Located just an hour from Slovenia’s lively capital of Ljubljana, Lake Bled is one of the country’s most iconic and picturesque destinations. Nestled in the foothills of the Julian Alps, this fairytale-like lake is a nature lover’s paradise. With its stunning emerald waters, charming central island, and medieval castle perched on a cliff, it’s easy to see why this magical spot attracts visitors year-round. Whether you’re hiking to panoramic viewpoints, rowing to the famous Bled Island, or exploring the nearby Vintgar Gorge, 2 days in Lake Bled is the perfect amount of time to experience its magic!

We spent a month in Bled and used it as a base to explore some of Slovenia’s most breathtaking natural wonders. That being said, the town itself is quite small, and with 2 days in Lake Bled, you can soak in its incredible scenery, visit its top attractions, and even venture into the surrounding countryside.

This is your ultimate itinerary for spending 2 days in Lake Bled.

Best Time to Visit Lake Bled

Lake Bled is truly a wonderful year-round destination, with something unique to offer for every season. The best time to visit Lake Bled really depends on what you are looking for and what you’d like to experience in this incredible destination. Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect from each season when you spend 2 days in Lake Bled:

Visiting Lake Bled in Summer

The summer months are peak season in Lake Bled, drawing thousands of visitors from all over the world. If you’re looking for the classic Lake Bled experience – swimming in the crystal-clear emerald waters, lounging by the shore, and taking a traditional pletna boat ride to Bled Island under sunny skies – then summer is the best time to visit. This is also the prime season for outdoor activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to cycling around the lake and hiking in Triglav National Park.

However, with summer comes the biggest crowds, and you can expect prices for accommodation to be at their highest and will spend more during your 2 days in Lake Bled. That being said, Slovenia remains an affordable destination compared to other European hotspots, so while prices may rise, you can still find budget-friendly places to stay if you book in advance. If you want to enjoy the summer weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting in early June or late September, when temperatures are still warm but tourism isn’t at its peak. Even with the crowds, summer in Lake Bled is undeniably magical. Whether you’re jumping into the refreshing waters, sipping a coffee with a lakeside view, or hiking up to Ojstrica for sunset, there’s no shortage of unforgettable summer experiences.

Visiting Lake Bled in Fall

We spent a magical month in Lake Bled from October to November and were lucky enough to witness peak fall foliage. I’ve seen some incredible autumn colors in places like New England, but Lake Bled has, hands down, been my favorite place in the world to experience the fall season. The foliage transformed the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making both casual walks and scenic hikes around the lake truly unforgettable.

Surprisingly, fall isn’t an overly busy time of year to visit, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery without the heavy summer crowds. The weather was perfect for hiking, and we loved exploring trails like Mala Osojnica with the crisp autumn air and breathtaking lake views. It was definitely too cold to swim comfortably (though we did see some brave locals taking a dip in late October), but most outdoor activities, like biking and rowing, were still very much possible.

October is the best time to visit for fall colors, as this is generally when the leaves peak and the weather is still at its most pleasant. Keep in mind that fall does tend to be rainier than summer, but we didn’t experience too much rain until mid-November. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape with dreamy autumn landscapes, Lake Bled in the fall is an absolute must!

Visiting Lake Bled in Winter

Lake Bled transforms into a magical, snow-covered winter wonderland during the colder months. The landscape is straight out of a fairytale, with the Julian Alps dusted in snow and Bled Castle perched dramatically over the frozen lake. If temperatures drop low enough, the lake itself freezes over, and locals bring out their ice skates to glide across its glassy surface – an experience that feels like something out of a dream.

December is a particularly charming time to visit, as Lake Bled hosts a small but cozy Christmas market, complete with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and warm mulled wine. If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, several ski resorts – like those found near Vogel and Kranjska Gora – are just a short drive away, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities!

Winter is the slowest season for tourism in Lake Bled, which means you’ll get to enjoy its breathtaking beauty without the usual crowds. Plus, accommodations and activities are often more affordable, making it an ideal time for a peaceful, budget-friendly getaway. Whether you’re admiring the snowy scenery from a lakeside café, soaking in a thermal spa, or hiking to Mala Osojnica for a panoramic winter view, Lake Bled in winter is pure magic.

