Ljubljana: Lake Bled and Bohinj Tour with Savica Waterfall

Explore the natural beauty of Slovenia through a comprehensive day trip that covers Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, and the Savica Waterfall. This 9.5-hour tour departs from Ljubljana and includes expert guidance, transportation, and entrance fees for key sights. Starting at 8:00 AM, the tour offers a balance of scenic stops, cultural insights, and free time to explore at your own pace, making it a popular choice for those eager to see Slovenia’s iconic landscapes. The tour is praised for knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and a well-structured itinerary, though it involves some walking and short hikes to reach certain sights.

While the tour provides rich experiences at each location, it’s worth noting that some attractions, like the boat ride to Bled Island or castle entry, are optional extras at additional costs. This tour offers an excellent overview of the region’s highlights, especially for travelers seeking a guided day trip with flexibility and expert insights.

Key Points

• Includes transportation and guiding from Ljubljana to Bled, Bohinj, and Savica Waterfall
• Visits Bled Lake with optional boat trip to the island and Bled castle (additional costs)
• Explores Lake Bohinj, known for its crystal-clear waters and peaceful atmosphere
• Visits Savica Waterfall, famous for its dramatic cascade and scenic walk
• Tour lasts about 9.5 hours, starting at 8:00 AM with pickup from central Ljubljana locations
• Highly rated at 4.8/5 from 670 reviews, with guides praised for their knowledge and humor

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Starts at Central Ljubljana Pickup Points

This tour begins with a pickup at 3 convenient locations in Ljubljana, including InterContinental Ljubljana at 8:00 AM, City Hotel Ljubljana at 8:05 AM, or French Revolution Square at 8:10 AM. The small group transportation provides a comfortable journey to the scenic sites, with the driver relaying interesting facts along the way. A short 1-hour drive takes travelers from Ljubljana out into the countryside, where the day’s adventure unfolds.

The tour operates with the flexibility of skip-the-line tickets and a live English-speaking guide, ensuring both educational commentary and smooth transitions between stops.

Visiting Bled: The “Image of Paradise”

The first major stop is Lake Bled, famous for its medieval castle perched atop a cliff and the romantic Bled island. The tour includes scenic viewing, photo stops, and the chance to explore the lake’s surroundings. Travelers can opt to board a traditional wooden pletna boat (additional €20) to visit the island’s charming church and wishing bell. The castle entry fee (additional €18) allows visitors to enjoy spectacular views and historical exhibits.

Bled is often described as a picture-perfect setting, with crystal-clear waters and lush green hills. Guides share stories about the area, and the optional boat ride offers a special photo opportunity. Many choose to try the famous Bled cream cake at a local café, which is highly recommended.

Exploring Lake Bohinj and Its Tranquil Setting

After leaving Bled, the journey continues to Lake Bohinj, set within the Triglav National Park. Known for its serene environment and unspoiled scenery, Bohinj offers a peaceful contrast to Bled’s more touristy atmosphere. The tour provides free time of about 2 hours at the lake, perfect for photos, walks, or simply relaxing.

The Church of St. John the Baptist, famous for its beautiful frescoes, is nearby and adds a cultural touch to the visit. The calm waters of Bohinj are ideal for a short walk or a swim in summer (not included, but available if you wish). This stop is appreciated for its quiet beauty and the chance to enjoy Slovenia’s less crowded natural landscapes.

The Marvel of Savica Waterfall

Next on the agenda is the Savica Waterfall, one of Slovenia’s most iconic cascades. The waterfall dramatically plunges into an emerald pool, creating a stunning display of nature’s power. Visitors walk about 20 minutes uphill to reach the waterfall, with some steep sections. The guided tour includes entrance fees and commentary on the waterfall’s legend and formation.

The walk up to Savica Waterfall involves a moderate hike with some stairs and uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The view of the waterfall and the surrounding forest makes it a memorable highlight of the trip.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Drive and Free Time at Lake Bled

Following the waterfall, the tour returns to Lake Bled for a significant four hours of free time. Visitors can choose to take a boat to the island, explore the castle, or simply enjoy walking along the lake’s edge. Many guests enjoy getting a taste of the local Bled cream cake or relaxing at a lakeside café.

The optional boat ride costs about €16, and castle entry is €18. The ample free time allows visitors to customize their experience, whether they prefer sightseeing, relaxing, or indulging in local treats.

Practical Logistics and Group Experience

The tour includes roundtrip transportation from Ljubljana, with pickups and drop-offs at three main hotels or locations. The small group size and knowledgeable guides are often highlighted in reviews for their friendly, humorous, and informative approach. Guides like Sanja, Luka, and Tibor are praised for their storytelling and attentiveness.

The entire experience is designed to balance sightseeing with free time at key locations, giving travelers control over what they see and do. Comfortable shoes and cash for optional fees are recommended, as some attractions charge extra.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

Expect some moderate walking and short hikes, especially to the Savica Waterfall and castle. The uphill walk to the waterfall takes about 20 minutes, with steps and uneven terrain. The castle features steps and uneven surfaces, which may require some mobility awareness. Travelers should plan accordingly, especially if avoiding steep or strenuous walks.

The tour emphasizes comfortable shoes and being prepared for weather conditions. Swimwear is suggested for summer trips, especially if you plan to enjoy the lakes. No pets are allowed on this tour.

The Guide’s Role and Guest Experience

Guests consistently praise guides for their knowledge, humor, and flexibility. Many mention guides like Maya, Luka, and Tibor for their entertaining storytelling and attention to guest needs. The guides not only explain the history and legends of each site but also ensure everyone has enough free time and clarity about options.

The live English-speaking guide enriches the day with local stories and practical tips, making the experience more engaging and personalized. Reviewers often highlight how guides effectively balance information and fun, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Slovenia’s natural and cultural treasures.

Final Thoughts on the Ljubljana: Lake Bled and Bohinj Tour

This well-organized day trip offers a comprehensive glance at Slovenia’s most photogenic lakes and waterfalls. The 9.5-hour itinerary packs in sightseeing, cultural insights, and leisure, making it suitable for travelers who want a guided experience without the hassle of planning logistics.

The tour’s high ratings reflect its quality, with expert guides, beautiful scenery, and flexible options for exploring Bled and Bohinj. The main limitations involve additional costs for attractions like the boat ride and castle, and some physical activity for walking uphill or climbing stairs.

Ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts, this tour provides a balanced and memorable introduction to Slovenia’s natural wonders. Travelers seeking a comfortable, guided adventure with free time to explore will find this tour a reliable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from Ljubljana is included, with pickups at three central locations.

Can I visit Bled Island?
Yes, optional boat rides to Bled Island are available for an additional €20, and the tour provides the chance to visit the island’s church.

What are the entrance fees?
The tour includes Savica Waterfall entrance fee. Entry to Bled Castle (additional €18) and the church of the Assumption (additional €12) are not included.

How long is the free time at Lake Bled?
Guests have approximately 4 hours of free time, enough to explore the lake, visit the castle, or take a boat to the island.

Is physical activity required?
Yes, there is some walking and a moderate uphill hike to Savica Waterfall. Comfortable shoes and a basic level of mobility are recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, swimwear (for summer), and cash for optional tickets and tips.

What is the tour guide like?
Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness to guest needs, making the experience engaging and informative.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on this tour.

What if the minimum number of participants isn’t met?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds or alternative options offered.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The physical aspects mean it’s best for those who can handle some walking and stairs, but overall, it’s suitable for most travelers looking for scenic exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby