Lake Bled is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia, located only an hour from the capital city of Ljubljana. Nestled in the heart of the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is a picturesque destination renowned for its stunning surroundings, gorgeous mountain views, and the iconic island and accompanying monastery situated right in the middle of the lake. With a ton to do around the lake during every season and some of the best Alpine views in the world, it’s obvious why Bled is so famous, and while a standalone trip to Lake Bled is already incredible, the town also serves as an excellent base for exploring the Julian Alps and incredible day trips from Lake Bled.

If you love rugged mountains, rushing waterfalls, peaceful villages, and serene lakes, then the area surrounding Bled will feel like paradise for you. The nature in this area is some of the most beautiful that I’ve seen in Europe, and the countless unbelievable landscapes and scenes that I witnessed during my time there truly took my breath away and provided me with life-long memories.

In this post, I’ll be sharing my top 6 recommendations for day trips to take from Lake Bled, including tips and personal recommendations for making the most out of your excursions.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission on purchases made through these links. All opinions are my own.

Renting a Car in Lake Bled

I strongly recommend hiring a rental car if you plan to go on day trips from Lake Bled. Having a car will give you the most flexibility and will allow you to explore at your own pace.

idealRENT Rent a Car & Chauffeur Service is not only hands down the best car rental service in the Bled area, but the best experience we have EVER had with a car rental company. Not only is it a local business, but the prices are super reasonable, and the owner, Dejan, is fantastic! He went above and beyond with our rental car experience, and when we returned the rental, he drove us 3 hours to get to Venice, refusing any extra payment. Try to book in advance as their fleet books out – especially during the summer months.

If their fleet is booked out for your dates, I recommend checking out DiscoverCars.com to compare the best rental prices in the Bled area.

Now that car rental is taken care of, it’s time for the fun part – exploring and uncovering Slovenia’s incredible beauty! Without further ado, below are my six favorite day trips that I took from Lake Bled, all of which offer incredibly memorable experiences and some of the best views that you can find in Slovenia.

6 Amazing Day Trips to Take From Lake Bled

1. Vintgar Gorge

Just a 10-minute drive from Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge is an absolute must-visit when in Bled. This stunning natural wonder features a 1.6-kilometer (about 1 mile) wooden walkway that winds through the gorge alongside the stunningly crystal-clear Radovna River. The entrance fee to Vintgar Gorge is €15 for adults and €5 for children, and it’s typically open from April to November. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or ahead of time on their website.

As you stroll through the gorge, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of waterfalls, rushing rapids, and dramatic cliffs. Once you reach the end of the trail, you can relish in the view of the iconic Šum Waterfall, which is definitely a highlight and makes for the perfect ending to the experience!

When we visited Slovenia in October, the gorge was filled with the most stunning fall colors! The turquoise color of the river contrasted so beautifully with the orange tones of the leaves, and the scenery truly looked like something out of a painting.

Vintgar Gorge is technically within walking distance of Bled town: it’s only about a 40-minute walk or so from Bled to the start of the gorge trail. Walking back to town from Šum Waterfall at the end of the gorge takes around an hour and 15 minutes, but I definitely recommend the walk if you have the time. It’s a beautiful, peaceful walk back, where you’ll pass by rolling hills, sleepy villages, and lots of sheep! You can also choose to pass through a lovely wooded hiking trail along the way.

If you don’t plan to rent a car while in Bled, this is the perfect option for experiencing some of the beautiful local nature without needing to drive. Keep in mind, due to its proximity to Bled town, Vintgar Gorge is one of the most popular day trips to take from Bled, so I suggest arriving in the morning (before 10 am) to experience it at its most peaceful – especially if you plan to go during peak season in the summer and/or on a weekend.

If you only have a couple of days to spend in Lake Bled, Vintgar Gorge is the day trip that I recommend prioritizing. Feel free to check out my 2-day Lake Bled itinerary below for a more detailed outline of how to spend 2 days in Lake Bled:

>>> Read: 2 Days in Lake Bled, Slovenia | The Perfect Itinerary 🇸🇮

2. Lake Bohinj

Located about 30 minutes from Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj is a serene lake that is far less crowded than Bled, offering a tranquil escape into its surrounding nature. You can go swimming, rent a rowboat, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the shore.