Visiting Lake Bled in Spring

As the snow melts and the lake defrosts, spring is a rejuvenating time in Lake Bled. It’s still off-season, so you won’t see too many tourists until around the end of May. The landscapes come alive with blooming wildflowers, and the surrounding Julian Alps provide a stunning contrast of lingering snow-capped peaks against the fresh greenery. The weather is mild, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking to the Ojstrica Viewpoint, rowing to Bled Island, or enjoying a leisurely lakeside stroll without the summer crowds. Cafés and restaurants begin opening their terraces, allowing you to soak in the peaceful atmosphere with a slice of delicious Bled cream cake by the water. Spring is a fantastic time to visit if you’re looking for tranquility, pleasant weather, and lower prices before the summer rush begins!

How to Get to Lake Bled

The closest airport to Lake Bled is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU), located about 35 km (22 miles) away. If you’re flying from within Europe, this is the most convenient option, with direct flights from major cities like London, Paris, and Frankfurt. From the airport, you can reach Lake Bled in about 30–40 minutes by rental car, airport shuttle, or taxi.

For travelers coming from outside of Europe, such as the U.S. or Canada, flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) in Italy might be the better option. Venice is a major international hub with more flight options and often cheaper fares compared to Ljubljana. From Venice, you can rent a car and drive to Lake Bled in about 3 hours, or take a combination of trains and buses, though this will take longer.

Other nearby airports include Zagreb International Airport (ZAG) in Croatia, about 2 hours away, which can also be a good alternative depending on your flight options.

Getting to Lake Bled from Ljubljana

Lake Bled is just an hour away from Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, making it an easy and accessible destination for a quick getaway. Whether you prefer the convenience of a rental car or the affordability of public transportation, there are multiple ways to get there.

If you’re renting a car, the drive from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is straightforward and scenic, following well-maintained roads through Slovenia’s lush countryside. Having a car also gives you the flexibility to explore nearby attractions like Vintgar Gorge or Lake Bohinj at your own pace. Parking can be limited in peak season, so arriving early is recommended.

For budget travelers, the public bus is a great option. Direct buses run frequently from Ljubljana’s central bus station to Lake Bled, with a journey time of about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Tickets are affordable, and the bus drops you off near the lake, just a short walk from the main attractions.

Alternatively, you can take a train from Ljubljana to Lesce-Bled station, which is about 4 km from the lake. From there, you’ll need to take a local bus or taxi to reach the lakefront. While the train ride offers beautiful views, the bus is often the more convenient choice since it drops you off closer to the center of town.

Day 1: Exploring Lake Bled

Your first day of 2 days in Lake Bled will give you the chance to get your bearings and consists of taking a nice stroll around the lake, renting a traditional row boat, and visiting the Bled Castle Museum. You’ll get to take in the incredible nature surrounding Lake Bled, and experience life in the small, yet charming town nestled on its waters.

Walk Around the Lake

One of the best ways to get acquainted with Lake Bled is by walking the 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) loop that takes you around the entire lake. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the island, the church, and the castle towering above.The walkway around the lake is mostly flat and very well maintained. Your stroll will take around 1.5 to 2 hours at a leisurely pace, but you’ll want to allow extra time to stop and enjoy the incredible views. Along the way, you’ll pass charming wooden docks, scenic viewpoints, and small cafés where you can grab a coffee or a traditional Bled cream cake (which you absolutely need to try)! If you’re visiting during summertime, feel free to wear your bathing suit and stop by some of the small beaches along the lake to take a refreshing dip.

Rent a Traditional Wooden Pletna Boat

As you stroll around Lake Bled, keep an eye out for rowboats available for rent. One of the most iconic experiences in Lake Bled is rowing a traditional wooden Pletna boat or renting a small rowboat to reach Bled Island, the picturesque island in the middle of Lake Bled. You can rent a boat from one of the docks along the shore, with prices typically around €15–€20 per hour.

It takes about 15–20 minutes of rowing to reach the island, and once you arrive, you’ll have time to explore the Church of the Assumption, which is famous for its 99 stone steps and the legend that ringing its bell will bring you good luck!

Aside from its church, the island is a beautiful place to wander around, take in lake views, and enjoy a peaceful moment away from the shoreline crowds.

Visit Bled Castle

After making your way back to the mainland, it’s time to visit Bled Castle, one of the most impressive medieval castles in Slovenia! The castle is perched at the top of a cliff 130 meters (426 feet) above the lake, offering some of the best panoramic views in the area.

