If you’re planning a trip to Slovenia, visiting Lake Bled is probably at the top of your list. It’s one of the most popular day trips from the capital, but honestly, I recommend staying a night or two instead of rushing it. I spent three nights in Bled and it was perfect. Unless you’re renting a car for your whole Slovenia trip, the easiest way to reach Bled is by bus.
I’ve personally done this route and I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about taking the bus from Ljubljana to Bled and back again.
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Taking the Bus from Ljubljana to Bled
The journey starts at Ljubljana’s main bus station, Avtobusna Postaja Ljubljana, which is right across from the train station. Buses to Bled run frequently throughout the day, usually every 30 to 60 minutes. The first buses leave early in the morning (around 5:00 to 7:00 am) and the last ones head back at night, around 9:30 to 10:30 pm.
The ride itself is easy. Most buses are operated by Arriva and take about an hour, sometimes a little longer depending on stops. The seats are comfortable and you can stash your luggage under the bus or bring a smaller bag on board.
Where the Bus Stops in Bled
The Ljubljana to Bled bus stops at two main points in town:
- Bled Bus Station – This is the main bus station and closest to the lake. If you’re doing a day trip I would probably get off at this one. It’s the one I used since I was staying at Bled Hostel (which I highly recommend).
- Bled Union Bus Stop – A little closer if your accommodation is in that part of town.
Both stops are convenient, so just pick whichever works best for where you’re staying.
Tickets and How to Buy Them
Tickets for the bus from Ljubljana to Bled usually cost around €6 to €8 one way. They are heavily often discounted on weekends.
The ticket basically acts as proof that you can travel between Ljubljana and Bled on the date printed — it doesn’t lock you into one specific bus or guarantee a seat. In practice, you can usually hop on any bus running that same day for the route. Just keep in mind that seats are first-come-first-served, so during busy summer months it’s smart to get to the station early.
Here are your options for buying tickets:
- At the bus station: There’s a ticket counter at Ljubljana’s bus station. When I went, it was cash only, though I’ve heard they may now take cards.
- Online through the AP Ljubljana website: Since I didn’t have cash, I booked online with my card the night before, then day of I went to the counter at the station to have them print it out. That part is important because drivers don’t accept mobile tickets. You need a printed ticket in hand for boarding.
Bled to Ljubljana Bus (The Return Trip)
When you’re ready to leave, the Bled to Ljubljana bus is just as simple. Buses leave regularly from both Bled and Bled Union. The journey time and price are about the same, and you’ll find departures every 30 to 60 minutes. If you need to buy a ticket still, leave from Bled Station as Bled Union is just a bus stop. The busses originate from Bled Station so it’s a little easier.
If you’re only visiting for the day, make sure you check the schedule ahead of time so you don’t miss the last bus back to Ljubljana, usually between 9:30 and 10:30 pm.
FAQ about the Ljubljana to Bled Bus
How much is the bus from Ljubljana to Bled?
Tickets are usually €6 to €8 one way, and heavily discounted on weekends.
How long does the Ljubljana to Bled bus take?
Around 1 hour to 1h20m, depending on stops.
Is the Bled to Ljubljana bus frequent?
Yes. Busses run throughout the day, with the last ones leaving Bled around 9:30 to 10:30pm.
Do I need more than one day in Bled?
In my option, yes. If you just want to see lake Bled itself, one day is enough. But the Slovenia just beyond Lake Bled is gorgeous and you would not want to miss it. Vintgar Gorge is a must, and personally I also wanted time to visit the sites in Triglav National Park as well.
Spending some time in Ljubljana? I highly recommend a day trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. Here’s how to Visit Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle Without a Car from Ljubljana.
Plan Your Trip to Lake Bled
Top Tours & Experiences in Lake Bled
From Lake Bled you can get to some amazing places in Slovenia. Since I didn’t have a car, and wanted to explore Triglav National Park, I took the following tour. It was fantastic and it took us to all the top sights and then some.
From Bled: Triglav National Park Full-Day Tour
Where to Stay in Lake Bled
If you’re still looking for a place to stay, here are some of the best budget-friendly options with excellent value.
- Bled Hostel – This is where we stayed and it was great!
Non-Hostel Options:
