Lake Garda

The Lake Garda with an area of 350 square kilometres is considered Italy’s largest lake and makes for a perfect destination combining history, nature, relaxation and excellent food! Since Roman times, the Lake Garda territories have been appreciated by emperors who loved building villas here for moments of leisure and entertainment. In particular, Sirmione was a highly favoured location, as evidenced by the remains of a Roman villa known as the Grotte di Catullo. During the Renaissance too, the shores of Lake Benaco became a destination for exclusive tourism, with nobles building luxury residences and villas.

Tourism first developed in the north-western area of the lake thanks to the construction of hotels and luxury residences, and only in the twentieth century in the eastern part following the completion of the present eastern shore road. This expanse of water is surrounded to the south by rolling green hills and to the north by high mountain ranges that protect it from cold winds and create a Mediterranean climate in this territory. The position and geography of the Lake make it ideal for cultivating olives, lemons and oranges, which form a backdrop to charming small towns and villages steeped in ancient history.

But Lake Garda’s appeal doesn’t end there. The area is equally popular with outdoor enthusiasts, cyclists and hikers above all, who come here for the numerous hiking trails and routes on offer. In summer, meanwhile, the Lake attracts all those who love water sports such as windsurfing, sailing and diving.

The wide range of attractions in these territories makes Lake Garda a destination that draws visitors not only from across Italy but also from other European countries such as Austria and Germany. The lake’s eastern shores fall within the Veneto region, the western shores in Lombardy, whilst the north is part of Trentino. This guide focuses particularly on the Lombardy side of the Lake, where you’ll find charming towns full of character, rich history and truly spectacular scenery.

Things to do at Lake Garda

Thanks to its archaeological sites, thermal spa centres, striking beaches and natural landscapes, Lake Garda appeals to all types of visitor. Along its various small villages and elegant towns, the Lombardy shore is home to 20 municipalities directly facing Lake Benaco.

Here then is a mini-guide to the Lake Garda’s most beautiful locations and must-see attractions!

Lombardy Side of Lake Garda

The Garda Lombardy section comprises the western shore stretching from Limone in the north to Sirmione at the southern tip. From a gastronomic perspective too, this territory represents the true meeting point between Mediterranean and Alpine flavours. Fish, extra virgin olive oil, wine and citrus fruits belong to Mediterranean culture, whilst Alpine cheeses, cured meats, honey and game are characteristic of the Alps.

Some locations have managed to preserve their charm intact over time, whilst others have become important destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Among the eight Lombardy towns with historic centres directly overlooking the lake, the most famous are: Salò, Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda and Limone.

Sirmione

Sirmione is also known as “the pearl of Lake Garda” because it’s a town full of history and charm. This territory was inhabited and appreciated since Roman times, as evidenced by the archaeological site known as the “Grotte di Catullo”, which contains the remains of an ancient Roman house. The centre combines sites of great historical interest with renowned thermal spas offering moments of pure relaxation. In summer, those who love relaxing in the sun can head to Giamaica Beach, which is renowned for the beauty of its turquoise waters.

Desenzano del Garda

Appreciated for its mild and temperate climate, Desenzano del Garda is a town boasting a charming, compact historic centre. Desenzano is considered the “western gateway” to Garda Lombardy, which is why many visitors choose it as a base for exploring the Lake.

Perfect for exploring on foot, Desenzano is one of those towns with a relaxed pace that’s a pleasure to discover during a day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway. Don’t miss a visit to Desenzano Castle as from there you can enjoy a beautiful view of the entire Lake Garda and surrounding territories.

Limone sul Garda

Limone sul Garda is a town located on the northern shores of Lake Benaco and is internationally famous for its stunning landscapes that have enchanted many artists. Ideal for a romantic getaway or a weekend of pure tranquillity, Limone is a village full of picturesque corners.

Until the 1930s, the town was only accessible by lake or through winding mountain roads, which has allowed Limone to preserve its charm intact. The town is known worldwide because from the time of the Duchy of Milan’s rule until World War One, terraced hillsides and greenhouses were built here for the production of lemons, oranges and citrons that were long exported throughout Europe.

