Getting to know Lake Bled in Slovenia and the city of Bled

Vacation at Lake Bled in Slovenia

Waking up in the morning and seeing the glittering Lake Bled outside your window is an unforgettable experience you can experience in Bled. The turquoise water and the surrounding landscape take your breath away. You immediately feel the stress of everyday life melt away. These were our most beautiful impressions of Lake Bled.

📌 Highlights at Lake Bled

• Rowing boat to the island with church
• Bled Castle with panoramic view
• Try Bled cream cake
• Walk around the lake (6 km)
• Viewpoints Mala Osojnica & Ojstrica

 

 

 

It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Slovenia

We already knew before we arrived that Bled is a beautiful place. No wonder! Slovenia but in almost every advertising brochure there are photos of the beautiful surroundings. They are not exaggerating. Lake Bled is just as beautiful as we know it from photos. Bled is a place for Slow TravelerEven though the place itself is a destination for bus tours and day trippers in summer and consists almost entirely of hotels.

Lake Bled and its surroundings are breathtakingly beautiful. We are thrilled by the view of the lake from our hotel balcony. We stay at the Hotel Rikli Balance* (advertisement), which is located on a hill in the upper part of the city.

Lake Bled map

 

Slovenia Bled

We therefore enjoy the first few hours after our arrival from our balcony, watching the sun sink behind the mountains and observing the boats sailing on the lake.

Most of them are rowboats transporting visitors across the lake. Even from up here, we can watch the rowers propel the boats forward with steady strokes. There's something calming, something nostalgic, about watching them.

 

The town is located on Lake Bled below the Julian Alps. It is not far from the Austrian-Slovenian border, making it easily and quickly accessible from both Bavaria and Austria. Slovenia's highest mountain, Triglav, is also nearby.

The sun is shining during our stay, so we can clearly see it behind the mountains. We need to travel from Ljubljana about an hour by car. There is also the airport that is closest to Bled.

"Many visitors are just stopping over. They want to get to the Adriatic as quickly as possible," explains Erika Marolt from the Sava Hotels. Despite its surroundings, the town has difficulty filling its hotels. We find this difficult to understand. The town and its surroundings immediately captivate us. We present to you here what we experience in the one and a half days in Slovenia:

 

 

 

The history of the lake

Lake Bled in Slovenia is not only scenically impressive, but also extremely interesting from a historical perspective. Did you know that it is closely linked to the development of tourism in Slovenia? In the 19th century, it became a popular destination for aristocrats and wealthy families from all over Europe.

Particularly striking is the Grand Hotel Toplice, which opened its doors in 1854 and is one of the oldest hotels in Slovenia. It offered visitors luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the lake.

Another milestone in the history of Lake Bled was the opening of the railway line in 1906, connecting the town to the capital, Ljubljana. This connection facilitated access to the region and contributed to the continued flourishing of tourism.

During the First World War, the lake served as a hospital for wounded soldiers. In the 1930s, the region developed into a popular meeting place for athletes and active vacationers. Rowing competitions, sailing regattas, and tennis matches were among the popular sports.

During World War II, Lake Bled was the scene of intelligence operations. An important partisan base was located nearby, which the German occupiers attacked several times.

Today, Lake Bled has lost none of its appeal. With its historic castle, charming island with its church, and clear waters, it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

The lake also hosts various events, such as the annual Bled Regatta and the spectacular New Year's swim. Today, the town places great emphasis on sustainable tourism and is a proud holder of the Golden Seal of the Slovenian Green Scheme of Tourism.

 

 

Bled sights

• Bled Castle

The imposing Bled Castle towers over the lake, offering not only a glimpse into history but also breathtaking views of the surrounding area. We leave our car in the parking lot below the castle.

There, we join the caravan of visitors heading up the steep slope ahead of us. High heels are out of place here. The path is paved with pebbles. I even find it difficult to walk on it in my hiking boots. Anyone wearing heels will have a hard time climbing the mountain.

