32 tips for trips and things to do at Lago di Garda (2024) + map

Lago di Garda Itálie

Welcome to Lago di Garda in Italy, an alpine lake with crystal clear waters that are lined with charming towns and imposing alpine peaks. Take a look with us at the best trips and things to do at Lago di Garda.

Enjoy a swim in the crystal clear water or a ferry ride, follow one of the many hiking or cycling trails and soak up the charm of the colourful towns with small harbours where you can contemplate and watch the surrounding bustle. There are so many great things to do at Lago di Garda.

Join us for a look at the most beautiful excursions and towns you can visit on Lake Garda.

This guide gives you the best tips on how to enjoy a perfect holiday at Lago di Garda – tips on excursions and things to see nearby, where to stay and other useful information including a map.

Lake Garda, Italy

Lago di Garda, also known as Lake Garda, is located in northern Italy, between Venice and Milan. The lake falls into three regions – Lombardy to the west, Veneto to the east and Tridentino-Upper Adige to the north.

Lago di Garda is Italy’s largest lake, 51.6 kilometres long and 16.7 kilometres wide. It covers an area of over 370 square kilometres.

The lake has a characteristic glacial origin, which is evident in its long and narrow shape, which widens to the south. Many archaeological finds have been discovered in the area of the lake, proving that it was inhabited in prehistoric times. During the Roman era, the area was a popular holiday destination, just as it is today.

The lake is surrounded by many beautiful towns and villages such as Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda at the southern end, Riva del Garda at the northern end and many more in between. It is bordered by mountains in the north, while it is more flat in the south.

Accommodation Lago di Garda 😴

ubytování lago di garda
Hotel Leonardo da Vinci

All-inclusive resort with private beach

ubytování v soukromí lago di garda
Residence Centro Vela

Modern apartments with restaurant

Best trips and things to do at Lago di Garda

1. Sirmione

We start at the very south of Lago di Garda, where Sirmione, the most popular town on the lake, is a must on your list of things to do on Lago di Garda. In summer it is crowded, so to enjoy your visit to the maximum, it is better to arrive in the off-season or early in the morning.

View of the Sirmione promontory from Scaligero Castle / what to see at Lago di Garda
View of the Sirmione promontory from Scaligero Castle / what to see at Lago di Garda

Sirmione is a small town surrounded by olive groves and flower gardens, stretching out into Lago di Garda on a narrow promontory.

The biggest attraction is Scaligero Castle, an imposing medieval castle that dominates the port of Sirmione. The castle was built by the della Scala family in the 13th century for its defense. From the towers and fortress walls, you can enjoy spectacular views of Lake Garda and the surrounding countryside.

At the end of the peninsula lie the remains of a Roman villa known as the Grotte di Catullo. The villa dates back to the period between the end of 1st century BC and the beginning of 1st century AD, making it the largest and best preserved Roman villa in northern Italy.

Grotte di Catullo

At the Aquaria Thermal Spa you can relax in the therapeutic thermal springs. At the end of the promontory is Jamaica Beach, where you will feel like you are by the sea. It is one of the most beautiful beaches on Lago di Garda, with facilities and spacious enough to give you some privacy. Just beware that the entrance leads over large flat stones that can be slippery.

Another popular activity in the Sirmione area is a small boat trip, which also takes you to various corners of the peninsula – you can choose between a day cruise or a sunset cruise with a glass of wine.

2. Gardaland

Gardaland is one of the largest and most popular theme parks in Italy. It is located on the south-eastern shore of Lake Garda, about 30 minutes from Sirmione.

Enjoy an adventure on more than 30 attractions, including roller coasters, water rides and themed rides, with something for all ages.

Gardaland Lago di Garda

Among the most popular attractions are the Raptor roller coaster, the Oblivion themed ride and Legoland with water rides and pools. Younger children will enjoy Peppa Pig Land or fairy tale shows. See more than 5,000 marine animals at the SEA Life Aquarium, part of the Gardaland theme park.

Gardaland Lago di Garda

What are the entrance fees and opening hours to Gardaland

Full admission to Gardaland is 49 € for one day and 44 € for children, or 44 € for children. 61 € full admission for 2 days and 55 € children’s admission for 2 days. One ticket gets you unlimited rides, Legoland and the SEA Life aquarium.

