Wander-Lush

How to Travel From Ljubljana to Lake Bled, Slovenia in 2024

Planning a trip to Slovenia and wondering how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled ? This 2023 transport guide shows you how to travel safely and affordably.

As much as I hate to use the phrase ‘must-see’, there’s really no other way to describe Lake Bled. Blejsko Jezero sits at the foot of the Julian Alps and is an absolute icon of Central Europe – and the poster child of Slovenian tourism.

I strongly believe it should feature on every traveller’s Slovenia itinerary. Even if you’re in a neighbouring country, it’s worth making a special day trip just to cast eyes on one of Slovenia’s most beautiful landscapes .

Snow-capped mountains and a pretty Lake Bled in Slovenia.

Visiting Lake Bled was one of the highlights of our 10-day trip around Slovenia. On the whole, Slovenia is small, affordable, and pretty much everything runs like clockwork. This makes it very easy to travel around. Because Bled is so close to Ljubljana , it makes for a perfect excursion, overnight or side trip from the capital.

In this post, I’ll show you exactly how to travel from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. I’ve gone to great lengths to ensure all the information presented here is up-to-date, and I’ll be updating the details regularly. I’ve also included a few helpful tips for planning your visit to Lake Bled.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Distance from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Lake Bled is located 54.4 kilometres (33.8 miles) from Ljubljana.

How long is the bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled?

The bus from Ljubljana to bled takes between 1 hour and 1 hour 20 minutes give or take depending on traffic and the number of stops (both express and local buses are available).

By car, the journey can take as little as 40 minutes .

How to get to Lake Bled from Ljubljana

There are five ways to travel from Ljubljana to Lake Bled: On an organised day tour from Ljubljana, by bus, train, taxi or hire car.

Whichever mode of road transport you choose, you’ll be travelling on highway E61. It leads almost due north from Ljubljana in the direction of the Austrian border.

Here is a quick overview of the different options:

1. CONVENIENT OPTION

DAY TOUR TO BLED

  • 7.5-10 hours total with transfers

2. EFFICIENT OPTION

BUS TO BLED

  • 25+ daily departures
  • ~ 60-80 minutes travel time
  • From €2.10-6.30

3. AFFORDABLE & SCENIC OPTION

TRAIN TO BLED

  • 10+ daily departures
  • ~ 45-60 minutes travel time

4. FAST OPTION

TAXI TO BLED

  • ~ 45 minutes travel time
  • From €45-€55

5. DIY OPTION

DRIVE TO BLED

  • From €25/day

Option 1: Day tour from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Because Lake Bled is so close to Ljubljana (1.75 hours by road at most), it’s entirely possible to visit on a long day trip. You can do it yourself using public transport, following the instructions below. Or you can organise a Lake Bled day trip from Ljubljana.

The latter has the added benefit of a guide to show you around and narrate some of the history. It’s a great option for solo travellers , or anyone who has left it to the last minute and is concerned about the availability of bus seats.

I highly recommend booking your day tour through German platform Get Your Guide . They offer an excellent range of itineraries from independent tour providers, combined with the ability to pay securely online. If plans change, they have a very generous cancellation policy.

Recommended Ljubljana to Bled tours

This full-day trip from Ljubljana combines Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj. It includes an optional boat trip, a visit to Bled castle and a slice of Cream Cake. If I had to choose a Lake Bled day trip, it would be this one.

If you’re interested in caves, this itinerary pairs a visit to Postojna Cave with Bled’s highlights, including a boat trip and the climb up to the castle.

There are also tours to Bled from cities in a number of neighbouring countries, including from Trieste, Italy (7 hours duration), from Zagreb, Croatia (11 hours duration), and from Vienna (13 hours duration). All of these itineraries incorporate a short stop in Ljubljana.

Option 2: Bus from Ljubljana to Bled

If you’re going DIY, the Ljubljana Bled bus is my preferred mode of transport for this journey. Arriva (the most popular bus company in Slovenia) runs large coaches between Ljubljana and Bled throughout the day.

A lot of people live outside the city and use this bus to commute to Ljubljana. The buses are both reliable and safe.

And if you travel on a Saturday or Sunday, you’ll save some cash – tickets are much cheaper on the weekend!

Ljubljana to Lake Bled bus schedule

Ljubljana to Lake Bled is one of the most popular bus routes in Slovenia so departures are very frequent. The first bus of the day leaves between 5am and 7am depending on the season. After that, buses depart every 30-60 minutes, with the final departure around 9pm/10pm.

Check the latest bus schedule here on the Ljubljana Bus Station website .

Buying bus tickets online

Because buses are so frequent, you can usually chance it and buy your ticket on the day. If you’re travelling in peak season, it might be wise to reserve a seat ahead of time.

To buy your tickets in advance, you can either go to the station in Ljubljana a few days prior (instructions below), or you can reserve a ticket online using the Ljubljana Bus Station website.

To find tickets, go to the homepage and search for buses from ‘Ljubljana Bus Station’ to ‘Bled’. Enter your date to bring up a list of departure times. After you click the cart icon, you can choose either a one-way ticket or a return ticket.

Return tickets are good for 30 days from the time of purchase. You can return on any bus you want, but you must travel with the same bus company. Arriva is the most popular company on this route.

Tip: Before you buy your ticket, click the ‘Details’ tab to expand a full list of stops. Some buses make only a couple of stops while others make more than a dozen stops and therefore take much longer.

Currently a one-way ticket from Ljubljana to Bled costs 6.30 Euro on a weekday and 2.10 Euro on weekends. An open return ticket (valid for 30 days) costs 12 Euro . After entering your email you can then go ahead and pay online using Visa or Mastercard.

After you complete the purchase, you will either receive a ticket or a ticket invoice in your email inbox. The only way to board a bus is with a physical ticket – you cannot show the driver a ticket on your mobile phone, and they will not accept an invoice either.

If you received a ticket with a barcode on it in your inbox, then you’ll need to print it out before you get to the bus station.

If you only received a ticket invoice, then you must arrive early at the bus station and exchange the invoice for a paper ticket before you travel (note the opening hours in the next section).

Do not attempt to board the bus with a ticket invoice or a digital ticket on your phone as you will be turned away!

How to get to Ljubljana bus station

The main bus station in Ljubljana (Avtobusna Postaja) is located in front of the train station on Trg Osvobodilne (see the exact location here ). It’s very close to the centre, roughly a 10-minute walk from the Dragon Bridge . A taxi from anywhere in the centre should only cost a few Euro. Note that taxis in Ljubljana are fitted with metres.

When you arrive at the bus station, you’ll see it’s laid out like a long parking lot with numbered bays. The Lake Bled bus should depart from position 7 , which is right in front of the ticket office. You will be able to see ‘Bled’ clearly printed on a sign in the bus windscreen.

Buying or picking up tickets at the station

If you hold off and buy tickets in person at the station, prices are the same. Ticket desks are located inside the bus station building. If you need cash, there is an ATM at the station.

The first time we visited the bus station, we walked into the railway station by accident. The bus office is actually the smaller building situated in the centre of the parking lot ( here ).

Planning a trip to Slovenia and wondering how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled? My 2019 transport guide shows you how to travel safely and affordably.

Inside, there are TV screens that display upcoming departures. Walk straight up to one of the cashier desks to buy your tickets (or exchange your e-invoice). Staff are friendly and speak perfect English. You can pay either in cash or by card.

The ticket office is open from 5am-10.30pm Monday to Friday , from 5am-10pm on Sundays , and from 5.30am-10.30pm on Sundays and holidays .

If for some reason you want to buy tickets on the bus, you can do that too using cash. This is handy if you’re boarding the bus from elsewhere in the city (the bus makes a few stops on the way out of Ljubljana, including across the road from Tivoli Park).

Storing luggage at Ljubljana Bus Station

There is a luggage storage office behind ticket desk #3 inside the Ljubljana bus station. It opens when the ticket desks opens and closes at 9.30pm . It costs 3.50 Euros to store one bag (up to 30kg) for a full day.

Luggage space on the bus

Coach buses have overhead storage racks for keeping small bags. Like most buses in the Balkans, you have to pay an extra fee to store a larger backpack, a suitcase or an oversized item such as skis under the bus. In Slovenia, you need to pay an extra 1 Euro per item.

When you’re boarding the bus, the driver or an attendant will tag your bag, take your Euro and give you back a ticket stub. Keep hold of it, because they might ask to see it when you disembark.

Is there a toilet on the bus?

Yes! Arriva coaches have a toilet, air conditioning and WIFI. They are very comfortable.

Arrival at Bled bus station

Buses stop at two stations in Bled: Bled Union and Bled. The second stop, Bled , is the best one to jump off at if you’re staying the centre of town or you want to head straight down to the lake. The bus terminates here, so you can’t miss it.

From the station office, walk south along Cesta Svobode to reach the lake. It’s pretty obvious, and remember, Bled is very small so it’s almost impossible to get lost.

Is there a Flixbus from Ljubljana to Bled?

No, Flixbus does not service this route.

Option 3: Ljubljana to Lake Bled train

If you’re a fan of train travel, there are plenty of passenger trains between Ljubljana and Bled. The journey is quite scenic and comfortable, and it takes about the same amount of time (or less) as the bus, around 45-60 minutes depending on the service you choose.

The only downside is that Bled Railway Station is located 5km from the lake, so you’ll need to take a taxi or a bus the rest of the way.

Train schedule & ticket prices

There are frequent trains every hour or so from Ljubljana’s main station (adjacent to the bus station) to Lesce-Bled , the most convenient station for accessing the lake. Local trains make a dozen or so stops along the way, including in Kranj and Skofja Loka .

The first train leaves Ljubljana at 4.45am , and the last train is at 11.50pm . Check the latest schedule on the Slovenian Railways website .

There are two types of trains: Older trains (abbreviated with LPV) and newer trains (marked MV or EN or EC). The newer trains are slightly faster.

Tickets for the LPV trains (second class only) cost 5.10 Euro per person. Tickets for the newer trains cost 6.60 Euro (second class) or 9.10 Euro (first class). Tickets can be purchased online here or in-person at the station.

How to get to Ljubljana Train station

The main train station in Ljubljana is located on Trg Osvobodilne along with the bus station (see the exact location here ). It’s very close to the centre, roughly a 10-minute walk from the Dragon Bridge . A taxi from anywhere in the centre should only cost a few Euro. Note that taxis in Ljubljana are fitted with metres.

On the train

There is plenty of luggage space on the train, and every carriage has a toilet. If you are taking a bicycle to Bled, look for the bike symbol next to the train number – these are the services you can carry a bike on.

Arrival at Lesce Bled Railway Station

Lesce Bled Railway Station is located 5km from the lake. A taxi should cost 5-10 Euros.

Alternatively, Arriva buses coming from Ljubljana stop at the train station and can take you to the lake for 1.30 Euro (10 minutes travel time).

Option 4: Ljubljana to Lake Bled by taxi

Ljubljana Airport is located almost halfway between the centre of Ljubljana and Bled. If you want to transfer to Bled straight from the airport, it makes more sense to jump straight in a taxi rather than going into town first.

Additionally, if you’re travelling with a group of more than 4 people, it can work out cheaper to go from Ljubljana to Lake Bled by taxi. I would highly recommend organising a car in advance through a reputable company rather than trying to hail a cab on the street.

There are two popular companies that come recommended: Bled Taxi Transfer and Airtrail Slovenia . Both offer taxis from Ljubljana airport to Bled for between 40-45 Euro , and from anywhere in Ljubljana city to Bled for around 45-55 Euro .

Submit an online enquiry through their website for more information.

Option 5: Ljubljana to Lake Bled by car

Having your own car in Bled can be handy if you want to explore beyond the lake. If you plan on driving yourself from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, familiarise yourself with the route before you set off. It’s a pretty easy drive along the same highway until the very end, where you turn off for the town.

There is one long tunnel just after the town of Kranj – make sure you know how to work your headlights!

You’ll obviously need to choose accommodation in Bled that comes with parking (most do). If you’re only in Bled for the day, secure parking is available here and at several other locations nearby for around 2 Euros/hour .

There are plenty of rental car agencies in Ljubljana, including a Sixt and a Europcar at the train station. I highly recommend using Discover Cars to compare the different offerings.

Use the Discover Cars website to find the best price on a rental car in Ljubljana .

Read next: 18 epic road trip itineraries for the Balkans (including Slovenia!).

Lake Bled to Ljubljana: The return trip

Travelling the opposite way from Bled to Ljubljana is pretty straightforward. A taxi should cost you about the same, or maybe a tiny bit more. There are regular trains running from Lesce-Bled to Ljubljana, with the first service at 4.35am and the last train at 10.20pm .

