Lake Garda (or Lago di Garda as Italians would refer to it) is Italy’s largest lake. Its shores lie within three different Italian provinces, namely Verona, Brescia and Trentino. Its sheer size means that there is quite a contrast in the landscape between the north and south of the lake. In the north, it sits at the feet of the Alps and the landscape is more mountainous (and arguably more dramatic). However, to the south, it’s much flatter. However, wherever you choose to visit, it’s all absolutely stunning, with an incredible amount to see and do.
Here’s our guide to the top 50 things to do on Lake Garda for your next Italian Lakes holiday.
1. Explore Riva del Garda
Riva del Garda is a lakeside town in the north in the Trentino region and is a popular spot for holidaymakers to visit. The town is small but picturesque and is enclosed by original gates and surrounded by fortress walls. Relax in the lakefront piazzas and stroll through its winding streets. The impressive fortress – Rocca di Riva – separates the historic centre from the lakeside and is well worth a visit too, home as it is to the Museo Civico. Also keep an eye out for the Torre Apponale, a tall 13th century clocktower situated in the Piazza III Novembre. Climb to the top to make the most of the fantastic views over the town and harbour below. Those with young children can explore via the tourist train that starts from the park and makes its way through the streets
2. Go windsurfing on Lake Garda
Riva del Garda is actually one of the best places on Lake Garda to enjoy windsurfing (although by no means is it the only place to enjoy this sport). Torbole is also a good base for windsurfing on Lake Garda. (Incidentally Torbole is a lovely place to visit in its own right. Its buildings are painted in an attractive mix of pastels and brighter colours whilst its 18th century customs house is particularly sweet!)
In the morning, you will find that the Pelèr (north wind) from the Alps provides the breeze you’ll need to move across the lake, whilst in the afternoon, the ora (south wind) gives windsurfers the breeze needed to stay on the move!
3. Go sailing on Lake Garda
Windsurfing isn’t the only sport to be enjoyed on a Lake Garda holiday. Sailing is also extremely popular on Lake Garda again thanks to the mild climate and constant winds. A number of regattas (local, regional and international) take place each year on Lake Garda. The most famous of these is the Centomiglia in Bogliaco. However, inexperienced sailors don’t need to worry. There are plenty of sailing clubs on Lake Garda offering training and courses.
4. Admire the waterfalls
There are more than a dozen waterfalls to discover around Lake Garda. Some can only be viewed at a distance on foot but, with others, you can even swim underneath them. One of the most well known is in the Parco Grotta Cascate Varone. Here, visitors will walk through botanical gardens before reaching the waterfall itself. We recommend you head to the smaller cave first before taking the steps up to the larger main cave above. Here is where the views are most spectacular and the use of clever lighting adds to the impact. Just a word of advice – you will get wet – so take a poncho or rain coat if you want to stay dry.
Head south from here with the lake on your left and you will come to the Cascate del Ponale. And further south still, other Lake Garda waterfalls include the Cascate Piovere where you can swim in the pool where the waterfall ends. Just be aware that, at certain times of year, the waterfall may be nothing more than a faint trickle as it is seasonal and depends on rainfall levels. And nearby are the Cammino Tignale waterfalls too.
5. Go hiking on Lake Garda
As with all the Italian Lakes, Lake Garda offers plenty of incredible hiking paths and trails. Whether you’re a serious walker or prefer a light stroll, there are some great walking routes to enjoy. We’re big fans of having a viewpoint to reach on any walk. As a result, one of our favourite walks is the hike to Punta Larici. However, a word of caution. This arguably isn’t suitable for novice hikers with some steep climbs in parts and with exposed paths that skirt around the hillside. Alternatively, go hiking along the trails around Torri del Benaco to discover prehistoric rock carvings. Or opt to try the Sentiero Busatte-Tempesta near Torbole or the Old Ponale Road Path in Riva del Garda.
There are so many fabulous viewpoints to be enjoyed as you explore Lake Garda. However, arguably none is as magical or impressive as at San Zeno di Montagna, sitting 680 metres above the lake. San Zeno di Montaga is certainly another favourite spot for walkers and hikers and there are over 200 km of trails which criss cover the area around the town.