Gardaland is open daily from 10:00-23:00 (10:00-17:00 in low season, up to 18:00 on weekends). SEA Life has shortened opening hours until 18:00.

Tip: Gardaland is the most popular attraction in the area and the queues are long. If you book tickets in advance just show your tickets on your mobile phone at the venue.

3. Lonato

Lonato is a small town to the southwest of Lago di Garda, known for its Rocca di Lonato fortress with fantastic views of the surrounding area.

Also explore the small historic centre with its stone tower, imposing cathedral and streets lined with colourful houses.

Lonato Lago di Garda

4. Desenzano del Garda

Desenzano del Garda is a town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. Highlights include the Villa Romana di Desenzano del Garda, an ancient Roman villa that is home to some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics in the country, and the medieval Castello di Desenzano del Garda, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Desenzano del Garda Lago di Garda

Desenzano is also an important transport hub, with regular ferries to other towns and villages around the lake. If you are looking for a place with complete facilities, a lively nightlife, excellent restaurants and good accessibility, Desenzano del Garda is one of the best options around Lago di Garda.

5. Parco Giardino Sigurtà

If you are in the south of Lago di Garda, don’t miss the Parco Giardino Sigurtà, one of the most beautiful garden parks in Italy.

This park covers an area of 60 hectares where you can discover waterfalls, tree plantations, vast meadows filled with thousands of flowers and even a maze.

Gardens of Sigurtà Italy

Tulipanomania is one of the largest tulip exhibitions in southern Europe, or enjoy the vast rosarium or water garden with huge water lilies.

In addition, you can see deer or visit an animal farm if you are travelling with children.

If you are tempted by the tulip fields in the Netherlands, you will like it here. The gardens even won the World Tulip Award 2019.

Book your tickets here and show your tickets on your mobile phone at the venue. It is open daily from 9:00-19:00.

6. Parco Cavour

Parco Cavour is a water theme park located 20 minutes south of Lago di Garda. Here you can enjoy a wide range of water attractions, including giant slides, wave pools, river rafting and sandy beach pools. Among the most popular attractions are the Toboga slide and the Iceberg slide.

Book tickets for the most popular attractions at Lago di Garda, where queues form:

7. Rocca di Manerba

Rocca di Manerba is an impressive rocky cliff that towers over the western shore of Lake Garda. At the top of the cliff you will find the ruins of an ancient castle, from where you can enjoy fantastic views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.

Rocca di Manerba

The car park is located 5 minutes from Rocca di Manerba, but is in the ZTL zone. For this reason, it is better to park more in the city and walk (15 minutes).

Rocca di Manerba

Just a short walk from the cliff, on the other side of Lido di Manerba is the small port of Porto Torchio, from where you can reach the islet of Isola dei Conigli. It is special because if there is little water, you can walk here in about 10 minutes.

8. Isola del Garda

Isola del Garda is the largest island on Lake Garda, home to a majestic villa dating back to the 19th century with its vast and spectacular gardens. A walk through these gardens is like a journey to another time, with views of the lake and surrounding mountains at every turn.

The villa and its gardens are open to the public and can be reached by ferries from several nearby towns – for more information about visiting, visit the official website.

9. Vittoriale degli Italiani

The Vittoriale degli Italiani is a fascinating historical complex in the town of Gardone Riviera on the western shore of Lake Garda, one of the most beautiful sights to visit on Lake Garda.

Sometimes referred to as the “Italian Victory Monument”, this site was the home of the famous Italian writer and war hero Gabriele d’Annunzio.

The complex includes an extensive park with thoughtfully designed gardens, several buildings filled with artistic and historical treasures, an amphitheatre inspired by ancient Greece and even a warship built into the hill.

Vittoriale degli Italiani Lago di Garda

You can stroll along the paths, which offer spectacular views of Lake Garda and the surrounding countryside. Set aside a few hours for a visit, there’s a lot to see here. For more information on admission and opening hours, please visit the official website.