One of the most iconic views along the lake is by the bridge in front of Cerkev Sv. Janeza Krstnika church. I suggest stopping here to snap some nice photos before taking a stroll around the lake. Row boats can also be rented here, and typically cost €15 for one hour or $35 for 4 hours.

From April to November, there is a scenic Panoramic Boat that runs from Ribčev Laz to Ukanc (and vice versa), which are located on opposite sides of the lake. Adult tickets are €9 for a one-way ride and €14 for round-trip tickets, with boats leaving every 40 minutes during peak season. If you want to enjoy a scenic boat ride without the effort that a rowboat requires, the panoramic boat is a great option that allows you to experience the lake from a unique perspective.

Nearby Lake Bohinj are a few points of interest that I highly recommend visiting during this day trip. Depending on how much you want to do and if you have time, you might want to break this up into multiple day trips from Lake Bled so that you can experience everything without feeling rushed.

Below are my recommendations for other activities to do near Bohinj:

Mount Vogel

For the most spectacular view of Lake Bohinj, take the cable car to the top of Mount Vogel. This panoramic vista of the Julian Alps and the lake below is truly breathtaking! The cable car costs around €29.50 for a round-trip ticket for adults and €15 for children.

Alternatively, you can choose to hike to the Vogel Summit if you are physically able. It’s a strenuous loop hike, with a distance of 6.8 miles and 2,362ft of elevation gain. You’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, so if you are a hiking enthusiast, this is a must when visiting the Bohinj area!

Mostnica Gorge and Voje Valley

Just up the road from Lake Bohinj is the Voje Valley and Mostnica Gorge, where you’ll find the beautiful blue waters of the Mostnica River as they flow through a mystical, moss-covered gorge. The Mostnica Gorge hiking trail is a moderately difficult trail that starts and ends in the Stara Fužina village right outside of Lake Bohinj. The trail is roughly 6.6 miles long and will take around 3-3.5 hours to complete if you choose to hike the entire trail, so make sure to carve out enough time to dedicate to this hike if it interests you! Tickets range from €3.00 – €4.00 depending on the season, and can be purchased at the start of the trail.

Mostnica Gorge feels like something you’d encounter inside of an enchanted forest, especially during the summer when its trees are lush, and the plant life is thriving. The trail runs along the river, passing by rushing waterfalls, idyllic meadows, and stunning mountain views. As you near the end of the trail, you’ll find the beautiful Mostnica waterfall, which acts as the cherry on top of this unforgettable hike.

Voje Valley surrounds Mostnica Gorge, with rolling hills, beautiful farmland, and roaming cows, all backed by stunning mountain scenery. It’s definitely worth a walk through, or at least a stop off at, while you are in the area (you’ll find yourself relishing in its views at various points if you opt for the full hike mentioned above).

Savica Waterfall

Savica Waterfall, a 20-minute drive from Lake Bohinj, is Slovenia’s 3rd most visited attraction and is a must-visit when in the area. It’s famous for being the only double waterfall in the world, fed by a river flowing through a cave tunnel. Savica Waterfall is about 78 meters tall, cascading down its cliff face into an emerald pool of glacial water. The entrance fee is €4.00 for adults, with discounts for children, students, seniors, and disabled persons. The out-and-back hiking trail to the waterfall is just over one mile long, taking about 30 minutes to an hour to complete. It’s a relatively easy trail, but it has steep stairs towards the end, so keep this in mind.

3. Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park is Slovenia’s only national park and a true outdoor paradise. Just a short drive from Lake Bled, this expansive park is home to stunning lakes, waterfalls, and rugged mountain peaks. Entrance to the park is free, but parking fees may apply in certain areas.

Below are the top attractions to visit within Triglav National Park:

Slap Peričnik

Slap Peričnik is an impressive waterfall in the heart of Triglav, and one of the tallest in Slovenia, at a total of 68 meters, combining the upper and lower falls. To reach the falls, you’ll hike a short (but steep) half-mile loop trail that will lead you through a lush alpine forest before reaching one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country.

What makes Peričnik especially unique is that you can actually walk behind the lower falls along a narrow ledge carved into the rock face, making for an immersive experience. With that being said, I suggest bringing a raincoat or poncho if you plan to walk the path behind the falls, as you WILL get soaked from the mist.

