Trip to Lake Bled and Bled Castle from Ljubljana

Are you looking for an adventurous, mind-blowing and photogenic trip from Ljubljana? Then look no further, because Lake Bled and Bled Castle are right in your backyard! Located just 50 kilometers away from the Slovenian capital, this stunning location is a must-visit for everyone who wishes to explore what the area has to offer.

Lake Bled is an Alpine lake located in the northwest region of Slovenia. Its emerald-green waters surrounded by the Julian Alps and picturesque forests make it one of the most picturesque and unique places in Europe. The extraordinary lake is connected to Lake Bohinj, which provides a different kind of beauty as well. Both lakes are natural wonders and a photographers’ paradise.

The fairytale-like location of the lake is even more emphasized by the presence of the Bled Castle, which dominates the lake. The castle is the oldest castle in Slovenia, built in the 11th century and is located on a steep cliff above Lake Bled, offering breathtaking views of the lake, islands, forests and mountains. Inside the castle grounds you will find St. Martin’s Church, a small chapel that dates back to the 17th century.

A great way to explore this stunning area is by joining an organized tour from Ljubljana. Most organized tours to Lake Bled and Bled Castle from Ljubljana offer professional guides who provide detailed information about the history, culture and nature of this unique place. Usually the tour will take between 6 and 8 hours, depending on which tour you choose.

The ones who would like to get a deeper experience than just a regular guided tour, can choose specific tours that offer experiences such as hiking in the area or picnics by the lake. But even those who don’t want to do any of that can benefit from organized tours, as it is also possible to book tours that include lunch in mountain restaurants or beach lounging with a view over the lake.

An activity that is becoming more and more popular amongst visitors of Lake Bled is exploring the lake with a traditional Pletna boat. These boats have been used since the 12th century and have been made by local craftsmen for centuries. From a Pletna boat you can get close to the island in the middle of Lake Bled and it has become a favorite among photographers of all levels, as it offers a unique perspective of the area.

No matter how you choose to explore Lake Bled and Bled Castle you can be sure that you will be amazed by this unique place. Its beauty is unlike anything you’ve seen before, so make sure to include it in your Slovenian journey. If you already have plans for your trip from Ljubljana I highly recommend you to visit Bled. And if you need help with booking an organized tour for that I recommend checking out GetYourGuide. They have organized tours for all kinds of travelers that provide great experiences in one of Europe’s most stunning places.

Insider’s Guide to Ljubljana: Local Attractions, Dining Spots, and Cultural Experiences

As the largest city and the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a mesmerizing destination, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Perfectly positioned between the Alps and the Adriatic Sea, Ljubljana has something to offer to everyone, from its charming old town to vibrant art and music scenes, from trendy cafes and restaurants to stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to Ljubljana.

Local Attractions

1. Ljubljana Castle – The iconic Ljubljana Castle is perched on top of a hill, overlooking the city and the surrounding area. Built in the 11th century, the castle has served as a military fortress, a prison, and a palace. Today, it is open to the public and offers a panoramic view of Ljubljana, as well as a museum, an art gallery, and a restaurant.

2. Preseren Square – One of Ljubljana’s most popular meeting places, Preseren Square is named after the Slovenian national poet, France Preseren. The square is surrounded by elegant buildings and features a statue of Preseren and his muse.

3. Triple Bridge – Three bridges over the Ljubljanica River make up the Triple Bridge, one of Ljubljana’s most recognizable landmarks. The bridges were designed by the famous architect Joze Plecnik and connect the old town with the modern part of the city.

4. City Museum of Ljubljana – Housed in a former palace, the City Museum offers a comprehensive overview of Ljubljana’s history, culture, and art. The exhibits include archaeological finds, paintings, sculptures, and ethnographic objects.

5. Tivoli Park – Ljubljana’s largest park, Tivoli Park, covers an area of over five square kilometers and features numerous walking paths, gardens, fountains, and monuments. The park also houses several museums and galleries.

Dining Spots

1. Open Kitchen – Held every Friday from March to October, Open Kitchen is a popular food market that gathers local chefs and producers, offering a variety of dishes, from traditional Slovenian cuisine to international specialties. The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, and the prices are reasonable.

