Lake Garda Highlights: Must-Visit Destinations
Explore the splendour of Lake Garda, also known as Lago di Garda, Italy’s largest and most diverse lake, located in the enchanting regions of Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige in Northern Italy. This beloved destination beckons adventurers with its awe-inspiring scenery and many attractions. Whether you crave serene relaxation, thrilling water sports, or immersive cultural experiences, Lake Garda offers an array of adventures tailored to every type of traveller.
Table of Contents
Facts about the lake
- Lake Garda is approximately 51.6 kilometres (32 miles) in length.
- The distance around the lake, considering its irregular shape, is roughly 158 kilometres (98 miles).
- The lake’s maximum depth reaches about 346 meters (1,135 feet).
- The northern part is characterized by narrow sections and mountainous terrain.
- The landscape takes on a more Mediterranean ambience with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves in the south.
- Five idyllic islands can be discovered within the lake (Isola del Garda, Isola San Biagio, Isola di Trimelone, Isola di Sogno and Isola dell’Olivo).
The must-visit places around Lake Garda
DESENZANO DEL GARDA
Desenzano del Garda is the largest town on Lake Garda’s southern shore, and it offers a delightful blend of history and modernity. You can explore the town’s charming historic centre with its picturesque streets and squares. Visit the impressive Desenzano Castle, known for its stunning views of the lake. Enjoy relaxing moments by the lakefront, savouring Italian gelato or cappuccino at the local cafes. The town also provides a lively nightlife scene with plenty of restaurants and bars.
Desenzano Castle
SIRMIONE
Sirmione is renowned for its stunning Scaliger Castle, gracefully perched on the water’s edge. Moreover, the town stands as a historical gem, celebrated for its well-preserved Roman villa, Grotte di Catullo, providing a captivating glimpse into ancient Roman life. As you explore Sirmione’s narrow streets, adorned with charming shops, restaurants, and gelaterias, you’ll discover its unique charm. Lastly, seize the opportunity to indulge in a relaxing dip in the thermal waters at the Terme di Sirmione, celebrated for its therapeutic properties.
MALCESINE
Nestled on the northeastern shore of Lake Garda, Malcesine is a quaint town that beckons with its charm. Its most iconic attraction, the Scaliger Castle of Malcesine, not only stands as a historical gem but also provides fantastic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For a thrilling experience, hop on the Malcesine-Mount Baldo cable car, ready to transport you to the summit of Monte Baldo for breathtaking vistas. Beyond the castle, meander through the town’s medieval streets, savor lakeside promenades and explore local shops for a delightful experience.
RIVA DEL GARDA
Nestled at the northern tip of Lake Garda, Riva del Garda is a charming town surrounded by towering mountains, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, you can engage in thrilling activities like windsurfing and sailing or simply relax on the beautiful beaches. Moreover, don’t miss the chance to explore the historic fortress, Rocca di Riva, and wander through the town’s old streets filled with shops and restaurants. For a more active adventure, consider embarking on a scenic bike ride along the lake or venture into the Sarca Valley for hiking and rock climbing.
PUNTA LARICI
Nestled on the northwestern shores of Italy’s spectacular Lake Garda, Punta Larici is an absolute must-visit for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers. Perched at an elevation of 907 meters, this rugged pinnacle presents awe-inspiring, sweeping panoramas of the lake and the picturesque landscapes that embrace it. Moreover, the trailhead to Punta Larici commences in Pregasina, conveniently located close to the charming town of Riva del Garda.
LAKE TENNO
If you find yourself in the northern part of the lake, a visit to Lake Tenno is undoubtedly worthwhile. Although smaller in size, this lake, located around 10km from Riva del Garda, boasts spectacular views.
CANALE DI TENNO
Another historical gem situated just 10km from Riva del Garda is the Canale di Tenno, a charming medieval village with origins dating back to 1211. Its narrow streets, leading to a small square, are adorned with numerous stone houses connected by picturesque winding passageways.
What to do at Lake Garda?
Lake Garda offers a plethora of activities and relaxation options, whether you’re travelling with family, as a couple, or solo. Whether you prefer the tranquillity of nature or the vibrant energy of bustling towns, Lake Garda caters to diverse preferences. Notably, the freedom to swim adds an extra layer of enjoyment to this remarkable destination, ensuring that boredom is simply not an option in such a vibrant setting. Here are just a few enticing activities to consider at the lake:
- Lake Garda Boat Tours: Explore the stunning lake aboard a boat tour for panoramic views.
- Sirmione Thermal Baths: Relax in the renowned thermal baths of Sirmione.
- Windsurfing in Riva del Garda: Enjoy windsurfing at one of Europe’s premier windsurfing destinations.
- Limone Sul Garda Lemon Groves: Discover the lemon groves in Limone Sul Garda.
- Wine Tasting in Bardolino: Experience wine tasting in the vineyards of Bardolino.
- Gardaland Theme Park: Have a fun-filled day at Gardaland, one of Italy’s top theme parks.
- Cable Car Ride to Monte Baldo: Take a cable car to Monte Baldo for panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Paragliding: Embark on an exhilarating paragliding adventure at Lake Garda, offering a unique perspective of the stunning surroundings.
Riva del Garda
How to get to Lake Garda?
BY PLANE
For those opting to travel by air, here are the nearest airports to Lago di Garda.
Valerio Catullo Airport to Peschiera del Garda: 21.2 km / 13.17 mi / 20 minutes
Brescia Airport to Desenzano del Garda: 27.4 km / 17.02 mi / 24 minutes
Bergamo Airport to Desenzano del Garda: 77.7 km / 48.28 mi / 50 minutes
Venice Airport to Peschiera del Garda: 147 km / 91.34 mi / 1h 25 minutes
Milan Malpensa Airport to Desenzano del Garda: 163 km / 101 mi / 1h 35 minutes
BY CAR
Getting to Lake Garda is easily accomplished by car. Search for your desired location and follow the GPS directions. The parking infrastructure is well-developed, offering both free and paid parking lots.
BY TRAIN
Opting for a train journey is another excellent way to explore the lake. The closest railway stations to Lake Garda are Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda for the southern part and Rovereto for the northern part. For your convenience, you can check timetables and prices on two websites: Trenitalia and Italian Rail.
BY BUS
Traveling to Lake Garda by bus presents itself as another viable option, with accessibility from numerous cities. Below, I provide some timetables to facilitate your trip planning: visitgarda, lakegardatravel, and atvverona.
How to get around Lake Garda
Getting around Lake Garda can be done through various modes of transportation:
- Boats and Ferries: Boat services operate on Lake Garda, connecting many towns and providing a scenic mode of transportation. Ferries and hydrofoils are commonly used for travel between different points on the lake.
- Buses: Local buses run around the lake, connecting towns and villages. They are a cost-effective way to explore the region.
- Car: Renting a car offers flexibility, especially if you want to explore the more remote or less accessible areas around the lake. The road network around Lake Garda is well-developed.
- Biking: Lake Garda has a network of cycling paths, and biking is a popular way to explore the area. You can rent bikes in many towns.
- Walking: Many towns around the lake are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is a delightful way to explore the narrow streets and lakeside promenades.
- Taxis: Taxis are available in larger towns and can be a convenient option for short journeys or if you prefer door-to-door service.
The best time to visit Lake Garda
Determining the optimal time to visit Lago di Garda hinges on your preferences, as each season imparts a distinctive charm to this region.
Spring (March to May):
In spring, the mild temperatures make it an ideal time for activities like hiking and village exploration. Moreover, this season transforms the surroundings into a vibrant display of colours.
Summer (June to August):
If your inclination leans toward warmer weather, summer is the season for you. However, keep in mind that these months are the busiest, drawing water enthusiasts to swim, sail, and windsurf. The lively atmosphere with numerous events and festivals caters to those who relish beach experiences.
Autumn (September to November):
Autumn also holds its appeal for exploration, with pleasant temperatures prevailing. The vineyards, engaged in the grape harvest, provide a splendid backdrop, especially for wine enthusiasts keen on discovering local vineyards amidst the autumnal hues.
Winter (December to February):
The winter season, casting a magical spell on Lake Garda, sees lakeside towns adorned with festive markets. Simultaneously, the surrounding mountains become playgrounds for winter sports enthusiasts. The quieter atmosphere during this time offers a more intimate experience, particularly for those who savor the tranquil side of the lake.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your desired atmosphere and the experiences you seek.
My experience/conclusion
I travelled to Milan Bergamo, and from there, our mode of exploration for Lake Garda was by renting a car. This became my chosen method for discovering the enchanting surroundings. Our visit took place in October, a time when the weather retained its warmth, and the attractions were not overly crowded. Notably, free parking options were accessible, some conveniently close to the attractions, while others required more walking.
In conclusion, Lake Garda stands out as an excellent destination for every type of traveller; your ideal experience awaits, tailored to your preferred seasons and activities. Now, I’d love to hear from you—what’s your favourite spot at Lake Garda? Is there something special you would add to the list? Share your thoughts and experiences below, and let’s continue the journey of discovering the beauty of Lake Garda together!
Leave a Reply