Hiking around Lake Garda is also a great way to learn more about the history of this beautiful region. Galleries, staging posts, forts, tunnels and other infrastructure that once marked the frontline between Italy and Austria-Hungary can be easily seen and followed by hikers here. In fact there are 12 different marked hiking routes that will allow walkers to trace the dramatic events of the Grande Guerra (as Italians call the First World war).
6. Visit the limonaia at Torri del Benaco
Torri del Benaco is a small lakeside town less than 40 km from Verona. Its name is a glimpse into the history of Lake Garda which was named Lacus Benacus until the 8th or 9th century. Whilst small, we think the town is perfectly formed and worth a visit to admire the medieval castle alone. Here you will find a centuries old limonaia which dates back to 1760. Other buildings of note include the Baroque Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo, home to an 18th century organ and the smaller Church of SS Trinita. There are also some lovely pebbled beaches in Torre del Benaco and the setting boasts some of the best lake views of any town on Lake Garda.
7. Go cycling on Lake Garda
For those that prefer two wheels, Lake Garda is the perfect place to cycle. 140 km of cycle paths have either already been (or will be) constructed by 2026 so that it will be possible to cycle all the way around the lake. Already, some of these paths sit above the water itself so even today it’s a pretty impressive route to enjoy.
The cycle path from Limone sul Garda is probably the most famous stretch of the route since this is the suspended section and boasts some rather unique viewpoints over Lake Garda. But cyclists need to be aware that there is a maximum speed limit of 10 mph on this path and it is also shared with pedestrians. Otherwise, some other lovely cycle trails worth trying are those from Peschiera del Garda to Mantua, from Lazise to Punta San Vigilio on the east and from Desenzano del Garda to Sirmione in the south.
If you’re not feeling particularly energetic, you can still enjoy cycling in the area. Just opt for ebike hire on Lake Garda which takes all the hard work out of the pedalling!
8. Take a day trip to Verona
The train from Lake Garda to Verona can take as little as 20 minutes so this most romantic of Italy’s cities is the perfect day trip to enjoy during your Lake Garda holiday.
Verona is a synonymous with love thanks to its two most famous residents – Romeo and Juliet. Certainly a visit to Verona would not be complete without admiring the famous balcony at the House of Giulietta. However, Verona is just as impressive for music lovers as it is romantics. The city is home to the Arena di Verona which hosts an impressive operatic festival every Summer. There are plenty of other sights to see in Verona too. Don’t go without admiring the views of the city by climbing the 368 steps to the top of the Torre dei Lamberti. And don’t miss a trip to Verona’s museums or its cathedral. And save some time for some shopping too – Verona has some excellent shops to satisfy even the most serious shopaholics.
9. Go back in time on a visit to Canale di Tenno
You can’t help but be in awe of the history and magic that seems to ooze from every building and alleyway in Canale di Tenno. One of Italy’s borghi piu belli (Italy’s most beautiful buildings), it’s characterised by narrow, paved alleyways, charming piazzas and picturesque courtyards. The village was actually abandoned after WWII, but thanks to an influx of a number of artists in the 1960s, it has since been brought back to life. The village is home to the Casa degli Artisti (Home of the Artists) which attracts artists from all over the world. It’s also a great place to enjoy some absolutely terrific views over Lake Garda. Visit in the first two weeks of August and your trip will coincide with Rustico Medioevo, a festival of arts which highlights the town’s medieval past.
Of course, this isn’t the only one of Italy’s borghi piu belli to visit around Lake Garda. There are plenty of others including Limone sul Garda, Malcesine, Tremosine, Castellaro, Sabbinoetta, Borghetto dul Mincio and others. Why not tick them all off your bucket list on you next Lake Garda holiday?!!
10. Enjoy the fun of the fair at Gardaland
Gardaland is Italy’s biggest theme park and it’s also one of the largest in Europe too. Attracting approximately 3 million visitors a year, it’s one of the main reasons families holiday on Lake Garda. Gardaland Resort actually comprises three different amusement parks – Gardaland Park, Gardaland Sea-Life and it’s Legoland Waterpark – along with three themed hotels. Gardaland Sea-Life is home to more than 5000 marine creatures, Gardaland Park has over 30 rides and the waterpark has a range of attractions including Miniland which was constructed using over 4 million lego bricks! Book your Gardaland tickets in advance to avoid the queues.
11. Head to the beach
Like the other Italian Lakes, there are plenty of beaches on Lake Garda to be enjoyed.
