AN AMATEUR TOURNAMENT

Where you will be treated like a Grandmaster.

Only players with a FIDE rating of 2300 or below are eligible to participate in the tournament.

BLED CHESS

FESTIVAL

2026

MARCH

9th - 15th


Play.

Explore.

Enjoy.

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.

REGISTER NOW

Win in Your Group.

Title, Subtitle Many prizes. Multiple rating groups. More chances to win.

Exceptional prize

Fund of 6000€ for an amateur tournament.

Lonely planet

Bled Lonely planet must see

Let’s start your first move

Find the best package that suits you best.

Early bird prices valid until 30. 11. 2025

START
SAVE 73€
171 € EARLY BIRD -30% 244 €

START WITH OUR ESSENTIALS

A light entry package for those curious to explore the chess festival atmosphere.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for side events i - Late night blitz tournament - Blitz tournament - Free style chess (rapid tournament)
  • Festival Gift
REGISTER NOW
START+
SAVE 133€
311 € EARLY BIRD -30% 444 €

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

A full-day pass with access to the main events and plenty of action.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments i - Late night blitz tournament - Blitz tournament - Free style chess (rapid tournament)
  • Festival Gift
  • Evenings with grandmaster i After a day of intense play, unwind in the company of our ambassador grandmasters, WGM Laura Unuk and GM Markus Ragger. Over a pleasant conversation, game analysis, and a good drink, you’ll get the rare opportunity to meet and connect with the greats — sharing your passion for the game in a friendly atmosphere.
  • Seminar "Psychology in Chess" i A seminar with Woman Grandmaster and author Dr. Jana Krivec, who wrote the book “Improve Your Life by Playing a Game.” She explores the mental side of chess — focus, confidence, and emotional balance — and how these skills can enrich your everyday life.
  • Get Your Game Reviewed by a GM i After the tournament, have your favorite game personally analyzed by a grandmaster — gain insights, discover missed opportunities, and learn from your own play.
REGISTER NOW
BASIC
SAVE 239€
795 € EARLY BIRD -30% 1136 €

ADVANCED BENEFITS

Extended access, extra experiences, reserved seating, and special sessions.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments i - Late night blitz tournament - Blitz tournament - Free style chess (rapid tournament)
  • Festival Gift
  • Hotel Park **** accomodation in a double room
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner)
  • Swimming pool included
  • Free parking infront of the hotel
REGISTER NOW
SILVER
SAVE 408€
995 € EARLY BIRD -30% 1422 €

ALL INCLUSIVE

All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments
  • Festival Gift
  • Hotel Park **** accomodation in a double room
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner)
  • Swimming pool included
  • Free parking infront of the hotel
  • Special chess Events
REGISTER NOW
GOLD
SAVE 574€
1485 € EARLY BIRD -30% 2122 €

ALL INCLUSIVE

All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments
  • Festival Gift
  • Hotel Park **** accomodation in a double room
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner)
  • Swimming pool included
  • Free parking infront of the hotel
  • Special chess Events
  • Entry in the VIP simul with our Grandmaster ambasadors
  • Slovenian culinary tasting experience
  • Bled lake boat trip
  • Guided tour of the Bled castle
  • SPA Wellnes access (up to 3 hours daily)
REGISTER NOW

Already more than

143 people registered

Laura Unuk

LAURA UNUK / IM, wGM LAURA UNUK

I’d love to invite you to the Bled Chess Festival

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

It is a great pleasure for me to be the ambassador

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.

To host a chess festival where top-quality organization meets the beauty of Lake Bled.

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.

To host a chess festival where top-quality organization meets the beauty of Lake Bled.

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.

A Place Like
No Other.

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.

Bled Island

Bled Castle

More
Than
Chess.

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.

REGISTER NOW

Guided tours

Scenic boat rides to Bled Island and Guided tours, including Bled Castle

Wine taste

Wine tastings and traditional culinary evenings

Relaxation

Access to wellness and relaxation facilities

Activities

Activities for companions, families, and children

Social evenings

Social evenings, cultural moments, and time to simply enjoy

Evening events

Evening events with Grandmasters – analysis, conversation, and fun

What you
need to
know.

The Bled Chess Festival will take place from March 9 to March 15, 2026 at the Congress Center of the Rikli Balance Hotel, offering a stunning view of Lake Bled. The playing hall and the official hotels are just a short walk from the lake and the town center. Free parking is available for players staying in the official hotels.

The festival is open to all chess enthusiasts – regardless of age or experience – with a rating up to 2300 Elo. The main tournament will be played in a single open section, while prizes will be awarded in various categories: overall, women, seniors, juniors, teams, and more.

Registration is available through the online form on our website. The entry fee depends on the chosen package. A complete overview of packages and detailed payment instructions are available in the »Register now« section.

Yes! All main boards will be equipped with electronic chessboards, allowing live coverage on our website and partner platforms. The festival atmosphere will be enhanced by our ambassadors – Laura Unuk, Woman Grandmaster and former World Junior Champion, and Markus Ragger, Austria’s top Grandmaster – who will contribute to the festival’s visibility and daily highlights.

