Play chess with stunning views of Lake Bled and its castle – in conditions worthy of Grandmasters.
Enjoy nature, fresh air, and a taste of Slovenian cuisine.
Make the most of our side programme – with chess content and relaxing activities for players and companions.
Win in Your Group
Multiple rating groups. More prizes. More chances to win.
Exceptional prize
€6,000 prize fund for an amateur tournament.
Lonely Planet Must-See
Bled is listed as a Lonely Planet must-see.
Find the perfect package for you. Package prices are per person (shared double room).
START WITH OUR ESSENTIALS
A light entry package for those curious to explore the chess festival atmosphere.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
A full-day pass with access to the main events and plenty of action.
ADVANCED BENEFITS
Extended access, extra experiences, reserved seating, and special sessions.
ALL INCLUSIVE
All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.
ALL INCLUSIVE
All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.
IM / wGM LAURA UNUK
one of the most special amateur tournaments out there. It’s not just about great chess, but also about fun moments,
new friendships, and the beautiful setting of Lake Bled.
I’ll be there too, and I’m really looking forward to spending this unforgettable chess week together.
Hope to see you there!
Laura Unuk
GM MARKUS RAGGER
of the Bled Chess Festival 2026. Bled is a place with an exceptional chess tradition and a magical atmosphere that continues to inspire both players and visitors alike.
This time I will not participate as a player, but rather as a companion and supporter. I look forward to spending time with the participants, following the games, and enjoying the unique spirit that only chess in Bled can offer.
I believe the festival will be a wonderful opportunity for inspiration, friendship, and a true celebration of the game that unites us all.
See you in Bled!
Markus Ragger
Play great games, meet new people, and create memories you’ll want to relive year after year.
Slovenia is one of the safest and most beautiful destinations in Europe, and Bled is its jewel, where the tranquility of nature meets a long tradition of warm welcome. Chess players have always been embraced with open arms in Bled – the local community knows how to create a pleasant, homely atmosphere in which every visitor feels welcome.
You’ll find a friendly community and a varied side programme that blends chess activities, social gatherings, and optional extras like spa time or other ways to relax and enjoy the setting.
The tournament is also perfect for bringing a partner, friend, or parent—someone who may not play chess but can still enjoy everything Bled has to offer while you compete. This isn’t just a tournament; it’s a chess holiday.
Set beside a crystal-clear lake, surrounded by mountains and steeped in history, Bled is one of Europe’s most magical destinations. The town itself becomes part of the festival atmosphere – peaceful, inspiring, and full of charm.
Bled has been ranked in Lonely Planet’s Ultimate Travel List of the top ten must-see global destinations.
We’ve created a program that lets players and their companions enjoy much more than just the tournament.
Relax between rounds, explore the local culture, and connect with fellow chess lovers in meaningful ways.
Scenic boat rides to Bled Island and Guided tours, including Bled Castle
Wine tastings and traditional culinary evenings
Access to wellness and relaxation facilities
Activities for companions, families, and children
Social evenings, cultural moments, and time to simply enjoy
Evening events with Grandmasters – analysis, conversation, and fun
The Bled Chess Festival will be held from March 9 to 15, 2026, at the Rikli Balance Hotel Congress Centre, which offers a stunning view of Lake Bled. The playing hall and the official hotels are just a short walk from the center of Bled and the lake. Free parking is available for chess players staying in either of the official hotels.
The main tournament of the festival is open to all chess enthusiasts – regardless of age or experience – with a rating of up to 2300. This means that only players with a FIDE rating of 2300 or lower may participate, with the rating being considered at the time of registration and payment of the entry fee. Important: Players holding official chess titles are also eligible to participate. The main tournament will be played in a single section, and prizes will be awarded to the best players in various categories: overall, women, seniors, juniors, teams, and others.
Registration is done via the online form available on our website. The entry fee depends on the selected package. A complete overview of the packages and detailed payment instructions can be found under the “Register now” and “VIP Packages” sections on our website.
All main tournament boards will be equipped with electronic chessboards, allowing games to be followed live on our website and partner platforms. The festival’s special atmosphere will be enhanced by Grandmasters Laura Unuk, and Markus Ragger, who will serve as the festival ambassador, promoting the event and engaging with players and guests daily.
Absolutely! In addition to the main tournament, you can take part in blitz and rapid side events, evening gatherings with Laura Unuk, simultaneous exhibitions against a grandmaster, and enjoy discovering Bled’s natural and cultural beauty. You can look forward to a traditional pletna boat ride to Bled Island, a visit to Bled Castle with its unforgettable view, lakeside walks, culinary experiences, and many other activities designed to make your festival stay truly memorable.
For a pleasant festival experience, we have selected two top accommodations in the heart of Bled – Rikli Balance Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐ and Hotel Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐.Just a short stroll from the lake, offering comfort, wellness facilities, and stunning alpine views.
Highlights of the Festival Experience:
At Rikli Balance Hotel, the festival comes even closer to you – the hotel features a dedicated playing hall where the tournament will take place.
What does the hotel look like
Hotel Park offers a stylish and relaxing stay, ideal for accompanying guests and families.
What does the hotel look likeFind the perfect package for you. Package prices are per person (shared double room).
START WITH OUR ESSENTIALS
A light entry package for those curious to explore the chess festival atmosphere.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
A full-day pass with access to the main events and plenty of action.
ADVANCED BENEFITS
Extended access, extra experiences, reserved seating, and special sessions.
ALL INCLUSIVE
All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.
ALL INCLUSIVE
All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.
For nearly a century, Bled has held a special place in the history of world chess. In 1931, Bled hosted one of the most famous international tournaments of its time, won by World Champion…
Don’t wait! Registration for the Bled Chess Festival 2026 is now open! Secure your spot in the tournaments and play alongside the best chess players from Slovenia and abroad. Spaces are limited – make…
We are thrilled to announce that the ambassadors of the Bled Chess Festival are Slovenian Grandmaster Laura Unuk and Austrian Grandmaster Markus Ragger! With their energy, experience, and passion for chess, they will bring…
Preparations for the Bled Chess Festival 2026 are in full swing! From March 9 to 15, Bled will transform into a true chess hub, where players from Slovenia and abroad will compete. Don’t miss…
World Champion Alexander Alekhine wins ahead of Flohr and Bogoljubov.
Grandmaster Mikhail Tal shines on his way to becoming World Champion.
Triumph for Tal; the young Robert James Fischer impresses with his play.
Bled regularly hosts strong open tournaments and team competitions.
The world’s elite gathers — 225 teams from 100 countries.
The Bled Chess Festival is opened by the greatest female chess player of all time.
Bled hosts the best veteran chess players in the world.
LOCATION
The Festival takes place at the Rikli Balance Hotel Congress Centre, located in the heart of Bled. With breathtaking views of crystal-clear Lake Bled, a small island with a picturesque church, medieval Bled Castle, and the Julian Alps, the venue combines modern facilities with the serene atmosphere of Slovenia’s most iconic destination.
Bled is often described as the jewel of the Slovenian Alps – a place where nature, culture, and hospitality meet in perfect harmony. Beyond the board, players and guests can enjoy local cuisine, lakeside walks, and nearby mountain trails.
Slovenia itself is a safe, welcoming, and easily accessible country located in the heart of Europe – bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia – making travel simple from any direction.
The Bled Chess Festival would not be possible without the support of our partners and sponsors. Their help enables us to organize a top-level chess event and create an unforgettable experience for all participants.
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