Buses are just as regular going back to the city so again, bus is my preferred way to travel.

The first bus of the day departs Bled at 5am . After that, there are departures every 40-60 minutes until around 9.30pm at night. Check the schedule and purchase tickets online here .

The bus station in Bled is located off Cesta svobode (see the exact location here ). It’s very modest and shares an office space with a tourist agency. There is a small cash window where you can purchase tickets.

Ljubljana to Bled FAQ

What is the road to bled like.

As someone who suffers from motion sickness, I’m always eager to know what kind of road conditions to expect. I’m pleased to say the highway between Ljubljana and Bled is straight and flat for the most part. I didn’t have any trouble on the journey – in fact, it was very unmemorable. The scenery is lovely no matter which side of the bus (or car) you sit on. The trip is fast and smooth.

On the final approach into Bled, you’ll leave the highway for about 4km or 6 minutes of driving. But even this road is well-maintained and unremarkable.

We always felt safe on buses in Slovenia (which is more than I can say for some other countries… Hint hint, Albania!). If your bus has seat belts (most do), you’re obliged to fasten them.

Where to break the journey between Ljubljana and Bled

If you’re self-driving around Slovenia or you have time to stop somewhere along the way, I can recommend two places to break the journey.

The first is the small city of Kranj . It’s located just off the highway, almost exactly halfway between Ljubljana and Bled. Popular things to do in Kranj include Brdo Castle, Strmol Castle and Lake Zbilje. The city itself is gorgeous and filled with interesting architecture.

Every bus travelling from Ljubljana to Bled makes a mandatory stop in Kranj to let off some passengers and pick a few people up up. I’m sure you can store your luggage at the bus office in Kranj for a few hours before jumping on another coach to continue the journey.

Skofja Loka is one of my favourite places in Slovenia and also worthy of a look in your way to Bled. It’s a little bit further east of Kranj along the same road, so you can easily combine the two.

In Skofja Loka , you should eat lunch at the Old Granary and if you have time, stretch your legs by walking up the hill for a view of the castle.

Bled travel essentials

Best time to visit lake bled.

Lake Bled is a destination for all seasons, but the time of year you choose to visit depends on your travel style and what kind of activities you want to do.

Summer is peak season in Bled so crowds can be thick (especially on weekends) and prices are high. This is a good time for hiking in the Alps and for water sports. Winter in Bled is chilly and snowy, and the lake freezes over most years. Oftentimes it’s too frozen for the boats but not quite frozen enough for ice skating.

Late spring and early fall are probably the best times to visit Lake Bled, when temperatures are mild, the landscape is green and the wildflowers are out, and the lake is still accessible. I visited Bled in late winter and although it was beautiful, it was very foggy and the landscape was a touch too dry.

How long should you spend in Bled?

If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already hashed out most of your Slovenia itinerary. You might even be in Ljubljana right now planning to travel to Bled in the next few days (in which case, all I can say is – jealous! ).

So how long are you going to spend on the lake?

You could do a Ljubljana to Lake Bled day trip. Or you could book yourself a nice little chalet on the water and relax for a couple of nights. There’s no wrong answer: Lake Bled is always a good idea, no matter how much or how little time you have.

When we visited Slovenia recently, we chose to spend three nights on the lake. We found this was plenty of time to see the historical attractions, get some fresh air, and sample some of the best traditional Slovenian food on offer at restaurants in the area.

If you want to tick Lake Bled off your list, a day trip from Ljubljana will suffice. If you’re into hiking , I would recommend staying at least two nights to give yourself one full day for exploring. And if you want to relax, budget anywhere from two to five nights for Lake Bled.

A chalet on the edge of Lake Bled.

Where to stay in Bled

When visiting Lake Bled, most travellers base themselves in the adjacent town of Bled. Bled town is located on the eastern corner of the lake, just off highway E61. This is where you’ll find the best range of accommodation options and most restaurants.

When we visited Bled, we stayed at this Airbnb on the outskirts of town. It was lovely, but it was a bit far from the lake (we didn’t have a car). If you’re driving, it would be perfect to stay somewhere in this area because there’s ample street parking available.

Here are my recommended accommodations for different budgets:

  • Budget-friendly hostel: Travellers’ Haven
  • Mid-range hotel: Old Bled House or Vila Cvetka
  • Boutique hotel: ECO Boutique Hotel AMS Beagle
  • Luxury lakeside hotel: Grand Hotel Toplice

Things to do in Lake Bled

This guide is all about travelling to Bled from Ljubljana – but I wanted to share a couple of recommendations for what to do when you get there.

Hike to the Mala Osojnica Viewpoint for a post-card perfect view of the lake. This is a short but steep trail that’s open year-round (just make sure you have appropriate footwear and gear). The trailhead is at the western end of the lake, above the island.

Take a pletna to the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria . Pletna is the name given to the traditional wooden boats that ply the lake’s surface. You can hire a private captain or join a group to paddle over to the island, where you can visit the church.

Eat Bled Cream Cake . This cream and crisp pastry dessert is a revelation! Variations are eaten all over the Balkans , but Bled Cake is famous for being perfectly portioned (7cm by 7cm precisely) and extra indulgent. Confectionery Zima serves one of the best Bled Cakes in town.

Bled cream cake.

Tour Bled Castle . Perched high above the lake, this is the oldest castle in Slovenia. I highly recommend the free audio app tour which guides you through the various rooms and viewpoints. Lovely views of the lake are available from the courtyards outside the castle

Walk a lap around the lake . The circumference of the lake is roughly 6km with a walking path the entire way. With plenty of stops for photos, it took us around 3 hours to complete. Hotel Park is a good landmark to start from, walking clockwise.

Take a day trip to Vintgar Gorge, Lake Bohinj or Triglav National Park . If you have more time, I recommend taking a day trip from Bled to nearby Vintgar (roughly 12km north) or Lake Bohinj (roughly 30km west). Organised day tours are available from Bled if you don’t have your own car – but it’s also an option to cycle.

→ Check out this post for more great things to do in Bled .

Slovenia travel essentials

Here are some helpful websites and resources you can use to organise your trip to Slovenia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Slovenia on Skyscanner .

VISAS: Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Slovenia and apply for an expedited visa online.

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

SIM CARD: Buy an eSIM and data package for Slovenia online before you go. My top choice is the Eurolink eSIM from Airalo (10 GB for 30 days).

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel deals in Slovenia on Booking.com .

CAR HIRE: Use Discover Cars to find the best price on a rental car in Slovenia.

CITY TOURS & DAY TRIPS: Find the best city tours and day excursions in Slovenia on Viator .

SLOVENIA GUIDEBOOK: Pick up a copy of the latest Lonely Planet guidebook for Slovenia (May 2022).

And there you have it! I hope this has answered your questions about travelling from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. If there’s anything else you want to know, please leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to help out.

Planning a trip to Slovenia and wondering how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled? My transport guide shows you how to travel safely and affordably.

Ljubljana to Bled: Save it on Pinterest

19 comments.

This is wonderful! Thanks for the helpful article!

Very very well explained and helpful! Thank you very much for the time spent writing this one. And, of course, for all the information and tips about lake Bled. Very well done!

this is very helpful.. thanks a lot for your writing..

Hi thanks for the post. Would you recommend booking the lake bled castle? I’ve also heard about going on row boats… Would you recommend booking them? Thanks

Hi Jennifer – Bled Castle is great, don’t miss it. If you’re travelling in summer it might be a good idea to book, I was there in winter and it was very quiet. The boats are very unique and also worth doing. Have a wonderful trip!

This was soooo helpful to read thank you!! We’re headed to Slovenia in three days and you’ve just made my itinerary planning so much easier – can’t wait to get there now x

In August 2022 we will be in Bled on a day trip from Ljubljana, leaving that evening by train from Bled or Jesenice to Austria. Is there a place to leave luggage in Bled for the day? And is there a place in Bled to take a shower after hiking?

Hi JT – there is probably luggage storage at the train station in Bled. Regarding a shower, I’m not sure – I would suggest taking a budget hotel room for the day.

Going on a trip to Slovenia. Thanks for the info.

Thank you.That was a nice and informative write up. I am staying at Bled this Christmas with my family. How about travelling from Bled Jezero to Ljubljana by train? Since I am arriving at Lesce Bled by train from salzburg, I am keen on taking the train towards Ljubljana from a different station. Moreover my kids love train travel.

Sounds lovely! I’m sure you’ll have a great time in Bled in winter – it’s just beautiful covered in snow.

There are regular trains from Bled Jezero to Ljubljana – the first is at 5.13am. You can check the times here: https://www.slo-zeleznice.si/en/component/sz_timetable/

Happy travels!

Thanks for writing this – very informative. I am going end of september on just a day trip from Ljubljana and will probably go with Arriva.

Do you know if there is a way to get up to the castle if you do not want to walk. Seems like only option is by taxi. There is supposed to be a tourist train around the lake as well but doesnt look like it goes up by the castle.

Hi Tom, yes I would recommend taking a taxi – it’s only a 5-10 minute drive up from town.

Enjoy your trip!

This Information has been so helpful. I am looking to go next Spring with my family and you have answered a lot of my homework questions – Great Job Emily !

Thank you very much,

You’re most welcome, Michael! Have a fabulous time in Slovenia, and please do drop back and leave a note if you find any of the finer details have changed.

Safe travels!

Very nice article. It is very useful when traveling. I personaly was in Ljubljana one month ago and i stored my luggage at place called Bag to Store. Is super close to the bus station and main square, also it costs only 2.99 eru for any size of the bag for 24 hours, really convinient. After i could enjoy Ljubljana and its beauty. I feel in love instantly.

Thanks David for the great tip! I’m sure other travellers will find this useful, especially if they need to access luggage storage outside of station opening hours.

Ljubljana is gorgeous, isn’t it!

Is this article really correct. The train station does not open till 5am

Yes, it’s correct. The first train (LPV 2400) leaves at 4.35. You can check the times here: https://www.slo-zeleznice.si/en/component/sz_timetable

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How to go from Ljubljana to Bled?

Bled is one of the most popular destinations in Slovenia, with its stunning lake views and vibrant city center. If you are also planning a day trip to Lake Bled, the first step is to figure out the  best way to go from Ljubljana to Bled . Luckily there are several transport options available and we are here to help you figure out which is the best one for you!

We live in Ljubljana and throughout the years, we have used all different kinds of methods to go from Ljubljana to Bled. Here we will share the  six different ways  you can travel from Ljubljana to Bled, including public transport options as well as private car hire.

what to do in bled slovenia

6 ways to go from Ljubljana to Bled

Here is a summary of all the transport options available.

  • Duration: 40 minutes
  • Price: 10-30 € per day

2. Day tour

  • Duration: Half or full day
  • Price: 66 €

  3. Shuttle

  • Duration: 1 hour
  • Price: from 30 €
  • Duration: 1 h
  • Price: 2.20 € one-way
  • Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Price: 6.60 € one-way
  • Price: from 45 €

Now let’s take a look at each of the transport options in detail.

Going from Ljubljana to Bled by car

The  fastest and most comfortable  way to go from Ljubljana to Bled is by car. The journey should take around 40 minutes, depending on traffic. If you will be spending a few days traveling through Slovenia, we strongly recommend renting a car so you will have more freedom with your itinerary.

The road from Ljubljana to Bled is almost a straight line through the highway. The road is very easy to drive in, but you have to make sure you  have the vignette . There is another alternative path that does not go on the highway, but it takes longer as it passes through small towns along the way.

The car rental prices in Slovenia vary depending on the company, but you can expect to pay anywhere between  10-30 € per day .

  • Driving in Slovenia
  • Renting a car in Slovenia
  • Renting a car in Ljubljana

Get all our Slovenia tips on your Google Maps

Our personal recommendations of things to see, restaurants, photo spots… all available in your pocket.

Slovenia Map

Where to rent a car in Slovenia?

If you will be arriving in Ljubljana, as most international travelers do, we recommend renting a car in Ljubljana so you are already equipped to travel around the country.  We always rent from SIXT . They have a very central office located in the train station in the center of Ljubljana, so it is very practical.

Need to rent a car for your trip? Get a quote here!

Going from Ljubljana to Bled on a day tour

If you do not have your own vehicle and are looking for the  easiest way  to go from Ljubljana to Bled, then a day tour is your best option. Day tours from Ljubljana to Bled are usually performed in a car or van, which can be shared or private, depending on the size of the group and the deal you choose.

The day tour usually includes more than just the transport. You will get to visit the lake and Bled Island, as well as stops at other attractions and points of interest along the way. The duration of the tour will depend on the package you choose, but it is usually  between half and a full day .