Nevertheless, the climb is worth it. From the top, you have a view of the lake, the town on one side, and the island on the other. The medieval castle now houses a museum about the history of the region.

At lunch at Bled Castle, the food tasted almost as good as the view of the lake. Slovenian specialties, sunshine on the terrace – a truly indulgent moment with a postcard-perfect backdrop.

Bled castle

Grajska cesta
4260 Bled
Slovenia

🏰 Bled Castle – Opening Hours & Admission

• Opening hours: daily 8am–20pm (seasonal)
• Entrance fee: approx. 15 € adults
• Special features: Museum, castle restaurant, viewing terrace

Parking at Bled Castle:

You can drive your car to the parking lot under the castle. There is also the bus parking lot. Parking fees are EUR 3,00 for a parking period of up to 2 hours.

 

 

• The island of Blejski Otok

Slovenia's only island is located in the lake. On Blejski Otok stands the Church of St. Mary, which is a popular tourist destination on the lake. Wooden boats sail from the lake shore to the island. The pletnas resemble the boats we know from the Salzkammergut know. There they are called plates. Archaeological sites from the Early and High Middle Ages can also be found on the island.

The Pletna boats await their passengers at the spa park, below the Park Hotel, in Mlini, and in Velika Zaka. There are 23 Pletna boats in total. Each boat has space for 18 passengers. The Pletnar—the boat captain—steers the boat using a special technique. He or she propels the boat forward using two oars while standing.

Pletnarji are highly respected. When Empress Maria Theresa ruled here, she granted the rights to operate such boats to peasants whose land was not good enough to support them. Since then, this profession has been passed down through families.

 

 

• Grimschitz Castle

Lake Bled was Slovenia's most fashionable spa resort between the two world wars. The Karadjordjević royal family also had their summer residence here. During the summer months, the town hosted numerous visits from politicians and diplomats from all over the world. After 1945, Slovenia nationalized these facilities.

From then on, Grimšić Castle served as President Tito's summer residence. Bled's importance as a host to politicians, statesmen, and artists continued. Today, Grimšić Castle is Bled's most exclusive hotel. As Vila Bled, it now accommodates guests seeking luxurious accommodations. The view of the lake from the hotel terrace is also beautiful.

• center and old town of Bled

If you stroll through the center, you won't find any major sights. Instead, cafés and restaurants invite you to linger. Here, you can sample Slovenian cuisine. Enjoy local specialties like Bled cream cake or traditional cheeses.

If you're looking for souvenirs, you're sure to find them in the center. Discover handicrafts, local products, and typical gifts. The center is also a starting point for various outdoor activities. Rent a bike and explore the surrounding area or venture out on a hike in the nearby Triglav National Park.

 

Activities at Lake Bled

• Discover the native wildlife at Lake Bled.

Lake Bled is home to a wide variety of native bird and fish species, so keep an eye out for rare marsh birds like the redshank, which have found refuge in the shallow waters surrounding the lake.

In addition to rare birds, Lake Bled is also home to a unique species of freshwater fish called the Bleac Dace, which can only be found at this special lake! So if you're looking for a chance to spot some truly unique wildlife, there's no better place than Lake Bled.

Tip: You can find a whole range of other activities at Lake Bled here.

 

 

 

 

Hotel in Bled for connoisseurs – discover your accommodation here

• Bled Hotels for Connoisseurs you find here

This 5-star hotel is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. It is located directly on the lakeshore.

Our dinner at the Grand Hotel Toplice was a feast. A multi-course menu, Slovenian wines, and a sunset over the lake – one of those rare moments you'd rather freeze. Pure elegance on the shores of Bled.

Grand Hotel Toplice *
Cesta Svobode 12
4260 Bled
Slovenia

 

 

• Tito's villa on Lake Bled

When Bled, Slovenia, was still part of Yugoslavia, Villa Bled served as President Tito's summer residence. The villa is located just outside the town of Bled. Today, it serves as a hotel.

