Salò

Along the western shores of Lake Garda, nestled between the Morainic Hills and Monte San Bartolomeo, lies the captivating town of Salò. Inhabited since ancient Roman times, as evidenced by remains discovered in local necropolises, Salò was later territory of the Venetian Republic and the Visconti family.

However, it was in 1943 that the city gained international prominence when the Italian Social Republic, also known as the Republic of Salò, was founded between Salò and Gargnano. Although Rome officially remained the capital of the kingdom, Salò was chosen as the seat of several Ministries due to its proximity to Nazi Germany (which at the time dominated the entire present-day Trentino-Alto Adige region).

Today Salò is a magnificent town on Lake Garda which, thanks to its mild climate and its natural and historical beauty, makes it the ideal destination for a weekend devoted to history, nature and relaxation. Salò’s historic centre is home to numerous sites of great interest, while the surrounding area allows you to organise excursions and outdoor activities.

At the end of a day spent discovering the town, don’t forget to stop at one of the lakeside bars to try the “pirlo”, the typical Brescia aperitif to enjoy whilst admiring a splendid sunset over the Lake.

Things to see in Salò

Known in history as the seat of the Italian Social Republic during the final years of Fascist rule, Salò is actually a destination rich in history, architecture and art. Here the verdant nature surrounding the town is reflected in the azure waters of the Lake, creating truly spectacular panoramas.

The town centre, which has its heart in Piazza Angelo Zanelli, is easily explored on foot and is full of picturesque corners, historic palaces, ancient churches and museums that house genuine treasures.

Salò Cathedral

The Cathedral of Salò, dedicated to Santa Maria Annunziata, is the most important religious building in the town and was designed in the XV century by Filippo dalle Vacche. The building was constructed in late Gothic style and boasts a facade embellished by a marble portal created in the XVI century by Gasparo Cairano and Antonio Mangiacavalli, two representatives of Brescia Renaissance sculpture.

Inside it is possible to admire works of great value executed by artists such as Romanino, Moretto, Zenone Veronese and Paolo Veneziano. Near the altar, the magnificent “Wooden Altarpiece” created by Bartolomeo da Isola Dovarese in typical Gothic style captures the attention of all visitors.

Church of San Bernardino

The Church of San Bernardino was named after Saint Bernardino of Siena, who lived as a hermit in a cave on Lake Garda in the XV century. Externally the church appears simple and austere, whilst inside it is finely decorated and preserves works of great value.

Above the main altar is the altarpiece by Zenone Veronese depicting the Madonna and Child in Glory with Saints Catherine of Alexandria and Lucy, Jerome, Bernardino of Siena, Anthony of Padua and John the Baptist. Along the main nave are “The Annunciation” and “The Adoration of the Shepherds”, two canvases created in the XVI century by Paolo Farinati.

Clock Tower

The Clock Tower or Gate is located in Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II in the western part of the town and was built around the XIII century. This was once one of the entrances to the historic town centre, which was surrounded by a sturdy defensive wall. The gate is now characterised by an arch that externally is topped by the Lion of Saint Mark, whilst internally it houses a pedestal with the clock which was added only in the XVII century during restoration works on the entire structure.

Salò Waterfront

One of the most enchanting (and romantic) places in Salò is certainly its waterfront promenade. It’s pleasant to stroll here, perhaps at sunset, to admire a beautiful view of Lake Garda and the surrounding area.

The waterfront was created in the twentieth century and is dedicated to the politician Giuseppe Zanardelli, whose statue can also be seen here. In this area there are numerous shops, bars and restaurants where you can taste excellent local cuisine whilst enjoying a splendid panorama of the Lake.

Palazzo del Podestà

In the area of the Lungolago Zanardelli stands the beautiful Palazzo del Podestà constructed in the mid-XVI century to a design by Jacopo Sansovino. The Palace, today the seat of Salò’s Town Council, has been rebuilt several times following various earthquakes.

The Palace was the seat of the confederation of municipalities that overlooked Lake Garda along the Brescia shoreline. Internally it features a large Council Chamber that has preserved an altarpiece by Andrea Bertanza depicting Christ triumphant holding the cross with Saint Charles Borromeo, patron saint of Salò, at his feet. The ceiling, meanwhile, has coffered panelling with paintings of important figures in human history (Petrarch, Archimedes, Cicero, Plato…).

Where to stay in Salò

The town centre of Salò is small and lovely to explore on foot to fully absorb the atmosphere of the town, which is why choosing accommodation in the historic centre is certainly the best solution. Here welcoming B&Bs, hotels and apartments, perhaps with lake views, prove to be an excellent choice both for those who love a stay focused on comfort and for those seeking a romantic experience. A short distance from the centre and surrounded by nature, you can find several accommodations that offer stays characterised by peace and relaxation.

Recommended hotels in Salò

How to reach Salò

Salò is easily reached by car or ferry. Those travelling by car from the west can reach Salò via the A4 motorway, exiting at the Brescia Est toll booth and then continuing along the SS45bis towards Salò. Alternatively, you can also take the A35 as far as the Brescia Centro exit. Those coming from Verona can take the A4 to the Desenzano toll booth and from there take the SP572.

The town can be reached by ferry via daily services connecting Lake Garda from north to south and the Brescia shores with those of Veneto. For those who wish to travel by bus, bus services are available from the Arriva company, which manages public transport in the province of Brescia. Salò does not have a railway station and the nearest ones are Brescia, approximately 33 km away, and Desenzano del Garda, 20 km away. The nearest airport is Verona’s Valerio Catullo airport, approximately 55 km away, whilst Bergamo Orio al Serio airport is 83 km away.

Salò Weather