While there is no entrance fee to see the falls, a small parking fee applies during the summer months, so have some euros on hand in case they are collecting payments at the time of your visit.

Zelenci Nature Reserve

The Zelenci Nature Reserve is a hidden gem located about 45 minutes from Lake Bled. This enchanting reserve has a fascinating wetland ecosystem and features stunning emerald-green waters that are spring-fed, making it a truly unique natural wonder.

The area is great for hiking, birdwatching, photography, and just taking in the views. A short boardwalk takes you around the reserve, where you can spot various forms of wildlife and rare plant species as you enjoy the serene environment. At the end of the boardwalk, you’ll find a lookout tower that you can climb for a fantastic view of the swamp sitting beneath the sprawling and towering Julian Alps. Entry is free, and it is an absolute must-visit spot inside Triglav National Park!

Lake Jasna

Lake Jasna is a small alpine lake located inside the charming mountain town of Kranjska Gora. The crystal clear emerald lake waters are surrounded by rugged mountains and sprawling pine forests, making for incredibly picturesque views no matter where you stop.

Lake Jasna actually consists of two man-made lakes (yes, it is artificial, but that doesn’t take away from its beauty). You’ll find well-maintained piers and walking trails along the lakes, along with a lookout tower at the second lake, where you can climb for a view from above. It’s a popular area for swimming and cycling, and in the winter, Kranjska Gora transforms into a snowy ski resort town.

4. Predjama Castle & Postojna Cave

Offering one of the most unique day trips from Lake Bled, Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave are about 1.5 hours from Bled. I suggest purchasing the “Full Park Experience” entry tickets ahead of your visit. These include access to both Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave and cost €56.50 per adult. Trust me, it’s well worth the price, as I can promise you’ve never experienced something like this before!

Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is the largest, most well-preserved cave castle in the world. “What’s a cave castle?”, you ask? It’s pretty much exactly what it sounds like – a castle that is built into a cave!

Dating back to at least the 12th century (and quite likely, even further back), Predjama Castle is nestled right into a massive 127-meter-tall cliff, giving it an incredibly dramatic appearance that looks like something out of a movie set – which makes sense, because it’s actually been featured in Hollywood films and TV shows like Netflix’s The Witcher, and the 1986 movie Armour of God, starring Jackie Chan.

I have personally never experienced a castle like Predjama Castle. As you enter the castle walls and pass through its stone-carved hallways, you’ll find well-preserved rooms adorned in medieval furnishings and artifacts, even including a former torture chamber overlooked by a small courtroom, still housing its original restraints and torture instruments. As you navigate your way through the castle, don’t be surprised if you feel the occasional water droplet fall on your head – some of the castle rooms are literally carved into the existing cave walls, so some extra moisture just comes with the territory.

If you’re anything like me and love spooky places, a day trip to Predjama Castle is an absolute must! With countless stories of torture, murder, and betrayal that occurred here during the medieval period, it should come as no surprise that Predjama Castle is rumored to be haunted. In fact, it’s considered one of the most haunted places in Europe, and was even investigated by Ghost Hunters International back in 2008! Visitors have reported the sound of footsteps creaking along the floorboards, shadow figures disappearing into thin air, and doors slamming shut with no explanation. It’s said that the cave’s mineral composition has an energy that magnetizes the spirits of those who lost their lives in the castle over the centuries.

We spent around an hour or so exploring the castle (with no ghostly encounters), and made sure to explore every nook and cranny, as there seemed to be a surprise around every corner. It’s WELL worth the 1 hour and 20-minute drive from Lake Bled, and I can promise you’ll never experience another castle like it!

The Cave Under Predjama Castle

Underneath Predjama Castle is a massive cave network, where the legendary Knight Erazem smuggled goods stolen from the wealthy elite during the 15th century. Today, you can explore the cave on a guided tour, which operates from May to September.

The Cave under Predjama Castle is roughly 14 kilometers long, making it one of the longest caves in Slovenia. Visitors have access to a limited 700-meter section of the cave during the guided tour; however, more adventurous souls can sign up for an “adventure tour” that allows for further exploration into more challenging-to-traverse areas of the cave.

