Ljubljana to Lake Bled – The ULTIMATE 3 Days in Slovenia

Looking for an epic 3-day Slovenia itinerary? This Ljubljana to Lake Bled trip will be perfect for you!

From the charming streets of Ljubljana to the postcard-perfect shores of Lake Bled, Slovenia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets and a country that truly surprised me again and again. Nestled in the heart of central Europe this small but stunning destination packs a punch with its diverse landscapes and fascinating history. 

Although Slovenia might be small in size it does offer a wide range of enticing activities. Their medieval towns are perfect for history buffs and the gorgeous Julian Alps are ideal for those who love to hike. 

With its rich cafe culture and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s no surprise that Slovenia is becoming more and more popular each year. 

One of the most popular trips in Slovenia is the journey from Ljubljana (the capital) to Lake Bled (a picture-perfect lake straight out of a fairytale), which are two of the must-see places in Slovenia. 

If you’ve been eyeing up this destination thanks to a flurry of posts on your social media feeds, I can promise you this country is even more enchanting in real life. Slovenia completely stole my heart after just 3 days and I am already itching to get back! 

In this post, I’ll discuss everything you need to know in order to have an epic 3 days in Slovenia including the best things to do in both Ljubljana and Lake Bled, how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, plus all my top tips for travelling Slovenia, especially as a first timer. 

So what is included on a 3-day Ljubljana to Lake Bled itinerary? Read on below to find out!

About This 3-day Slovenia Itinerary

This Slovenia Itinerary follows the exact route I took during my time in Slovenia. On this route, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the best things to do in both Ljubljana and Lake Bled. At the same time, you’ll be able to truly soak up your time in both destinations without feeling like you have rushed around trying to cram everything in. 

Your itinerary will look something like this: 

• Day 1: Ljubljana 
• Day 2: Lake Bled 
• Day 3: Lake Bled 

Arriving In Slovenia

For this 3-day Slovenia Itinerary you will be starting in the beautiful capital city of Ljubljana. Ljubljana is well connected by road, rail, and air.

Flight 

It’s easy and CHEAP to fly into Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport from most main European cities. Unfortunately, there aren’t many long-haul flight options into Ljubliana that don’t require a layover somewhere else in Europe, however, you can find direct flights from the UAE into the city. I recommend checking out the Skyscanner website to find the best routes and flight prices. 

Getting from The Airport To Ljubljana City Centre 

You can travel from Ljubljana Airport to the city centre either by taxi or bus. The airport is located just a 25-minute car journey from central Ljubljana and will cost you roughly €30. 

To catch the bus from Ljubljana Airport to the city centre, head to the airport bus station, which is located near Passenger Terminal A. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, and tickets cost around 4 euros, which you can purchase ahead of time or directly from the driver. You can view the local bus timetable and purchase tickets here. 

Bus

Ljubliana is well connected by bus and you can travel both nationally and internationally by bus very easily. Internationally you can catch a direct bus from other cities and countries such as Budapest, Hungary and Vienna, Austria for as little as €20. I recommend either Flixbus or Omio websites to find the best bus routes and deals! 

Train 

You can travel to Ljubljana both nationally and internationally by train, however, this does tend to be typically more expensive than the bus albeit the much faster option. You can travel to Ljubljana central train station from many other European cities such as Vienna, Austria and Zagreb Croatia from a starting price of €30. I recommend searching for the best train routes using the Omio website. 

Day 1 – Ljubljana 

Where To Stay In Ljubljana 

When choosing where to stay in Ljubljana I definitely think the Old Town is one of the best areas to stay in the city. Therefore I recommend staying here, or as close to here as possible. However, the good thing about central Ljubljana is that it’s quite small so nothing is too far away. 

Best Budget Hotels In Ljubljana 

• The Hotel Ljubljana  – A comfortable and affordable option offering clean rooms perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Prices start from €65 per night. This is where I stayed during my time in Ljublana, and I can’t recommend it enough.
• Ibis Hotel Ljubljana –  A modern budget hotel with cosy rooms located conveniently close to the city centre. Prices start from €60 per night.

Best Mid-Range Hotels In Ljubljana 

• Bloom Hotel – A stylish hotel featuring modern amenities and a convenient location for exploring the city. Prices start from €120 per night. 
• Vander Urbani Resort – A chic boutique hotel with a rooftop pool and stunning city views. Prices start from €110 per night.