10. Parco dell’Alto Garda Bresciano

The Parco dell’Alto Garda Bresciano is a large natural park that stretches along the western shore of Lake Garda, from the mountain peaks to the shores of the lake. If you love hiking, you’ll find plenty to do here thanks to the kilometres of hiking trails that take you through green forests, waterfalls to rocky ridges with spectacular views of the lake.

  Parco dell'Alto Garda Bresciano Lago di Garda

Along the shoreline, picturesque villages are scattered in the rocks, which, thanks to their location, offer magnificent views of the red roofs of the houses in contrast with the deep blue colour of the lake. Here you can visit gardens full of lemon trees (for free or for a small fee) – for example in Gargan or Tignale, where local lemon products are made.

Lemon garden in Tinale, Lago di Garda
Lemon garden in Tinale, Lago di Garda

Santuario di Montecastello is one of the most beautiful places to visit on the west shore of Lago di Garda. The sanctuary is located on an elevated hill, from where you can enjoy spectacular views. You can drive all the way to the church. For one of the best views of the lake, follow the trail behind the church (sturdy shoes required – rocky and steep terrain), where you will have the lake in the foreground with the church in the palm of your hand.

Santuario di Montecastello Lago di Garda
Santuario di Montecastello / what to see at Lago di Garda

11. Tremosine sul Garda

Tremosine sul Garda is a picturesque mountain town surrounded by the protected nature of the Parco dell’Alto Garda Bresciano. It is made up of several small villages scattered in the rocks and offers a magnificent view of the surroundings, whichever direction you go. One of the best views can be had from the Terazza del Brivido observation deck, which also has a restaurant of the same name (the cooking is excellent).

Tremosine sul Garda Lago di Garda

Tremosino is also known for its cheese, olive oil and red wine, which is grown in vineyards scattered on the local hillsides.

Tremosine sul Garda Lago di Garda

The Strada della Forra, one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Italy, runs around the town. It is only a few kilometres long, but it takes you through narrow streets and through tunnels that have been carved into the local rocks. Strada della Forra is free to use.

Strada della Forra, Lago di Garda
Strada della Forra, Lago di Garda

12. Monte Bestone

There are countless hiking trails and viewpoints around Lago di Garda, where you can enjoy the view of Lago di Garda wedged between the green mountains. One of the best views can be enjoyed from the top of Monte Bestone.

Monte Bestone Lago di Garda

Several marked trails lead to the summit. The shortest starts at Hotel Le Balze in Tremosine sul Garda, where there are several free parking spaces. From here you will climb to the top for half an hour, for which it is better to choose sturdy shoes, but otherwise even bigger children can do it without problems. Or you can choose a half-day itinerary from Limone sul Garda.

13. Limone sul Garda

And when I mentioned Limone sul Garda, we’ll get right on with it. Limone sul Garda honours its name – lemons are everywhere you look.

Limone sul Garda

The original fishing village has been transformed into a popular tourist destination in recent years, but still retains its authentic charm. Take a dip on the manicured beaches, stroll along the palm-lined promenade, sample the local citrus liqueur or wander the streets lined with traditional Italian houses.

Head to the local church for a beautiful view of the town. Especially in the evening, when the town is illuminated and contrasts with the dark rocks and deep waters.

Another attraction is the Limonaia del Castel, gardens full of citrus fruits, where you can learn more about cultivation and production, enjoy views of the old town and take in the scent of fresh citrus.

Limone sul Garda

From Limone there is also a 2km trail leading northwards, which literally floats above the lake because it was built right on the rocks. A perfect place for an easy walk or bike ride (the bike path is not passable and you have to turn around at the end).

Limone sul Garda
Cycle path near Limone sul Garda

Where to stay in Limone sul Garda: Hotel Leonardo Da Vinci is an all-inclusive resort with swimming pools, spa, garden, private beach and water sports facilities.

14. Punta Larici

Punta Larici is probably the most famous sight in the Lago di Garda area. The views from here are literally breathtaking.

Punta Larici Lago di Garda

The viewpoint is located halfway between Limone and Pregasina. The hike starts at the free parking lot at the church in Pregasina, but it fills up early (it can be almost full by 7am in high season). From here you will follow the marked trail 422B.

At the fork, you can then choose to take trail 422A, which runs directly along the cliffs (not suitable for those with a fear of heights or no experience with similar terrain) or continue on 422B. Both trails will take you to the top in about 1.5 hours with an elevation gain of 500 vertical metres.

15. Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda can’t be missing from the list of the most beautiful places to visit on Lake Garda. A charming town at the northern end of Lake Garda where history, culture and nature meet in a perfect setting for cycling, hiking, sailing and windsurfing.

Riva del Garda / what to see at Lago di Garda

Stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town with its medieval towers and beautiful harbour, visit Rocca Castle, now home to the Museum of Painting and Archaeology, or watch the world go by in one of the cafés in Piazza III Novembre. Riva del Garda has landscaped beaches with a promenade offering beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Riva del Garda / what to see at Lago di Garda

Riva del Garda is also known for its local specialities, including olive oil and wine.

The best view of Riva del Garda is from the Chiesetta di Santa Barbara. Take the elevator up to the Venetian Bastion (or a 25-minute walk uphill on a paved road), where there is also a restaurant of the same name. The view from here is already amazing.

Riva del Garda

But if you climb another 2 kilometres and a few hundred metres higher up to the chapel, the view is even better. From the Venetian bastion it is about an hour of steep climbing, which even children can manage, but you just need sturdy shoes and water with you.

Accommodation Riva del Garda 😴

ubytování riva del garda
Hotel Oasi Wellness & Spa

4* hotel with wellness + close to the lake

ubytování v soukromí lago di garda
Residence Centro Vela

Modern apartments with restaurant and facilities

16. Sentiero del Ponale

Sentiero del Ponale is one of the most beautiful trails on Lake Garda. This historic path winds along the rocky cliffs above the lake and was originally built as a road connecting Riva del Garda and the Ledro Valley. It is now a popular route for hiking and mountain biking.

Sentiero del Ponale Lago di Garda

The road winds through tunnels carved into the rock and along steep cliffs, providing an adrenaline rush and unforgettable views. Along the way, you will come across an old customs house from the time of the Austro-Hungarian monarchy and several viewpoints where you can stop and admire the view of the blue waters of the lake and the mountain peaks in the distance.

Sentiero del Ponale Lago di Garda

17. Arco

Arco is a charming town near Riva del Garda with a well-preserved old town made up of narrow streets with restaurants, bars and shops. The town is surrounded by mountain scenery that is popular with climbers. There is even an international rock climbing festival “Rock Master” every year.

The biggest attraction is the medieval castle at the top of the hill, which offers fantastic views of the town below and the lake in the distance.

Arco Lago di Garda

18. Canale di Tenno

Canale di Tenno is one of the most beautiful and best preserved medieval villages in Italy. It is located just a few kilometres from Lake Garda, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.

This picturesque village is famous for its narrow stone streets winding around traditional stone houses. It breathes a unique atmosphere that reminds you of the old times.

19. Parco Grotta Cascata Varone

Parco Grotta Cascata Varone is a beautiful nature park known for its impressive waterfall cave. The Varone waterfall falls from a height of 100 metres and is set in a cave, which you can explore up close thanks to a trail and viewing bridges.

For up-to-date information on admission fees and opening times, please visit the official website.

20. Busatte-Tempesta trail

The Busatte-Tempesta Trail (Sentiero Panoramico Busatte-Tempesta) is another panoramic trail around Lake Garda. It runs along the north-east coast and is easily accessible.

Busatte-Tempesta lago di garda trail

The starting point is the car park of the Busatte Adventure Park (Parco delle Busatte) in Torbole, which can also be reached by bus from Riva del Garda. From here you continue along the marked trail south to Tempesta. The trail follows the mountainside overlooking the lake and includes three large steel staircases suspended from the rocks (about 400 steps in total).

The route is circular and takes about 3 hours (10 km). You can cut it short and take the bus back to Tombolo in Tempesta. The trail is very popular, so it’s better to come early in the morning in high season so you don’t wait on the staircases with the crowd.

21. Malcesine

Malcesine is a popular town on the eastern shore of Lago di Garda. Even Johann Wolfgang von Goethe knew that Malcesine was a good place to be, having once spent part of his trip to Italy here.

