Not to be missed in Italy, Lake Garda fascinates with its breathtaking landscapes, historic villages and authentic flavors. To plan the perfect trip, here’s everything you need to know: iconic attractions, unmissable experiences, culinary delights and helpful tips.
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Book now your holiday to Lake Garda and live a unique experience between nature, relaxation and unforgettable adventures!
Where to stay in Lake Garda
Every corner of Lake Garda offers a unique experience, between beaches, enchanting views and authentic flavors. Discover the best options to make your stay unforgettable!
Torri del Benaco
This charming village retains its medieval character with the majestic Scaligero Castle, which houses an ethnographic museum and one of the last lemon groves on Lake Garda. The lakeside promenade is perfect for a relaxing walk, with restaurants and cafes overlooking the water. Do not miss the Church of the Holy Trinity and the picturesque port, which offers a romantic and authentic atmosphere.
Lazise
One of the most characteristic places on Lake Garda, Lazise is surrounded by perfectly preserved medieval walls and boasts a picturesque port. The old town is a maze of narrow streets with shops, ice cream parlors and restaurants. To visit the Scaliger Castle, the lakeside with breathtaking views and the nearby Venetian Customs, a time checkpoint for goods in transit between the Serenissima and the Habsburg Empire.
Malcesine
Malcesine is dominated by the imposing Scaliger Castle, from which you can enjoy a spectacular view of the lake. The village is a tangle of medieval alleys full of craft shops and characteristic restaurants. From here the cable car to Monte Baldo, an unmissable experience for those who love nature and trekking. Once at the top, the breathtaking view extends over the Dolomites and the entire lake.
Bardolino
Famous for its red wine Bardolino, this village offers a perfect mix between food and wine and beautiful landscapes. The lakeside promenade is perfect for a walk, while the historic center houses the Wine Museum and the Church of San Severo, with medieval frescoes of great value. Do not miss a visit to the local wineries, where you can taste excellent wines and typical products.
Valpolicella
Although not directly overlooking the lake, this hilly area is famous for the production of fine wines such as Amarone. Here you can visit ancient Venetian villas, such as Villa della Torre and Villa Mosconi Bertani, and immerse yourself in food and wine tours among vineyards and historic cellars. Do not miss the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona, set in the rock and with a spectacular view over the valley below.
Sirmione
One of the most iconic places on Lake Garda, Sirmione is famous for its Scaliger Castle, which offers a suggestive access to the village. Don’t miss the Caves of Catullo, remains of a Roman villa overlooking the lake. Sirmione is also a perfect destination for relaxation thanks to its natural thermal baths, which flow directly into the waters of the lake. The old town is full of boutiques, ice cream shops and restaurants with panoramic views.
Peschiera del Garda
Located at the southern end of the lake, Peschiera is a fortified town whose historic center is surrounded by Venetian walls, declared UNESCO heritage. The village is crossed by picturesque canals, reminiscent of Venice. From here depart cruises on the lake and numerous cycling routes. It is also a perfect base for visiting Gardaland, one of the most famous amusement parks in Europe.
Limone sul Garda
Famous for its historic lemon houses, this charming village is characterized by colorful houses overlooking narrow alleys that descend towards the lake. The Museum of Tourism and the Limonaia del Castel tells about the tradition of lemon cultivation. Don’t miss the Ciclopista del Garda, a spectacular walkway suspended on the lake, perfect for an unforgettable panoramic walk.
Riva del Garda
Located in the northern part of the lake, Riva is an ideal destination for sports and nature lovers. Here you can visit the Rocca di Riva, a medieval fortress that houses the Alto Garda Museum, and the Torre Apponale, from which you can admire a beautiful view of the lake. Thanks to the constant winds, Riva is perfect for windsurfing and sailing, while the hinterland offers hiking trails between waterfalls and mountains.
Desenzano del Garda
The largest city on the lake, Desenzano offers a mix of culture, shopping and nightlife. Its lakefront is perfect for a sunset walk, while the Castle of Desenzano offers spectacular views. To visit the Archaeological Museum Giovanni Rambotti, which preserves the oldest prehistoric pirogue found in Europe. The town is also a great starting point to explore the surrounding hills and wineries of the Lugana.
Villa Lisi - sleeps 8 private garden in residence with pool in Bardolino
From 400.00€ per night
Residence ai Vigneti - 4 sleeps with A/c in residence with pool in Bardolino
From 180.00€ per night
Casa Montegolo - sleeps 2+2 with pool and lake view in Costermano sul Garda
From 120.00€ per night
Montegolo Four Apartment
From 150.00€ per night
Rustico Villa Marciaga
From 400.00€ per night
Apartment Joan Mirò With Pool
From 160.00€ per night
Orange Apartment
From 180.00€ per night
Red Apartment Marciaga
From 130.00€ per night
How to get to Lake Garda
- Lake Garda is easily accessible via the A4 motorway (Milan-Venice) and the A22 motorway (Modena-Brennero), with strategic exits to the main towns.
