Nestled between the Alps and the Po Valley, Lake Garda is a sparkling gem of northern Italy that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, water sports enthusiast, or just looking for some peaceful lakeside relaxation, Lake Garda delivers with charm, beauty, and adventure.

In this guide, we explore the best things to do in and around Lake Garda, from historic towns and castles to outdoor thrills and wine tastings.

Things to Do in Lake Garda

1. Explore the Towns Along the Lake

Lake Garda is surrounded by postcard-perfect towns, each with its own character and attractions. Some must-visits include:

• Sirmione – Famous for the Scaliger Castle, thermal baths, and Roman ruins at Grotte di Catullo.

• Malcesine – A picturesque town with cobbled streets and access to Monte Baldo via cable car.

• Limone sul Garda – Known for lemon groves, lakeside cafes, and scenic walking trails.

• Riva del Garda – A vibrant town in the north, ideal for hiking and sailing.

• Bardolino & Lazise – Located on the eastern shore and known for wine tasting and relaxing promenades.

2. Visit Scaliger Castles

The Scaliger family left behind majestic castles in Sirmione and Malcesine that now serve as some of Lake Garda’s most iconic sights.

• Castello Scaligero di Sirmione: Located at the entrance to Sirmione, it features towers, drawbridges, and panoramic views.

• Castello Scaligero di Malcesine: Set against a mountain backdrop, it houses a small museum and offers sweeping views over the lake.

3. Take a Cable Car to Monte Baldo

For breathtaking alpine scenery, ride the Malcesine, Monte Baldo cable car to the summit of Monte Baldo. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, paragliding, and jaw-dropping vistas across Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.

4. Enjoy Watersports and Boat Tours

Lake Garda is a haven for water-based activities, especially in the warmer months. Popular options include:

• Sailing & Windsurfing – Especially in the northern towns like Torbole and Riva del Garda.

• Kayaking and Paddleboarding – A peaceful way to explore the lake’s coastline.

• Boat Tours – Regular ferries and private cruises connect the main towns and allow you to soak in the views from the water.

5. Hike and Bike the Surrounding Trails

From easy lakefront promenades to rugged mountain hikes, Lake Garda is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Some top routes include:

• Ponale Trail – A scenic walking and cycling path from Riva del Garda to Lake Ledro.

• Sentiero del Pellegrino – A hillside hike from Limone with views over the lake.

• Monte Pizzocolo – For more experienced hikers, offering sweeping lake and alpine views.

6. Relax at a Thermal Spa

 

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Treat yourself to wellness at Aquaria Thermal Spa in Sirmione. The natural hot springs are rich in minerals and the spa offers pools, saunas, and beauty treatments with views of the lake.

7. Visit the Grotte di Catullo

Located at the northern tip of the Sirmione peninsula, this large Roman villa ruin dates back to the 1st century AD. Walk among the ancient columns and arches, and enjoy uninterrupted views of the lake.

8. Discover the Vineyards and Wine

The Lake Garda region is home to several famous wine areas:

• Bardolino – Try the light red Bardolino Classico wine.

• Valpolicella – Near Verona, known for its bold Amarone wines.

• Lugana – Produces crisp white wines, especially around Peschiera del Garda.

Most wineries offer tastings and guided tours, perfect for wine lovers.

9. Take a Day Trip to Gardaland

 

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Traveling with kids or just want a day of thrills? Gardaland, Italy’s largest amusement park, is located near Peschiera del Garda. It features roller coasters, water rides, shows, and themed attractions.

10. Enjoy Local Cuisine with a View

 

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Lake Garda’s culinary scene blends northern Italian flavors with fresh lake fish, olive oil, and lemon-infused dishes. Must-try specialties include:

• Bigoli with sardines

• Lake trout or perch

• Polenta with wild game

• Limoncello from nearby Limone sul Garda

Pair your meal with a lakeside sunset for the perfect Italian evening.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Lake Garda?

• Spring (April–June) and early Autumn (September–October) are ideal for mild weather and fewer crowds.

• Summer (July–August) is peak season, especially for families and sunseekers.

• Winter is quiet, with many resorts closed, but some towns remain open and charming in the off-season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Garda

1. Where is Lake Garda located?

Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is located in northern Italy, stretching across three regions: Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige. It lies between Milan and Venice, with the nearest major cities being Verona, Brescia, and Trento.

2. What is Lake Garda known for?

Lake Garda is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, charming lakeside towns, historical castles, and a wide range of outdoor activities including hiking, sailing, cycling, and paragliding. It’s also famous for its wine regions, olive oil, and lemon groves.

3. How do I get to Lake Garda?

• By Air: The closest airports are Verona (VRN), Milan Bergamo (BGY), and Milan Malpensa (MXP).

• By Train: Major towns like Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano del Garda are connected to Italy’s rail network.

• By Car: Lake Garda is accessible via the A4 and A22 motorways. Driving allows flexibility to explore multiple towns.

4. When is the best time to visit Lake Garda?

• Spring (April–June) and early Fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

• Summer (July–August) is peak season with hot weather, festivals, and a lively atmosphere.

• Winter is quieter and some resorts may be closed, but it’s a peaceful time to enjoy the views without crowds.

5. How many days should I spend in Lake Garda?

• A day trip allows for a quick glimpse, especially from Verona or Milan.

• A 2–3 day stay is ideal to explore multiple towns and enjoy activities.

• A week or more lets you experience the lake fully, including nearby wine regions and mountains.

Final Thoughts

Lake Garda is more than just a lake, it’s an experience. Whether you’re lounging in a lakeside café, hiking a mountain trail, sailing across the water, or exploring medieval villages, Lake Garda offers a rich mix of relaxation and adventure.