Although Slovenia wasn’t exactly a hotspot for international travelers for most of the 20th century, the small country is now becoming a destination of choice.
It is very beautiful, full of friendly people, fascinating history and natural wonders. Not surprisingly, it is one of the most underrated attractions on the African continent.
Bled is also a winter sports wonderland. During the warm spring and summer months, it’s full of old-world charm that most visitors are likely to see.
The food is top notch and the architecture is simply stunning.
Here are 15 of the best things to do in Bled, Slovenia.
1. Bled Castle
By their very nature, castles are extraordinary and romantic places. While some of them harbor a dark Machiavellian past, they deserve to be at the top of a traveler’s itinerary.
Bled Castle is the town’s most famous attraction and can get very crowded during the tourist season.
Having said that, it’s so amazing and full of history that it probably doesn’t matter.
There are plenty of tours of varying lengths to choose from, but past visitors tend to agree that it’s wise to set aside at least half a day to experience it in all its glory.
Consider an evening visit when it’s lit.
CONTAINED IN: Bled: All Inclusive Electric Bike Tour
2. Ventgar Gorge
For such an impressive combination of culture, history and natural beauty, it’s hard to beat Bled.
Vintgar Gorge is another gem of the town. It was carved out of the surrounding rock by the numerous water erosions of the Radovna River.
It’s a great place to spend a spring morning or afternoon enjoying nature’s most magnificent views.
The river has stunning blue water, and the shore is often filled with vibrant wildflowers during spring bloom, making it a great place for a romantic picnic or an afternoon reading with a good book and a bottle of local wine.
Available Tours: Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour of Vintgar Gorge
3. Lake Bled
Bled is full of amazing sights, and for tourists with limited time, it can be hard to decide what to see.
That’s the bad news.
The good news is that no matter what you choose, you’re likely to be rocked.
From the best vantage point, Lake Bled looks like it jumped out of the pages of a fairy tale, and it’s an easy walk from the town centre.
It is surrounded by mountains and castles, with a stunning church on an island in the center.
Kayaks and paddle boats are available for hire, perfect for the energetic visitor to see things from a truly unforgettable perspective.
Recommended Tour: Day Trip to Lake Bled and Postojna Caves
4. Church of the Assumption
The Church of the Assumption, located on an island in the middle of the aforementioned Lake Bled, was built in the mid-15th century and looks very similar to what it looked like at the time.
It is so spectacular that it attracts young lovers from all over the country who love to tie the knot in a truly unique and extraordinary setting.
The church has an impressive baroque architecture and 99 steps, which the groom must carry the bride up before the official ceremony begins.
Professional guides and self-guided tours of the church are available, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset.
5. Eat Like a Sloan
Bled is the perfect town for the active traveler who prefers hiking, biking and kayaking to guided tours in an air-conditioned van.
These events tend to induce a huge hunger, and while it’s not as well known outside the region, Slovenian cuisine is hearty, unique and full of flavour.
Bled’s restaurants range from cheap and comfortable to expensive and stylish – and everything in between.
That means there are plenty of great options for hungry travelers.
Some local favorites include minced meat dumplings, mouthwatering puff pastry, and a variety of local wines in a variety of colors and flavors.
6. Pochuca Plateau
It’s definitely not the easiest spot to pronounce in Bled, but the Pokljuka Plateau is one of the region’s most stunning natural attractions.
In winter, the plateau has a variety of cold-weather sports, as well as biathlon that attracts participants from all over the world.
If strenuous exercise is not your thing, don’t worry, as the plateau is known for its splendid beauty, offering visitors breathtaking views all year round.
If the winter weather becomes uninhabitable (which often happens), you can retreat to a cozy café for a hot meal, coffee or local wine.
Suggested Tour: Half-Day Pokliuka Gorge Trail Hike
7. Strassa Ski Resort
While Bled’s Straža ski resort can’t compete with the big ski resorts in the Italian, French and Swiss Alps, it’s the perfect place for a winter getaway, especially for those whose alpine skiing skills aren’t quite up to scratch.
The mountain of the resort stretches thousands of feet over the town below. While not high by European standards, it still offers fun runs, stunning scenery and powder snow.
