Lake Bled is probably the most famous attraction in Slovenia — and for good reason. The fairytale-blue water is surrounded by mountains and forests, and right in the middle sits the iconic island with the Church of the Assumption. But Bled is much more than just a picture-perfect view. You can row or take a traditional pletna boat to the island, rent a kayak or SUP, or simply relax along the peaceful shore. In summer, weekend markets filled with local products, handmade jewelry, and art add even more charm to the atmosphere. In this guide, we’re sharing 14 fun things to do at Lake Bled!
Things to Do at Lake Bled
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in and around Bled. Here are 14 great ideas!
Walk Through Vintgar Gorge to Slap Šum
Vintgar Gorge is one of the most popular sights near Lake Bled — and it’s easy to see why! You’ll walk across wooden bridges along a turquoise river framed by steep rock walls, with the 13-meter (43-foot) Slap Šum waterfall as your reward at the end. The gorge opens at 7:00 AM, which is the perfect time to visit before the crowds arrive. Official parking is available at P1, from where a shuttle takes you to the entrance, but if you arrive early, it’s best to park directly at the entrance. There’s also a small kiosk for coffee or snacks.
The walk through the gorge takes about 45 minutes. The first section is dramatic, with rushing water, narrow passages, and glowing blue tones on sunny days. In mist or rain, the atmosphere feels almost mystical. As you go further, the river slows and quiets. At the end, you’ll find a small restaurant with a terrace and a hanging bridge. From here, walk down to the Slap Šum waterfall. For the return, you have two options: the shorter River of Trees Trail (4.3 kilometers / 2.7 miles, about 2 hours) through the forest, or the longer King of Triglav Trail (5.7 kilometers / 3.5 miles, about 2.5 hours) passing St. Catherine’s Church and scenic viewpoints.
Rent a Boat and Row Across Lake Bled
One of the best ways to experience Lake Bled is from the water. You can rent a rowboat and paddle at your own pace toward the island. Prefer not to row yourself? Hop on a traditional pletna boat — the local ferryman will take you there using a unique rowing technique that has been passed down for generations.
On the small island stands the photogenic Church of the Assumption, home to the famous wishing bell. According to tradition, if you ring it three times, your wish will come true. The entrance fee is a bit high and the church interior is simple, but the atmosphere and view make it well worth it. Next to the church, you’ll find a small exhibit and a few cafés where you can enjoy a drink and try the famous Bled Cream Cake.
Go Stand-Up Paddleboarding on Lake Bled
Exploring Lake Bled on a SUP board is another amazing experience! As you glide quietly over the water, you’ll have stunning views of the island church and Bled Castle perched above the lake. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times — the water is calm, and it’s less crowded. SUP boards can be rented easily along the lakefront, often at the same spots where rowboats are available. You can also join a guided stand-up paddleboarding tour where a local guide shares stories about Bled and gives you time to take a refreshing dip in the lake.
Stay in Style: Glamping Near Lake Bled
Hidden among the greenery around Bled are several beautiful glamping sites that make for a truly special stay. Our favorite is the luxurious Ribno Alpine Glamping. Nestled among the trees, you’ll find eight cozy wooden cabins, each named after a Slovenian flower. Every cabin is charmingly decorated, but the real showstopper is the private hot tub on the veranda — perfect for soaking while enjoying the peaceful forest views. There’s also an outdoor pool for warm summer days and a large sauna overlooking the garden for cooler evenings.
Another great option is ECO River Camp, a spacious and relaxed glamping site along the river. You can stay in fun tipi tents or wooden cabins, grab a bite at the Rex Bar during the day, and cozy up by the campfire at night.
Visit the Bled Markets
If you’re in Bled on a weekend, make sure to visit one of the local markets! At this location, you’ll find a market every Saturday and Sunday morning. Browse stalls full of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, honey, and other regional specialties.
If you’re visiting between May and September, don’t miss the art and craft market in Zdraviliški Park. It’s open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from morning to evening and is a wonderful place to wander among handmade jewelry and unique artwork — the perfect spot to pick up local souvenirs.
Try the Famous Bled Cream Cake
A visit to Lake Bled isn’t complete without tasting the famous Bled Cream Cake (Blejska kremšnita). This light dessert is made with layers of flaky puff pastry, creamy vanilla custard, whipped cream, and a dusting of powdered sugar. It’s the town’s signature treat and a must for anyone with a sweet tooth. One of the best places to try the authentic Bled Cake is at Slascicarna Zima, a charming café near the lake that has been making it for decades following a traditional recipe — light, creamy, and fresh. Delicious!
Hike to the Three Viewpoints Around Lake Bled
For the most stunning views of Lake Bled, rise early and hike to the three famous viewpoints. The first, Mala Osojnica, takes about 30 minutes to reach and offers an amazing panoramic view of the lake and its island. Continue another 20 minutes to Velika Osojnica, the highest point, for an even wider view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Finally, follow the trail to Ojstrica — about another 30 minutes of hiking — where you’ll be rewarded with a slightly lower but equally breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the island and Bled Castle. The full loop takes about two hours, and this is the starting point of the trail. The path is well-marked but quite steep, so a bit of fitness is helpful.
Tip: Bring a headlamp if you start before sunrise, plenty of water, and wear sturdy hiking shoes — especially if it has rained recently.