- The nearest railway stations are Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, Peschiera del Garda (on the line Milan-Venice) and Rovereto (for the north side of the lake). From here, buses and taxis connect the lake resorts.
- The nearest airports are Verona Villafranca (VRN), Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY), Milan Malpensa (MXP), Milan Linate (LIN) and Venice Marco Polo (VCE), with connections by train, bus or car rental.
- Several lines connect the Lake Garda with cities such as Verona, Brescia, Trento and Rovereto, ensuring an affordable and accessible transport.
- Once on the lake, you can move between the main resorts with ferries and hydrofoils operated by Navigazione Laghi, enjoying the view directly from the water.
Where is Lake Garda and 5 important things to know
Lake Garda is located in northern Italy and extends between three regions: Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. It is the largest lake in Italy and is located between the provinces of Brescia, Verona and Trento. Thanks to its location, it is easily accessible from cities such as Milan, Venice and Verona.
1. It is the largest lake in Italy With an area of about 370 km 2, Lake Garda is the largest in the country and boasts a unique microclimate that favors the cultivation of olive trees, citrus fruits and vineyards.
2. It has an important historical heritage – From the Roman remains of Sirmione to the Scaliger fortresses of Malcesine and Torri del Benaco, the lake has been inhabited since antiquity and was disputed by various peoples, including Romans, Venetians and Austrians.
3. Offers a variety of outdoor activities – Lake Garda is a perfect destination for sports and adventurers, with trekking on Mount Baldo, windsurfing in Riva del Garda, mountain biking and sailing.
4. It is famous for wine and gastronomy – The area is renowned for the Bardolino wine and the Lugana, as well as typical products such as the extra virgin olive oil of Garda DOP and the fish of lake.
5. It has a mild climate all year round – Thanks to the influence of the lake and the surrounding mountains, Garda enjoys a Mediterranean climate even in winter, making it an ideal destination in all seasons.
Language and currency
The official language is Italian, but English and German are also spoken in the tourist areas. The currency is the Euro (€) and most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, although it is always useful to have some cash for small purchases.
Tourist tax
In many places on Lake Garda there is a tourist tax, ranging from 0.50€ to 3€ per night, depending on the category of accommodation. The exact amount is specified at the time of booking and you pay directly in the structure.
Health insurance
If you are travelling from the European Union, you can take advantage of health care with the European Health Insurance Card (TEAM), which covers basic medical treatment. For non-EU travellers, it is advisable to take out travel insurance
Pets allowed and rules
Lake Garda is pet-friendly. There are beaches equipped for dogs, such as the famous Braccobaldo Beach in Peschiera del Garda. Dogs should have a leash and muzzle on hand when walking. In public transport and ferries, animals are allowed with specific rules depending on the company.
Activities and experiences not to be missed in Lake Garda
Lake Garda offers a wide variety of experiences for all tastes: from nature lovers to history lovers, from sports enthusiasts to food lovers.
Among medieval villages, scenic excursions, water sports and food and wine delights, here are some unmissable activities to make your trip unforgettable!
Flavours of Lake Garda: a journey between tradition and taste
The cuisine of Lake Garda is a perfect balance between alpine and Mediterranean traditions, thanks to the mild climate that favors excellent products. Garda PDO extra virgin olive oil, with a delicate and fruity taste, is an essential ingredient of the local cuisine. The lake fish is the protagonist on the tables, with specialties such as white coregone, pike in sauce with polenta and sarde di lago, dishes that enhance the authentic flavors of the territory.
For wine lovers, Garda is surrounded by renowned wine areas: the Valpolicella, famous for Amarone, the hills of Bardolino and Lugana, famous for their fresh and fragrant wines. Do not miss the tortellini of Valeggio sul Mincio, stuffed with meat and served with butter and sage. Among the desserts stand out the Chisöl, sweet focaccia bresciana, and the Fogassa veneta, perfect with a glass of Recioto. These unique flavors can be enjoyed in traditional restaurants, farmhouses and during the many local festivals.
The best holiday homes with Domus Rental
Each lake resort has its own charm and characteristics: do you prefer the dynamism of larger cities or the relaxation of a small village overlooking the water? Where would you like to stay for your holiday in Lake Garda?
Our apartments in Lake Garda
North House - sleeps 4 shared pool lake view in Torri del Benaco
From 200.00€ per night
Casa al Lago - sleeps 4 shared pool in Torri del Benaco
From 200.00€ per night
South House- sleeps 4 shared pool lake view in Torri del Benaco
From 200.00€ per night
Apartment del Pescatore - sleeps 6 in Torri del Benaco downtown
From 200.00€ per night
Our villas in Lake Garda
Villa Sybille - 8 sleeps pool and lake view in Torri del Benaco
From 550.00€ per night
Cà Cantoni - 10 sleeps villa with pool & stunning views in Garda
From 700.00€ per night
Cà Le Terrazze - 10 sleeps with shared pool in Garda
From 600.00€ per night
Villa Lisi - sleeps 8 private garden in residence with pool in Bardolino
From 400.00€ per night
