island
- Castle Coffeeshop: enjoy the delicious creamcake between the castle walls, overlooking Lake Bled
- Pastry Zima Bled: locals say that this is where you get the best cream cakes
Bled offers a wide range of culinary experiences. We recommend trying some traditional Slovenian dishes, especially those from the Upper Carniola region. Enjoy fresh, flavourful Slovenian cuisine at some of the town’s top restaurants:
- Oštarija Peglez’n: charming and cozy restaurant, large portions of Mediterranean food and seafood, well-known for its Lake Bled trout
- Restaurant Arbor: local and fresh meals, Slovenian, Italian and Mediterranean food, lunch specials (weekdays from 11 am to 1 pm)
- Wine Bar & Restaurant Sova: opposite our office in central Bled, modern menu, homemade brandy
- Restaurant Central Bled: one of the most popular restaurants, traditional Slovenian dishes, especially pork baby back ribs, cottage cheese dumplings and pasta
- Al Fresco Restaurant: newly opened restaurant, gourmet cuisine meets the comfort of home, offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Pizzeria Rustika: the best pizza in town, also offers great burgers and salads
- Bled Castle Restaurant: run by a family of famous chefs, it offers tasting menus; if you book in advance, you gain a free entrance to the Bled Castle
What is the national dish of Slovenia?
Slovenian traditional recipes have been passed down through generations, preserving the country’s rich culinary heritage. Slovenia is divided into 24 culinary regions, each known for its own signature dish. Some local foods are even protected by a geographical designation, earning international recognition for their authenticity. You can sample many of these national specialties in restaurants around Lake Bled. Highlights include:
- Kranjska klobasa or Carniolan sausage: from the best pork meat and smoked bacon, served cold or warm
- Žganci or spoonbread: made from corn or buckwheat flour and dressed with pork cracklings
- Jota or yota: dense stew from potatoes, beans, sauerkraut, and dried pork
- Štruklji or rolled dumplings: either sweet or salty, usually filled with cottage cheese
- Potica or rolled pastry: rich yeast dough filled with a sweet or savoury filling, 80 different fillings – typically with ground walnuts, poppy seeds, tarragon and cottage cheese; you can try many different types at Potičnica on the Lake Bled Island
- Kremšnita or cream cake: confectionery specialty from Bled; layers of light vanilla custard and whipped cream, sandwiched between thin sheets of puff pastry, dusted with powdered sugar
Where to stay in Lake Bled Slovenia?
A wide range of accommodation options is available in and around Bled, allowing you to choose based on your preferences, location, and budget. Along the lakeshore and with views of the lake, you’ll find numerous four to five-star hotels and luxury villas. For more budget-friendly stays, there are also hostels, guesthouses, and private apartments to choose from.
Through our website, you can book some of the best accommodations without any other intermediaries. In the offer, you will find:
- Garden Village Bled: sustainable eco-resort offering unique stays like tree houses and riverside tents
- Green House Bled: former farmhouse, transformed into a charming guesthouse with two cozy apartments
- Hotel Starkl: lakeside hotel, known for its tranquil atmosphere, excellent breakfast, and proximity to the island pier
- Hotel Triglav: boutique hotel with stunning views of Lake Bled
- Pension Pibernik: picturesque corner of paradise, offering the perfect escape for romance and relaxation
- Tourist Farm Mulej: perfect for nature lovers and families looking to relax and enjoy local life
How do I get to Lake Bled from Ljubljana?
Ljubljana to Lake Bled with a car:
- Ljubljana and Bled are well connected by highway. Simply take the Ljubljana–Šentvid exit and continue to the Lesce–Bled turnoff to reach your destination.
- Distance: 58 kilometers or 36 miles
- Driving time: around 45 minutes
- Please note: during the summer months or afternoon rush hours, heavy traffic congestion is possible.
Ljubljana to Lake Bled with a bus:
- The bus usually drives on regional roads, stopping in every town or village on the way, which makes the drive longer. There is only one bus line, that takes the highway, but stops at the airport.
- Plan your trip to Lake Bled with a bus timetable!
- Driving time: around 1 hour 15 minutes
- Ticket prices: from 5,3€ to 6,1€ on weekdays, and 1,3€ on weekends
Ljubljana to Lake Bled with a train:
- The train takes you to Lesce-Bled train station, then you need to hop on a bus to Bled. It’s only 10 minutes drive from Lesce to Bled.
- Plan your trip to Lake Bled with a train timetable!
- Driving time: around 1 hour to Lesce-Bled train station
- Ticket prices: from 5€ to 6,5€ on weekdays, and 1,4€ on weekends
Where to park in Lake Bled Slovenia?
In the town, you can only park in designated areas. Lake Bled parking spaces differ based on location, operating hours for payment, and park fee prices.
Prices are slightly higher in areas closer to the lake and in the center. There are many Lake Bled parking lots available that have been expanding in recent years due to increased needs in the high season.
Parking prices range from €2 to €4.50 per hour. Be sure to take a ticket from the parking machine and display it clearly on your dashboard. Payment can be made using euro coins, bank cards, or the EasyPark app. Some free parking areas around Lake Bled have a time limit of up to 2 hours—in these cases, you’ll need to indicate your arrival time.
In the summer season, you can move around the town and nearby villages with a free Bled bus. It operates every day in July and August, and it drives on 3 different routes:
- Lake Line: starts in Seliše by the big Mercator mall, and goes all the way around the Lake Bled
- Countryside Line: starts in Seliše, goes up north to Sebenje and Zasip, and down south to Koritno, Bodešče, and Ribno
- Pokljuka Line: starts in Seliše, goes up north through Gorje and Krnica, then up to our largest mountain plateau Pokljuka, which is a great starting point for hiking in the Julian Alps, including Triglav mountain
How far is it from the airport to Lake Bled?
Lake Bled is conveniently located near several international airports. The closest is in Ljubljana, Slovenia, but there are also nearby airports in neighbouring countries such as Croatia, Austria, and Italy. Regular bus and train connections link these airports to Ljubljana, and from there, to Bled. Some of the nearest airports to Lake Bled include:
- Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (Brnik), Slovenia – the largest and nearest airport to Lake Bled, located just 35 kilometres away—about a 20-minute drive. Buses run every hour from 9 AM to 8 PM, with tickets costing only €4.10. If you prefer a more convenient option, we can also arrange a private transfer for you.
- Klagenfurt Airport, Austria – It is the nearest airport in a neighbouring country, only 80 kilometres away. From the airport, you can take a taxi to the city of Klagenfurt, and then catch a Flixbus directly to Bled. If you prefer a more convenient option, we can also arrange a private transfer for you.
- Venice Marco Polo or Treviso Airport, Italy – Both airports are approximately 168 kilometres from Lake Bled. Nomago buses run from Venice to Ljubljana 5 to 8 times a day, with a journey time of about 3 hours. From Ljubljana, you can take a connecting bus to Lake Bled.
- Trieste Airport, Italy – about 172 kilometres from Lake Bled. From the airport, you can take a bus to the city of Trieste, where you can catch a FlixBus that stops in Ljubljana before continuing on to Bled.
- Zagreb Airport, Croatia – situated about 206 kilometres from Lake Bled, it offers convenient connections, with both a bus terminal and shuttle services available just outside the main terminal building. There are also Nomago buses running frequently to Ljubljana.
- Graz Airport, Austria – located 208 kilometres from Lake Bled, this airport has both a train and bus station directly in front of the main terminal building.