Best Hostels In Ljubljana 

• Hostel Celica – A unique hostel in a former military prison for social travellers. Prices start from €40 per night.
• AdHoc Hostel  A cosy and centrally located hostel with a friendly vibe. Prices start from €25 per night. 

How To Get Around Ljubljana

With Ljubljana being quite small it’s super easy to get around on foot (and it’s also the most cost-effective way) however there are a few other options you can explore when it comes to getting around Ljubljana. 

• Urban Train—This electric green train takes you to 10 different tourist spots in the city. Tickets cost €10. 
• Bike—Ljubljana is a very bike-friendly city, and you can use the Bicikelj, the city’s sharing system, for as little as €1.
• Kavalir—These small electric cars seat up to five people and offer rides around the city completely for free. They are primarily intended for elderly and mobility-impaired individuals.

Things To Do In Ljubljana 

Ljubljana is a quaint city that offers the perfect mix of history, culture and scenic views. The city is filled with iconic landmarks and so much more. 

Ljubljana is a hidden gem that offers something for everyone. During your 3 days In Slovenia, you’ll be spending just one day in Ljubliana. 

Visit Ljubljana Castle

Ljubljana Castle is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and one of the top attractions to see in Ljubljana. Perched on top of a hill in downtown Ljubljana the castle dates back to the 14th century and offers a glimpse into Slovenia’s history. 

Over the centuries, this castle has served many purposes, from a medieval fortress to a royal residence and even a military barracks. 

Not only does it have important historical significance but Ljubljana Castle is one of the best spots for panoramic views of the city. From the top, you’ll get a stunning 360-degree view of Ljubljana’s red rooftops and colourful buildings. ​​

Tickets to explore the castle start from €15, which includes access to the viewing tower and castle chapel. However, if you are after just the view of the city, you can enjoy a beautiful hike up to the castle for free or use the funicular railway, which costs €6 for a return ticket. 

Also, if you’re here in the summer, the castle hosts amazing evening events, such as outdoor cinema screens and concerts. 

Take A Ride On The Funicular Railway

The Ljubljana Funicular Railway is a quick and picturesque way to travel between Ljubljana Old and Castle. The journey takes just 1 minute and runs every 10 minutes from 9 am to 10 pm. Tickets start from €4 for adults and children under 7 travel for free. You can buy tickets at the Krek Square Station or purchase a combined castle entry and funicular ticket online here. 

Ljubljana Central Market

The Central Market is one of Ljubljana’s most popular spots. It’s not just a place for locals to stock up on fresh produce; it’s also the go-to spot for both locals and tourists who want to enjoy an amazing lunch. 

With its wide variety of food and drink options including hearty Slovenian classics like štruklji (rolled dumplings) or prekmurska gibanica (a layered pastry) as well as international cuisine, the market offers plenty of options for everyone.

I recommend visiting at the weekend when the market is at its liveliest but just be sure to arrive early so you can get your hands on the freshest food! 

Explore Ljubljana Old town

Ljubljana’s old town might be small but it’s absolutely beautiful and it’s my favourite part of the city. Picture charming cobblestoned streets, multicoloured buildings and old-fashioned lamp posts that give off a vintage vibe. 

As you stroll through the Old Town you’ll be greeted with a lively and buzzing atmosphere as the streets are brimming with vibrant bars and restaurants that have a cosmopolitan feel.

In the Old Town, you’ll find some of Ljubljana’s most famous landmarks like the Town Hall and the beautiful Robba Fountain, plus lots more spots which I have discussed below. 

Even if you’re not planning to stop for a drink it’s definitely worth walking through this area just to admire its architecture and appreciate its unique character. 

Visit Ljubljana’s most Iconic Bridges

Triple Bridge

As the name suggests, the Triple Bridge are a group of 3 beautifully designed bridges that arch over the Ljubljanica River.

The bridges were constructed separately between the years of 1842 and 1932 and now serve as one of Ljubljana’s most popular tourist attractions. The bridges connect two of the most popular spots in the city; Prešeren Square and Ljubljana Central Market.

Whether you want to admire its architectural beauty, soak in the riverside views or use it purely for functional reasons to get from one side to the other, it’s a must-visit during your one day in Ljubliana. 

Mersarski Bridge

Mesarski Bridge, also known as Butchers’ Bridge, is Slovenia’s answer to Paris’ Love Lock Bridge. This footbridge is adorned with countless padlocks left by tourists declaring their love for lovers, friends and family.