There are 3 ways you can get to Bled Castle. If going by foot, you can choose to take the main stairway for a more direct route or opt for a scenic hike up through the forest – either way, you’re in for a bit of a workout, so be prepared! As an avid hiker, I chose to do the forest option, and really enjoyed the quick and peaceful trail as I made my way towards the castle. If you prefer to drive or take a taxi, there’s also a road that leads directly to the entrance, with nearby paid parking.

Once at the top, you can visit the castle museum, which costs 18 euros for adults. The museum is really fascinating and not only covers Lake Bled’s history, but also has one of the only Gutenberg printing presses in the world and you can watch a live demonstration and purchase a print souvenir! You can also visit the castle wine cellar, where you can even bottle your own wine! If you want to splurge on a unique dining experience, end your time at the Bled Castle with a meal at the Bled Castle Restaurant, which offers traditional Slovenian dishes with a stunning view over the lake. Overall the Bled Castle Museum is a really unique experience and definitely worth the entrance fee in my opinion.

Explore Bled Town

After exploring Bled Castle, make your way down the Castle steps and take some time to explore Bled. Bled town is quite small, but very charming and worth exploring! Here you will find quaint cafes and restaurants (if you still haven’t tried a Bled cream cake at this point, now is your chance to try one), a peaceful and relaxing park, and a mix of local artisan and souvenir shops.

Wander the charming streets, pop into local shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the lovely restaurants. For a memorable experience, check out the restaurant at Hotel Triglav, which offers stunning sunset views and delicious refined traditional food – perfect for a romantic dinner!

Day 2: Adventures in Nature

After a day of exploring Lake Bled, day two of your 2 days in Lake Bled is all about chasing incredible views and immersing yourself in nature. You’ll start the morning with a breathtaking sunrise, then head to Vintgar Gorge, one of Slovenia’s most stunning natural attractions. To finish the day, you’ll take on a scenic hike that offers some of the best panoramic views of Lake Bled.

Watch an Unforgettable Sunrise at Lake Bled

For an unforgettable experience, wake up early and catch the sunrise over Lake Bled. The golden light illuminating the castle and island is a sight that you won’t want to miss. Even if you’re not usually an early riser, sunrise in Lake Bled is absolutely worth it. The morning light creates a golden glow over the lake, and you’ll often see mist rising from the water, adding to the fairytale-like atmosphere.

Some great locations to watch the sunrise in Lake Bled include the boardwalk by Vila Bled for a straight-on view of the sunrise reflecting over the lake, or if you have a car you could take a quick drive to Straža Ble Adventure Park and walk 5-10 minutes to Straža Bled Viewpoint, which has incredible views of the lake. Another great sunrise spot is Lake Bled Panorama Viewpoint by the Jezero Train Station, offering a stunning reflection of the island in the water.

Visit Vintgar Gorge

After sunrise, head to Vintgar Gorge, a stunning natural wonder located just a 10-minute drive or about an hour’s walk from Lake Bled (2.5 miles each way). If you’re driving, there’s parking available near the entrance (€5 per vehicle). In peak season, a shuttle bus runs from Bled to Vintgar Gorge and is €10 round-trip. Alternatively, you could book a taxi, which costs around €10 – €15 each way from Bled.

The Entrance Fee for Vintagar Gorge is €10 for adults, with discounts available for students and children. Hours are typically 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM in summer but check ahead as times vary depending on the season. I suggest going as early as possible to avoid crowds – especially during summertime and weekends!

Once you arrive at the gorge, you’ll take an easy 1-mile walk along the wooden pathways that have been built within the gorge. The path takes you along the crystal clear Radovna River, past turquoise pools, rushing rapids, and towering cliffs. The walk takes about 1 hour at a leisurely pace, with plenty of incredible photo opportunities! The foliage here in October was fantastic, and definitely a highlight for us during our month-long stay in Bled.

At the end of the gorge, you’ll reach Šum Waterfall, the largest river waterfall in Slovenia. There’s a small viewing platform where you can take in the gorgeous views before deciding on how to return to Bled.

Optional: Hike back to Bled from Vintgar Gorge

If you decided to walk or take a taxi to Vintgar Gorge, consider hiking back to Bled via one of the scenic trails nearby.

