The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is a long-time favorite of elegant travelers who come to taste wine, soak in healing hot springs, and enjoy the scenery. Tucked to the side of the Dolomites, it’s sandwiched between three provinces: Verona, Brescia, and Trento. The shores of Lake Garda showcase ancient Roman villas, scenic lemon groves, and medieval castles. Then there are the resort towns, like Riva del Garda on the northern shore of Lake Garda, Torri del Benaco, and Gardone Riviera. Meanwhile, on the water, windsurfing, sailing, and kiteboarding are among the most popular things to do in Lake Garda.
The area’s hot springs are one of the best year-round things to do in Lake Garda. If you want to take a dip, the best time of year to visit is late summer, when the water has lost its alpine chill. The area is at its most beautiful in spring, when the hills bloom with flowers, and in fall, when they turn golden. The town of Salò hosts two Garda Flowers botanical events in April and September. Many of the area’s food and wine festivals take place in the fall.
The main train station is in Peschiera del Garda, which is a stop on the Milan - Venice railway line. From there, you can take one of the two bus routes around the lake. One stops at virtually all the villages on the eastern shore, and another covers the western shore. Navigarda ferries, which crisscross the lake, run all year long (though more frequently from spring through fall). Taxis and taxi boats are also plentiful, and you can rent a bike or e-bike in the larger towns.
To satisfy a chocolate craving, head straight to the historic Vassalli pastry shop in the heart of Salò’s old town. This family-run pasticceria has made artisan chocolates (as well as its pastries and cakes) since 1930. Pull up a chair at one of the dainty pink tables set up along the town’s main pedestrian thoroughfare. Or choose a selection of hand-crafted chocolates from the display to take home. It’s also worth sampling other local delicacies, from Lake Garda olive oil to fresh lake fish.
Local Currency Euro (€) | Time Zone CEST (UTC +1) | Country Code +39 | Language(s) Italian | Attractions 7 | Tours 83 | Reviews 1,778 |
Lake Garda is famous for a few things. It’s Italy’s biggest lake, it’s close to the Dolomite Mountains, and it’s a mecca for windsurfers. Like many Lombardy lakes, Lake Garda is an international tourist hub. It offers attractions from Roman ruins to the lavish Vittoriale degli Italiani estate.
...MoreThe lake is huge, so how you spend your day depends on where you stay. If you’re in hubs like Sirmione or Malcesine, visit the Castello Scaligero or ride the cableway from Malcesine to Monte Baldo. Then, head to a lake beach for lunch and some lounging around.
...MoreYes, you can swim in Lake Garda during the summer months, and there are private and public beaches. Stick close to the shore, and treat your time in the lake like Italians do. They rarely go to “swim;” instead they fare un bagno (take a bath or a dip).
...MoreIf you’re planning a day trip, boat rides are one of the best things to do in Lake Garda. You can travel between the lake towns by hydrofoil and ferry at any time of year. However, departures are less frequent outside of the peak summer season. Bus routes can be complicated, and ride-hailing apps (and even taxis) aren’t common.
...MoreThe towns of Sirmione, Limone sul Garda, and Malcesine are tourist favorites full of charm. However, these spots are also crowded. One lesser-known but lovely spot is Salò town. There are also the rustic villages of Brenzone sul Garda, scattered on the slopes of Monte Baldo.
...MoreMany people come for boating and water sports—windsurfing and paddleboarding are big here. Other popular Lake Garda activities include hiking and cycling. The Garda by Bike project is currently working to link existing paths into a single loop around the lake.
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