2. As Aperitivo – This Italian-style bar and restaurant is a perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or a light meal. The menu features various types of bruschetta, pizzas, and salads, as well as a wide selection of wines and cocktails.

3. Gostilna Na Gradu – Located inside the Ljubljana Castle, this restaurant offers a spectacular view of the city and serves traditional Slovenian dishes, such as potica (a sweet pastry), kraški pršut (cured ham), and štruklji (dumplings filled with cottage cheese or meat).

4. Zvezda – This restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its cozy ambiance, friendly service, and delicious food. The menu features seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, as well as creative interpretations of Slovenian classics.

5. Lolita – For a unique dining experience, head to Lolita, a small bistro that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu changes daily, depending on the chef’s inspiration and the availability of fresh ingredients. The dishes are colorful, inventive, and full of flavors.

Cultural Experiences

1. National Gallery of Slovenia – The National Gallery is the oldest and the largest art museum in Slovenia, showcasing Slovenian and international art from the High Middle Ages to the present day. The collection includes works by famous artists, such as Ivan Grohar, Zoran Mušič, and Jože Plečnik.

2. Cankarjev Dom – This cultural and congress center hosts a variety of events, from live music concerts to theater performances and film screenings. The building itself is an architectural gem and features several art installations and exhibitions.

3. Metelkova – Metelkova is an alternative cultural center and a self-proclaimed autonomous zone, located in a former military barracks. The area is home to several art galleries, music venues, bars, and clubs, and is a hub of creative and countercultural activities.

4. Ljubljana International Film Festival – Held annually in November, the Ljubljana International Film Festival is a major event for movie lovers, showcasing the best new films from around the world. The festival also features workshops, seminars, and discussions with filmmakers.

5. Ljubljana Jazz Festival – The Ljubljana Jazz Festival is a world-renowned event, bringing together some of the most prominent jazz musicians and ensembles from Slovenia and abroad. The festival usually takes place in June and offers a diverse program, from avant-garde to mainstream jazz.

Local History

1. Ljubljana Tourist Information Center – For a comprehensive overview of Ljubljana’s history and architecture, join a guided tour organized by the Tourist Information Center. The tours cover the main sights of the city, as well as hidden gems and lesser-known stories.

2. Butchers’ Bridge – The Butchers’ Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over the Ljubljanica River, famous for its love locks and sculptures. The bridge was designed by Joze Plecnik and features two Art Nouveau style towers and several bronze statues, including that of Prometheus.

3. Dragon Bridge – The Dragon Bridge is another iconic bridge in Ljubljana, adorned with four dragon statues. The bridge was built in the early 20th century and reflects the city’s mythological and historical heritage, as the dragon is a symbol of Ljubljana.

4. Ljubljana Central Market – The Central Market is a bustling and colorful place, where locals and tourists can buy fresh produce, flowers, souvenirs, and crafts. The market has been operating since the 16th century and is a testament to Ljubljana’s trading and culinary traditions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. St. Peter’s Church – Located on the top of a hill, St. Peter’s Church offers a stunning view of Ljubljana and its surroundings. The church is small and modest, but its interior is decorated with magnificent frescoes and sculptures.

2. Museum of Illusions – The Museum of Illusions is a fun and interactive place, where visitors can challenge their perception and test their senses. The museum features over 70 exhibits, including holograms, optical illusions, and puzzles.

3. Ljubljana Botanical Garden – The Botanical Garden is a peaceful and picturesque oasis, home to over 4,500 plant species from all over the world. The garden also houses several greenhouses, a pond, and a rockery.

4. Metropol Cafe – Metropol is a historic cafe and restaurant, dating back to the early 20th century. The cafe has a charming Art Nouveau interior and serves delicious coffee, cakes, and light meals. It is a popular spot among locals and intellectuals.

5. Ljubljana Castle Vineyard – Situated on the slopes of the Ljubljana Castle hill, the Ljubljana Castle Vineyard is a hidden gem, producing high-quality wines from indigenous grape varieties. Visitors can taste the wines, enjoy the stunning view, and learn about the vineyard’s history and culture.