The prices of the day tours vary depending on the size of your group and what is included. On average, you should expect the prices to start from  66 € per person .

We must say that we have never been on a day tour from Ljubljana to Bled ourselves, but we have a few friends who have chosen this option when visiting us here in Slovenia. The day tour is the best option if you don’t want to deal with bus timetables and travel logistics since they organize everything for you. See below some of the options:

Going from Ljubljana to Bled by shuttle

Next on our list is the shuttle service. Slovenia is not very well connected by public transport, which is why  we often use shuttle services  to travel inside the country or to go to the  airport in Venice  or Zagreb.

Going from Ljubljana to Bled by shuttle is a very comfortable option as you will be in a small van. You will have a fixed departure time and the duration of the trip is almost as fast as with the car since the  shuttle service is direct .

All in all, it is a great option!

The local company we always use for the shuttle is called  Go Opti . You can  check their available times here .

travel to bled slovenia

Going from Ljubljana to Bled by bus

The  cheapest way  to go from Ljubljana to Bled is by bus. The journey takes 1h if you choose the option that goes directly from Ljubljana to Bled. 

Pay attention when buying your bus ticket as they also offer another longer option where the journey takes around 1h 40 because it makes several stops along the way. I usually check the timetable in advance and try to organize my day to make it fit the schedule of the direct bus.

The bus route is operated by Arriva, one of Slovenia’s main transport companies. The buses depart from the  Ljubljana bus station  and you can buy your ticket online or at the physical ticket booth.

Read also : How the public transport system in Ljubljana works

Going from Ljubljana to Bled by train

The last public transport option we have to go from Ljubljana to Bled is by train. Even though this is t he longest route , if you are not on a tight schedule, it is a great option as the landscape along the train route is really beautiful. I am personally not the biggest fan of taking the train but Fe loves it as it is a  very scenic experience .

The trip takes around 1h 40 and you can buy your ticket online or physically at the train station. The train is operated by Slovenian Railways and the  one-way ticket would cost you 6,60 € . They have several discounts for students, elderly people, and other types of travelers.

Going from Ljubljana to Bled by taxi

The last way to go from Ljubljana to Bled is by taxi. If you are in a hurry or don’t want to be restrained by the timetables of public transport, getting a taxi can be an alternative option if you will not be traveling in your own car.

We must say that this is the most expensive option for going from Ljubljana to Bled, but we have added it to the list just to make sure we covered all the alternatives available.

Getting a taxi can be a good fit for  groups or for travelers who want dedicated transport .

What to do in Bled?

Bled is filled with amazing activity options. It is truly a  must-see destination in Slovenia  and one of Fe’s favorite places in the country. Here are a few options of things to do:

  • Do the 6 km walk around Lake Bled
  • Hike to Ojstrica viewpoint – it has the best views of the lake!
  • Eat kremsnita

Want to know more?  Read our full guide of things to do in Bled.

Wondering if it is best to stay in Ljubljana or Bled? Most travelers struggle to decide if they should stay in Ljubljana or Bled. Let’s help you clear this doubt –  check our comparison guide of Ljubljana vs Bled  to understand which city is the best fit for you.

We hope this article has been useful to you and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. See you in Bled soon! 

Happy travels!

Other guides about traveling to Slovenia

  • Where to stay in Ljubljana
  • Best things to see in Ljubljana
  • Exploring the Triglav National Park
  • Best SIM cards for traveling to Slovenia

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Slovenia, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

  • Flights : Get affordable flights to Slovenia on  Skyscanner.com . 
  • Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
  • Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
  • Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
  • Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
  • SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.
  • Slovenia Map: Check out our custom-made Google Map with 200+ must-see spots!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

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Edin (Edo for friends like you) is the Slovenian half of Mauka. Even though Edo was born in Novo Mesto (Slovenia), he has Bosnian origins and has spent most of his life exploring the Balkan Region. Now, with Fernanda, he has expanded his travel borders to explore more of Europe, South America, and the rest of the world. He is the technical master behind the blog, but he also adventures as a writer when it comes to giving tips about destinations he is passionate about.

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The Balkans and Beyond

The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

How to Get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, Slovenia

How to Get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, Slovenia

How to Get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Most people visiting Slovenia will start off in the county’s capital city, Ljubljana. This small city has loads to offer as well as a relaxed vibe and a thriving café culture. However, if you are looking for some time out of the city, a trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled might be just the ticket! This spectacular lake is less than 60 km from the city and offers exciting hiking, amazing scenery and good food. If you feel like a day or two out of the city, read on to find out how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled and back.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled

How to Travel from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Lake Bled is a popular region for visitors. As such, there are several different ways to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. We have summarised the best travel options and included times and costs as far as possible.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by Bus

Taking the bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is probably the most popular travel option. Buses depart from Ljubljana bus station every 15 – 30 minutes (depending on the time of year). You can find an up-to-date timetable HERE . Most buses take around an hour and 15 mins, give or take for traffic. A one-way ticket costs €5.70 and can be bought online or on the bus. The buses are run by Arriva and we would recommend you take cash if buying onboard.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by Train

For us, Ljubljana to Lake Bled by train was the simplest option. However, that is because we were staying in Lesce – a small town a few miles from the lake. From Lesce, you can take a short bus ride up to Bled. If you don’t mind changing, this is a good way of getting from Ljubljana to Lake Bled as the train is really comfortable.

Trains depart from Ljubljana regularly and make a few stops of the way. You can plan your journey HERE . The train from Ljubljana to Lesce costs €5.10 and it takes 54 minutes. There are power sockets, good Wi-Fi and toilets onboard and it wasn’t too busy, even in peak season. Tickets can be bought from the machine at the station. We found Google maps did not provide correct times, so it is best to conform at the station or on the official website.

The Bus from Lesce Station

The bus from Lesce to Bled departs from the train station every 20-30 minutes  and is run by Arriva. Check out the timetable HERE . It costs €1.30 and only takes 10 – 15 minutes – you will need to bring cash as card is not accepted. From the bus stop in Bled, the lake is only a 6 minute walk.

There is a train station in Bled. However, it is not on the same line and involves a rather long detour.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by Car

Driving from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is pretty straight forward. The roads are good and it should only take you between 45 minutes and an hour to get to the town of Bled. The most difficult aspect is finding somewhere to park when you arrive. We would recommend arriving before 09:30 to avoid the rush and the busy roads. We saw a few places to park. Most were around €20 for 4 hours or €30 for the day.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by Taxi

If you are in a hurry, you can book a taxi to take you from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. Be prepared to pay between €80 and €100 for the trip. It should be pretty quick though and you should get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled in around an hour.

When to Visit Lake Bled

This stunning lake is worth visiting at any time of year! However, it can get very busy during the peak summer seasons. If you plan to hike, keep in mind that there is a strong possibility of snow in the winter. For these reasons, we would recommend visiting in the shoulder seasons – April/May or September/October.

If you can’t manage these months and you don’t fancy fighting the crowds, visit the lake on a weekday and go early. Even in the height of summer you can b=get the lake to yourself if you arrive around 7am. There are plenty of early buses to make this possible. We found that the town became pretty busy by around 9 or 10 o’clock in the morning.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Should I Rent a Car in Slovenia

This is really down to personal preference. Slovenia’s  public transport is decent and most places are accessible by bus. However, the timetable can be a bit restrictive. If you can haggle, a taxi driver will take you anywhere!

If you decide to rent a car in Slovenia, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style…

Plan your journey in advance as there are many small roads that can get really busy during peak times. Several mountain routes can be perilous if you do not plan ahead and take great care.

For this particular trip, we found the car to be more of a hindrance than a help. We would recommend making the most of the public transport in the Ljubljana and Bled areas.

travel ljubljana to bled

What to Pack for your Trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

We have put together a convenient packing list for your Trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. This list is perfect for day hikes!

  • Hiking boots or shoes
  • Backpack with waterproof cover
  • Snacks (energy bars, chews, trail mix, sandwiches)
  • Water bottle
  • Weather appropriate clothing such as windbreaker, hiking socks, buff/hat, and fleece. Make sure to wear layers to account for the changing conditions
  • Trekking poles (optional)
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Map or downloaded GPS or map application on your phone
  • Phone (plus power bank if required)
  • Decent camera with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery

Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Travelling from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is super easy and so worthwhile. Transport in this area is cheap and efficient and when you arrive in Bled, you are rewarding with the most amazing natural beauty – well worth a trip!

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not take a look at some amazing things to do in Ljubljana .

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Lake Bled or anywhere else in Slovenia? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

Short on time? Save “How to Get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, Slovenia” for later by pinning the image below.

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Ljubljana to Lake Bled (day trip & transportation ideas)

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Visiting Slovenia and wondering how to travel from the capital city of Ljubljana to Lake Bled? Don’t worry, we will share all the possible ways to get there easily. We traveled there on a tour from Zagreb, in a private car, and also in a bus. 

There are about 4 ways to reach there, and we will discuss the pros and cons of each, with an approximate budget, and the time required to travel there. 

Ljubljana to Lake Bled Day Trip: Distance, seasonal conditions, road trip planning, and things to see in Lake Bled

travel ljubljana to bled

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

The driving distance from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is 55.4 km (or 34.4 miles) via A2/E61. The entire route is well maintained, and easy to drive, and it takes about 45 minutes to arrive in Lake Bled from Ljubljana.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled: 45 minute by road, traveling a distance of 55.4 km or 34.4 miles

How do you get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled? At a glance

Ljubljana to lake bled by tour.

COSTS: $80 – $100 USD round trip per person

A guided tour is the MOST comfortable way to reach Lake Bled from Ljubljana.

Tours departing from Ljubljana allow you to spend 2 hours at the lake surroundings with sightseeing time at the Castle. 

Small group tours are conducted in a minivan, with a driver and tour guide who takes you around. You get to soak in amazing mountain views, while the guide does all the driving, and takes care of directions. 

Views of Lake Bled and the neighboring area

This recommended private tour starts early with pick up from your hotel in Ljubljana at 8:00 AM. It is a half-day tour, so you will be back by 12:00 pm. You can book this tour here.

On our first trip to Lake Bled, we took a day tour from Zagreb with a stop in Ljubljana. This tour took an entire day, and it was perfect for early spring sightseeing. We had enough time at the Lake Bled grounds, including enough time at the Castle viewpoints. Here is the tour we took

We informed the driver, and stayed back in Slovenia, and did not return to Zagreb. You can do that too, but remember to inform them ahead of time. However, note that the tour includes a return trip. 

It is important to remember that to walk around Lake Bled only takes about 1.50 hours. So if you are not into hiking, but just want to stroll, ride the Pletna Boat and visit the Castle then the time included on a day tour is more than enough to explore. 

On a small-group tour, it is also quite convenient to ask the tour guide for photo spots, or some extra time. 

Perfect for those : Travelers who love to enjoy a ride, comfortably. 

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by car & road trip ideas

COSTS : Gas: €1.07 euro per 1.25 L + Car Rental starts at 11 euros per day

The driving distance from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is 45 minutes. The route is well maintained, and the drive is scenic as you arrive closer to the lake. 

A car comes in handy if you are planning to road trip through the Balkans or explore more of Slovenia. However, if Lake Bled is your only stop and you are traveling solo, this cost is almost at par with a guided tour – so you might as well travel there in comfort. 

Views of Lake Bled Slovenia

Road trip ideas : From Ljubljana, make a stop at Hraše, and then proceed to Lake Bled. Spend a day at the lake, hike, stay overnight there. Then start for Vintgar Gorge the next day, explore Predjama Castle, and Piran. Return to Ljubljana.  You can book a car rental here

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by bus

COSTS: Bus tickets start at €6.30 euros ($8 USD), takes about 1 hour 10 minutes one way

How long is the bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled? 

The bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. It takes longer than a car ride (which is 40-45 minutes).

Where to catch the bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled?

Buses are available from Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana bus station, and they arrive at Bled. These are direct bus services and they depart hourly and operate every day. 

Bus operators include

  • Nomago : Buses depart 3 times a day, and they cost around $12+ ($22 for premium seats). The trip takes an hour
  • Arriva Slovenia : Buses depart 5 times a day, and the trip takes 1 hour 20 minutes. Costs $9 to 12 USD
  • FlixBus : FlixBus operates buses once a day, and the journey takes about an hour. Costs $9 to 12 USD. 
  • Time tables for Ljubljana to Lake Bled Bus Check timetables here
  • Weekdays : The first departure is at 6 am and the last is 9 pm.
  • Saturdays : The first departure is 5:30 am and the last is 10:30 pm.
  • Sundays: First departure is at 7 am and the last is at 9 pm. 

Whichever bus service you choose, it is easy to book a ticket at the Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana station (which is the Ljubljana main bus station). 