Postojna Cave

Just a 15-minute drive from Predjama Castle is Postojna Cave, one of the longest cave systems in the WORLD, stretching over 24 kilometers long. Inside, you’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, and dramatic millions-of-years-old rock formations lit up with colorful lights, giving it an otherworldly and awe-inspiring vibe.

Your entrance ticket to the cave includes a whimsical ride on a cave train that will take you through the underground tunnels before continuing your guided tour on foot. If you’re lucky enough, you might even spot an olm, colloquially known as “cave dragons”. These are a rare species of salamanders that live exclusively in underground rivers in Central and South-Eastern Europe, and have adapted to a life of complete darkness. Spotting one is definitely an experience to remember! 

Temperatures inside the cave are consistently 50 degrees F (10 Degrees C), so make sure to bring a sweater or a light jacket, even if you visit during the summertime. Tours last for 90 minutes, so you definitely don’t want to be shivering the entire time!

5. Vrsic Pass & Great Soča Gorge

One of the most scenic day trips from Lake Bled is visiting the Vrsic Pass & Great Soča Gorge, located inside Triglav National Park. On this day trip, you’ll drive through dramatic mountain scenery as you make your way to the Great Soča Gorge, which is famous for its incredibly blue waters that rush through pristine natural surroundings.

Vrsic Pass

The Vrsic Pass is a scenic byway renowned for its incredible mountain vistas. Located about an hour away from Lake Bled, Vrsic Pass offers some of the most stunning scenery in Slovenia – and, dare I say, Europe in general. As you navigate the winding roads with their 50 hairpin turns, you’ll pass through dense forests, charming alpine villages, and witness jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains.

At the top, you’ll find the Russian Chapel, a small wooden Orthodox chapel built in 1915 by Russian prisoners of war who constructed the Vrsic Pass during World War I. Next to the chapel, you’ll find a small pyramid-shaped tomb that houses the remains of the prisoners who lost their lives while building the road. It’s a poignant reminder of the harsh conditions that people endured to create the scenic pass that thousands enjoy today without realizing its tragic history.

There are also plenty of hiking trails in the area if you’re feeling adventurous and have extra time. The pass is open year-round, but make sure to check the road conditions in winter as snowstorms are frequent.

Vrsic Pass is roughly 15 miles long and takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete if driving nonstop. However, between stopping at viewpoints, going on short hikes, and snapping photos of the gorgeous landscapes, expect to spend a minimum of 2 hours along the pass.

Great Soča Gorge

After completing the Vršič Pass, continue driving down toward the Great Soča Gorge, one of Slovenia’s most breathtaking natural attractions. The gorge is where the vivid turquoise waters of the Soča River carve dramatically through narrow limestone cliffs, creating a surreal landscape that looks like something out of a fairy tale!

To reach the gorge, continue out of the Vrsic pass and follow the signs toward Trenta. On your way down, you’ll enter the beautiful Trenta Valley, a picturesque alpine valley surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps. I suggest making a quick stop at Trentarske Fužine, which translates to the “Iron Forges of Trenta”, a former ironworks nestled along the Soča River. There’s a really cool suspension bridge here that offers a beautiful view of the river, as well as a tiny village with traditional Trenta-style wooden roof houses. It’s the perfect quick stop off where you can take in the serenity of the valley before continuing on to the gorge.

You can park in the designated parking area near the Soča Trail trailhead. Parking is free, and there is typically plenty of space available. From there, it’s a short, easy walk along a well-maintained path that winds alongside the gorge, offering incredible views down into the rushing water below. The trail itself is relatively flat and suitable for most fitness levels. Just be careful if you decide to climb on the rocks for a better view, as they can get slippery!

The full Soča Trail stretches around 13.5 miles, but most day-trippers just explore the first section near the gorge before turning back, which takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes round-trip. Completing the full trail takes about 6.5 to 7 hours to complete, so if you choose to do this, you’ll want to start your day pretty early so that you have enough time for this and the Vršič Pass.

Further along, the river opens up into the mouth of the Soča River, where the gorge ends. Here you’ll find wider, calmer pools with incredibly clear water, perfect for taking a dip. Just be forewarned that the water that feeds the Soča River is glacial runoff, so it’s VERY chilly (even in the summertime). On a hot summer day, it’s worth taking a dip – it’s seriously the perfect way to cool off after walking along the trail in the heat!