The building is more reminiscent of a manor house than a hotel. The Grimschitz Castle Park, on the other hand, surprised us with its tranquility and romance. Old trees, fragrant flowers, birdsong – here, you feel like you've stepped into another era. Perfect for a break from the tourist hustle and bustle around the lake.

Vila Bled *
Cesta svobode 26
4260 Bled
Slovenia

If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

Tip: Do you prefer to camp during your visit? Then you will find information for campsites here.

 

 

Local specialties at Lake Bled

🍽️ Tip: Bled cream cake

A must-try! Puff pastry, vanilla cream, whipped cream – the "Kremšnita" is a true Bled original. It tastes best on the terrace of the Park Hotel overlooking the lake.

If you prefer heartier dishes, try the Slovenian stew "jota." It consists of sauerkraut, beans, and potatoes. It is often served with a slice of bread. Fish lovers can enjoy fresh fish straight from the lake. Trout is especially popular here. It is usually served grilled or smoked.

The Slovenian wines should not be missed either. The white wine “Rebula” and the red wine “Teran” are particularly excellent. You can find them in almost every restaurant on the lake.

Finally, we recommend a schnapps called “Borovničke”. This blueberry schnapps is very popular in the region and rounds off the culinary experience perfectly.

 

 

Recommended restaurants on Lake Bled

Try the original cream cakes in the Bled Old Town in the restaurant of the Hotel Park

In the Old Town, we find a seat at the Hotel Park's beach café. Here, for example, they serve the original cream cake. These days, you can find them in almost every pastry shop and café in Slovenia. However, nowhere does it taste as good as here, where it was invented. Today, it's even considered a Slovenian specialty.

Since their invention in 1953, the Hotel Park's pastry chefs have set a record, producing more than 12 million of these cakes. We sample one of their pastries before continuing on to the castle.

Hotel Park*
Cesta Svobode 15
4260 Bled
Slovenia

The restaurant is recommended

Grand Hotel Toplice *
Cesta Svobode 12
4260 Bled

If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

It is the last evening of ours Travel through Slovenia. That's why we treat ourselves to a dinner at the Grand Hotel on Lake Bled for the evening. That is Pure enjoyment in SloveniaThe Grand Hotel Toplice also has a long history. Kings, politicians, and stars have stayed here.

Today, it is definitely the most elegant hotel in town. It is one of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and is located directly on the lakeshore. This makes it still popular with those who can afford to stay there. Most people today, however, come for the thermal springs and golf opportunities the hotel offers.

We are here to learn Chef Bertoncelj's cooking skills. He is among the elite of Slovenian culinary artists. That's why we visit his restaurant Julijana, where we eat with a view of the lake. After Amuse Guele appetizers, he serves a salad with salmon pralines, pumpkin soup, meats with vegetables and pea puree. At the end we get a fruit mousse as a highlight.

This is a restaurant with a view

Restaurant at the Castle
Grajska basket 61
4260 Bled
Tel. +386 4 620 34 44

A reservation is definitely recommended.

Other recommended restaurants

If you are looking for traditional Slovenian cuisine, the restaurant “Gostilna Pri Planincu” is a good choice. Here you can try dishes like “Jota” or “Kranjska Klobasa”, a Slovenian sausage specialty.

For fish lovers, the “Vila Preseren” is ideal. Located right on the lakeshore, the restaurant serves fresh trout and other fish dishes. The view of the lake and the castle is an added bonus.

If you like pizza and pasta, you should visit Pizzeria Rustika. The pizzas are baked in a wood-fired oven, and the pasta is homemade. The atmosphere is cozy and the prices are moderate.

For an upscale dining experience, Restaurant 1906 at Hotel Triglav is the place to be. It serves modern interpretations of Slovenian cuisine, accompanied by a selection of first-class wines.

Finally, if you want to end the day with a sweet highlight, stop by the “Café Belvedere”. They are known for their Bled cream cakes.