A couple of of our favourites are the Val di Sogno near Malcesine and the Parco Baia delle Sirene, also on the east of the lake. But others worth a mention include the Spiaggia Tifu near Limone sul Garda, the sandy beach at Lazise in the south and the beach at Sirmione.
12. Go on safari!
Perhaps not what you were expecting to do on a Lake Garda holiday, but if you have a love of animals, you can enjoy a visit to the safari park and zoo Parco Natura Viva in Bussolengo. With a focus very much on animal welfare and the protection of threatened species, it’s a good place to learn more about some incredible animals.
13. Explore Malcesine
Malcesine is a picturesque town on the north eastern shores of Lake Garda. Its historic castle – the Castello Scaligero – dominates the town and is arguably the main attraction that lures tourists to Malcesine. Visitors can explore its battlemented fortress which has been converted into a museum, called the Museo Castello Scaligero. There are also great views to be enjoyed from the ramparts and there is also the option of climbing up the tower and gazing down at Malcesine’s rooftops from above.
Also of note in Malcesine is the 15th century Palazzo dei Capitani, which sits close to the harbour. Once the HQ of the area’s Venetian rulers, it’s a rather grand building that stands out from the rest of the buildings in Malcesine.
Set aside a few hours to explore Malcesine’s narrow streets and to take the cable car that leads from the village centre to the top of Monte Baldo. One cable car takes you half way up the mountainside whilst a second then takes you the rest of the way. This second cable car rotates as it moves to ensure that everyone can make the most of the views en route. Once at the summit, enjoy a bite to eat in one of the restaurants or cafes there or enjoy a walk along the crest of the mountain top.
14. Go paragliding
It’s not only the views that attract visitors to the top of Monte Baldo. Paragliding is a popular sport on Lake Garda and Monte Baldo at a height of 1800 metres is the lake’s main launch spot for paragliding flights. For the inexperienced novice, you can enjoy a tandem flight, however if you want to learn more, it is possible to take a course and earn your paragliding certificate here too.
15. Enjoy a day trip to Venice
It takes just under 2 hours to reach Venice from Lake Garda so it’s certainly a great option for a day trip during your Lake Garda holiday. Venice needs no introduction. This is the iconic city of canals, famous for landmarks such as the Piazza San Marco, the Rialto Bridge, the Doge’s Palace, gondola rides and more. If you’re unlucky enough to be on holiday on Lake Garda when it’s raining, then Venice can even be a good rainy day option. There are certainly plenty of things to do in Venice when it rains. For a stress free day trip from Lake Garda to Venice, opt for an organised excursion.
16. Visit Lake Valvestino
Just 25 minutes drive from the shores of Lake Garda is Lake Valvestino. It’s a stunningly beautiful spot, more reminiscent perhaps of the Norwegian fjords than the Italian Lakes. It’s an artificial basin created in the 1960s following the building of the 400 foot long Valvestino dam. The lake is surrounded by forests and tall cliffs and when the water levels are low enough, you can catch a glimpse of a 19th century customs help which would once have regulated the passage of people and goods through the area.
17. Take a boat trip to Lake Garda’s islands
Take a boat trio to Garda’s largest island – Isola del Garda (also known as Borghese Island – or to Garda’s other islands which are Isola dei Conigli (Island of Rabbits, also called Isola San Biagio), Isola del Sogno (Island of Dreams), Isola dell’ Olivo (Island of Olive Trees) or Isola di Trimelone.
Isola del Garda is actually now privately owned by the Conti Cavazza family from Bologna but it is accessible via a prior booking through an authorised guide. It is home to an incredible 19th century villa built in the Venetian Gothic style and surrounded by a beautiful natural park.
Isola dei Conigli is, as the name suggests, home to numerous wild rabbits. It’s open to the public for a small admission fee. In the Summer, it is normally possible to reach it on foot via the isthmus that connects it to the mainland. However, it is also possible to reach it by water taxi. Enjoy a drink and take in the laid back lifestyle whilst relaxing on its beaches.
Isola del Sogno is similarly reachable on foot when it is shallow as it’s actually situated just 20 metres from the mainland off Malcesine. Isola dell Olivo is close by. This island is wilder but still offers the chance to sit back and sunbathe close to the lake waters.