Mlsecine / things to do near Lago di garda

Wander the narrow streets that lead you to the seafront and the harbour, or visit Castello Scaligero di Malcesine, perched on a rocky promontory above the old town. The castle currently serves as a museum and lookout tower, from where you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the city.

Malcesine is also the gateway to Monte Baldo, a mountain massif that is literally criss-crossed with hiking trails and viewpoints. In Malcesine, you can take the cable car, which will help you cover several hundred metres of altitude in a few minutes (you can also walk, but expect a day’s hike). For up-to-date information on opening times and prices for the Monte Baldo cable car, please visit the official website.

View from Monte Baldo / things to see at Lago di Garda
View from Monte Baldo / things to see at Lago di Garda

From Monte Baldo you can take one of the hiking trails back to Malcesine or continue along the ridge via Rifugio Telegrafo. There are many possibilities for hiking.

Punta Telegrafo, Lago di Garda
Punta Telegrafo, Lago di Garda

22. Cassone di Malcesine

Just a few kilometres from Malcesine lies Cassone di Malcesine, a picturesque village ideal for those looking for tranquillity on Lake Garda.

The village is famous for its record short river Aril, which is considered one of the shortest rivers in the world due to its length of 175 meters. The river runs through the old town and there is also a small harbour with a promenade nearby.

23. Campo di Brenzone

Campo di Brenzone will absolutely enchant you with its original medieval appearance. The traditional stone houses and narrow streets give you a real insight into Italian village life. The village is almost uninhabited and consists of only a few houses, some of which are also supported by stakes.

Church in Campo di Brenzone / what to see at Lago di Garda
Church in Campo di Brenzone / what to see at Lago di Garda

The drive here is short and steep, but if you like places like this with an unmistakable atmosphere, it’s worth the short climb. Especially the local church, which the locals take care of.

Where to stay on the eastern shore of Lago di Garda: Hotel Caribe is a cosy 3-star hotel right on Lake Garda with an outdoor pool and full facilities, suitable for families and couples.

24. Torri del Benaco

Torri del Benaco is a charming, landscaped town with a lively atmosphere. Visit the 14th-century Scaliger Castle and explore the picturesque harbour with its colourful fishing boats and a promenade full of cafés and restaurants where you can watch the surrounding bustle.

Torri del Benaco harbour / best things to do at Lago di Garda
Torri del Benaco harbour / best things to do at Lago di Garda

25. Garda

Garda is one of the most famous and popular tourist resorts on Lake Garda.

The historic centre of Garda is a labyrinth of narrow picturesque streets, colourful houses, shops and restaurants where you can sample local specialities. The coastline is lined with a long promenade with benches from where you can watch the sunsets.

From the centre of Garda, you can walk along a signposted path to the viewpoint of La Rocca di Garda, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the Garda and Bardolino on the other side. The journey is not difficult and will take you about 30-60 minutes depending on where you go from.

La Rocca di Garda viewpoint / things to do at Lago di Garda
La Rocca di Garda viewpoint / things to do at Lago di Garda

26. Bardolino

South of Garda lies Bardolino, a town known for its excellent wine and beautiful surroundings, which are appreciated all over the world. The city itself is full of historic buildings, including the Romanesque Church of San Severo and the ancient city walls. Bardolino is also home to several wine cellars where you can taste and buy local wines.

In addition, you can stroll along the beautiful promenade, which is surrounded by cafés and restaurants overlooking the lake.

Read: The most beautiful places to visit in Northern Italy.

27. Parco Natura Viva

Parco Natura Viva is a large zoological park and conservation reserve located near Lake Garda. The park is divided into two main areas: the Safari Park, which you drive through in your own car and watch free-roaming animals such as lions, rhinos and giraffes, and the connecting Fauna Park, which includes a classic zoo with over 200 species of animals from around the world, as well as several themed areas focusing on specific ecosystems such as the tropical forest or the Australian desert.

The zoo is large and you can easily spend the whole day here. Here you will find up-to-date information on admission fees and opening times. Book your tickets here and show your tickets on your mobile phone at the door.

Safari Park
Fauna Park

28. Movieland Park

Movieland Park is an amusement park in the south-east of Lago di Garda, entirely dedicated to the world of films and television. Enjoy performances, thrill rides and themed areas reminiscent of iconic movie scenes.