Salò

Known for being the seat of numerous ministries of the Italian Social Republic during the fascist period, Salò is actually a location with a truly unique historical and architectural heritage. Walking through the town’s streets allows you to trace its prestigious past, as the town was also the capital of the Magnifica Patria during Venetian rule. Important traces of its history can be seen in the historic centre where you’ll find important buildings and ancient churches. Don’t miss a visit to the Palazzo del Podestà located in the Lakeside promenade area.

Other locations

Along the Lombardy coast of Lake Garda you’ll also find other locations, less famous but equally striking. Pozzolengo, Brescia and Montichiari are stops equally worth visiting. Just a short distance from the Lake you can also visit Gardone, which hosts the celebrated “Vittoriale degli Italiani”, the monumental complex created by poet Gabriele d’Annunzio.

To enjoy a breathtaking panorama over the entire lake, it’s recommended to head to Tremosine where you’ll find the famous Terrazza del Brivido. This suspended platform 350 metres above the lake is reached by driving the Strada della Forra, a narrow and winding road that offers breathtaking views of the Lake.

Veneto Side of Lake Garda

The eastern shore of Lake Garda falls within the Veneto region. On this side, the northernmost town is Malcesine whilst the southernmost is Peschiera del Garda. To the north are high peaks rising steeply from the lake which gradually give way first to gentle hills and then to flatter terrain.

Along this stretch of coast you’ll find beautiful towns, Monte Baldo (a spectacular destination in both summer and winter), charming cycling routes and long beaches! Among the must-see towns are absolutely Peschiera, Lazise, Bardolino and Malcesine, all boasting a splendid lakeside promenade, cultural attractions and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Those travelling with children should know that this is the land of Theme Parks. From Gardaland to Movieland, from LEGO Waterpark to SeaLife aquarium, these are just some of the attractions that offer days of pure fun. For those wishing to spend a stay focused on wellbeing, the Garda Thermal Park is recommended.

Trentino Side of Lake Garda

The northern tip of Lake Garda is part of the Trentino region and includes both part of the eastern and part of the western shore. Here you’ll find the villages of Nago, Torbole and the town of Riva del Garda, all locations that captivate with their charm and numerous attractions. The Trentino side boasts truly striking scenery, as the Mediterranean environment here blends with the Alpine. In this area, the lake is bordered by high mountains (over 2,000 metres), whilst in the small towns you can find flowering olive and lemon trees.

The most famous location in the area is certainly Riva del Garda, a town boasting a vibrant historic centre full of historic palaces, shops and restaurants. Set between the Lake and the Brenta Dolomites, Riva is also the most beloved destination for outdoor sports enthusiasts, particularly for cycling and hiking. Here you’ll find numerous routes and trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels allowing you to spend pleasant days immersed in nature.

Don’t miss the Sentiero della Ponale, a route that starts from Riva del Garda and hugs the mountainside high above the lake, offering breathtaking views. Not far from Riva is Torbole sul Garda, which thanks to its winds attracts water sports enthusiasts such as sailors and windsurfers. Sports lovers will also find the town of Arco interesting, which allows you to try lake surfing, trekking and rock climbing in the hinterland.

How to get around

If you’re looking for a truly scenic way to visit the different locations along Lake Garda’s shores, sailing is definitely the best option as the surrounding roads can be extremely busy. For tourists and many locals alike, it’s far more practical and at the same time fascinating to travel aboard a boat, hydrofoil or ferry allowing you to admire the beautiful surrounding scenery.

The Gestione Governativa Navigazione Laghi (GGNL) company manages public transport and provides connections between locations throughout the year. Hydrofoil services are the fastest, whilst boat services often allow you to bring your bike on board. Aboard the boat, you also have the chance to see much of the Lake’s beauty such as Sirmione Castle, the Gulf of Salò, Limone’s terraced hillsides and Malcesine Castle. The ferry, on the other hand, is perfect if you want to transport your car from one point to another. During the summer season, ferries depart every hour from Maderno to Torri del Benaco, from Limone to Malcesine and from Riva to Desenzano.

In addition to public transport lines, there are also private companies organising Lake tours, cruises or boat trips to admire the entire coast at a leisurely pace. Most summer cruises along Lake Garda’s shores stop at Peschiera del Garda, Salò, Riva, Malcesine and Desenzano.

Recommended hotels in the area Lake Garda