And finally there is the Isola di Trimelone. This island has had quite a dramatic history over the past 100 years. At the end. of WWII, soldiers dumped explosives and weapons on the island. In 1954, an explosion then destroyed half the island and led to a 3 day fire. Since then, nearly 25,000 explosive devices have been removed from the waters. Today, the island is a beautiful oasis, home to seagulls and cormorants. But it is forbidden to approach it due to the continuing danger of war material. However, it is possible to enjoy a boat excursion around the island so you can view its idyllic scenery from the water.
18. Discover the Roman remains in Sirmione
Sirmione is a small but beautiful Lake Garda town which dates back to Roman times. The town is home to some excellent Roman ruins. Visit the ruins of what is widely believed to have once been the home of the Roman poet Catallus – the Grotte di Catullo – in Sirmione.
There is much more to see in Sirmione though than just its Roman remains. Its pedestrianised centre is a warren of charming narrow streets and alleyways which are lined with souvenir shops and cafes. Sirmione is also well known for its almost fairytale looking castle – the Rocca Scaligera – surrounded by a moat and home to a swans and ducks. Climb the tower to make the most of the wonderful views over Lake Garda. More fantastic views of the lake can be enjoyed on the signposted walk from the historic centre of Sirmione around the promontory.
Enjoy seeing the very best of Sirmione on a guided boat tour of Sirmione.
19. Head underwater
Whilst there are plenty of water sports above water, there is also the option to explore below Lake Garda’s water level. Diving is a popular sport. One of the most popular sites is at San Biagio Island. Here, the Scoglio dell’ Altare is a rock that descends 150 metres and which is famous for its two large balconies which are filled with yellow sponges and home to fish such as eel, tench, pike and perch. And then, off the Isola dell’ Olivo is a small cave full of flora and fauna which is also popular with scuba divers. Not only that, off the northern part of the island sits a 10 metre long ship wreck which is home to a plethora of fish species. And there is another larger wreck off the Isola del Sogno. Here a 16 metre wreck was sunk in 1987.
20. Go wine tasting on Lake Garda
Wine is produced in the hills around Bardolino to the east of Lake Garda. This is where you will find the refreshing Chiaretto rosato wines and Bardolino, Lake Garda’s famous light red wine. The Trentino Garda area is also conducive to viticulture thanks to its microclimate. And there are also wines from Valtenesi in the Lombardy region of Lake Garda. There are plenty of wineries on Lake Garda where you can sample the wines. Or opt for an organised wine tour and tasting on Lake Garda. There are plenty to choose from. Alternatively, visit during the annual Festa dell’ Uva harvest in late September and early October or during the Palio del Chiaretto which celebrates the area’s rosé wine.
21. Enjoy a stroll around Limone sul Garda
Picturesque Limone sul Garda is rather aptly named considering the history of lemon and citrus fruit cultivation in the area. However actually it is so-called due to its location near a border. (Limone derives from a Latin word meaning ‘boundary’).
A good starting point for any visit to Limone sul Garda is the Porto Vecchio, the heart of the old town. From here you can start your stroll through the narrow streets and alleyways up the hillside behind. Or you could stop at one of the many waterside cafes and restaurants. Head north along the pathways and you will eventually escape the rest of the tourists and discover lemon groves, cafes and small pebbly beaches at La Limonaia del Castel.. Or head south and you’ll find a more modern side to Limone with modern hotel resorts.
22. Follow in the footsteps of 007
James Bond film, Quantum of Solace featured a dramatic car chase around Lake Garda in its opening sequence. This takes film viewers from the village of Malcesine all the way down to Riva del Garda. You can drive along the same breathtaking route. Incidentally, this same route – the Strada della Forra near Tremosine – was once described by Winston Churchill once as the 8th wonder of the world.
23. Go kitesurfing on Lake Garda
Kitesurfing is a popular sport on Lake Garda. Consistent winds from May to September mean it’s a haven for kite surfers. Limone has kiting schools and rentals and is the main point for kite surfers to rig up. On the west of Lake Garda, Campione is open for kiters from February to October. On the east, Malcesine is open from March to October as is Navene. For more experienced surfers, there is Lido di Lonato and Castelletto di Brenzone.
24. Get active on a tree top adventure course
You can tackle the treetop adventure course at the Parco Avventura delle Busatte in Torbole during your Lake Garda holiday. There are five different aerial routes to try. In addition, there is a BMW supercross track and mountain bike trails.