The most popular attractions include a Rambo-inspired action show, fast rides in the style of “Fast & Furious” and an adventure ride from the world of “Jurassic Park”.

Next door is a water park with various slides, attractions and pools.

29. Peschiera del Garda

Peschiera del Garda is just a short walk from Gardaland theme park. It is a popular resort that provides all the facilities for a holiday at Lago di Garda – beautiful beaches and swimming opportunities, a landscaped promenade, a large harbour and a historic old town full of restaurants and beautiful views.

Peschiera del Garda Lago di Garda

Peschiera del Garda is also a great base for trips to the south of Lake Garda – it’s a short drive to Gardaland, Movieland, Sirmione, Verona and more.

30. Verona – excursions around Lago di Garda

It would be a great shame to visit Lago di Garda and miss Verona, one of Italy’s most beautiful cities.

Ponte Pietra, Verona / day trips around Lago di Garda
Ponte Pietra, Verona

Verona has everything you’d expect from an Italian city – rich history, beautiful sights, a lively atmosphere, delicious cuisine and winding streets where you’re constantly getting lost. The centre of Verona is compact and easily walkable in 1 day, making it ideal for a day trip from Lake Garda.

See the top places to visit in Verona or get inspired by the Verona 1 Day Verona itinerary map and itinerary.

31. Venice – day trips around Lago di Garda

Monumental basilicas and opulent palaces that house breathtaking art collections, romantic canals that you can take a gondola ride over or cross on one of the iconic bridges, and plenty of alleyways to wander. Welcome to Venice!

St Mark's Basilica in Venice

Venice is unique. They have their own specific atmosphere that you can’t find anywhere else. Start your visit in the heart of Venice – Piazza Marco with the magnificent Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica.

If there are only two places to visit in Venice, it should be this one. St Mark’s Basilica with its ornate golden interior and the magnificent Doge’s Palace, considered a masterpiece of Venetian architecture.

Doge's Palace Venice / What to see in Venice

Climb the bell tower for a spectacular view of the city, or take a ride in a traditional gondola for another view of Venice.

Check out the best places to visit in Venice and other useful tips in the previous article. If you’re driving, you’ll want to know about parking in Venice.

32. Santuario Madonna della Corona

The Sanctuary of the Madonna della Corona has an absolutely unique location on the edge of a steep cliff with fantastic views. The sanctuary was built in 16th century as a place of peace for Benedictine monks.

You can visit the site for free. Here you can find the latest information on opening hours.

Santuario Madonna della Corona

Where to stay near Lago di Garda

I recommend choosing your accommodation at Lago di Garda strategically so that all the attractions you plan to visit are nearby. It takes an hour and a half to drive from Riva del Garda in the north to Sirmione in the south. In addition, parking can be a problem at Lago di Garda in the summer season, so you can use public transport or ferries at the accommodation.

Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is located in the north of Lago di Garda and provides the perfect base for a holiday. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, a beautiful promenade and plenty of places to explore in the area – the caves with the Varone waterfall, the Venetian Tower, trails on both sides of the lake, a well-maintained grassy beach and the harbour from where you can reach Limone, for example.

  • Hotel Oasi Wellness & Spa: Four-star hotel with swimming pool, spa and large garden with views
  • Residence Centro Vela: Modern apartments with kitchenette, breakfast included, garden, restaurant and great value for money
  • SunLake Hotel: Pleasant hotel in a medium price range with an outdoor pool and half board

Accommodation Riva del Garda 😴

ubytování riva del garda
Hotel Oasi Wellness & Spa

4* hotel with wellness + close to the lake

ubytování v soukromí lago di garda
Residence Centro Vela

Modern apartments with restaurant

West bank of Lago di Garda

The west coast is a bit quieter and offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the east coast.

