Slovenia is not a country that often pops up at the top of travel wishlists, but these are the countries that often take us by surprise for their natural beauty, intriguing history, and hospitable locals – mostly, because the expectations were almost non-existent, or perhaps you really had heard little about it. I read about the country first in an encyclopedia we had around in my childhood – it was about Ljubljana and its young population.

I spent a long weekend in Slovenia at the end of August, taking the chance to visit the famous Lake Bled and roam around the charming capital of Ljubljana, at my arrival, I witnessed a lively city, where locals and tourists alike seemed to be taking the most of last summery events. But before that, I had been in Bled.

This year I also started taking some videos from the places I visited, to try out a new format. You can find them below – short formats, with snippets of the places I was in to give you a different perspective. And I thought it would be good to let you know what I did, what I recommend, and how I got around in this long weekend in Slovenia!

Lake Bled

The first thing that comes to mind when I think about Bled is the clear waters of the Lake. I suppose to me finding clear waters is a sign of hope. That somewhere things are still clean, that people are protecting our Home. And not because Bled is a deserted place, in the midst of a virgin forest. Quite the contrary. This is a place where so many were relaxing, swimming, simply having a good time.

Things to do in Bled

Walk around the Lake. The path is walkable, about 6 Km in diameter, and if the weather is agreeable you can always stop by the many beach spots for a swim, or sunbathing. The views are stunning and you can take a look at the town of Bled and the island from different viewpoints.
Hike up Mala Osojnica. For the best view, and some exercise!
Try out the traditional Cream Cake where the locals go to get it, at Zima.
Enjoy some traditional mushroom soup – most restaurants offer it, had some at Sova. The service wasn’t great though, they seemed short in staff. Hopefully, it’s something they’ll sort out soon
Visit Vintgar Gorge. I went to Mamut offices, a tour agency in Slovenia, and bought through them a ticket for a shuttle and entry. This was definitely worth the time, and the money – I paid €20 euros, including entrance and shuttle. I do advise you to go early, as it gets very busy, especially during peak season.

These were the things I did for a one-night stay in Lake Bled. Other popular activities include the visit to Bled Castle and the boat trip to Bled’s Islands. I prioritised the free activities, and I don’t regret it one bit – the boat tickets were incredibly overpriced and whilst the castle could be something of interest, to me personally, all castles start to look alike after some time… and well, the view to it from the below was already incredibly satisfying.

Getting from Ljubljana airport to Bled

There is a public bus that takes you to Bled from the airport. The journey was supposed to take just about 45 minutes, but since it was a summer Saturday, there was quite a bit of traffic getting into Bled, and so it took a little longer. This is the most economical way to travel to Bled from the airport. There are also private shuttles you could take, but for me, as a solo traveller, it was not as budget-friendly. It is also very easy to find the bus stop – just outside the airport exit, across the road, to your left. The company is Arriva, and you can check the schedule online.

Accommodation in Bled

There are plenty of options. I was trying to find the most budget-friendly, without having to stay at a hostel. Vila Alpina was the best option for me – whilst is not in the center of Bled Town, I love how quiet it was,. The room was uber clean, the decoration really made me feel I was in the mountains (as I was indeed!) and the host was incredibly nice and welcoming. Definitely recommend staying here. I booked it through Booking.com.

Ljubljana

Ljubljana’s architecture surprised me in many ways, especially as I heard more and more about Jože Plečnik, a name that was a constant in the walking tour I took in the city. The tour guide spoke about him with pride that I thought I could only hear from parents speaking about the deeds of their children. And indeed this architect seemed to have done so much for the city, with incredibly modern ideas for his time – that of making cities about community, about cohabiting with nature. Citizens of Ljubljana will be forever grateful to him for generations, as the city as it exists today is thanks to him, his work, his dedication, his fearless take on what buildings should be therefore – for the people, but never ignoring our true home, Nature.

I was truly fascinated with the quirky side of the capital – Metelkova. What can I say, using art for expression, for rebellion, for freedom of speech… isn’t it one of the most beautiful ways for one to speak out? Such a contrast with the Old Town, but truly a part of the youth of Ljubljana, and of the power that artistic expression has in transformation and, do I dare say, retaliation.

Things to do in Ljubljana

Roam around the Old Town. As cars are not allowed in the old town, you can walk freely, admiring the architecture, taking a look at the small shops, and sipping a beverage by the river.
Take a Free Walking Tour. This is something I preach again and again, and I always participate in one if I have time and there is one available. unusually, volunteers run these tours and are truly passionate about the place. You’ll learn more about the history of the city, the funny and also would destroying stories. And in the end, you pay what you feel is right.
Walk up to the Castle. You don’t have to visit the castle – you can walk on the grounds and appreciate the views from above to the city.
Do not miss Metelkova. Ljubljana is small and walkable. Just about 20 minutes walk from the old town, you’ll be in a different city – or at least it will look like it.
Tivoli Gardens: unfortunately I didn’t have a chance to go there, as on my last day a storm ruined most of the afternoon. But everyone was recommending it to me, so it must be a place to visit if the weather allows and you have a little more time in the city.
Count the dragons! This was a little game I invested in for myself. Ljubljana is known by locals as the city of the dragon, and so everywhere you look its symbol will be present. I was particularly entertained but the number of dragon plushies in all colors on sale in every souvenir shop and wondered if anyone actually bought them!

How to get from Bled to Ljubljana

Again, by bus. Use Arriva to check the schedule – the journey takes a little over one hour, depending on how many stops you have on the way there.

Accommodation in Ljubljana

I used Booking.com and got a room at Atik Rooms. This place is fantastic since it’s not too far from the bus and train station, and very central, just a 5-minute walk from the epicenter of the city. The place is also equipped with kitchens on every floor, so you can make your own food if you are looking to be extra budget-friendly 😉

Hope you enjoyed these tips 🙂

Love, Nic