25. Immerse yourself in film at Movieland
Gardaland is not the only amusement park on Lake Garda. Visitors can also enjoy the thrills at Movieland, Lake Garda’s theme park that revolves around cinema. There are actually two parks here – the Caneva waterpark which describes itself as the ‘Caribbean island on Lake Garda’ and Movieland The Hollywood Park. The latter is filled with rides, movie sets and shows.
26. Visit Villa Romana in Desenzano del Garda
Desenzano del Garda is the largest town on the lake, sitting on the southern shores of Lake Garda. The southern shores of the lake are less dramatic than further north. The landscape is rather flat. But there are still some pleasant views to be enjoyed from Desenzano. And the town is worth visiting to explore its historic winding streets and to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants in its pretty harbour. And Desenzano is also home to Villa Romana. Here, visitors can wander around the ruined walls of these Roman remains and learn about the wealth of archaeological finds discovered here over the years.
There is another side to Desenzano too. Italians head to Desenzano to enjoy eating and drinking at the bars and restaurants before heading off to one of the towns nightclubs.
27. Discover the world’s shortest river
The picturesque River Aril in Cassone is the world’s shortest river. At just 175 metres long, it heads down a small waterfall under a road and below three bridges before it flows into Lake Garda. It’s also a protected reserve for fishing. Trout swim back up the river to lay their eggs away from predators. And in the run up to Christmas, it is the site of a beautiful floating nativity scene.
28. Visit Garda town
No visit to Lake Garda would be complete without a visit to the town that gives the lake its name. With its picturesque historic centre and a long lakeside promenade which will take you all the way to Bardolino, it’s a very pleasant place to while away the hours.
Notable buildings you should look out for include the Palazzo dei Capitani, a stunning building in the Venetian Gothic style and which would once have been home to the captain of Lake Garda. Also of note is the Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta, a beautiful church, and Villa Albertini. If you’re feeling strenuous, take a walk up to the top of the hill that sits above the town. Here you will be able to see the ruins of the fortress that would once have stood here and guarded the lake. Whilst not much of the fortress remains today, the views are as stunning as they would ever have been.
29. Visit the olive oil museum in Bardolino
Garda’s neighbour, Bardolino, has been made most famous by its production of wine (which you can find out about in the Zeni wine museum). But actually, not far from Bardolino is the Olive Oil museum. This charts the history and production process behind Lake Garda’s distinctive golden green olive oil. The oil’s colour is, in fact, due to its high chlorophyll content. It is light and fruity, with slightly bitter notes reminiscent of almonds, and it smells and tastes absolutely delicious!
Of course, there is plenty more than just the museum to keep you occupied in Bardolino for longer. Bardolino’s historic centre is home to a number of churches dating back as early as the 11th and 12th centuries. Among them is the Church of San Nicolo’ and San Severo and the even earlier Church of San Zeno which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
30. Visit Arco
Arco sits on the northern shores of Lake Garda. There are a number of reasons why it’s worth a visit during your Lake Garda holiday.
For one thing, it’s home to the Arboreto di Arco, an arboretum built by the archduke Albert of Hapsburg when Arco became the imperial Winter residence of the Hapsburg court. It’s home to more than 150 types of trees and plants which originated on several different continents, some of which were planted by the Archduke himself such as the holm-oaks, conifers, cypress and sequoia. There are also palms and bamboos along with a small lake that is home to terrapins.
Enjoy a stroll around the peace and tranquility of the arboretum before climbing up to the Castello di Arco (or Torre di Arco) that sits on a cliff above the town. At a height of 273 metres, it takes about 20 minutes to reach on foot but it’s a charming walk through olive groves. The view from the top is certainly worth the effort!
You may well feel that the town has a rather Austrian Tyrolean feel to it and there is good reason for this. In fact, the town only became part of Italy after the end of the First World War.
31. Go climbing on Lake Garda
Outdoor sports and adventure enthusiasts can’t help but love Lake Garda. We’ve already mentioned the water sports on offer on the lake, but there are plenty of adventurous activities to enjoy on land too, not least rock climbing. And Arco is one of the places from where you can enjoy it. In fact, the Rock Master Festival takes place in Arco in the last week of August each year. Most of the best climbing is in the north of the lake, but there is also an option to climb near Marciaga in the east.
