Explore Self-Driving Tours in Ljubljana: Bled and Škofja Loka

Are you looking for the perfect self-driving tour near the quaint city of Ljubljana? Look no further than Bled and Škofja Loka; two stunning destinations that offer a host of captivating sights and experiences. we’ve put together an easy to follow guide for you about what to expect during your tour of these lovely locations!

Lying an hour apart, both towns provide a great starting point for a day out exploring. Pre-book your tour for an unforgettable experience. Bled, located in the Upper Carniolan region, is a small town set inside a majestic mountain range. The beautiful Lake Bled provides a view of a castle perched high on a cliff. The vast array of activities at this mountain town are sure to have you busy all day: paragliding, mountain-biking, rock climbing, or ski-touring.

Škofja Loka, is full of charming beauty and historical sites such as its old city center, castle ruins, and the renowned Blejski Otok—an island created by the sluices between the Sava Bohinjka and Sava Dolinka Rivers. Škofja Loka is known as the “Gate to the Karawanken Alps” and on your self-driving tour, you can take in breathtaking views of this incredible mountain range on your scenic drive.

The best way to explore Bled and Škofja Loka is by car, offering you the flexibility to explore each place from a new perspective. You’ll also be able to access attractions that may be harder to get to with public transport. Below, we’ve outlined the best way to experience these destinations during your self-driving tour.

Planning Your Self-Driving Tour

Before embarking on your trip there are some details that need to be planned in advance. Firstly, check the language of the signs in both locations as it is important to know which language you will be reading as you drive. Secondly, be sure to rent all the appropriate materials and equipment, including:

• A car with navigation
• A map or online GPS system
• Warm clothing if you plan on doing outdoor activities.

Organizing your tour in advance will ensure you can make the most of your time exploring. If you need assistance in finding the right rental car for you journey, you can use Europcar, which offers car hire services in over 140 countries, including Slovenia.

Bled: Lake and Castles

Upon arriving at Bled, you may be tempted to spend all day at Lake Bled itself. After all, why wouldn’t you? This breathtaking lake is mesmerizing with its emerald-green waters and picturesque views of the majestic Julian Alps. Take some time to relax by taking a romantic stroll around this lovely lake or take an iconic Pletna boat ride across the lake and visit the Assumption of Mary Pilgrimage Church.

Another great spot worth visiting is Bled Castle, perched atop a steep cliff high above the lake. You can either drive up or take one of several marked trails from various starting points around the lake. While it may require some energy walking up the steep hills, rest assure that it’ll be worth it! On your visit there, check out the castle’s museum and learn about how it has served a defensive fortification as far back as 1011 AD. The views from this location are breathtaking, so make sure that you bring a camera!

When spending time in Bled, be sure to also make time for some of the more extreme activities such as paragliding, rock climbing, downhill biking, or skiing if you’re here during wintertime. If you enjoy hiking and trails then take note of some routes along the Triglav National Park located just east of Bled. And head to Bohinjsko Jezero — Slovenia’s biggest natural lake — which is only 43 km away from Bled.

Škofja Loka: Colorful Historical Town

Tired from a long day in Bled? Take a soothing drive east through Slovenia’s countryside to reach your second destination — Škofja Loka — an old town full of charm and character. It is located at the foot of a hillside known as the Zaplaz Ridge and nestled on the fringe of Slovenia’s natural Karawanken Alps. You may enter this old town through any one of its many beautifully painted and preserved stone gates.

This remarkable village is full of interesting sights such as churches or historical buildings like Kapiteljska Hiša — an old Gothic-style house — or Sveti Miklavž Romanic Church with its magnificent murals found along one of its ancient walls. Take note of the southern tip of town which is made up of colorful houses overlooking the Sava River along with some BBQ stations which are popular spots for locals on sunny days.

As well as its vibrant charm, Škofja Loka has many traditional places worth visiting such as Blejski Otok, an old farmhouse called Krajnik Mansion or Predjama Castle — Europe’s largest cave castle located in a massive cave mouth just 8 km away from Skofja Koha. Also check out Kneža Hill which offers hikers challenging hikes through forests crosses meadows perched up on the grand hillside.

In conclusion, if you want to make the most of your sightseeing experiences near Ljubljana then consider planning a self-driving tour to both Bled and Skofja Loka! Both places are two popular tourist attractions surrounded by stunning mountain views, historical sites and plenty of fresh air for travelers to enjoy. Even better if you book your self-driving tour using GetYourGuide, giving you access to reliable transportation and renewable experiences along with access to all sorts of attractions that’ll make your time in Slovenia extra special!