I recommend taking a short stroll across the bridge to admire the locks and have a nosy at the messages (and maybe even add your own if that takes your fancy). 

Mesarski Bridge is also home to some rather unique sculptures by a Slovenian artist named Jakov Brdar. From here you can also enjoy more stunning views of the Ljubljanica River.

Other bridges also worth visiting in Ljubljana include the Dragon Bridge, the Sluice Gate and the Cobbles Bridge.

Walk through Prešeren Square 

Fun fact: Despite its name, Prešeren Square is actually oval. Prešeren Square is the heart of Ljubljana’s old town and is the prime spot in the city to enjoy some of Ljubljana’s most iconic spots. 

From the square, you can admire the beautiful pink Franciscan Church of Annunciation. From here you’ll also be able to see the famous Triple Bridge (mentioned earlier), the Ljubljanica River, and many more historical buildings. 

Prešeren Square is one of the liveliest spots in the city. If you time you’re trip right you might get lucky enough to stumble across one of the many events they host in the square such as festivals. 

Stari Trg

Stari Trg known as the “old square” is one of the oldest parts of Ljubljana. The square is best known for its wooden shop fronts, cobbled pavements and medieval houses.

Here you can find the iconic Hercules water fountain and also admire the suspected birthplace of a famous 16th century Historian named Johann Weikhard von Valvasor. Whether you’re a fan of historians or not this square is super beautiful so worth visiting either way. 

Explore Mestni Trg

Mestni Trg is Ljubljana’s main town square. Here you can admire Ljubljana Cathedral, and the Town Hall, as well as toss a coin into the iconic Robba Fountain. The square is also dotted with lots of quaint cafes and boutique shops making it a great spot to soak in the local atmosphere. 

Visit Tivoli Park 

Tivoli Park is Ljubljana’s biggest and most picturesque park which is just a short walk from the city centre. At Tivoli, you can enjoy its stunning gardens and tranquil ponds and use it as the perfect opportunity to escape the buzz of the city centre. If you also happen to be in Ljubljana in summer, Tivoli makes for the perfect picnic spot.  

Enjoy a Walking Tour 

If you’re someone who enjoys learning more about the history of the places you are visiting then this free walking tour will be perfect for you. On the tour, you’ll be visiting all of the places that I have mentioned above plus so much more. 

You will be led around the city by a knowledgeable tour guide who will be able to tell you all the important facts that you need to know. The tour is just 2 hours so you’ll still have plenty of time to explore more of the city on your own. 

Where To Eat And Drink In Ljubljana 

• Slovenska Hiša – The best spot in the city to try traditional Slovenian food.
• Moji štruklji – The place to try over 20 different types of Slovenian Dumplings.
• Julija Restaurant – One of the top-rated restaurants in the city to. 
• Dvorni Wine Bar – The top-rated wine bar in Ljubljana. They also offer wine-tasting sessions.
• Captains Cabin – A super fun bar for those looking to drink and party.

How To Get From Ljubljana To Lake Bled 

Lake Bled is 55.5 KM from Ljubljana and has 4 different ways to travel there.

Rent a car 

Renting a car in Slovenia is the most convenient option and if you are travelling in a group, one of the most economical options too. You can rent a car in Ljubljana for as little as just €25 a day (which is some of the cheapest car rental prices I have come across). 

Having your own car also means you can explore the surrounding areas of Lake Bled on your own schedule. 

There are a handful of car rental companies located in Ljublana city centre which makes it easy and convenient for you to pick up after your first day in Ljubljana. You can also choose to pick up your rental car when you land at Ljubljana Airport, however, you won’t be needing it on day one so it will essentially be a waste of money. 

You’ll also be pleased to know that the drive from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is just 45 minutes. 

Taxi

Taking a taxi from Ljubljana to Lake Bled typically costs between €50 and €60, and is a convenient travel option for those looking to avoid public transport. This is another great option for those travelling in a group but don’t want to rent a car together. 

One of the best taxi companies that offer service between Ljubljana and Lake Bled is Bled Taxi Transfer and you can either give them a call or submit an enquiry through their website. 

Train 

Taking the train to Bled is both a fast and very affordable option, however, the Bled train station is located 5 KM outside of the central town which means you will have to catch a bus or a taxi for the last 5 KM of your journey. 

The train journey is just 45-60 minutes and tickets range between €5-€10. You can either prebook the tickets online here or buy them at the station. 