We decided to take a trail back to Bled once we had finished our walk through Vintgar Gorge and it was absolutely stunning and so peaceful! We simply followed signage directing us back to Bled town and ended up following a picturesque trail that led through meadows and past St. Katarina Church, where we were treated to panoramic views over Bled and the surrounding Julian Alps. From there, we continued on the road, strolling through quaint Slovenian villages and past the farms that dot Bled’s surrounding countryside. For the rest of the trip back to Bled, we enjoyed a relaxed walk where we would often stop to admire charming houses, lovely churches, and beautiful views of the lake, mountains, and farmland. 

The walk back from Vintgar Gorge was so enjoyable and is a really fond memory that we have from our time in Bled, so I definitely recommend doing this if you have the time!

Hike to Lake Bled’s Best Viewpoints

Lake Bled offers some incredible hiking opportunities, and if you are physically able to, it’s an absolute must when visiting! The mountains surrounding Lake Bled offer incredible views of the lake from above, and there are several moderate hiking trails that you can choose from, each offering its own unique view. I suggest choosing to do the famous Osojnica Trail, which is a moderate trail offering multiple incredible viewpoints as you make your way to the top.

This trail is steep but well-marked, and the insane views found along the trail make it absolutely worth doing. I suggest timing your hike so that you can experience the magical views during golden hour, right before sunset.

Info on the Velika Osojnica & Mala Osojnica Trail

• Trailhead Location: Near the Camping Bled area, on the western side of the lake. The start of the trailhead can be found on navigation apps. 
• Distance & Time: About 3.5 km (2.1 miles) total. Times will vary, but plan for the hike to take at least 1.5 – 2 hours (more if you’re stopping for lots of photos like me).
• Main Viewpoints:
  • Mala Osojnica (685 m) – A shorter hike with an incredible overhead view of Bled Island and the lake.
  • Velika Osojnica (756 m) – A bit higher up, with a sweeping panorama of Lake Bled and beyond.
  • Heart Bench Viewpoint – A cute, Instagram-famous wooden bench shaped like a heart, perfect for a photo stop.

Where to Stay During Your 2 Days in Lake Bled

Lake Bled has a ton of great accommodation options at every price point, whether you’re looking for a luxurious romantic getaway or a social backpacking adventure. Prices in Slovenia are very reasonable, so you might even find yourself splurging on a luxury option without breaking the bank!

Luxury:

• Grand Hotel Toplice: This elegant and historical hotel is located right on the shore of Lake Bled, offering panoramic views of the lake, its island, and the overlooking castle. Suites with balconies overlooking the lake are available for those who want an extra memorable stay. With comfortable rooms and an abundance of on-site amenities, you’ll definitely be pampered here! 
• Hotel Triglav: A historical family hotel with incredible views of Lake Bled and its surrounding nature and unparalleled dining experiences. Equal parts cozy and luxurious, opting for furnishing reminiscent of its history, this is an absolutely beautiful and memorable place to stay. It embodies a uniquely historical Slovenian charm without sacrificing any of the amenities or luxuries travelers desire. 
• Adora Luxury Hotel: A charming fairytale-like boutique hotel located right along Lake Bled, with a wonderful view of the castle. With limited rooms, each is different from one another, but all of them are spacious, with elegant furnishings, and provide the ultimate luxury experience.

Midrange:

• Old Bled House: A charming and rustic guesthouse that was converted from a 300-year-old farmhouse. Rooms are incredibly cozy, with hand-carved wood furnishings. The service is wonderful and despite its rustic, traditional vibes, you are still treated to modern convenience throughout!
• Penzion Berc: A cozy and welcoming guest house with beautiful rustic, yet modern rooms. With beautiful outdoor sitting areas and gardens, as well as a delicious restaurant featuring local homegrown food, this guest house is wonderful for those looking for peace, relaxation, and authenticity.
• Old Parish House: A historical guest house converted from one of the oldest buildings in Bled. Located near Bled Castle, Old Parish House offers a prime location and simple, tasteful rooms that exude hominess.

Budget:

• Ana Apart Villa & Rooms Bled: Cozy rooms and apartments inside of a beautiful historical building with lovely gardens situated in the heart of Bled. 
• Quercus Apartments: Modern, well-equipped apartments located in Bled town. Perfect for those looking for something spacious, private, and centrally located.
• Lake House Sebanc: Simple and cozy apartments located right on the Lake and within walking distance of the town and its attractions. The rooms are private and have lovely balconies with views of Lake Bled.