Climbing is certainly most popular in the Summer months, albeit south facing cliffs can become pretty hot at that time of year. But Lake Garda’s mild climate means that you can enjoy rock climbing here all year round. There are hundreds of climbs to be attempted for all abilities, from novices to the more experienced.
32. Marvel at the incredible villas near Lake Garda
An easy day trip from Lake Garda will take you to visit some of the villas designed by Palladio. Palladio worked as a villa architect from the mid 1530s until the year 1566. Across this period, he was responsible for the building of numerous villas that are scattered across the Venetian countryside, all the way from Verona to Treviso.
The most celebrated villas closest to Lake Garda include Villa Emo in Fanzolo (which many consider to be the epitomy of Palladio’s vision of an ideal villa), Villa Barbaro in Maser (famous for its frescoes by Veronese) and the buildings in his home town of Vicenza.
33. Go shopping in the weekly markets
Italy’s local markets tend to start early in the morning, at around 7.30 and close at lunchtime. Lake Garda is no exception. It would be impossible to list timings of all the weekly markets on Lake Garda but some of the main ones include those in Sirmione and Pozzolengo on Monday, Limone sul Garda and Desenzano sul Garda on Tuesday and Gargnano every fortnight on a Wednesday. In addition, Thursday sees markets in Toscolano Maderno and Lonato del Garda whilst on Friday there is another market in Sirmione as well as a market in Manerba del Garda and Gardone Riviera. Head to Brescia on Saturday for their market and back to Desenzano sul Garda on Sunday.
34. Enjoy a boat trip on Lake Garda
The Lake Garda public boat network criss-crosses the lake all day long. It’s well worth hopping aboard to appreciate the lake. It’s certainly a way to enjoy the scenery at a slower pace. For timetable information, take a look at the official website. You can even enjoy a group sunset boat trip on Lake Garda. Or for the ultimate luxury Lake Garda boat trip, choose a private sunset cruise on Lake Garda instead. Alternatively, you can opt to hire a boat and take to the water yourselves.
35. Explore Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda is home to a UNESCO world heritage site, namely its pentagonal fortress. This was built in the 15th century by the Republic of Venice on top of an older Roman fortress. It surrounds most of the modern town and its external fortifications open up onto the Porta Brescia to the west and the Porta Verona to the east. Visitors can walk along the ramparts and enjoy the views of Lake Garda that it boasts. Another historical building worth a visit is the Santuario della Madonna del Frassino where the Virgin Mary is supposed to have appeared in 1510.
The historic centre of the town itself is busy, bustling and beautiful. Since Peschiera del Garda was built on a series of small islands, bridges straddle canals and it is a veritable maze of narrow streets, lined with colourful buildings, interesting shops and boutiques, charming piazzas and inviting cafes.
Incidentally, if you’re feeling energetic, there are a couple of lovely cycle rides that start from Peschiera del Garda. These include a journey of approximately 40 km, all the way to Mantua, through cypress trees, olive groves and antique mills. Or another path will lead you through the Minci Natural park along the riverside. Along the River Minco, you can also cycle to some picturesque hamlets including Borghetto and Valeggio sul Mincio. The latter is famous for its love-knot tortellini, stuffed with a plethora of fillings dependent on the season. Visit during the annual Festa del Nodo d’Amore when 3000 kg of handmade tortellini are served up for a dinner held on the historic bridge in the town. The dining table itself is more than a kilometre in length and seats over 3000 people!
Finally, to cool off after your cycle, head to the Bracco Baldo beach at Peschiera del Garda.
36. Visit Gargnano
Visitors to Lake Garda should take a drive along the the scenic Gardesana Occidentale to Gargnano, one of Lake Garda’s most picturesque villages. Situated on the western shores of Lake Garda, it is filled with art and history, historic villas and palazzos, beautiful churches, lemon groves and gardens, which reflect its history as a trading and fishing town. Buildings most of note in Gargnano include the Baroque Church of San Francesco, home to a notable collection of religious art works, along with the bell tower of the San Martino church. Also of note is Villa Feltrinelli. Today it’s the Grand Hotel of Villa Feltrinelli but in the past it was once the residence of Mussolini. In fact, this part of Italy was once known as the Republic of Salo and was a fascist state led by Mussolini under the protection of Nazi Germany.