  • Hotel Leonardo Da Vinci: All-inclusive resort with swimming pools, spa, garden, private beach and water sports facilities in the beautiful resort of Limone sul Garda
  • Hotel Astra: Family-run, smaller hotel in Tignale set on a hilltop with spectacular views, outdoor pool and large garden
  • Hotel Belvedere: Modern hotel with outdoor pool in Manerba del Garda
  • Garni Hotel: Cheap hotel in the lively centre of Tignale

Accommodation in Sirmione and in the south of Lago di Garda

  • Alevic Hotel Sirmione: Luxury hotel with rooftop pool and lake views a few minutes from the historic centre of Sirmione
  • Hotel Riel: A cosy three-star hotel near Sirmione with an outdoor pool and a short walk from the beach.
  • Hotel Porto Azzurro: Pleasant hotel with outdoor pool in a quiet part of Sirmione

Accommodation Sirmione and surroundings 😴

ubytování sirmione lago di garda
Hotel Porto Azzurro

Cosy and modern hotel with swimming pool

ubytování sirmione lago di garda
Hotel Riel

3* hotel with swimming pool + close to the beach

The eastern shore of Lago di Garda

The eastern shore of Lake Garda is generally busier and provides more tourist facilities than the western shore.

  • Hotel Caribe: A cosy three-star hotel right on Lake Garda with an outdoor pool and complete facilities, suitable for families
  • Hotel Lago Di Garda: Beautiful hotel in the historic centre of Malcesine
  • Villa Benvenuto: Private accommodation in fully equipped apartments with kitchenette and lake view

Boat trips and ferries on Lago di Garda

Ferries are a great way to move between places around Lago di Garda.

These provide regular connections between various towns and villages on the lake, including Sirmione, Desenzano, Salò, Gardone Riviera, Toscolano-Maderno, Gargnano, Torri del Benaco, Bardolino, Garda, Lazise and Peschiera del Garda. Ferry services usually include both fast hydrofoils and traditional ferries.

lago di garda ferries

Ferries are usually available all year round, but frequencies and routes vary depending on the season. In the summer season, more ferries are in operation and connections are frequent.

Ticket prices vary depending on the length of the route and the type of ferry, but are generally affordable and can be bought directly from the dock.

Check out the official Lago di Garda ferry website for more information on prices and timetables.

Lago di Garda swimming

Lago di Garda is surrounded by beaches, some small and rocky, while others are large and pebbly/grassy. The water in the lake is mostly clear and relatively warm, especially in the summer months. In addition to natural swimming, there are several water parks with water slides and other water attractions around the lake.

The water temperature in Lago di Garda varies according to the season. In the summer months (July and August) the water temperature ranges from 24 to 26 degrees Celsius. In winter (December to February) the water temperature drops, usually to 6 to 10 degrees Celsius.

The best time to swim in Lago di Garda is from June to September, when the weather is sunny and warm.

Lago di Garda swimming

When to visit Lago di Garda

The weather at Lago di Garda varies depending on the season. The lake is located in northern Italy, where the climate is mild and humid.

Spring (March-May): Spring is generally mild, with average temperatures around 15-20°C. It can be rainy at times, but it’s generally a great time of year for exploring beautiful coastal towns and hiking.

Summer (June-August): Summer is usually warm and sunny, with average temperatures reaching up to 30°C. July and August are the hottest months, but also the busiest.

Autumn (September-November): The beginning of autumn can still be a great time for swimming in the lake. Temperatures gradually drop to a pleasant 15-25°C, which is ideal for hiking, cycling or exploring the surroundings.

Winter (December-February): Winters are generally mild to cold, with average temperatures around 5-10°C. Snow is rare at lower elevations.

Tips for trips and things to do at Lago di Garda – map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map of Lago di Garda, Italy. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places mentioned in the Lago di Garda guide. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.

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This has been our guide to Lake Garda in Italy and our tips for trips to visit at Lago di Garda. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!

More information about Northern Italy

NORTHERN ITALY: Get inspired with this list for the most beautiful places to visit in Northern Italy, including a map.

LOMBARDIA: Here are the most beautiful places in Lombardy, including a map and photos. Milan is the capital of Lombardy, famous for its magnificent cathedral.

Just outside Milan is Lago di Como, a beautiful alpine lake. Or check out our 15 tips on what to see in Bergamo.

VERONA: Check out our itinerary for visiting Verona in one day. A map is also included for easy itinerary planning.

VENICE: In the article What to visit in Venice we bring you tips on the most beautiful places and other useful tips.

DOLOMITES: We have prepared a detailed guide with tips on the best hikes and hiking routes in the Dolomites.

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