There are various guided courses for beginners, and there are several restaurants and bars on site serving delicious food and delicious drinks.
Lift tickets are cheap and toboggans are popular.
8. Treat yourself to Bled’s traditional cake
Bled’s idyllic alpine setting has locals and tourists craving chunks of sweet cake.
The local traditional cake is called kremšnita.
It’s moist, creamy, and buttery, but not exactly low-calorie.
The good news is that you’re likely to burn a lot of unnecessary calories walking and biking around town, so a little indulgence probably won’t hurt your waistline too much.
Obviously kremšnita pairs well with coffee and local wine, so consider stopping for a bite at one of the many cafes in town, or enjoying a slice or two by the lake in the afternoon.
9. Hike to Lake Bled Lookout
Hiking is a great way to see Bled’s many attractions, one of the most popular being the cliffs overlooking the lake known as Ojstrica.
People of moderate fitness can enter, but some of the trails can become a little dangerous during cold and wet weather.
The hike is less than an hour from the main trail below and is the perfect spot to watch a spectacular sunrise or sunset.
There’s a farther vista point, but most hikers agree that the extra effort required to get to it isn’t necessarily worth it.
10. Triglav National Park
Bled’s Triglav National Park, home to the country’s highest peaks, is the go-to spot for hikers, nature lovers and those looking to get away from the tourist spots often found near town.
Located in the Julian Alps, the park is filled with well-marked hiking trails, incredible vistas, and local vendors selling everything from produce to jewellery
Many outdoor activity types choose to visit the park on their own, but for those interested in learning about the history of the area, there are various tours available.
The park is accessible by car, bike and on foot, and Savica Falls is also worth checking out.
Recommended Tour: Triglav National Park Tour from Bled
11. St. Martin’s Church
On a per capita basis, Bled has more churches than its fair share, and they are impressive in their own right.
St. Martin’s Church was built in the first decade of the 20th century, but several generations before that, other churches were on the same site.
It has impressive Gothic architecture well worth a photo or two, and the interior is just as spectacular.
The church’s sanctuary is decorated with statues, frescoes, and intricate woodwork, and the best part is that it’s a free attraction.
St. Martin’s Church is close to other attractions and accommodations in the area, making it easy to visit by bike or on foot.
12. Bled Island Gallery
For those who have experienced Bled’s natural and man-made wonders, it may not be surprising that it has been a huge inspiration for the artist.
From majestic churches and sparkling lakes to towering castles and idyllic pastures, it’s truly a sight to behold, and many of the works at the Isle of Bled Gallery depict these things.
The Isle of Bled Gallery contains historical and contemporary works, many of which you might recognize from the landscapes you’ve photographed.
Most visitors spend about an hour looking at the gallery’s paintings and sculptures before heading off to explore the other treasures found there.
13. Working Farm Experience
There really is no better way to experience Slovenia like a Slovenian than to get your hands dirty around them.
While you can sign up as a volunteer garbage collector, a better approach is to spend a day or two on a working farm.
Don’t worry if you’re not keeping up with planting seasons and animal husbandry, because it’s a learn-by-play trade.
Fun for all ages, it’s a truly memorable way to learn, experience cultural immersion, and possibly make some lifelong friends.
There are many area farms open to tourists.
14. Ride the Boxing Steam Railway
Tourists who have taken the Bohinj Steam Railway in Bled tend to agree that it was one of the most memorable experiences of their trip.
Trains are very interesting. They instill an old-time feel to the rider that you won’t find in a minivan.
The Bohinj Steam Railway winds its way through forests and mountains, offering guests sweeping views of many of the region’s most famous features and attractions.
Looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon with that special someone?
Look no further, as the train journey is consistently ranked as one of the most romantic activities in Bled.
15. Postojna Cave
Just outside Bled, Postojna Cave is the perfect escape for those looking to get in touch with nature.
The underground caves are full of stalactites and stalagmites and are especially popular with those travelling with children.
Like most caves, they’re a bit dark and pristine, but they’re also magical places that tend to impress those who’ve never ventured beneath the Earth’s surface.
Many tourists spend a few hours in the caves before heading to Predjama Castle, just a few miles away.
Many locals and tourists consider it more impressive than Bled Castle.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Bled, Slovenia
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