Trains leave Ljubljana central train station for Lesce-Bled train station between 4.45 am and 11.50 pm. You can check the latest schedule on the here on the Slovenian Railways website.

You can get the train from Ljubljana to Bled Jezero station for around €5. The journey to Lake Bled is between 40-60 minutes, depending on the train you get.

Once you arrive in Bled you can catch a bus from the station to the town centre for approximately €2 or take a taxi with prices starting at €6.

Coach/Bus

If you want to keep things super cheap you can catch a bus from Ljubljana central bus station directly to Lake Bled town centre. 

The bus journey is slightly longer than the other methods mentioned and will take around 1- 1.5 hours. Buses leave the bus station every day between 5.50 am and 10.00 pm. On weekends the timetable differs slightly and buses leave between 7.00 am and 9.00 pm. There are buses departing every 30-60 minutes and you can check out the timetables here. 

Some bus journeys take longer than others because they make more stops. To view how many stops your bus takes make sure to click on the “details” tab before you buy your ticket. 

On weekdays tickets start from €5.90 and are significantly cheaper at the weekend with tickets starting from just €1.90. 

You can book a coach from Ljubljana to Lake Bled here or purchase tickets at the bus station. If you do book online you will need to print out a physical ticket beforehand as the driver will not accept a mobile version. 

There are 2 bus stations in Lake Bled; ‘Bled Union’ and ‘Bled’. I would recommend getting off at ‘Bled’ in order to be dropped off in the centre of town. 

Day 2 & 3 – Lake Bled 

Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most picturesque lakes situated in the town of Bled in the Julian Alps. The lake is surrounded by stunning forests and mountains and it’s one of those places where you will have that “I can’t believe my eyes” feeling again and again. 

I’m sure this will be your favourite part of this 3-day Slovenia Itinerary. 

Where To Stay In Lake Bled 

What I loved about Lake Bled is how many stunning and affordable accommodations they have that offer breathtaking views of the lake and or the mountains. Some of my favourite spots include: 

Best Budget Hotels In Lake Bled

• Hotel Triglav– A stunning lakeside hotel with elegant rooms and beautiful views of Lake Bled. Prices start from €90 per night. This is where I stayed during my time in Lake Bled and I highly recommend it.
• Nature Hotel Lukanc – With beautiful views of the forest this hotel is in peaceful surroundings but close to all of Bled’s attractions. Prices start from €70 per night. 

Best Mid-Range & Luxury  Hotels Lake Bled

• Adora Luxury Hotel –  stylish boutique hotel offering luxurious rooms with panoramic lake views. Prices start from €160 per night. 
• Rikli Balance Hotel – A wellness-focused hotel with breathtaking views of Lake Bled. Prices start from €145 per night. 

Best Hostels In Lake Bled

• Ace of Spades Hostel – A lively and social hostel in the heart of Bled. Prices start from €17 per night. 
• 1A Adventure Hostel Lesce Bled – A fun and adventurous hostel with easy access to outdoor activities and Lake Bled. Prices start from €18 per night. 

How To Get Around Lake Bled 

The majority of Lake Bled is very accessible on foot however there are a few other transport methods you can explore. 

• Bike & E-bike rental: Eight tourist agencies offer bike rental services in Lake Bled. ​​3glav Adventures and Mamut Slovenia are some of the top-rated rental companies in Bled. 
• Taxi: If you haven’t rented a car and need to get somewhere a little further out of time, there are multiple taxi companies in Bled. 

Things To Do In Lake Bled

Enjoy a stroll around Lake Bled 

One of the simplest, but most beautiful things you can do in Lake Bled is spend some time walking around the lake. The walk around the lake is just 6 KM and in theory, should take you just 1.5 hours to walk around. However, I can assure you that it will take a lot longer as you’ll be stopping to admire all the spots around the lake and take lots of photos along the way. 

Each side of the Lake provides a different, but equally stunning view so it’s definitely worth it to take a couple of hours to enjoy it all. 

Row to Bled Island

If you’re looking for a wholesome adventure during your time in Bled then renting a rowboat to row your way to Bled Island will be the perfect activity for you. 

You can rent a boat on the Western side of the lake for €10 per 30 minutes. Rowing to the island will take you approximately 30 minutes and your total time going to and from the island and spending a bit of time on there should take around 1.5 hours give or take. 

Once you get on to Bled Island you can explore the Church of the Assumption, as well as grab some coffee and ice cream at the onsite cafe. 