We mostly prefer to book tickets online and save them on our iPhone app. However, we realize that in Ljubljana (many of the other Balkans states ), you have to swap that receipt for a ticket, which the bus driver takes from you when you board the bus. 

All the operators listed above have apps where you can store the tickets. They provide a lot of intercity routes connecting Ljubljana to other cities in the Balkans. They are safe, clean and efficient (they do leave on time, so be there 10-15 minutes early).

There is room for a small backpack (up to 30 litres) to carry with you on board. If you are carrying a lot of luggage, the buses have storage compartments.

Depending on the amount of bags you are carrying, there could be an extra charge, which you can pay when you catch the bus.

All buses have WIFI, charging port, and washroom.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by train

COSTS : Starts at €5.75 euros ($7 – $18 USD), takes about 90 minutes (or 1 hour 45 minutes weekend trip via Bled Jezero Station) one way

The train ride to Lake Bled from Ljubljana is very scenic with stunning mountains and cute towns along the way. This train ride is surely relaxing, like all alpine train journeys.

Ljubljana to Lake Bled train services are operated by Slovenian Railways (SŽ). And there are two stations, where trains arrive. 

  • Lesce Bled Station: Most popular and common station. They take the same duration as a bus ride, and also cost the same. However, it is located 4 kilometres away from the lakeside. So you have to either take a bus, or cab to reach there.
  • Bled Jezero Station: Trains arrive at the Bled Jezero station. Services depart twice a week, and operate on the weekends only. Tickets start at €5.75 euros, and you can choose from 1st class, 2nd class or intercity passes. This is for direct trains.

You can buy the train tickets at the railway station. The ticket can be purchased at a station in the country of departure, also sometimes in other countries. You cannot purchase it online from the Slovenian Railways website.

View from Bled Castle

Tips for connecting from the train stations + return trip to Lake Bled from Ljubljana

Lesce Bled Station

Trains to Lesce Bled Station are very frequent, and they run almost every hour. The earliest train is 4:00 am, so you have the entire day to spend at the lake. The last train is at night, after 11:30 pm.  

There are frequent buses that connect the station to the lake, and they are operated by Alpetour.

A single ticket costs €1.30 (around $2 USD). You can buy them on board.  The bus stop for Lesce Bled station is “Lesce ZP”, in Bled. 

Lesce Bled station is best if coming from Ljubljana and cities east such as Zagreb.

Bled jezero Station

The Bled Jezero, as mentioned above, only operates on the weekends. It is located about 1.50 kilometres from the town center. This line is Slovenia’s most scenic railway line, as it takes you to Bohinj, upto the Italian border.

Use this route if you are traveling on the weekends.  

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by taxi/private transfer

COSTS: Starts at €80 euros ($97 USD), takes about 40 minutes one way

How much is a taxi from Ljubljana to Lake Bled?

Taxi ride from Ljubljana to Lake Bled costs €80 – 100 and takes 40 minutes. It is definitely one of the fastest ways to reach there, as compared to bus and train. But it is also expensive. 

Once there, you will still need transportation to get back to Ljubljana. 

Ljubljana to Lake Bled by campervan

COSTS: Starts at $200 USD per night

For those road tripping in Slovenia and the Balkans, prefer a campervan for their journey. And it is quite popular with travelers, as you can slow travel and explore at your pace. 

There are 3 agencies from where you can rent a campervan,

  • Spicycamper 
  • Slovenia Camper

You can pick up the rental campervan from Ljubljana airport. They have packages that start at 500 kilometres, and insurance is included in most of them.

Always confirm the finer details like driving within the Balkans, as there could be additional charges. 

Is Lake Bled worth it?

Lake Bled is one of Slovenia’s most popular tourist attractions. I had this on my bucket list since I saw pictures on Instagram about 2 years ago. It is definitely a must-visit.

The lake area is very picturesque and you can easily check it out in as little as 4 hours if you are not into outdoorsy activities. Or as part of your road trip stop. 

Views of Lake Bled

Depending on the season, you are traveling in you can go camping, boating, hiking, and heritage sightseeing. When we traveled there, the place was quiet (we were there in the late winter/early spring months).

If you are visiting in the peak summer months, expect the place to be crowded!

How long does it take to walk around Lake Bled?

It takes around one hour and 15 minutes to walk around Lake Bled. You can explore the lakeside by walking or on bike. 

How many days do you need in Lake Bled?

Most travelers combine Ljubljana and Lake Bled together, and you can explore both in one day if you really push it!

The tour we booked was designed to cover both in a day and then return, and it seems to be a popular option with travelers who are pressed for time.

We had time on our hands, so we decided to stay back and explore more of Slovenia. Ideally, 3 – 4 days in Slovenia will be perfect to spend time in Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, and Predjama Castle (allotting a day to each site). Get our 2 weeks in Balkans itinerary for inspiration.

What is there to see in and around Lake Bled? 

From Lake Bled, you can explore the following attractions. This is best explored by car.

  • The Vintgar Gorge or Bled Gorge is a short drive away from Bled (located about four kilometers/2.4 miles). The gorge is carved by the Radovna River and is ranked as one of the most popular sites in Slovenia. 
  • Lake Kreda : From Lake Bled, you can visit a man-made lake called Lake Kreda. The lake gets its name from the chalk mines that existed there. It takes 25 minutes to reach  Lake Kreda from Bled.
  • Lake Bohinj is one of the stunning places to visit in Slovenia. The lake area is huge and takes about 6 to 8 hours to fully explore. 
  • Kranjska Gora and Lake Jasna : Kranjska Gora is an alpine ski resort near the mountains and glacial lakes of Triglav National Park. From there, another 2 km from Kranjska Gora, you will arrive at Lake Jasna. Both are beautiful and deserve a visit. It is only a 40-minute ride from Bled Town.  
  • Soca River Valley: One of the picturesque river valleys in Europe, and the stunning blue color of the Soča river pulls adventurers.

Many of the attractions listed above can be easily done as day trips from Ljubljana as well. 

Things to do in Lake Bled

Walking, biking or hiking around the lake.

One of the must-do things at Lake Bled is to enjoy a walk around the lakeside.

There is a boardwalk which is perfect for strolls, and for taking pictures. It also has benches where you can sit back and relax, and admire the castle from a distance.

Lake Bled Slovenia

The paved area surrounds the lake, so one can also complete the loop in an hour, by walking or biking, around it. 

Bikes can be rented for €5 per person. You can find a bike shop near the bus stop.

Take a Boat to Bled Island

This is one of the popular attractions at Lake Bled. Visitors love to hop on a Pletna Boat to Bled Island (and visit its landmark – Church of the Assumption). They cost around €15 per person and a local guide leads the way. 

You can also rent a private row boat for cheaper at €10 for an hour. If you are new to row boats opt for the one with the guides to make it easy for yourself. And they are the prettiest boats and are beautifully decorated!

Explore Lake Bled Island

Once you arrive at the island, you take 99 steps to arrive at the Church of the Assumption. The church’s iconic 52 feet bell tower has been standing since 1465. 

The church tower with the Karavanke Mountain Range in the background makes it one of the most picturesque places we have ever visited. 

Did you know that you can also get married here? Sounds amazing to me.

Also, a legend says that those who ring the bell and make a wish will have their wish come true. The caveat is that you are only allowed one wish! 

Go for a swim at the lake

If the weather is nice and warm, you can go for a swim here at the lake. During summer months from June until September, there are also dedicated bathing areas at the lake.

We have also seen swimmers jumping there in the colder months for fun! 

Visit the beautiful Bled Castle

A must-visit attraction in Slovenia is the Bled Castle, which is the oldest castle in the country.

If you wish to capture some of the stunning shots of the island and the beautiful mountains, you must visit the castle.

Inside the castle, there is a museum and a restaurant. The castle, just like the Island Church, is a popular wedding destination. 

Entry tickets to Bled castle are €13 ($15 USD) per adult. Book them online here

Try cream cake in Lake Bled

When visiting Lake Bled, you must try the yummiest and softest pastry aka the Kremsnita or Slovenian Bled Cake.

The cake is delicious and not too sweet. It is made of eggs, flour, and little sugar – it’s like custard cake, with vanilla icing on top! Makes my mouth water, as I write this!

Crispy Cream Cake in Slovenia

You can try one at the Park Restaurant and Cafe or any confectionary store near the lake. We also had a few in Ljubljana (quite a few actually!)

Mala Osojnica Viewpoint

If you want to soak in the views of the lake and are open for a short hike, head to the Mala Osojnica Viewpoint. This trail is open all year-round. The trailhead is at the western end of the lake, above the island.

Where to stay in Lake Bled?

There are over 300+ hotels in Bled and the neighboring train station area of Lesce. You will also find a host of Airbnbs in the area. Here are our top 3 picks

  • Hotel Triglav: This hotel is a beauty, and the views from their restaurant and suites are to die for – just insanely gorgeous. You get to view the lake and the island. Check out the photos here
  • Adora Luxury Hotel: A luxury hotel, with vintage interiors, this property is located right next to Bled Lake and provides amazing views of the lake, and the Triglav Mountain. Click to book this hotel here
  • Hotel Park – Sava Hotels & Resorts: Another mid-budget property, this hotel has rooms with a private balcony, and of course, Lake Bled views come with it. There are quite a few ski resorts in the vicinity, a short drive away .  Check prices here

So that’s a wrap! We hope you found this post on transportation tips for traveling from Ljubljana to Lake Bled useful. If you have not made any plans for Ljubljana yet, then read our one day in Ljubljana itinerary guide.

Happy Travels!

Pin: Visiting Lake Bled from Ljubljana Day trip

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

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Mostar lies some 130 km (80 miles) from the capital city of Sarajevo, and not very far from the border of Croatia. The city got its name from the word ” mostari” meaning bridge-keepers. Thanks to its location, it can be easily added to any Balkan trip. If you are planning a visit, our one…

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Wanderlust with Kids

Ljubljana to Lake Bled: How to Visit the Picturesque Lake Bled Slovenia

Wondering how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled? This post has you covered with all your transportation options, plus what to do at Lake Bled once you’re there. 

travel ljubljana to bled

Lake Bled, Slovenia is just as gorgeous in person as it is in photos. With turquoise water, a picturesque church on the tiny island and an impressive castle looming over the lake, Lake Bled looks like it’s right out of a fairy tale. 

And it’s definitely a place you should visit when you’re in Slovenia. 

Fortunately, this gorgeous lake is not too far from the capital city and it’s fairly easy to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Lake Bled from Ljubljana , including how to get there, as well as what to do once you’re there. 

view of Bled Island at Lake Bled Slovenia

About Lake Bled

Lake Bled is a stunning lake less than an hour’s drive from Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia. The lake is located in the town of Bled – as you might expect from the name! Known for its gorgeous turquoise colour and picturesque church that’s located on a tiny island in the middle of the lake, Lake Bled is becoming one of the most popular places to visit in Slovenia. 

How to Get to Bled from Ljubljana

Lake Bled is about 60km from Ljubljana. It’s a fairly easy journey, no matter whether you take public transport, a day tour or drive yourself.

Take the Bus

Taking the bus from Ljubljana to Bled is the cheapest way to visit this beautiful lake. Buses to Lake Bled from Ljubljana run hourly and cost around €5.70 (€2.85 for kids age 7-15). You can purchase tickets ahead of time online or buy directly at the bus station.

The Ljubljana to Lake Bled bus takes about an hour and drops you right in Bled, and from there, it’s only a few minutes walk to the lake. 

Take the Train

If you prefer to travel by train, it is possible, although there is no direct Ljubljana to Lake Bled train .

The train does stop at the nearby Lesce-Bled train station, which is about 4 km from Bled. From here, it’s easy to grab a taxi or bus, or even walk the 4km to Bled. 

Book a Tour

The easiest way to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is to take a tour.

Numerous tour operators offer day trips to Lake Bled from Ljubljana, and usually include transportation, a visit to the island church, and some free time to explore the area. There are also several tours that include visits to other places as well as Lake Bled, such as Lake Bohinj or the Vintgar Gorge. 

Here are some recommendations if you’re looking for a Lake Bled tour from Ljubljana. 