Backpacker Budget:

• 1A Adventure Hostel Lesce Bled: A cozy and social hostel set in an old Monastery building. While technically in the next town over from Bled, it’s still situated within walking distance (a little under 1 hour of pleasant walking) and is right on the bus and train lines to Bled!  
• Bled Hostel: With 2 locations in Lake Bled, Bled Hostel is a top-rated hostel in Lake Bled with colorful dormitories and a welcoming, social atmosphere. Both locations are centrally located in prime locations to explore the area.
• Travellers’ Haven:  Centrally located hostel with super friendly staff dedicated to making sure you see all that Bled has to offer. Rooms are comfortable, with different options available based on your privacy preferences.

Slovenian Dishes to Try When Spending 2 Days in Lake Bled

• Jota: My personal FAVORITE Slovenian dish, jota (pronounced “YOH-tah”), is a hearty stew made with sauerkraut, beans, potatoes, and sausage, with a tomato base. It’s especially popular in colder months, but I could happily eat it all year round!
• Bled Trout: For seafood lovers, the Bled Trout is an absolute must-try! Bled trout is fresh caught from Lake Bled and is grilled and is usually served with a side of roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, and a simple lemon butter sauce. Many restaurants in Bled specialize in this dish, and it’s definitely one of the most popular dishes in the region.
• Burek: A staple across the Balkans, burek is a flaky, savory pastry that comes filled with cheese, meat, potatoes, or spinach. My favorite burek in Bled was from Pekarna Planika, which has several locations around town. Their pizza burek was absolutely to die for, with a delicious blend of melty cheese, tomato sauce, and crispy golden pastry. If you need a quick, affordable, and filling snack, burek is the way to go!
• Sarma: Another hearty meal you’ll find throughout the Balkans, sarma is cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices, all slow-cooked in tomato sauce. Like jota, it’s often considered a winter dish, you’ll find it year-round in traditional Slovenian restaurants.
• Bled Cream Cake (Kremšnita): You can’t visit Lake Bled without trying its most famous dessert – the legendary Bled Cream Cake (Blejske kremšnita)! It’s actually a pretty simple dessert, made with layers of crispy golden puff pastry, creamy vanilla custard, and whipped cream, and dusted with powdered sugar. You’ll find it at most bakeries and cafés in town, but for the most authentic experience, head to the Café Park, where the original recipe has been served for decades.

Where to Eat During Your 2 Days in Lake Bled

Best Cafes / Bakeries in Bled

• Pekarna Planika: A local bakery chain, serving pastries as well as some of the most delicious traditional burek you will find in the area. If you are a pizza lover, the pizza burek is a must!
• Confectionery Zima: A cozy cafe/bakery in the center of Bled town, offering a variety of delicious traditional pastries and wonderful coffee!
• ŠMON Slaščičarna: A cute cafe located just outside of Bled town center that has delicious coffee and pastries, including a wonderful Bled Cream Cake!
• Bar Planinček: This cozy cafe/bar has good coffee and pastries at some of the best prices you can find!

Best Restaurants in Bled

• Blejska hiša: A wonderful restaurant that pays homage to Slovenian traditions and folk heritage. A cozy interior, fantastic hospitality, and delicious local dishes made with fresh ingredients make this gem well worth a visit!
• Hotel Triglav Restaurant: Even if you aren’t staying in the Hotel Triglav, I still recommend splurging on a dinner from their fantastic restaurant. Meals at this restaurant are of the utmost quality, impressing locals and tourists alike. Featuring a seasonal menu, this restaurant celebrates Slovenian cuisine and its diversity, drawing inspiration from the surrounding areas and providing modern twists on recipes passed down by the owner’s great-grandmother. A meal here is definitely an experience to remember!
• Bled Castle Restaurant: The restaurant is attached to Bled Castle Museum, and is, by far, the restaurant with the best view in Bled. It’s a little pricier than other restaurants in the area, but if you love to enjoy a great view with your meal then it’s worth it! 
• Mega Burger Bled: Quick to-go restaurant in the center of Bled town, serving delicious burgers perfect for a quick bite to eat.

Conclusion

While you could easily spend a month in Lake Bled like I did, 2 days in Lake Bled is the perfect amount of time to take in the local culture and experience the most iconic attractions the area has to offer. Lake Bled is truly a magical place to visit: it feels straight out of a fairytale and I can promise that you will, like me, want to return in the future!

Planning a Balkans trip? Check out my other blog posts on the Balkans!

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