New Delhi, October 18 (IANS). The Slovenian city of Bled has been named among the world’s best tourist towns by the United Nations (UN) Tourism. Bled is world famous for its beautiful glacial lake, the small island in the middle of the lake and the church there. For this, the city received this honor under the UN Tourism Best Tourism Village initiative. This honor is given to places that promote sustainable tourism development while preserving natural and cultural heritage. According to the Ministry of Economy, Tourism and Sports of Slovenia, this honor confirms Bled’s place among the world’s leading sustainable tourism destinations. The initiative aims to address rural population decline by supporting towns that use tourism to create economic opportunities and protect local traditions and values. According to Xinhua News Agency, the honor, although non-financial, could help bring the city to international prominence and reach the UN Tourism World Development Network. According to the Tourism Board of Slovenia, about 8 thousand people live in the city of Bled. Bled became the latest destination in Slovenia to receive this title. Previously, Solčava and Radovljica received the honor in 2021, while Bohinj received the honor in 2022. Located in the foothills of the Julian Alps, the city stretches along the shores of a glacial lake. On a rock at the edge of the lake stands the 11th-century Bled Castle, which houses a museum, chapel and printing press. On a small island in the middle of the lake is the Shrine Church of the Assumption of Mary, with a steep staircase and a bell tower. The fifth edition of Best Tourism Village 2025 honored 52 villages from all regions of the world (Africa, America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East). They were selected from over 270 applications received from 65 UN Tourism Member States. Apart from this, 20 more towns have joined the upgradation programme. The list of new villages was announced at a special ceremony in the city of Huzhou in China. All 72 villages have become part of the Best Tourism Villages (BTV) network. This network grows every year. With the announcement of 72 new members, 319 towns are now part of the world’s largest community of rural tourism destinations. “Tourism can be a powerful way to promote shared prosperity, inclusive growth and regional cohesion in rural areas,” said UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. “Our Best Tourism Towns are examples of communities working to protect their cultural heritage, conserve their natural resources and create economic opportunities through tourism. These towns demonstrate that by embracing tourism, they improve socially. We can promote inclusion and build a future where no one is left behind.” –IANS DCH/AS
Slovenia’s Bled included in UN Tourism’s Best Tourism Towns of 2025