  • Lake Bled and Bohinj : This full day tour includes transportation to Lake Bled with options for a visit to Bled Castle and a ride on the traditional Pletna boats to the island. The tour then continues to Lake Bohinj, where you will have an hour to explore the area and even take a dip in the lake. In the summer months, the tour also includes a visit to the stunning Vintgar Gorge. 
  • Slovenia Day Tour to Bled, Postojna and Predjama : This full day tour visits three of the most popular spots in Slovenia; Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle and Lake Bled. Transportation is included, but entrance fees to Postojna Cave, Predjama Castle, Bled Castle and the boat ride to Bled Island are not included in the tour price.  
  • Day Trip to Lake Bled and Bled Castle : This is a perfect option if you’re only interested in visiting Lake Bled. This Ljubljana to Lake Bled day trip includes transportation to Bled, a short sightseeing tour around Bled, plus free time to explore the area. Options are available to tour Bled Castle and take a boat ride out to the island before returning to Ljubljana. 

Driving to Lake Bled yourself is the most flexible way, and allows you to visit other nearby sites, like Vintgar Gorge or Lake Bohinj, both two other stunning places worth visiting.

The drive from Ljubljana to Lake Bled by car takes about 40-45 minutes along E61. This is a toll road and will require a vignette , however, e-vignettes are easy to purchase online and are a good idea when driving in Slovenia .

We rented a car for our time in Slovenia and found the drive from Lake Bled to Ljubljana to be quite easy. Search for rental cars on Discover cars .

pletna boats docked at bled island in lake bled slovenia

What to Do in Lake Bled

Besides seeing the actual lake, there are plenty of things to do in Lake Bled. When visiting for the day, whether on a tour or on your own, here are the best things to do at Lake Bled, Slovenia. 

Walk Around Lake Bled

If you have the time, one of the best things to do in Lake Bled is to walk around the lake. It’s about 6km or 3.75 miles around the lake and will take about 90 minutes if you don’t stop along the way. But there are plenty of beautiful views and even some places to swim, so pack your bathing suit.

Row Out to the Island

Lake Bled is known for its picturesque island in the middle of lake, and it’s worth going out to see.

You can rent a paddleboat or rowboat and head out to the island by yourself, or take one of the many Pletna boats waiting on the shore. These boats are traditional wooden boats that are rowed out to the island – there are no motorized boats on Lake Bled.

pletna boat on lake bled with the oarsman standing up rowing the boat

Once at the island, walk up the 99 steps to the church, ring the wishing bell, explore the island and have a gelato before heading back.

Whether you rent a boat and paddle out on your own or take one of the pletna boats, it’s basically the same price, but many of the boats will only accept cash.

We tried to take a boat ride the first time we were in Lake Bled, but I didn’t have any cash on me. The second time we visited, I made sure to have enough cash on me and that time the pletna oarsman took credit cards. It’s all individual, and you can’t choose which boat you take – they just fill the first one, then move to the next, so be sure to bring cash with you.

Visit Bled Castle

Perched dramatically on a sheer cliff overlooking the lake, Bled Castle is the oldest Slovenian castle and well worth a visit when in Bled.

While it’s a popular tourist attraction, it’s still worth a visit, even if you just go for the fantastic views of Lake Bled below.

bled castle perched dramatically above lake bled

You can explore inside the castle, taste some wine at the wine cellar, visit the blacksmith shop or the museum, or have dinner at the Bled Castle Restaurant, which serves traditional Slovene cuisine.

But it’s the views of the lake that make it worth a visit! Next to the Ojstrica viewpoint (see below), this is one of the most amazing views of the lake below.

Try Bled Cream Cake

Besides its beautiful lake, stunning island and dramatic castle, Bled is also famous for its cream cake. This popular cake is a vanilla and custard cream cake that’s local to the area.

bled cream cake - a vanilla custard cream cake, served on a white plate

Originating over half a century ago by a chef at a hotel in Bled, it’s a delicious treat and one that you must try when in the area. (Although it’s called Bled Cream cake, you can also find it in other places throughout Slovenia – we first tried it in nearby Bohinj before we visited Bled, but of course, had to have some again once we arrived in Bled). It was pronounced delicious by my kids, but you’ll have to try it yourself!

Take in the View

The views anywhere in Bled are gorgeous, but for even more stunning views, there are several spots around the lake that you might want to visit.

There are many great viewpoints around the lake, but one of the best is the Ojstrica Viewpoint. It’s a bit of a detour if you’re walking around the lake, but it’s 45 minutes well spent!

view of lake bled and bled island from the Ojstrica viewpoint

To get to the viewpoint, it’s about 20 minutes of hiking one way from the path around the lake; signs will point you in the right direction.

There’s also Mala Osojnica, which is a quicker hike, but still offers some stunning views. 

Go For a Swim

The crystal-clear water and lack of motorized boats make Lake Bled an ideal lake to swim in. In fact, it’s one of the most popular lakes to swim in Slovenia.

It’s free to swim anywhere in the lake, although you will have to pay an entrance fee if you want to visit the Grajska Lake Bled beach just below the castle. Here there are swimming pools, waterslides and rafts on the water. It’s a great spot to visit with kids!

If you’re walking around the lake, there are plenty of other areas to take a dip, so be sure to bring your bathing suit.

It’s also possible to swim out to the island, although you need to be mindful of other boat and paddle board traffic. To swim Lake Bled to the island is about 2km, so it’s not for the faint of heart!

Take a Photo with the Heart of Bled

This giant heart is situated along the shore, right in the center of Bled.

the heart of bled on a wooden dock overlooking lake bled

Step out on the wooden dock and take a memorable photo with the beautiful lake and the impressive castle in the background.

It’s a fantastic photo app and sure to make a great souvenir of your time in Bled. 

Visit Straza Hill

Straza Hill is a small hill only a few minutes walk from the centre of town. In the winter months, it’s a popular place to ski, with small slopes, rentals and a ski school.

If you’re visiting Lake Bled in the summer though, you can still visit Straża. It’s said to have one of the most impressive views of the area (although that’s a hard claim to make), but aside from the views, it’s also known for its fun toboggan run.

Take a chairlift to the top, where you’ll have stunning views of Lake Bled and Bled Castle and then take the toboggan down the hill.

The Lake Bled toboggan is one of the most unique things to do in Bled – I mean, where else can you take a toboggan down a ski hill in the summer? And it’s sure to be a highlight for kids. 

Hike Vintgar Gorge

Vintgar Gorge is only a few kilometres from Lake Bled, and is one of the top things to do in Lake Bled.

This stunning gorge has been carved out by the Radovna River over centuries and it’s an impressive sight to see.

turquoise water flowing through the vintgar gorge in slovenia, a wooden walkway follows the water through the gorge

There’s a wooden boardwalk and trail that follows the river for 1.6 km (1 mile) through the gorge, crisscrossing over the water at some points or walking alongside steep cliffs at others.

The trail ends at the Šum Waterfall, and from here, you can opt to hike back or arrange a shuttle ride back to town. For more information, read all about Visiting Vintgar Gorge .

Map of Lake Bled Slovenia 

Things to Do Around Lake Bled

Visit lake bohinj.

If you have more time to spend in the area, we recommend visiting the nearby Lake Bohinj.

Just as beautiful as Lake Bled but not as touristy, Lake Bohinj was one of our favourite places to visit in Slovenia.

lake bohinj slovenia

It’s quieter, more laid-back and offers plenty of outdoor opportunities. Lake Bled to

Lake Bohinj is only 30 minutes drive (it’s only one hour from Ljubljana to Lake Bohinj if you’d rather visit there first). Lake Bohinj is often visited as part of a day trip with Lake Bled, but honestly, it deserves more time than that! If you have the opportunity to spend a few hours, or even an extra day or two, here are some ideas of things to do at Lake Bohinj .

Drive Vrisc Pass

Another recommendation around Lake Bled if you want to see more of the Julian Alps, is to drive the Vršic Pass.

travel ljubljana to bled

A winding mountain road that zigzags to the highest pass in Slovenia, driving the Vrsic Pass is an incredible experience and one that you shouldn’t miss if you have the time in Slovenia.

Tips for Visiting Lake Bled

If you’re driving to Lake Bled yourself, and only staying the day, parking can be a bit of a hassle.

There is a parking lot near the lake, which also has electric vehicle charging, or you can park on one of the streets near the lake. There is plenty of street parking, but it was busy when we were there in June, and I was told that only gets busier in July and August.

We parked a few blocks away near the supermarket (which was convenient to grab something to eat while we were out and about), and it was only a few minutes walk to the lake. 

Many places in Bled accept credit or debit, but there are a few places (like some of the pletna boats) that only take cash. There are ATM machines in town, and one quite near the lake, if you find you need cash. 

Best Time to Visit

Bled is a popular area year-round, but especially so in the summer months. If you’re taking one of the Lake Bled tours from Ljubljana, you won’t have the choice of what time you visit, so just be prepared for crowds.

But if you’re driving yourself or taking public transportation, the best time to visit Lake Bled is first thing in the morning or later in the evening, when the tourist buses have left.

Bled Island as seen from a viewpoint along the edge of the lake between two trees.

Where to Stay in Lake Bled

As a popular tourist town, there are plenty of accommodation options in Bled. 

Hotel Park : This 4-star hotel is THE hotel to stay in at Lake Bled. Overlooking the lake and with views of the Julian Alps, the setting is simply stunning. Each room has a balcony, offering fantastic views of either the lake or the surrounding park. Hotel Park features an indoor pool and fitness centre, as well as a sauna, which is an additional cost, there are plenty of option to relax after a day of exploring Lake Bled. 

Apartments Olip : Just outside of the town of Bled, but still only a quick walk to the lake, Apartments Olip are a great choice for those looking for a quieter area to stay. The apartments are large and spotless, with a balcony offering excellent views of the area. Parking is available free of charge and bicycles are provided to explore the lake. 

Camping Bled: Camping Bled is located right at the foot of the Julian Alps on the shore of Lake Bled and is the ideal way to experience the stunning natural scenery the area has to offer. In addition to campsites, there is also a beach and boat rentals are possible. Bring your own tent, camper van or motorhome and experience camping in Lake Bled Slovenia.

FAQ : Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Absolutely, Lake Bled is worth visiting! Its’ stunning scenery, the picturesque island with its iconic church, and the medieval castle perched on the cliffs make it a must-visit destination. 

The best time to visit Lake Bled is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are plentiful. July and August are peak tourist seasons though, so it will be busy. Lake Bled in October is also gorgeous to see, and while the water will be too chilly to swim or paddle board, it’s stunning to see Lake Bled in autumn when the leaves are changing colours. 

Yes, you can definitely swim in Lake Bled, especially during the summer months. There are a few designated swimming areas around the lake, or you can swim at any spot you find. 

The choice between Ljubljana and Bled is entirely a personal decision, as there are accommodations available in both places. If you only wish to visit Bled for a few hours, there are more options available in Ljubljana, as it’s a larger city. Bled also has quite a few accommodation options available if you choose to spend more time at the lake, but it is a popular spot so be sure to book early if visiting during the busy summer months.

The closest airport to Lake Bled is Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport (LJU), located approximately 36 km away. From the airport, it’s easy to reach Lake Bled by car or public transportation. 

Final Thoughts: Ljubljana to Lake Bled 

Lake Bled is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia and one that you should definitely visit. The turquoise waters, the charming island with its church and the dramatic castle overlooking the lake create a scene straight from a fairytale. When I first saw the images online, I was positive they were photoshopped, but it’s just as beautiful in person. Whether you choose to visit Bled on a day tour from Ljubljana, take public transportation or rent a car to explore the area further, it’s a worthwhile journey and one that you won’t regret!

pin image for this post - Ljubljana to lake bled

Looking for more inspiration on travel in Slovenia? Check out this post on one week in Slovenia, or browse through the other info we have on Slovenia:

  • Best Things to Do in Piran
  • Is Postojna Cave Worth Visiting? Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Postojna Cave
  • Driving the Vrsic Pass
  • Vintgar Gorge Slovenia: What to Know Before You Go
  • Best Things to Do at Lake Bohinj [+ Where to Stay & Why You Should Visit]
  • 15 of the Best Souvenirs from Slovenia
  • Driving in Slovenia: Everything You Need to Know for a Memorable Road Trip
  • 15 Most Beautiful Places in Slovenia to Visit in 2024

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Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

Red White Adventures

The best ways to get from ljubljana to lake bled in 2024.

Lake Bled has gained so much attention over the past few years as one of the top spots to visit in Slovenia. So how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is a common question that’s been coming up.

Thankfully, because of this boom in popularity, it means it’s also easier to get from Ljubljana to Bled and back because the increased demand has increased the supply of busses, trains, and tours to Lake Bled.

After visiting and hiking the Velika Osojnica hike overlooking Lake Bled and spending time in the area, we understand why it’s become so popular.

travel ljubljana to bled

The area is stunning with the Juliana Alps in the backdrop, the beautiful lake, and the stunning hikes. It’s the best place to be when it comes to exploring Slovenia!

The nice thing about travelling between Ljubljana and Bled is that trains and buses run quite frequently. If you end up flying into Ljubljana it’s quite easy to get to Lake Bled with or without a car.