Mussolini isn’t the only historic figure to have visited this small lakeside town. Others include DH Lawrence, author of Lady Chatterley’s Lover, and Winston Churchill.
Another building of note in Haslemere is the 18th century Villa Bettoni with its garden. This is now a cultural centre and it’s well worth a visit to learn about the history and culture of this area.
Gargnano also plays host to a number of events each year. These include the Gargnano Jazz Concerts and the Old Timer Millemiglia Race. It’s also the starting point for the Centomiglia International Regatta which is one of the most important yacht races on any of the Italian Lakes.
37. Discover the town of Lazise
On the south east shores of Lake Garda is Lazise. It’s a charming town of both artistic and historical importance surrounded on three sides by Medieval walls and entered via impressive gates. Its worth heading inside the Church of San Nicolo here as inside, there are some beautiful frescoes inspired by the School of Giotto.
We think Lazise is particularly beautiful seen from the lake so definitely try and arrive by boat rather than by car. Its weekly market is held every Wednesday between 8 am and 2 pm. Just a word of caution – on this day, the town is extremely busy so if you’re wanting to explore the charm of Lazise, you may be better going on one of the other days of the week.
Incidentally, if you are visiting Lazise in the winter months, they hold a lovely Christmas market here each year where you will find vendors selling both local crafts and food. An ice rink is also set up in the shadow of the defensive walls.
38. Head to Padenghe sul Garda
Situated on the south west shores of Lake Garda, Padenghe sul Garda is often overlooked in favour of a trip to its more famous neighbour Sirmione but we think it’s well worth a visit. Divide your time there into three – between the lakeside, the castle and the historic centre.
Start off in the historic centre. It’s small but charming. Keep an eye out for the Villa Barbieri with its 18th century facade and for the 12th century Romanesque Church of San Emiliano. Make sure you also head inside the Baroque Church of Santa Maria. Whilst relatively plain on the outside, inside there are frescoed ceilings and gilded columns. Artworks here include paintings by Paolo Veronese and sculptures by both Sirono and Callegari.
Next head to the 12th century Padenghe Castle, with its well preserved towers and drawbridge. Inside the castle walls, you will discover an entire historic village, complete with houses and gardens. These are still inhabited today. Make sure you climb the tower to admire the sweeping views over Lake Garda from the top. And then, if that means you have built up a sweat, you can head back to the lakeside beaches to cool off.
39. Admire the orchids
Our main reason for recommending Manerba del Garda is to enjoy a stroll around the Parco della Rocca there. This park is home to more than 400 types of plants including a number of orchids. The park itself sits below the ruins of the Medieval castle – the Rocca di Manerba.
The latter is one of the most important medieval fortresses on Lake Garda. Destroyed by the Venetians in 1575, it sits high above the town and enjoys breath-taking views over the lake, surrounding hills and across to Monte Baldo. Also worth a visit in Manerba del Garda are the archaeological museum and the many churches.
40. Go skiing
In the area around Lake Garda, there are numerous opportunities to enjoy skiing across the winter months. These cater for all ability levels. With cross-country skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, winter hiking and sledging all on offer too, it makes Lake Garda the perfect destination for a family ski holiday in Italy. The most accessible (and highest) slopes are those at Monte Baldo, which can be easily accessed from Malcesine using the cable car. Alternatively, visitors can also enjoy the Tratto Spino ski resort and the Brentonico plateau. Here you will find around 22 kilometres of slopes to enjoy.
41. Visit Lake Tenno
Lake Valvestino is not the only lake near Lake Garda worth visiting. Also of note is Lake Tenno. Situated just 15 minutes drive from Riva del Garda, Lake Tenno is an oasis of calm and tranquility. Its crystal clear blue green waters are perfect for swimming in and the lake is surrounded by fields and forests. When the water levels are low, the lake reveals a secret – a second small islet in addition to the first which can be seen all the time. We’ve already mentioned the nearby town of Canale di Tenno as being worth a visit so a great day out would be to combine a visit to both.
42. Taste the grappa!
Wine and olive oil aren’t the only things to be made on Lake Garda. Grappa is a grape-based pomace brandy that originates in Northern Italy. Grappa has been distilled in Trentino in the area around Lake Garda since the 16th century using the pressed grape skins (known as pomace). Whilst it’s not a drink we’re particularly fond of if we’re honest, it’s still fascinating to learn all the secrets of grappa production.