Visit Lake Bohinj from Bled
Lake Bohinj, located about 40 minutes (25 miles) from Bled, is one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia and makes a perfect day trip. Early morning is the best time to visit — it’s peaceful, and parking is easier to find. Around the lake, you can go paddleboarding, kayaking, or swimming in the crystal-clear water. At the entrance to the lake, there’s a small café where you can grab an ice cream or drink.
One of the highlights nearby is the Savica Waterfall (Slap Savica). From the parking area, it’s a 20-minute walk up stairs and forest trails to reach this impressive 78-meter (256-foot) waterfall. Other hiking routes also start here, and there’s a small restaurant for coffee or snacks. For a spectacular panoramic view, take the Vogel cable car up the mountain. It’s a bit touristy, but the views of Lake Bohinj and the surrounding Julian Alps are absolutely unforgettable. Read all our tips for Lake Bohinj to plan your visit.
Walk or Cycle Around Lake Bled
A 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) walking and cycling path circles Lake Bled, perfect for admiring the scenery from all angles. The trail winds along the shoreline, offering constant views of the island, castle, and surrounding mountains. It can get busy with walkers, joggers, and cyclists, so head out early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience. If you’d like a more relaxed ride, rent an e-bike so you can explore further beyond the lake. Book your e-bike rental here.
Swim in Lake Bled
A refreshing dip in Lake Bled is a must! The western shore is the best area for swimming — it’s quieter, the water is clear, and you’ll find small beaches and grassy spots to relax. Swimming on the eastern side is often not allowed because of the higher boat traffic.
Tip: Go for a swim at Camping Bled. There’s a great swimming area here, and you can grab food or drinks at the campsite restaurant.
Take in the View from Bled Castle
From the water, you can’t miss it — perched high on a cliff stands Bled Castle. Slovenia has many castles, but this medieval fortress is one of the most spectacular. Inside, you’ll find a small museum, a chapel, and charming courtyards, but most visitors come for the stunning view. From the terrace, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas of Lake Bled, its island church, and the surrounding Alps.
Visit Peričnik Waterfall — One of Slovenia’s Most Beautiful
Just a 30-minute (19-mile) drive from Bled lies one of Slovenia’s most remarkable waterfalls: Peričnik Waterfall. What makes it special is that you can actually walk behind it!
The hike to Peričnik takes about 20 minutes through a shaded forest. The trail is easy but can be steep and slippery in spots, so wear sturdy shoes. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a dramatic curtain of water plunging nearly 50 meters (164 feet). Walking behind the waterfall is magical — you’ll feel the mist, hear the thunderous roar, and look out over the valley through the sparkling water.
Tip: Visit in the morning when the sunlight hits the waterfall perfectly.
Go Rafting on the Sava River in Bled
In the mood for some adventure? Rafting on the Sava River is an absolute must! The river winds through gorgeous mountain scenery, and rafting is a fun way to explore it. You’ll be picked up in Bled and driven to the river, where experienced guides give a short safety briefing. Then it’s time to grab a paddle and take on the rapids of this scenic river — the longest in the region.
Don’t expect extreme whitewater like the Soča River; this trip is more relaxed and family-friendly, with calm stretches where you can float and enjoy the view. Along the way, guides share insights about the nature and history of the river. There’s also time to swim or, for the brave, try a cliff jump! The trip lasts around 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) before returning to the starting point.
Best Restaurants in Bled
- Public & Vegan Kitchen Bled – A cozy restaurant serving delicious plant-based dishes for both lunch and dinner. Expect tasty sandwiches, burgers, and fries — all 100% vegan and full of flavor.
- Wine Bar & Restaurant Čarman – With a warm wooden interior and stunning lake views, this spot combines Slovenian and European cuisine with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Oštarija Peglez’n – A small, charming restaurant serving great pasta and fresh fish dishes in a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
- Gostilna Pri Planincu – A traditional Slovenian restaurant offering hearty local dishes in a cozy, authentic setting. Enjoy your meal inside or on the terrace with great service.
- Pizzeria Rustika – Craving pizza? This local favorite bakes theirs in a wood-fired oven and has a lovely terrace to sit outside.
- Slascicarna Zima – The best place to try the original Bled Cream Cake.
- Art Cafe Bar – A trendy spot open from morning to late at night, serving everything from pizza and risotto to burgers, seafood, and salads.
- Restavracija Zaka (Camp Bled) – A great lunch spot right by the water with views over the lake. They serve a varied menu of pizzas, house specialties, and healthy options.
Our Favorite Places to Stay in Bled
Let’s start with the only downside: accommodation in Bled isn’t cheap. Especially during the summer, hotel prices can be steep. Luckily, we found some great places that offer excellent value for money.
A top pick is Vila Alice Bled. This stylish villa has just eight rooms, creating a calm, intimate atmosphere. It’s perfectly located in the heart of Bled, with a beautiful garden featuring lounge areas, a jacuzzi, and a pool. Since it’s an adults-only accommodation, it’s ideal for a peaceful retreat. If you’re looking for something more affordable, Vila Alpina is a great choice. It’s close to both the lake and the town center, offering modern rooms with comfortable beds, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. There’s also a sunny terrace with lovely mountain views. Prefer a social vibe? 2nd Station Hostel is perfect for meeting other travelers. Hosts Marko and Natasha are incredibly welcoming, and the modern hostel features spacious common areas and a hearty breakfast. It’s located just outside Bled with easy bus access to the center — great for relaxing after a busy day exploring.
  Vila Alice Bled |
  Vila Alpina |
  2nd Station Hostel |
