Bled Island
A fairytale island with a 15th-century church, accessible by traditional boats, offering stunning lake views and a legendary wishing bell.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical misty views
Bled Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical misty views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fairytale island with a 15th-century church, accessible by traditional boats, offering stunning lake views and a legendary wishing bell.
"The most magical part was simply drifting in the middle of the lake."
🎯 Book Pletna Early
Catch the first pletna boats for a peaceful island visit.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing steps. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pletna Boat Ride
Lake Bled
Glide across emerald waters in a traditional wooden boat to reach the iconic island.
Church of the Assumption
Bled Island
Climb 99 steps to this 15th-century church and ring the wishing bell for good luck.
Mala Osojnica Viewpoint
Lake Bled shoreline
Hike for breathtaking panoramic views of Bled Island and the surrounding Julian Alps.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Pletna Boat Timing is Key
Island Time vs. Mainland Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Pletna Early
Catch the first pletna boats for a peaceful island visit.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing steps. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Church Entry Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee for the Church of the Assumption. :euro:
🛶 Rent a Rowboat
For more freedom, rent a rowboat and set your own island schedule. :rowboat:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Pletna Early
Catch the first pletna boats for a peaceful island visit.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing steps. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Church Entry Fee
Be aware of the entrance fee for the Church of the Assumption. :euro:
🛶 Rent a Rowboat
For more freedom, rent a rowboat and set your own island schedule. :rowboat:
📸 Capture Island Views
The best photos are often from the mainland or a boat. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bled Island is a picturesque gem, with the pletna boat ride and the charming Church of the Assumption being major draws. Visitors appreciate the unique experience and the serene atmosphere, though some note the limited time on organized tours and the cost of entry. The island's beauty is often best appreciated from the mainland viewpoints.
"Anyways we reached Bled around 9:30 am and then we went to the Bled Island Electric boat. The first one of the day departed at 10 am. There was about 12 of us on it. It was funny because the driver is like, you really only need 10 minutes on the island but I’ll come back in an hour. To be honest, he was definitely right!"
Josh Baltazar
"After hearing so much about the famous Lake Bled in Europe, I finally got to see its beauty today. Visiting in mid-February during the off-season, the lake wasn’t its usual bright blue, but it was incredibly peaceful, allowing us to fully appreciate its natural charm. We rented a wooden paddle boat from a nearby restaurant and B&B for €25 per hour, and the owner was absolutely helpful. It took us about 15 minutes to reach the island. While there aren’t many attractions on the island itself—entering the church costs €12.50—the most magical part was simply drifting in the middle of the lake.
There’s also a hiking trail that takes you halfway up the mountain, offering a stunning panoramic view of the lake. I highly recommend it!"
Awesome Grace
"Getting to Bled Island itself is a memorable experience. You'll take a traditional pletna boat, which adds a touch of old-world charm. The skilled pletna rower will guide you smoothly across the calm waters of Lake Bled, offering stunning views of the lake, Bled Castle perched high above, and the surrounding mountains.
The Church of the Assumption of Mary, a Baroque beauty, is the heart of the island. Its striking white facade and distinct bell tower make it hard to miss. Inside, the ornate altars and lovely frescoes invite contemplation. The real highlight is ringing the church bell—it’s said to bring you good luck, and it adds a delightful touch of tradition to the visit.
Make sure to climb the bell tower for sweeping views of the lake and the mountains. The ascent is well worth the effort, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the best photo opportunities around.
The island itself is small but lush, with pathways winding around its gardens. I enjoyed the peaceful walk, listening to the sounds of nature and absorbing the serene atmosphere. The island offers plenty of benches to rest and admire the surroundings."
Nixon T
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Ljubljana station to Bled, which takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station. Once in Bled, you'll need to reach the lake shore to catch a pletna boat or rent a rowboat to get to the island.
No, Bled Island is only accessible by boat. You can park your car in Bled town and then walk to the lake to find boat services.
Besides pletna boats, you can rent rowboats or paddle boats to reach the island. Walking or cycling around the lake is also popular.
Public transport doesn't directly go to viewpoints like Mala Osojnica. These require a hike from the lake shore.
The bus journey from Ljubljana to Bled typically takes around 1 hour and 6 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need to pay for the pletna boat ride to reach the island. Entry to the Church of the Assumption on the island has a separate fee.
The cost for a pletna boat ride can vary, but it's a set price for a round trip. It's advisable to check current prices upon arrival.
The entrance fee for the Church of the Assumption is approximately €12.50, with family ticket options available.
While you can buy bus tickets in advance, pletna boat tickets are typically purchased at the departure point on the lake shore. Arriving early helps secure a spot.
While the church has a fee, walking around the island's pathways and enjoying the serene atmosphere is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find 1 hour on the island sufficient, especially if arriving by pletna boat, as the tour usually dictates return time.
Visit the Church of the Assumption, ring the wishing bell, climb the bell tower, and explore the island's paths and souvenir shop.
Legend says ringing the bell grants wishes, and it's a popular tradition for visitors.
Yes, especially from the bell tower, offering views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The most stunning views are from Mala Osojnica viewpoint, Ojstrica viewpoint, or from a boat on the lake.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss the famous Bled cream cake (Kremšnita)! It's a local specialty you can find in many cafes around the lake.
There are no full-service restaurants on Bled Island itself, but there is a souvenir shop. Dining options are primarily on the mainland.
Many cafes and bakeries in Bled town offer the famous cream cake. Look for establishments near the lake.
While not prohibited, it's generally more pleasant to enjoy meals at designated dining spots on the mainland.
The park areas around Lake Bled offer opportunities for picnics with beautiful views.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light. Misty mornings can also create magical, atmospheric shots.
From the Mala Osojnica viewpoint, Ojstrica viewpoint, or from a boat on the lake. The island itself offers views from its bell tower.
Drone regulations can be strict in national parks and around landmarks. It's best to check local rules before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and island views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on Bled Castle.
While not widely advertised, local guides might offer photography-focused tours. Inquire locally for options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic to enjoy by the lake instead of dining at restaurants. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Prioritize visiting viewpoints like Mala Osojnica for those iconic panoramic shots. Renting a rowboat offers unique water-level perspectives. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Pletna Boats
Riding a pletna offers a serene journey across the lake, allowing you to soak in the picturesque surroundings, including the island, Bled Castle perched on the cliff, and the surrounding Julian Alps. When planning your visit, consider that pletna boats depart from several points along the lake shore. The first boats usually leave in the morning, and it's highly recommended to catch one of these early departures to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience on the island.
Bled Island's Church and Wishing Bell
Inside, the church features ornate altars and lovely frescoes that invite contemplation.
Capturing the Iconic Views
Reaching these viewpoints involves a moderate hike, but the reward is an unforgettable perspective that graces countless postcards and travel guides. For a different perspective, consider renting a rowboat or paddle boat from the shore.
Early mornings, especially during misty conditions, can create a truly magical and ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing unique and moody shots. Late afternoon light also bathes the scene in a warm, golden glow, ideal for landscape photography. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit