2 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Exploring the Capital & Lake Bled
Slovenia is a small country packed with beauty, culture, and adventure. If you’re short on time but want to experience the best of this charming country, this 2 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary is perfect for you!
On the first day, you’ll explore the vibrant capital of Ljubljana, with its stunning architecture, buzzing riverside cafes, and rich history.
Then, on the second day, you’ll take a scenic trip to the breathtaking Lake Bled—where emerald waters, a fairytale castle, and an iconic island await.
Whether you stroll Ljubljana’s cobbled streets or boat across Lake Bled, this itinerary ensures you capture the magic of Slovenia in just two unforgettable days.
Read more: 2 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Exploring the Capital & Lake Bled2 Days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Exploring the Capital & Lake Bled
Ljubljana and Lake Bled have been on my travel list for so long, so I was happy to finally plan a little getaway to Slovenia with my boyfriend at the end of September!
Day 1: Exploring Ljubljana
We made it to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, bright and early. The city can be easily visited in one day if you focus on its main landmarks.
Ljubljana Castle
Ljubljana Castle, located on Castle Hill, is one of Slovenia’s most iconic landmarks. It offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
This medieval fortress, dating back to the 11th century, has served various purposes, including a defensive structure, a noble residence, and even a prison. Today, it functions as a vibrant cultural centre, hosting various exhibitions, events, and performances.
You can explore the castle’s museum, which outlines Slovenia’s history, and climb the watchtower for panoramic views.
You have two options to reach the castle: you can either take the funicular or walk all the way there. I’d say if you’re able-bodied and looking to save money, it’s better to walk there. It’s fairly easy and allows you to discover the area around the castle as well!
The entrance fee for Bled Castle:
- €15 for adults
- €10 for students (with ID)
- €5 for children (ages 5-14)
- Free for children under 5.
You can pre-book your ticket online on GetYourGuide as well!
Ljubljana Old Town
Ljubljana’s Old Town is a charming blend of Baroque and medieval architecture. It has winding cobblestone streets and lively squares, all nestled along the picturesque Ljubljanica River.
At its heart lies Prešeren Square, a vibrant gathering place where the iconic Triple Bridge connects the old and new parts of the city.
As you stroll through Old Town, you can admire landmarks such as the Robba Fountain, Ljubljana Cathedral, and Town Hall while also discovering cosy cafes, boutiques, and local artisan shops.
Triple Bridge and Prešeren Square
As mentioned above, the Triple Bridge and Prešeren Square are the lively centre of Ljubljana, showcasing the city’s unique charm and vibrant spirit.
Designed by the renowned Slovenian architect Jože Plečnik, the Triple Bridge consists of three pedestrian bridges that elegantly span the Ljubljanica River, linking the old and modern parts of the city.
This architectural marvel leads to Prešeren Square, a bustling hub named after Slovenia’s beloved poet, France Prešeren.
The square is often bustling with locals and visitors enjoying nearby cafes, shops, and street performances.
Surrounded by beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and featuring the iconic pink Franciscan Church, it’s an ideal spot to immerse yourself in Ljubljana’s lively atmosphere and historical beauty.
Visit the National Gallery or the Museum of Contemporary Art
Visiting the National Gallery of Slovenia and the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova provides a rich exploration of the country’s artistic heritage.
The National Gallery, set in a beautiful neoclassical building, features an impressive Slovenian and European art collection from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including notable Renaissance and Baroque works.
In contrast, the Museum of Contemporary Art Metelkova focuses on modern and contemporary art, showcasing innovative exhibitions that push boundaries.
Stroll along the along the Ljubljanica River
Strolling along the Ljubljanica River is a delightful experience and offers a unique perspective on the city’s charm and character. It was one of my favourite things to do, as it was a beautiful day and you passed by many interesting city highlights.
The riverbanks are lined with picturesque bridges, including the iconic Triple Bridge and the ornate Dragon Bridge, each showcasing stunning architectural details. As you walk, you’ll encounter vibrant cafes and restaurants that are perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee or a meal with a view of the water.
Along the river, you can explore the Central Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, artisanal goods, and crafts. Don’t miss the beautiful Butcher’s Bridge, adorned with love locks (similar to the Pont des Arts in Paris that used to have them!), which leads to the historic Old Town.
Tivoli Park
Tivoli Park is Ljubljana’s largest and most cherished green space, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Covering over 5 square kilometres, the park features beautifully landscaped gardens, serene pathways, and picturesque ponds, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, or outdoor activities.
You can explore charming walking trails lined with vibrant flowerbeds and towering trees or relax by the fountain in the central square.
Tivoli Park’s heart is the Tivoli Mansion, which houses the International Centre of Graphic Arts and frequently hosts art exhibitions.
The park also includes several playgrounds and sports facilities, catering to families and more sporty people.
That’s it for your first day in Ljubljana! With this little one day, you are covering most of the city’s main points!
Day 2: Day Trip to Lake Bled & Ljubljana At Night
If you wish to visit Bled without a tour, don’t worry—it’s very easy. To reach Bled, you need to book a bus ticket here. The perk of doing that is that the tickets don’t have a designated time slot, so you can go and leave whenever you want.
Arrive In Lake Bled
Arrive in Bled early to ensure you have a full day to enjoy this area to the fullest!
Bled is a very short ride from Ljubljana and a must-do if you’re visiting, even for a short period like we had!
Take a stroll around the Lake.
Strolling around Lake Bled is a wonderful way to enjoy the area’s stunning natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
The 6-kilometer path surrounding the lake is well-maintained and accessible, making it ideal for walkers, joggers, and families.
Along the route, you’ll find highlights such as the picturesque Bled Island, home to the charming Church of the Assumption, and the impressive Bled Castle, which sits high on a cliff and offers breathtaking views.
The trail also features lovely relaxing spots, including benches and grassy areas, where you can take in the sights of the emerald-green water and surrounding mountains.
Visit Bled Castle
If you’re up to it, you can Visit Bled Castle early on, as it is one of the first things you’ll encounter when you start to walk around Lake Bled.
Bled Castle, situated on a steep cliff above Lake Bled, is one of Slovenia’s most picturesque and historically significant landmarks. Like Ljubljana Castle, it dates back to the 11th century and has served various purposes throughout its history, including a fortress, a noble residence, and even a prison.
You can explore its well-preserved towers, museums, and charming courtyard while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The castle also features a restaurant where guests can savour traditional Slovenian cuisine and local wines.
Visit the Church on the Island
Visiting the Church of the Assumption on Bled Island truly makes any trip to Lake Bled unforgettable. This remarkable 17th-century church beautifully blends nature’s splendour with rich cultural heritage. It boasts stunning Baroque architecture and a charming bell tower.
Don’t miss the chance to climb the 99 steps for a breathtaking lake view
Inside, you’ll find exquisite frescoes and the enchanting “Wishing Bell,” believed by locals to grant wishes for those who ring it magically.
The serene ambience of the island, accessible by a traditional “Pletna boat” or kayaking, invites you to unwind and soak in the stunning scenery.
Whether you’re capturing memories through photography, reflecting in quiet contemplation, or simply enjoying the majestic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, this spot will surely lift your spirits!
Hike to Mala Osojnica or Ojstrica trails
If you’re looking for an amazing view of Lake Bled and the island, hike the Mala Osojnica or Ojstrica trails.
They offer some of the best panoramic views of Lake Bled and its surroundings, making it a must-do for nature lovers and photographers.
We had initially planned to hike our way to the viewpoint of Mala Osojnica, but somehow, we ended up hiking the Ojstrica trail. I do not regret it!
The well-marked trail takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the viewpoint. However, if you hike it up on a rainy day, it gets quite slippery and, therefore, a bit tricky to get there—but not impossible!
Both viewpoints are beautiful, and the hike for both is similar, but it’s nice to note that the Ojstrica trail tends to be steeper and more challenging, especially in certain sections. Ojstrica is often considered one of the best in the area, providing a unique vantage point of the lake and its surroundings.
Straza Bled – Toboganing
Tobogganing is a great activity to do if you’re visiting the Lake Bled area!
You can walk to the toboggan, but I recommend buying a ticket that includes the chair lift rides and the toboggan (12€).
This unique tobogganing experience makes you glide down the slopes, enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Bled and the surrounding mountains. There is also a photo spot there with a cute frame to get a nice photo souvenir!
Here are some info about it:
– Track length: 520 m
– Elevation difference: 131 m
– Top speed: 40 km/h
– Average incline: 25,2%
You can easily spend a whole day in Bled without running out of activities. It’s a great and easy day trip from Ljubljana.
Note that it is also possible to swim in Lake Bled during the summer. So, it’s a nice day trip from Ljubljana all year round.
Also, follow me on Instagram to check out my travel adventures around Europe and more lifestyle content @cpt_lyne!
Conclusion on 2 days in Ljubljana Itinerary
Are you looking for more European destinations? Then check out those travel posts!
- 50+ Free Things To Do In Paris, France
- Best Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia
- How To Spend One Day In Cardiff, U.K
- Top Things To Do In Bristol, U.K
- What To Do In Geneva In 2 Days, Switzerland
- Day Trip To Graz, Austria
- Visit Budapest in 2 Days, Hungary
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2 days in Ljubljana Itinerary: Exploring the Capital & Lake Bled
✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip
✈ How To Find Flights?
– Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights.
– Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights.
✈ Where To Book Accommodations?
– Booking.com: plenty of options and ways to get discount the more you book.
✈ Best Sites To Book Activities
– GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them.
– Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website or different day trips—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…).
✈ Other helpful travel resources
– Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them.
– TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe.
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Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!