There are also some amazing day tours to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj if you’re looking for something a little more organized. Lastly, if you have a car it’s quite easy and fast to get between the two cities.

Let’s check out the different options…

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Table of Contents

5 best ways to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Stunning view overlooking Lake Bled and Bled Island.

Getting from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is going to take you anywhere between 45 minutes to an hour by public transport. This trip can easily be done as a day trip since buses and trains operate frequently between the capital of Slovenia and Lake Bled.

However, we do recommend staying at least one night either in Lake Bled or Lake Bohinj because there are so many hikes and things to do in the area.

You’re surrounded by the Juliana Alps in the Triglav National Park so the hiking is endless with tons of different options around Bled and Bohinj. We spent 5 days there and it was far from enough!

Let’s get right into all the different options on how to get between Ljubljana to Lake Bled.

In this post, you will find all the different options, ticket prices, links to sites where you can book, and reasons why we recommend each option for the trip between the two cities.

travel ljubljana to bled

#1 Ljubljana to Lake Bled by train

Average price: €5-10 one way (depending if you choose 1st or 2nd class) Average time: Just under 1 hour Convenience: 4/5 Where to book: Slovenia train site (Slovenske Železnice)

There’s something calming and relaxing about taking trains through the countryside. Especially a countryside like Slovenia’s with all the greenery and beautiful mountains. The train from Ljubljana to lake Bled is fairly convenient and takes you from Ljubljana city center close to Lake Bled. The Ljubljana Train Station is located right in the heart of the city and is easy to get to from anywhere in the city.

The only downside of taking the train compared to the bus is that the train station isn’t right in Bled but it’s roughly 5km away from the lake. This means you have to either wait for a bus or take a taxi to Bled. 

The train ride is roughly 50 minutes and then an extra 10 minutes to get from the train station near Bled to Lake Bled (Lesce Bled train stop). It may not be the best option since the train doesn’t go directly into Lake Bled but it is scenic and fun to take the train.

The last thing that’s good to know about the trains from Ljubljana to Bled is that they start running early at 4:45 am and then the last one leaves at 11 pm. You can check the timetable on the Slovenia train site here .

You can either buy the tickets online beforehand or at the train station once you actually get there. 

#2 Ljubljana to Lake Bled by bus

Average price: €2-7 one way (depending on what day of the week you go) Average time: Roughly 1.5 hours Convenience: 4.5/5 Where to book: Ljubljana Bus Station website

If you’re planning to go to Lake Bled by public transport, this is the way to do it. The bus from Ljubljana bus station to Lake Bled is the cheapest and most convenient way to get between both cities and the buses run super often. 

Depending on the season, the buses start operating anywhere from 5-7 am and run all the way until 10 pm. Of course, during the summer months, they run earlier and more often and off-season they run a little less frequently. 

The buses run every 30-60 minutes between the two cities and it’s really quite cheap to travel using the bus so, all in all, the bus is our recommended way of travelling to Lake Bled if you want to go by public transport.

The bus station is located right next to the train station which is right in downtown Ljubljana. You can buy the tickets beforehand on the Ljubljana Bus Station website or you can buy the tickets in person at the bus station. 

Lastly, there are two bus stops in Lake Bled. If you are staying in the center near the lake then get off at the stop called “Bled”.

The other stop, “Bled Union”, is slightly further from the center and you will have to walk a little bit to get to the center if you get off there. 

Besides that, there’s nothing else you have to do. Arriva is the main bus company that does all these daily trips and as of now, FlixBus doesn’t operate between these two cities .

#3 Ljubljana to Lake Bled by private tour

Average price: €60 and up (depending on which tour you go on) Average time: Full-day tours (roughly 6-8 hours) Convenience: 5/5 Where to book: GetYourGuide

One of the ways you can see Lake Bled and even Lake Bohinj is to do a guided tour of the two lakes .

The main reason why we recommend a guided tour is because of how convenient it is. Especially if you only have a full day to see everything this is the best and most convenient way.  Guided tours are fun because everything is taken care of for you, and it’s a good way to learn more about the places you visit.

Of course, guided tours are slightly more expensive but they also allow you to see “everything” in one day which may not be possible if you don’t have a car and take public transport somewhere. It’s also nice sometimes to have someone local take you around and share with you local tips and experiences. 

Since Lake Bled is quite a popular place there are quite a few different options and tours to choose from. For example one of them goes to Lake Bled and the castle . Another trip stops in Bled and also makes its way to Lake Bohinj.

There are also day trips from Ljubljana to Lake Bled where you can visit the Postojna Caves which is definitely one of the highlights.

If you’re looking for something a little bit more exciting you also do a more adventurous tour where you go rafting and canyoning around Lake Bled.

There really are quite a few different tours of Lake Bled that you can do if you want to go down this route. You just need to find the one that fits the type of day trip you’re looking for.

#4 Ljubljana to Lake Bled by taxi

Average price: €45 and up (depending on what size you get) Average time: Roughly 45 minutes Convenience: 5/5 Where to book: Online through Bled Taxi or Airport Ljubljana Taxi

The nice thing about taking a taxi to Lake Bled if you fly into Ljubljana Airport is that the airport is outside of the city and already in the direction of Lake Bled. If you take a taxi directly from the airport you can avoid going into Ljubljana and wasting more time this way.

You can also use Bled Taxi if you are already downtown. It will just take a little longer than from the airport. You can book the taxis in advance on their website to make sure you get picked up when your flight lands. 

A taxi is definitely more expensive than taking public transport from Ljubljana to Lake Bled but if you’re at least 2 or 3 people it may not be much more expensive. Plus it’s way more convenient to take a taxi than go by public transport.

#5 Ljubljana to Lake Bled by car or rental car

Average price:  €25 per day and up Average time: Roughly 45 minutes Convenience: 5/5 Where to book: DiscoverCars

If you have a car then driving is by the far the most convenient way of travel (if you don’t want to go on a guided tour).

Having a car is so nice especially if you plan to do some hikes and visit some of the spots a bit further from all the main attractions.

For example, if you want to hike Osojnica Viewpoint overlooking Lake Bled it’s nice to have a car to drive to the starting point of the hike.

Even if you end up going to Lake Bohinj and doing some of the hiking trails there it’s so much easier and faster going by car.

If you’re looking to rent a car in Ljubljana, you can easily rent one from Ljubljana Airport or in the city center. By car, you have the most freedom to stop along the way if you see something you like or want to go a little more off the beaten path.

If you do rent a car, we recommend DiscoverCars and then picking it up from Ljubljana Airport since it’s usually the cheaper option.

We like using DiscoverCars because they compare the different rental companies and show you the cheapest and best options available for your travel dates.

Book your car rental from Ljubljana here.

travel ljubljana to bled

You may also like…

  • Top 5 Bohinj Hotels for an Unforgettable Stay
  • An Unforgettable Day Trip From Ljubljana to Lake Bled in Slovenia
  • Top 7 Accommodations in Lake Bled for an Enjoyable Stay

Recap on different ways of getting from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

View of Bled Island from a hiking trail in Bled.

These are the five different ways you can get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled if you’re planning on exploring Lake Bled, Bohinj, and the Triglav National Park. And if you have to go return to Ljubljana again, obviously, the same options work for that as well 😉

Slovenia tourism is trying to make it as easy as possible to get between the cities and to all the hikes — especially with public transport so the popular spots don’t get overcrowded with cars. 

We hope you enjoy the day trip or multi-day trip to Lake Bled. From exploring all the different hiking trails to hanging out by the lake there’s so much to do and see in one of Slovenia’s national treasures! 

If you have any questions about the trip to Bled to recommendations for hikes feel free to DM us on Instagram or leave a comment below. We’re more than happy to help with anything. Have a great trip!

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The Happy Days Travels

Image of island in Lake Bled with turquoise blue water and Slovenian alps in back

A Guide to Getting the Bus From Ljubljana to Bled & Lake Bled, Slovenia 

If you’re looking for the best way to get the bus from Ljubljana to Bled for a Lake Bled day trip from Ljubljana then you’ve come to the right place. I will give a step-by-step guide for travelling to Bled from Ljubljana and you will be on your way in no time. 

Read on for how to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled by bus and vice versa!

Disclosure: This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning, at no extra cost to you, I may earn commission if you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. When you see a link or banner, this could take you to that product/service website. For more information, see my Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions.  Prices correct at time of writing.

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Contents (jump to)

Bus Ljubljana to Lake Bled Basic Info

Ljubljana Lake Bled Distance:  55km / 34 miles.

Duration : Buses Ljubljana to Lake Bled take maximum 1 hour 20 minutes but some buses have less stops so take less time, minimum duration is about 1 hour.

Price: The Ljubljana to Bled bus price is €6.30 per person per way between Monday and Friday. The Lake Bled bus from Ljubljana price on Saturday and Sunday, however, is only €2.10 per person per way . Bargain! An open return for the Ljubljana Bled bus costs €12 (valid for 30 days).

Frequency: Buses from Ljubljana to Bled run everyday. Monday – Friday between 5:45am and 10.30pm, Saturday 6.25am and 8.30pm and Sunday between 6.25am and 9.30pm. The Ljubljana to Lake Bled bus schedule doesn’t have times on the hour or every half hour but are fairly sporadic throughout the week so you must check times before travelling.

Bus company: Arriva.

Other options: By car it takes 40 minutes to drive from Ljubljana to Bled, or for the most convenient way you can join a Ljubljana to Lake Bled day trip including return transfers. Check availability here:

Alternatively, catch the train from Ljubljana which takes you to Bled but you’ll need to make your own way to the actual Lake.

About Ljubljana

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s charming capital and one of the most overlooked cities in Europe in my opinion. There’s lots of ways to explore Ljubljana from the morning markets to climbing the castle, sampling local cuisine of Slovenia , cross the three bridges and look out for the water rats in the river known as Nutrias!

After you’ve done the best things to do in Ljubljana, it’s time to explore other parts of Slovenia starting with popular Bled!

About Bled & Lake Bled

Bled is a town located in North-Western Slovenia with the Julian Alps as its backdrop. Next to the town is the lake which is 2,120 m long, 1,380 m wide and 29.5 m deep. Lake Bled is one of the most stunning scenes and places I’ve ever visited and is truly a wonder of Europe!

You can’t visit Slovenia without seeing the beautiful Lake Bled and being so close to the capital it’s an ideal day trip from Ljubljana.

Bus From Ljubljana to Bled Guide

How to buy tickets: ljubljana to bled by bus.

To buy tickets for the bus to Bled from Ljubljana in person is the easiest option.

  • Firstly, check the Arriva bus timetable Ljubljana to Bled here for which time bus you want to take.
  • Arrive at the Ljubljana main bus station in good time before your bus and head into the bus station office. Note : the train station is also here and many people get them mixed up. The bus station is directly in front of the zebra crossing and not the train station is the big building behind.
  • Ask at the desk for a one-way or return ticket to Bled and ask which lane you need to get the bus from.
  • Bring cash because they do not take card.

Bus Station Ljubljana Address: Trg Osvobodilne Fronte 5, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia

If you’d rather buy tickets online then head here and in the top right corner you can switch to English. Please note that for if you book in advance you have to get that specific bus whereas if you buy them at the station then you can get the very next bus whatever time you arrive. I still advise you to check the Ljubljana to Bled bus timetable before going to the station.

If you choose to buy tickets online you must either print them out or go inside the bus station to get a physical ticket as the buses from Ljubljana to Lake Bled do not accept digital tickets.

Ljubljana Bus Station

Image of Ljubljana Bus station as seen from the inside road in Ljubljana Slovenia

You need to go to the main bus station Ljubljana has which is called Ljubljana Avtobusna Postaja (address as above).

The bus station is in the same place as the Ljubljana train station, a bus stop for local buses and this is also the stop for FlixBus journeys (although FlixBus does not have a bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled). Facilities include toilets, indoor and outdoor space to wait, luggage storage (just €3.50 for the whole day), a cash machine , desks, kiosks, McDonalds, and a cafe.

This is the Ljubljana bus station which is where you can get information about bus travel and buy tickets to Lake Bled from Ljubljana and other travel including international.

Outside the bus station are several numbered lanes for different routes. Ask the person which platform you need and check your ticket but usually they go from platform 7 and it has ‘Bled’ written on the sign above the lane.

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The Journey from Ljubljana to Bled

Image of Arriva bus in Ljubljana Bus Station in Ljubljana Slovenia

The bus itself is comfortable, spacious, has toilets, wifi and air conditioning. Note: you must pay €1 per bag to place in the hold on Arriva buses.

