1 Walk around the lake

Nestled in the heart of Slovenia, Lake Bled is a destination brimming with enchanting activities, each offering its own unique charm. A leisurely walk around the lake is perhaps the most tranquil way to appreciate its beauty. The path encircling the lake is a haven of peace and scenic vistas, ideal for capturing those picture-perfect moments. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, going for a swim in the lake’s crystal-clear waters is a refreshing experience not to be missed.

2 Go for a swim

For a more hands-on exploration, hiring a rowboat to gently glide across the lake provides a sense of serenity and a different perspective of the surrounding landscapes. A rowboat trip also allows you to explore the famous church island, a symbol of Bled. Here, the Assumption of Mary Church stands as a testament to the area’s rich history, and the tradition of ringing the church bell is a memorable experience steeped in local legend.

3 Hire a rowboat

One of the most enchanting activities at Lake Bled is to paddle around Blejski Otok, or Church Island, basking in the stunning lake views for about €20 per hour. The boats are simple to maneuver, making the 10-15 minute journey to the island a delightful experience.

4 Explore Blejski Otok (Church Island)

If you’d rather sit back and enjoy the scenery, taking a historic pletna boat is a relaxing alternative. These boats are available for hire from various points around the lake, with Mlino Port at the lake’s southern end being a popular choice. They typically include the roundtrip with a 1-hour stop at the island, but the end point can be different (if you’re coming from the “city” at the eastern end), requiring you to walk back.
While on the island, a visit to the Church of the Mother of God is highly recommended, with an entry fee of €6 per person. This sacred site has been home to a temple for over a millennium, and the current baroque church dates back to the 17th century. Here, you can climb the bell tower and ring the bell for good luck, a tradition that adds to the charming ambience of Bled.

5 Eat a Bled cake

No visit to Lake Bled would be complete without indulging in the famous Bled cake. This delightful local treat, a creamy and custard-like dessert, is a must-try at one of the lakeside cafes. It’s the perfect sweet accompaniment to the stunning views. Psst…this cake is actually a Cremeschnitte, not a unique Bled delicacy but a popular dessert across many Eastern European countries. You can also try this cake in Hungary if you ask for “krémes” in any confectionery.

6 Visit Bled Castle

Speaking of Bled Castle, perched atop a cliff overlooking the lake, this historic fortress is not just about the stunning views it offers. The castle houses a museum that delves into the region’s rich history and culture, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts.

7 Climb Mala Osojnica

For the adventurous, climbing Mala Osojnica offers a moderately challenging hike that rewards with arguably the best views of Lake Bled. The vista from the top is breathtaking and provides a panoramic perspective of the lake, the island, and the castle.

8 Around lake Bled

Around Lake Bled, the adventure continues. The area is rich in natural beauty and cultural sites. You can explore nearby attractions like Vintgar Gorge, with its stunning river and waterfalls, visit Lake Bohinj, another beautiful crystal clear lake, or venture further into the Julian Alps for more hiking opportunities.

How much time you need

A full day to properly see and enjoy Lake Bled. But once you’re here, it’s better to make it 3-4 days and explore nearby attractions like Lake Bohinj, the Vintgar Gorge or the Julian Alps.

Take a tour | It is convenient and easy to come directly from Ljubljana or from Zagreb to enjoy Lake Bled on a day trip.

Fly to Ljubljana then take a bus | There are several direct international flights to the nearest airport of Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, located about 36 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus, shuttle, or taxi to Lake Bled. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour. Regular bus services also run from Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. The buses are comfortable and the journey takes about an hour and a half. Additionally, if you’re coming from other major cities in Slovenia or neighboring countries, train services are available to Lesce-Bled train station, which is 4 kilometers from Lake Bled. From the station, you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the lake.

Rent a car in Ljubljana or directly in Bled to make the most of the surrounding natural landscapes. You’ll have a much easier time to get to trailheads and to decide when and where to go.

When to go

May to September: The ideal time to visit Lake Bled in Slovenia is from May to September, during the late spring to early fall. This period offers warm and pleasant weather, with temperatures averaging between 20°C and 25°C (68°F to 77°F), making it perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. The lake and its surroundings are at their most beautiful, with lush greenery and blooming flowers enhancing the picturesque scenery. These months also provide longer daylight hours, allowing more time for sightseeing and leisure activities around the lake.
Additionally, the summer season in Lake Bled is marked by a vibrant array of cultural events, festivals, and outdoor concerts, adding to the lively atmosphere. It’s an excellent time for hiking in the nearby Triglav National Park, taking boat rides to Bled Island, or simply enjoying leisurely walks around the lake.
However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter visit, the shoulder months of May and September are recommended, as they still offer pleasant weather but with fewer tourists. On the other hand, visiting in winter, from December to February, presents a different charm. The area often transforms into a winter wonderland, although some activities might be limited due to the colder conditions.