6. Kranj & Škofja Loka

Most of the day trips from Lake Bled that I’ve mentioned so far have been natural escapes; however, Slovenia is also home to incredibly charming small towns and villages that are definitely worth visiting. If you’re looking to experience more local hidden gems in Slovenia, I suggest taking a day to visit the towns of Kranj and Škofja Loka, which are just 20 minutes apart from each other and offer a glimpse into traditional Slovenian culture and day-to-day life.

Kranj

Kranj is Slovenia’s fourth-largest city; however, it remains quite an underrated tourist destination, making it a wonderful hidden gem. Just a 30-minute drive from Lake Bled, Kranj has been continuously inhabited for over 6,000 years, dating back to the Stone Age. For this reason, many consider Kranj to be the oldest city in Slovenia.

Kranj’s old town is picturesque, situated on a 30-meter rock overlooking the Sava and Kokra rivers. Here, you’ll find charming cobblestone streets, colorful townhouses, quaint shops, cozy cafés, and friendly locals going about their daily lives.

Given its rich history, Kranj has no shortage of museums. Don’t miss the Museum of Gorenjska, located inside the beautiful Khislstein Castle, with exhibits featuring ancient archaeological finds, folk art, and rooms decorated with well-preserved Slovenian furnishings dating back to the early 19th century. If you’re interested in learning more about the town’s history, you can purchase a ticket to the Kranj Museum Path at the Town Hall, which includes access to the Castle of Khislstein, Museum of Gorenjska, the Prešeren House, the Town Hall, the Gallery of Prešeren Award Laureates, the Layer House, and the Ossuary.

Located directly beneath the town square, the Ossuary is one of Kranj’s most fascinating (and creepy) attractions. To visit, head to the town hall and show one of the attendants your Museum Path ticket or pay 2 euros to enter. An attendant will escort you to the entrance and tell you about the history behind the Ossuary. I definitely recommend checking it out – it’s one of the more memorable places you will visit in Slovenia! 

Kranj is also known for its vibrant arts scene, so keep an eye out for local events and exhibitions during your visit! Check out the Kranj tourism board website to see if any local events align with your travel dates. One of the most exciting events is the Kranfest festival that takes place every July, with live performances, food vendors, a carnival, and even a fire show!

Škofja Loka

Just a short drive from Kranj is the charming riverside town of Škofja Loka, one of the most beautifully preserved medieval towns in all of Slovenia. Dating back to the year 973, Škofja Loka’s old town is small and quaint, with colorful buildings lining the river that flows añongside its narrow cobblestone streets. Like Kranj, Škofja Loka has an authentic, local feel, where you’ll see few tourists and mostly encounter locals going about their daily lives.

One of the highlights you can’t miss in Škofja Loka is the Loka Castle, which is about a 10-minute walk up from the old town. It’s perched on top of a hill, and the views from the castle over the rooftops and surrounding countryside are well worth the climb alone!  Inside the castle, you’ll find the Loka Museum, which features exhibits detailing Slovenia’s role in WWII, painted fresco ceilings, intricate handmade lace, and locally-found artifacts.

Before you leave the old town, make sure not to miss Capuchin Bridge, the oldest stone bridge in Slovenia, with records dating back to 1340. It’s historically significant, but also makes for a beautiful photo opportunity that you won’t want to miss!

Like Kranj, Škofja Loka also has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, so it’s worth checking ahead for any local events during your visit. If you like handicrafts, you’re in luck, as Škofja Loka has a fantastic Arts and Crafts Centre that hosts workshops from Wednesday to Sunday every week. You’ll learn traditional skills from local master craftsmen and craftswomen, like felting, pottery-making, blacksmithing, and more!

Conclusion

Lake Bled, Slovenia, is undeniably stunning, but it also serves as a perfect base for exploring more of the incredible sights that Slovenia has to offer. Whether it’s breathtaking natural landscapes or charming towns and villages, there are so many incredible day trips to take from Lake Bled, all of which are just a short drive away.

From breathtaking gorges to serene lakes and charming towns, there’s no shortage of amazing day trips to take from Lake Bled. Each destination offers its own unique experiences, allowing you to explore the diverse beauty of Slovenia, even if you are only in the area for a short time.  Don’t make the mistake of only visiting Lake Bled – get out and explore these lesser-known places too!

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