Read Next: Best Things to Do in Piran, Slovenia!

Getting to Lake Bled from Bled Bus Stop

Image of Bled Union bus stop in Bled, Slovenia for getting the bus to Lake Bled

When you arrive in Bled, you need to get off at either ‘Bled’ or ‘Bled Union’ stop . Ask your driver to advise you where you need to get off.

‘Bled Union’ bus stop is just 300 metres from the lake.

From here, looking directly at the hotel, turn left and keep walking straight on Cesta Svobode for about 5 minutes and you’ll see lots of signs for the lake, restaurants, hotels and tourist shops for souvenirs.

The best way to get around Slovenia? Getting an E-Sim to stay connected while in Europe! I use Airalo and it’s cheap, fast and reliable! Use my referral code, SHIREE9313 , and we’ll both get USD$3 off the next plan!

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Day Trip to Bled from Ljubljana

Image of Shireen smiling in front of Lake Bled in Bled Slovenia

Lake Bled is perfect for a Slovenia day trip as there’s lots of things to do in Lake Bled i ncluding walking the perimeter of the lake, hiking to Bled Castle, riding to the island and trying the delicious Bled cream cake.

The restaurants in Bled are quite overpriced and definitely expensive in comparison to Ljubljana so I recommend taking your own food but if you fancy lunch or dinner here then at least prepare to over-pay.

If you’d prefer to stay in Bled for a few nights, check hotel availability and latest prices in Bled.

Getting to Ljubljana from Lake Bled by Bus

Screenshot of Lake Bled walk around the perimeter of the lake from Shireen's iphone.

Distance : Bled Ljubljana distance is 55km / 34 miles.

Bus Price : €6.30 per person per way between Monday and Friday but the Ljubljana Bled bus price on weekends is just €2.10 per person per way.

Duration: Similar to the bus Ljubljana to Bled, it takes between 1 hour and 1.5 hours depending on how many stops there are on your route.

Frequency: Buses from Bled to Ljubljana run between 5.45am and 10.30pm on Monday to Friday. On Saturday, they run between 6.25am and 8.30pm and on Sunday between 6.25am and 9.30pm.

Bus from Bled to Ljubljana

Firstly, don’t forget that the bus stop you need to go to is across the road from where you got off to get the Lake Bled to Ljubljana bus. Which looks like this:

Image of Bled Union bus stop in Bled, Slovenia for getting the bus to Ljubljana

You can check the timetables online but there are timetables within the bus stop so you can check your times.

We were able to pay for our ticket on the bus with the driver but again, you must pay in cash on the buses Bled to Ljubljana.

We just so happened to take the Bled to Ljubljana bus where there were no stops whatsoever so the journey was just under an hour. And it was another scenic and enjoyable journey back to the capital.

Thanks for reading this how to guide. Are you confident in getting from Ljubljana to Lake Bled and the return bus to Ljubljana? Let me know in the comments if you used my advice.

Bus Bled to Ljubljana: Pin For Later!

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The Perfect One-Week Slovenia Road Trip

T here is perhaps no other country in Europe that is both exquisitely beautiful and budget-friendly for travelers as Slovenia. One of the most underrated destinations on the continent, there is so much to explore on a Slovenia road trip.

And while you could easily spend a week relaxing and gazing at the calm waters of Lake Bled, we’ve put together the perfect one-week Slovenia itinerary that hits the highlights of the country in a brief time.

This Slovenia road trip will take you from coastal communities and fairytale cities to pristine lakes, captivating caves, and ancient castles – all in a one-week Slovenia itinerary.

Our Slovenia road trip experience

We spent one week in Slovenia as part of a longer trip that included visits to Salzburg, Austria and Munich Germany . For us, it was love at first sight of the country’s natural beauty and majestic landscapes. 

Our Slovenia road trip itinerary took us to some of the most beautiful places in Slovenia but still left us yearning to return and explore more. In our experience, Slovenia is the most underrated country we’ve ever visited, and this Slovenia itinerary will likely have you feeling the same.

Getting around Slovenia

The easiest way to get around Slovenia is by car.

While there is rail service in Slovenia, it is limited. And if you try to travel around the country by train alone, you will miss out on so many of the country’s natural attractions that are only accessible on a Slovenia road trip. 

For this reason, you will want to rent a car and drive. We always book rental cars through DiscoverCars , so we can compare prices from different rental car companies and book the one that best suits our needs and budget.

Roads in Slovenia are well maintained, drivers are courteous, and driving in the country, even in remote areas, seems very safe. 

Also read: Europe road trip tips

Slovenia Road Trip Highlights

Now that we’ve covered how to get around on this Slovenia itinerary, here are a few highlights of this Slovenia road trip.

  • Vintgar Gorge 
  • Lake Bohinj
  • Triglav National Park 
  • Piran and Koper
  • Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave 

Slovenia Road Trip Map and Route

Each day of this slovenia itinerary .

You’ll likely want to start and end your Slovenia road trip in the capital city of Ljubljana. If you have more than just one week in Slovenia, you could tack on an extra day or two exploring the capital city further or take a couple more day trips from Ljubljana. 

From Ljubljana you can easily take a train or flight to another destination for onward travel or head home after your trip with wonderful memories of your one week in Slovenia. 

Slovenia Day 1 – Ljubljana 

Your first day in Slovenia can either be the day you arrive in Ljubljana or the day after depending on your travel style and arrival time.

If you arrive in the late afternoon, evening, or night, catch up on sleep, get over jet lag, which is especially important if traveling with young kids , and relax.

However, if you arrive in the morning hours and prefer to hit the ground running, spend your first day in Slovenia getting acquainted with the capital city. Walk along the river, find all of the famous bridges in Ljubljana and then enjoy the atmosphere and a meal at an outdoor patio, if the weather is nice.

There are a lot of fun things to do in Ljubljana , but one of the best activities is simply enjoying the atmosphere along the river and wandering through the Old Town district. 

Slovenia Day 2 – Ljubljana 

Start your day in Ljubljana by heading to Ljubljana Castle . The ancient landmark perched upon a hill overlooking the city is a must visit in Ljubljana. 

Spend a couple hours exploring the castle-turned-museum and then head to the Metelkova Art Center for a look at the quirkier side of the fairy tale city.

This small corner of the city is actually an autonomous or self-governed community located near the Ljubljana main train station. It is covered in graffiti and street art from top to bottom and has become a haven for the artistic, creative, and societal non-conformists. 

If you prefer to skip Metelkova Art Center, head to Tivoli Park or check out one of Ljubljana’s intriguing museums. Whether you are interested in art, history, or looking for a fun museum for kids, Ljubljana has something for everyone. 

  • Where to stay in Ljubljana: Hotel Emonec
  • Alternative hotel: Grand Hotel Union Eurostars

Slovenia Day 3 – Lake Bled 

On the third day of your road trip in Slovenia, head to the beautiful lakeside community of Bled. Known for its turquoise water, picturesque little island church, and castle on a cliff, Lake Bled is perhaps the most popular place to visit in Slovenia. 

Because of its popularity, Lake Bled is teeming with things to do . Approximately an hour from Ljubljana, Lake Bled is often done as a day trip. But we recommend spending a night here if you are going on a Slovenia road trip. 

After arriving in Lake Bled, start off by walking around the lake. About halfway around, rent a canoe on the west side of the lake and paddle out to Bled Island . The small island is home to one of the most famous churches in Europe , the Assumption of Maria Church. 

After your adventurous, albeit serene boat trip, continue your leisurely stroll around the lake. The loop around the lake, while mostly flat, is approximately 4 miles. So be sure to bring a good pair of walking shoes.

When you are almost back to the east side of the lake you can either home to Bled Castle or drive up to it. While the museum at the castle is not the most impressive, the views from the castle are worth the entrance fee!

If you have kids, you may also want to include an hour or so at the Adventure Park and an exhilarating ride down the mountain toboggan. 

  • Where to stay in Lake Bled:  Hotel Park 
  • Alternative hotel: Hotel Lovec

Slovenia Day 4 – Vintgar Gorge and Lake Bohinj 

On day four of your Slovenia road trip, head directly to Vintgar Gorge to start your day off with some beautiful scenery, fresh air, and exercise. This hike, just a few kilometers outside of Lake Bled, is breathtaking, yet surprisingly easy.

You can do a round-trip hike through the gorge, which will take roughly 3 hours before heading to Lake Bohinj in the afternoon for some relaxation. 

Vintgar Gorge mostly takes place on a raised boardwalk suspended above the Radovna River through the ravine.

After your hike, grab some lunch back in Bled before heading to Lake Bohinj , the second most popular lake in Slovenia, and the largest in the country.

Just a short distance from Bled, Lake Bohinj is an easy afternoon trip where you can swim, canoe, paddleboard, or visit the charming Church of Saint John the Baptist along the lake.

You can stay in Lake Bled, or for a change of pace and scenery, spend one night along the shore of Lake Bohinj instead. Another alternative would be to continue your drive and spend the night in Kranjska Gora, which situates you near your Slovenia road trip activities for the next day.

  • Where to stay on Day 4: Hotel Park (Lake Bled)
  • Alternative hotel: Hotel Alpina (Kranjska Gora)

Slovenia Day 5 – Vrsic Pass and Triglav National Park 

The fifth day of this Slovenia road trip guide will take you through the heart of Triglav National Park , Slovenia’s only national park. This will be a long day of driving, so if you have extra time, you could easily break it up and spend one night near the Soca Valley.

Encompassing the majestic Julian Alps , Triglav National Park is rugged and glorious. A hiker’s paradise, you’ll find no shortage of scenery in this pristine public park. 

Start your morning by venturing northwest or if you stayed in the town of Kranjska Gora, head directly to the national park.

Best known as a ski resort in the winter season, Kranjska Gora is an equally scenic place to travel in spring, summer, and fall. As the gateway to Triglav, it makes for a great place to base yourself if you have more time and want to do a lot of hiking in the national park.

Whether you spend a day or two hiking or prefer to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your rental car, you’ll want to journey along the Vrsic Pass .

The highest mountain pass in Slovenia and the Eastern Julian Alps, this 2-lane road consists of a series of 50 tight hairpin turns. You’ll slowly climb up the mountains and back down from the Upper Carniola region to the Trenta Valley.

Along the scenic route, which is closed in winter, you’ll find numerous places to pull over to admire the majestic, mountainous landscapes, or pull off and hike. 

The Vrsic Pass was constructed by Russian prisoners of war in 1915 for military purposes but is now largely a scenic tourist route. Tucked away in the woods along the northern side of the pass, don’t miss the hidden Russian Orthodox church built by the Russian POWs to pay honor to their fallen comrades who died during the road’s construction. 

At the top of the route, stop to admire the views before making your way back down the other side of the mountain pass and onward toward the Slovenian coast.

After taking this scenic pass, you’ll venture toward the Soca Valley . You can either stop for the night at a hotel near Bovec or cross the border into Italy on your way to your next stop – Piran.

  • Where to stay after the Vrsic Pass: Boutique Hotel Dobra Vila (Bovec)
  • Alternative – drive to Piran : Art Hotel Tartini (Piran)

Slovenia Day 6 – Piran and Koper

Piran is a lovely coastal town on the Adriatic Sea. Located in the North of the Istria Peninsula , Piran has both Slovenian and Venetian influences. You’ll find a lot of the food and architecture seem very Italian in nature and design. 

On your sixth day of your road trip through Slovenia, head toward the coast for a relaxing day by the sea. Stop in the charming town of Koper on your way to Piran. The historic town is known for its narrow streets and quaint piazzas.

Visit Titov trg (Tito Square) and admire the Stolnica, a Renaissance and Gothic cathedral, and the Pretoska Palača , a beautiful white Venetian palace in Gothic architecture. Then take a stroll through the town before ending your visit at the regional museum housed in the Belramonil-Tacco palace.

Continue on to Piran, where you can enjoy lots of water-based activities in the warm summer months. Snorkeling, diving, and boat tours are all popular activities in Piran.

For a unique adventure, take the glass floor boat tour, where you can see fish and other marine life beneath you. Afterwards, you can visit the town’s Museum of Underwater Activities or the aquarium. 

  • Where to stay in Piran : Art Hotel Tartini (Piran)
  • Alternative hotel: Second Life Hotel Zala (Piran) 

Slovenia Itinerary Day 7 – Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave 

On your return route to Ljubljana, you’ll have one more very memorable stop on your seven-day Slovenia road trip. 

The Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave are two of the most popular attractions in Slovenia. Often visited as a day trip from Ljubljana, the tourist attractions are on your way back from Piran to Ljubljana, making them the perfect stop on your final day in Slovenia. 