Absolutely! In addition to the main tournament, you can enjoy blitz side events, evening gatherings with Laura Unuk, test your skills in a simul against a Grandmaster, and explore the natural and cultural beauty of Bled. Highlights include a ride with the traditional »pletna« boat to Bled Island, a visit to Bled Castle with breathtaking views, lakeside walks, culinary delights, and many other activities that will make your festival stay unforgettable.

Accomodation

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:

★★★★★

Rikli Balance Hotel (S)

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
★★★★★

Park Hotel

Hotel Park offers a stylish and relaxing stay, ideal for accompanying guests and families.

What does the hotel look like

Let’s start your first move

Find the best package that suits you best.

Early bird prices valid until 30. 11. 2025

START
SAVE 73€
171 € EARLY BIRD -30% 244 €

START WITH OUR ESSENTIALS

A light entry package for those curious to explore the chess festival atmosphere.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for side events i - Late night blitz tournament - Blitz tournament - Free style chess (rapid tournament)
  • Festival Gift
REGISTER NOW
START+
SAVE 133€
311 € EARLY BIRD -30% 444 €

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

A full-day pass with access to the main events and plenty of action.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments i - Late night blitz tournament - Blitz tournament - Free style chess (rapid tournament)
  • Festival Gift
  • Evenings with grandmaster i After a day of intense play, unwind in the company of our ambassador grandmasters, WGM Laura Unuk and GM Markus Ragger. Over a pleasant conversation, game analysis, and a good drink, you’ll get the rare opportunity to meet and connect with the greats — sharing your passion for the game in a friendly atmosphere.
  • Seminar "Psychology in Chess" i A seminar with Woman Grandmaster and author Dr. Jana Krivec, who wrote the book “Improve Your Life by Playing a Game.” She explores the mental side of chess — focus, confidence, and emotional balance — and how these skills can enrich your everyday life.
  • Get Your Game Reviewed by a GM i After the tournament, have your favorite game personally analyzed by a grandmaster — gain insights, discover missed opportunities, and learn from your own play.
REGISTER NOW
BASIC
SAVE 239€
795 € EARLY BIRD -30% 1136 €

ADVANCED BENEFITS

Extended access, extra experiences, reserved seating, and special sessions.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments i - Late night blitz tournament - Blitz tournament - Free style chess (rapid tournament)
  • Festival Gift
  • Hotel Park **** accomodation in a double room
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner)
  • Swimming pool included
  • Free parking infront of the hotel
REGISTER NOW
SILVER
SAVE 408€
995 € EARLY BIRD -30% 1422 €

ALL INCLUSIVE

All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments
  • Festival Gift
  • Hotel Park **** accomodation in a double room
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner)
  • Swimming pool included
  • Free parking infront of the hotel
  • Special chess Events
REGISTER NOW
GOLD
SAVE 574€
1485 € EARLY BIRD -30% 2122 €

ALL INCLUSIVE

All-inclusive VIP package with premium access, exclusive extras, and a special gift.

  • Entry fee for main tournaments
  • Entry fee for 3 side tournaments
  • Festival Gift
  • Hotel Park **** accomodation in a double room
  • Half-board (breakfast and dinner)
  • Swimming pool included
  • Free parking infront of the hotel
  • Special chess Events
  • Entry in the VIP simul with our Grandmaster ambasadors
  • Slovenian culinary tasting experience
  • Bled lake boat trip
  • Guided tour of the Bled castle
  • SPA Wellnes access (up to 3 hours daily)
REGISTER NOW

Already more than

143 people registered

The Team.

Who is behind the entire project and pulls the strings of the organization

Darja Kapš
Darja Kapš

Tournament Director

Ana Srebrnič

Chief Arbiter

Luka Lenič

President of the Chess Club Tajfun - ŠK Ljubljana

Laura Unuk

Festival Ambassador

Markus Ragger

Festival Ambassador

News

Registrations Are Open!
21. 10. 25

Registrations Are Open!

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…

New Festival Ambassadors
21. 10. 25

New Festival Ambassadors

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…

The Festival is Approaching!
21. 10. 25

The Festival is Approaching!

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…

Timeline

1931
Mednarodni turnir Bled–Ljubljana

Svetovni prvak Aljehin zmaga pred Florom in Bogoljubovim.

1959
Turnir kandidatov (Bled/Zagreb/Beograd)

Blesti velemojster Mihail Talj, ki je na poti do naslova svetovnega prvaka.

1961
Jubilejni mednarodni turnir Bled

Zmagoslavje Talja; mladi Robert James Fischer navduši z igro.

1980-2000
Mednarodni in odprti turnirji

Bled redno gosti močne odprte turnirje in ekipna tekmovanja.

2002
35. šahovska olimpijada

Nastopi svetovna elita – skupaj kar 225 reprezentanc iz več kot 100 držav sveta.

2017
Obisk legendarne Judit Polgar

Bled Chess Festival je odprla najboljša šahistka vseh časov.

2018
Svetovno prvenstvo za seniorje

Gostovanje najboljših veteranskih šahistov sveta.

LOCATION

Title and google map with pointer on

Our vision is simple: to create a chess festival where top-level organization meets stunning natural beauty, a warm community, and unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a dedicated club player, or a passionate enthusiast, Bled offers more than just games – it offers a complete journey.

Contact form.

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    Thanks to our supporters!

    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.