 

 

FAQs

Is Bled beautiful?

Bled is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Slovenia. The reason for this is certainly the magnificent landscape in which the lake and the town are located. In summer, Bled Slovenia attracts countless day trippers and bus tourists. We were there in autumn. In the off-season, there is less hustle and bustle and you can also find places that are quieter.

Blejsko Jezero – What's Bled in German?

Bled Slovenia is the place. The German name is Veldes or Feldes. That is why Lake Bled is also called Veldeser See. In Slovenian, however, it is called Bled Jezero or Blejsko jezero.

Can you swim in Bled?

Yes, that is possible. The water temperature is around 25°C in summer. There is a swimming pool and several beaches where this is possible. Some hotels also offer private beaches. You can find detailed information here.

Can you shop in Bled?

Bled Slovenia is too small for a shopping mile. There are a few shops. However, you will look in vain for boutiques and a shopping mile. In the souvenir shops you will find handicrafts from Slovenia. These are, for example, bobbin lace, crystal glass from Rogaška, wood carvings, pottery and wines and brandies from Slovenia.

How do you get to the island?

From the lake shore, the pletna boats, which are typical for Bled, take their passengers across the lake to the island of Blejski Otok.

Where and how high is Lake Bled? How long does it take to drive from Ljubljana?

The lake is located at an altitude of 475 meters in inland Slovenia and is about an hour's drive from Ljubljana. It is a good 26 kilometers to the border with Austria via the autobahn.

How deep is Lake Bled?

Lake Bled is 31 meters deep.

Does Bled have a train station?

Yes, the town has a train station called Bled Jezero. It is located about 4 km from the center.

 

Best travel time for Lake Bled

The best time to visit the lake depends on what you want to experience. If you love water sports and swimming, the summer months of June to August are ideal. The weather is warm and the lake is perfect for swimming. However, this is also the busiest time as many tourists visit the area.

Spring and autumn are best for hiking and cycling tours. In the months of April, May, September and October the temperatures are pleasant and nature is at its best. In addition, the flow of tourists is lower, which ensures more peace and quiet.

Winter at Lake Bled is for romantics and winter sports enthusiasts. From December to February the landscape turns into a winter wonderland. You can go ice skating or skiing in the nearby mountains. Ice skating on the frozen lake or winter hikes are also possible.

However, keep in mind that some restaurants and attractions may be closed during the off-season, so it's advisable to plan ahead. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, the place has its own charm in each month.

 

 

 

Attractions

 

---

Travel Arrangements:

Parking at the airport

Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport.

Arrival to Lake Bled

Compare and book flights here*. (Advertisement)

🚌 How to get to Lake Bled

• From Ljubljana: 45 min by car or 1 h by bus
• Nearest train station: Lesce-Bled
• Parking spaces available (some for a fee)

Car Rentals:

Rent a car - book quickly and easily!

Hotels on Lake Bled

Accommodations in and around Bled * you can also book through our partner booking.com.

If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

 

---

 

 

 

 

Do you know this?

• Chiemsee holiday tips for connoisseurs
• 5 Places for a Wine Weekend in the Main Valley
• Grossglockner High Alpine Road
• Discover palaces and castles
• Order awning for terrace & balcony
• Backpacks for city trips
• Where you can eat well in Salzburg
• Most beautiful cities on the Rhine
• The best beaches in California
• Ontario, land of lakes, forests and bears
• American Pumpkin Pie Recipe
• Level 8 suitcase test: practical experiences on our Croatia road trip

 

Slow Travel Destinations you can also find it here. Also discover these Cities in Slovenia. Vacation destinations for a beach vacation you can find it here, for example.

Source Slovenia Bled Lake: On-site research. We would like to thank Best Press Story for supporting this trip to Slovenia Bled Lake. However, our opinion remains, as always, our own.

Text Bled Old Town : © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos Slovenia Bled Lake: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Video Slovenia Bled Lake: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline

Updated January 2025