If you’re not in the market for the upper body workout (or you don’t have the option to be a passenger princess like myself) you can book a seat on a Pletna Boat which is a larger passenger boat that will take you across to the island. Tickets for the Pletna Boat start from €12 return and prices vary depending on the season. You will get around 50-60 minutes on the Island before having to return. 

Visit Vintgar Gorge In Triglav National Park

Vintgar Gorge in Triglav National Park was without a doubt my favourite part of my 3 days in Slovenia. Triglav National Park spans an impressive 880 km², stretching from the outskirts of Lake Bled and beyond. 

Just a short 10-minute drive from Lake Bled is the stunning Vintgar Gorge which absolutely lives up to the hype. Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 KM gorge in the eastern part of Triglav National Park. 

​​The gorge offers a leisurely walk along picturesque wooden pathways where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of emerald-green rivers and cascading waterfalls along the way. I recommend spending as much time in Triglav National Park as you can because it’s absolutely stunning. 

The gorge has an entrance fee of  €10 and is only open from May to October. 

Bled Castle

Bled Castle stands 130 meters above Lake Bled offering an even more picturesque view of the lake and the surrounding Julian Alps. The castle was built in the early 11th century and it is the oldest castle in Slovenia.

Entry into Bled Castle is €11. With this ticket, you can explore the castle’s museum, visit the small chapel, and see a traditional printing workshop. You will also find a restaurant onsite where you can enjoy local Slovenian food while taking in the scenery. 

Where To Eat And Drink In Lake Bled

• Restavracija Sova Bled: Located right on the lake this is one of the top restaurants in town where you can try delicious and unique dishes. 
• Old Cellar Bled: Situated in a 500-year-old cellar you can enjoy traditional Slovenian food and over 60 Slovenian wines. 
• Sava Hotel: The best place in town to try a traditional Bled cream cake.

Other Options For Visiting Lake Bled

If you would prefer not to stay overnight in Bled, or organise your own transport there, then you can easily book a day trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled.

This tour will enable you to enjoy all of the best things that Bled has to offer whilst removing the hassle of organising everything yourself. This is one of the top-rated day trips you can book.

Slovenia Itinerary FAQ’s 

When is the best time to visit Slovenia?

Like many European destinations, Slovenia is a year-round getaway with something to offer in every season. 

For a magical winter escape, I recommend visiting between December and March when the country sees steady snowfall which is perfect for skiing or experiencing a festive landscape. However, you’ll need to be prepared for some attractions to be closed during this period (like Vintgar Gorge) due to poor conditions. 

If you’re drawn to wildflower season and lush green valleys then visiting March to June time will be ideal. The temperatures will be mild and the area will be much less crowded in comparison to the height of summer. 

If you’re someone who prefers warm weather and long days then I recommend visiting during the summer months from June to September. However, you’ll need to be more prepared for crowds during this period, especially in Lake Bled. 

Finally, visiting between September and November will be the best choice for you if you enjoy crisp air, colourful foliage, and quiet trails. 

I visited Slovenia in early October and couldn’t have chosen a better time. The weather was still pleasantly warm and the areas we visited were not crowded at all! 

Budgeting for Slovenia

You can expect to budget between €50-€100 per day depending on whether you are a budget or a mid-range traveller. 

• Hostel Dorms – €18+
• Guesthouses – €60+
• Luxury Hotels – €150+ 
• Food – €10+
• Coffee – €3+
• Alcohol – €5+
• Excursions/Entry fees – €10+

How many days are enough for Slovenia?

At a minimum, I believe you need at least 2 days in Slovenia, spending one day in Ljubljana and one day in Lake Bled, but it means you’re itinerary will be jam-packed. However, this is a good option for those looking for a weekend trip to avoid taking any days off work. 

If you are able to stretch for more time I would definitely recommend at least 3-4 days as this itinerary suggests. 

Is Bled or Ljubljana better?

Ljubljana and Bled offer two very different experiences depending on what you are after. If you are a nature lover you will definitely enjoy your time in Lake Bled more, however, if you enjoy bustling cities, architecture and history you’ll probably enjoy Ljubljana more. 

🛏️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget, then make sure to check out Hostelworld.

✈️Flights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!

🚆Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.

🚗Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.

🎟️Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100s of activities whilst travelling.

🦋Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.

📱Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download SIMs from either Airalo or Holafly for your time abroad.