The largest cave castle in the world, Predjama Castle is an 800-year-old castle built into the mouth of a cave, halfway up a 123-meter cliff.

Along with the castle, you’ll want to visit Postojna Cave and explore the underground world in Slovenia. With mesmerizing cave formations, Postojna Cave is one of the most beautiful natural gems in the country. 

Only 45 minutes to an hour away from Ljubljana, after touring Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle, head back to the capital city, where you’ll spend your final night of this Slovenia itinerary.

  • Alternative hotel: Grand Hotel Union Eurostars 

Is One Week in Slovenia enough time?

Realistically, one week is never enough time to explore an entire country. Even tiny countries like Luxembourg , deserve more time if you truly want to experience it to its fullest. 

However, knowing that unlimited time off for a family vacation or holiday isn’t a privilege that most of us have, one week in Slovenia is a good amount of time to see many of the best places in Slovenia to visit . 

What to do if you have more than one week in Slovenia

This itinerary can be done in one week, or you can add an extra day or two in each destination to give you more time to appreciate its beauty.

A full 3 days in Lake Bled would be ideal. You could also extend your time in Triglav National Park and the Soca Valley and take part in more of Slovenia’s stunning hikes that the country is known for .

If you have 2 full weeks, it will give you the opportunity to see the Eastern part of the country and visit other incredible places like Maribor and the Logar Valley, as well. Additionally, you could drop down and visit some of the best places to visit in Croatia , as well.

Be fair warned though, Slovenia is a stunning slice of paradise. So, this week-long Slovenia road trip will leave you wanting to come back again or extend your trip indefinitely! 

Have a question or comment about this Slovenia road trip itinerary? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts (or additions to this 7-day Slovenia Itinerary) in the comments below!

Like this one-week Slovenia itinerary? Pin our Slovenia Road Trip Guide to save it for later!

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There is perhaps no other country in Europe that is both exquisitely beautiful and budget-friendly for travelers as Slovenia. One of the most underrated destinations on the continent, there is so much to explore on…

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These Are the Most Beautiful Cities in the World, According to Travelers

Travelers on Reddit voted on the most beautiful cities in the world and these 5 gems rose to the top.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

travel ljubljana to bled

Francesco Riccardo Iacomino/Getty Images

There is beauty everywhere — in the minimalist architecture and fluid floor plans of Japan’s countryside to the concrete finishes and unusual shapes of Eastern Europe — but certain cities seem to captivate the general population, wooing visitors with their storybook architecture, preserved castles , and greenery.

When Reddit user /Slommyhouse asked the r/travel community “What is the most aesthetically beautiful city that never loses its appeal no matter how many times you visit?” travelers chimed in and certain destinations rose to the top — including lesser-known cities in Central Europe and a royal sanctuary northwest of Lisbon.

Florence, Italy

Florence, along with Prague, was the “best” answer to the question, based on the ratio of user upvotes to downvotes. The result isn’t shocking — when it comes to art and architecture, Florence can’t help but stand out. You’ll find grocery stores and pizza spots housed within stunning Renaissance architecture, along with major sites like the Duomo Cathedral and Michelangelo’s “David” sculpture. 

Reddit user /claudio6992 replied, “For me it’s Florence been there on multiple visits and it hits different. I love history and for me it’s like an open museum were you can imagine yourself transported back to a different era.”

Prague, Czech Republic

In addition to Florence, users had a lot to say about Prague, a city that’s bisected by the Vltava River and built around the Old Town Square, a plaza surrounded by colorful baroque buildings. The highlight of this historic square is the St. Nicholas Church, which is considered to be the greatest example of Prague Baroque architecture, and the medieval astronomical clock, which provides a complicated and animated hourly show . One Reddit user, /WestCoastBestCoast01 , replied, “Prague was immediately my first thought!!”

Edinburgh, Scotland

The compact, hilly city of Edinburg has two distinct areas: the medieval Old Town, which is dominated by Edinburgh Castle, and the elegant, neoclassical New Town, which has stunning gardens. The juxtaposition of these two areas is so significant that they’ve been named a UNESCO Heritage Site . User /BasicLawyer noted that for them, the city is special because of the “ancient volcanic structures surrounding a gothic city with networks of underground streets.”

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Central European country of Slovenia is rarely on top of Americans’ must-visit list, but the country, which is known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes (including Lake Bled, a glacial lake fed by hot springs) finally got some recognition. The capital city of Ljubljana is split by the Ljubljanica River, which is lined with outdoor cafes, and has plenty of green space. 

User /SoullessGinger666 called it the “Most anti-car, pro-pedestrian city I've ever been to,” noting that it’s “Utterly stunning down the river.” User /klimatronic confirmed that “when you are in Ljubljana, you don't need car, or even public transport, you can go anywhere by foot.”

Sintra, Portugal

The resort town of Sintra is only a 40-minute drive from central Lisbon, but the vibe couldn’t be more different. The town is set in the foothills of Portugal’s Sintra Mountains and is surrounded by forest and greenery. It has been a longtime royal sanctuary, with elaborate palaces that include the Sintra National Palace, which is heralded for its twin chimneys and notable tilework, and the Pena National Palace, which sits on a hilltop and has sweeping views.

Redding user /notyourwheezy , said, “something about those castles that just looks so fairytale. and bonus if it's rainy and misty. truly feels like I've stepped into a storybook.”

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COMMENTS

  1. Ljubljana to Lake Bled

    Tickets cost €5 - €7 and the journey takes 1h 6m. Three other operators also service this route. Alternatively, Slovenian Railways (SŽ) operates a train from Ljubljana to Lesce Bled hourly. Tickets cost €4 - €10 and the journey takes 55 min. Croatian Railways (HŽPP) also services this route twice daily. Train operators.

  2. 5 Ways to Travel From Ljubljana to Lake Bled in 2024

    Option 3: Ljubljana to Lake Bled train. If you're a fan of train travel, there are plenty of passenger trains between Ljubljana and Bled. The journey is quite scenic and comfortable, and it takes about the same amount of time (or less) as the bus, around 45-60 minutes depending on the service you choose.

  3. How To Get From Ljubljana to Lake Bled & What To Do, Where To Stay

    Getting to Lake Bled By Bus (The Easiest Option): The Ljubljana to Bled bus is 7€ one way and will take you 1.5 hour to reach. There are hourly departures from Avtobusna postaja (bus station) and it is right in front of the train station on Trg Osvobodilne. The bus timetable can be viewed here. Getting to Lake Bled By Train (The Scenic ...

  4. The 5 Best Ways to get from Ljubljana to Bled Lake

    1. Bus. The bus to Bled takes from 45 to 80 minutes depending on whether it's a direct connection or not. Buses are available every half an hour during weekdays and depart from the main bus station in Ljubljana. One-way ticket is approximately 8 EUR and a little more for direct buses. Find a Bus. 2.

  5. 3 best ways to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled in 2024

    There are several ways to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, including by bus, train, taxi, or car. The most common and cheapest way to get to Lake Bled from Ljubljana is by bus. You can take a bus from Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana to Bled, and the journey takes around 1 hour and 6 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €3 to €16.

  6. 6 Ways to Go From Ljubljana to Bled (2024 guide)

    The cheapest way to go from Ljubljana to Bled is by bus. The journey takes 1h if you choose the option that goes directly from Ljubljana to Bled. Pay attention when buying your bus ticket as they also offer another longer option where the journey takes around 1h 40 because it makes several stops along the way.

  7. Ljubljana to Lake Bled

    One of Slovenia's most popular destinations is Lake Bled, a dreamy city escape just 34 miles (55 km) from Ljubljana. Traveling by car—either rental or private transfer—is the fastest way to reach the lake. Drivers can relax along a modern freeway, making the scenic journey relatively stress-free. Plus, renting a car in such a small country ...

  8. How to Get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled, Slovenia

    Ljubljana to Lake Bled by Bus. Taking the bus from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is probably the most popular travel option. Buses depart from Ljubljana bus station every 15 - 30 minutes (depending on the time of year). You can find an up-to-date timetable HERE. Most buses take around an hour and 15 mins, give or take for traffic.

  9. Ljubljana to Lake Bled

    Alpetour - Potovalna Agencija, D.O.O. operates a bus from Avtobusna postaja Ljubljana to Mlino every 3 hours. Tickets cost $5 - $7 and the journey takes 1h 24m. Two other operators also service this route. Alternatively, Slovenian Railways (SŽ) operates a train from Ljubljana to Lesce Bled hourly. Tickets cost $4 - $11 and the journey takes 55 ...

  10. Train Ljubljana to Lake Bled from €5

    The train between Ljubljana and Lake Bled takes 1h 37m. The train runs, on average, 2 times per week from Ljubljana to Lake Bled. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.

  11. Ljubljana to Lake Bled (day trip & transportation ideas)

    The driving distance from Ljubljana to Lake Bled is 55.4 km (or 34.4 miles) via A2/E61. The entire route is well maintained, and easy to drive, and it takes about 45 minutes to arrive in Lake Bled from Ljubljana. Ljubljana to Lake Bled: 45 minute by road, traveling a distance of 55.4 km or 34.4 miles.

  12. Ljubljana to Lake Bled: How to Visit the Picturesque Lake Bled Slovenia

    Take the Bus. Taking the bus from Ljubljana to Bled is the cheapest way to visit this beautiful lake. Buses to Lake Bled from Ljubljana run hourly and cost around €5.70 (€2.85 for kids age 7-15). You can purchase tickets ahead of time online or buy directly at the bus station.

  13. The Best Ways to Get From Ljubljana to Lake Bled in 2024

    If you're planning to go to Lake Bled by public transport, this is the way to do it. The bus from Ljubljana bus station to Lake Bled is the cheapest and most convenient way to get between both cities and the buses run super often. Depending on the season, the buses start operating anywhere from 5-7 am and run all the way until 10 pm.

  14. Ljubljana to Bled from $38 (€33)

    The best way to travel from Ljubljana to Bled is by taking a bus because it's the best combination of price and speed. 05:55PM 0h40. Ljubljana. 06:35PM Bled $ 79 1 One-way. 0 transfers. Cheapest. 05:55PM 0h40. Ljubljana. 06:35PM Bled $ 79 1 One-way. 0 transfers. Fastest. 05:55PM 0h40. Ljubljana. 06:35PM Bled

  15. A Guide to Getting the Bus From Ljubljana to Bled & Lake Bled, Slovenia

    Bus Ljubljana to Lake Bled Basic Info. Ljubljana Lake Bled Distance: 55km / 34 miles. Duration: Buses Ljubljana to Lake Bled take maximum 1 hour 20 minutes but some buses have less stops so take less time, minimum duration is about 1 hour. Price: The Ljubljana to Bled bus price is €6.30 per person per way between Monday and Friday.

  16. Bled to Ljubljana

    Tickets cost $5-7 and the journey takes 1h 17m. Three other operators also service this route. Alternatively, Slovenian Railways (SŽ) operates a train from Lesce Bled to Ljubljana every 3 hours. Tickets cost $4-11 and the journey takes 58 min. ÖBB also services this route every 4 hours. Train operators.

  17. Ljubljana to Bled from £30

    The best way to travel from Ljubljana to Bled is by taking a coach because it's the best combination of price and speed. 18:10 0h35. Ljubljana. 18:45 Bled

  18. 5 ways to get from the Ljubljana Airport to Bled

    3. Bus. Taking the bus is definitely the cheapest way of travelling between the Ljubljana Airport and Bled. They depart from the airport every hour on weekdays from 9:00 to 18:00. The ticket will cost you around 4 euros and can be purchased directly from the driver. Find a Bus. 4.

  19. How to get from Ljubljana Airport to Bled

    A trip to Lake Bled from Ljubljana airport should cost around €40, depending on traffic conditions. It is good to know that there are no price differences for day, night and weekend trips. However, if you wish to travel at a fixed rate with a local English-speaking driver, then it is recommended to pre-book your Ljubljana airport transfer.

  20. Bled to Ljubljana from $69 (€60)

    Bus • $69 (€60) • 40 min. Popular travel companies. GoOpti. Take a bus to travel 29 miles (46 km) from Bled to Ljubljana. GoOpti is the main travel company operating this route. Travelers can even take a direct bus from Bled to Ljubljana.

  21. The Perfect One-Week Slovenia Road Trip

    Approximately an hour from Ljubljana, Lake Bled is often done as a day trip. But we recommend spending a night here if you are going on a Slovenia road trip. After arriving in Lake Bled, start off ...

  22. These Are the Most Beautiful Cities in the World, According to ...

    The Central European country of Slovenia is rarely on top of Americans' must-visit list, but the country, which is known for its mountains, ski resorts, and lakes (including Lake Bled, a glacial ...