43. Play a round of golf
Golf lovers will find four 27 hole courses, six 18 hole courses and one 9 hole course around Lake Garda. There are also a small number of other courses a short drive away. This, along with its mild Mediterranean climate, makes Lake Garda a great destination for those looking for a hole in one! Some of the most popular golf courses on Lake Garda include GardaGolf Country Club, the Chervo Golf Club San Vigilio, the Golf Club Verona and the Golf Club Villafranca as well as Golf Bogliaco. But this is by no means an exhaustive list.
44. Explore the lofty peaks of the Dolomites
The staggeringly beautiful Dolomite mountains are an easy day trip from Lake Garda. Just a 90 minute drive north of Lake Garda, an organised tour to the Dolomite mountains from Lake Garda is as much fun in the Winter months as it is in the Summer. This particular organised day trip from Lake Garda to the Dolomites will allow you to stop at stunning villages en route such as Moena or Cavalese before taking you up to the Pordoi Pass, 2240 metres above sea level. Here you can enjoy some incredible mountain vistas before spending time in the beautiful mountain village of Ortisei which boasts an exceptional arts and crafts scene.
If you’re using your own steam to get there, then as well as the opportunity to sightsee, there are plenty of outdoor activities on offer in the Dolomites too. In the Summer months, activities include rock climbing, biking, hiking and a type of climbing vcalled via ferrata. Of course, in the winter months, you can ski and sledge.
45. Spend the day at the waterpark on Lake Garda
We’ve already mentioned the waterpark at Movieland but this is by no means the only waterpark on Lake Garda. You can also make a splash at the Parco La Quiete in Lonato del Garda or at Le Ninfee in Desenzano del Garda. Don’t expect adrenalin raised slides and rides but it’s fun for younger children and makes a change from days spent at the beach for families.
46. Wallow in Lake Garda’s thermal waters
If the temperatures in the waterparks aren’t hot enough for you, then opt for one of Lake Garda’s thermal baths instead. The Romans discovered the healing powers of the thermal waters around Lake Garda centuries ago. Today there are a number of places where you can access the healing waters. These include the Aquaria Thermal SPA in Sirmione. Here, as well as thermal pools containing sulphurous water rich in bromide and iodide salts to relax and heal your body, there are hydromassage pools, infinity pools, saunas, steam baths and a range of treatments on offer. Also of note is the thermal park at Villa dei Cedri in Lazise. This is a 13 acre natural spa surrounded by rare trees and plants. Facilities include thermal lakes as well as swimming pools, a wellness centre and fitness facility. The thermal waters bubble up at a temperature of 37°C and 42°C respectively. Both these spas take the waters from the many springs born from nearby Monte Baldo.
47. Marvel at the curiosities inside the Villa il Vittoriale
Any visit to Gardone Riviera on Lake Garda must include a visit inside the Villa il Vittoriale degli Italiani, once the home of the poet, writer, fighter pilot and army officer Gabriele d’Annunzio. Translated into English as The Shrines of Italian Victories, it is an estate that needs to be seen to be believed. In the garden, you’ll discover an amphitheatre and a battleship encased into the side of the hill, whilst inside the interior is incredibly lavish and sumptuous. D’Annunzio himself is buried on the estate. It’s not the only palatial villa to be found in the town. A couple of others of note include Villa Fiordaliso and Villa Alba, both of which are now luxury hotels and event venues.
If visiting Gardone Riviera, make the time to head uphill from the historic centre of the town to the Andre Heller botanical gardens. This was an early 20th century creation of Arturo Hruska, a doctor and dentist to kings and popes. He wanted to create a garden where visitors could see the botanical richness of the world. The garden was later acquired by Andre Heller who added a series of artworks to the gardens, both by himself and others. These are dotted amongst the 3000 plants that grow here and makes the garden a real delight to explore. Plants come from all over the world, from countries as far away as Japan, Africa, New Zealand, Canada and the Himalayas.
48. Go canyoning on Lake Garda
There are a number of places around Lake Garda where you can enjoy canyoning, many of which are suitable for beginners and children so it can be a great family friendly activity to enjoy on your Lake Garda holiday. In Campione del Garda, there is canyoning in the Rio Nero canyon with routes suitable for both novices and the more experienced. Alternatively, if you’re after something a bit more challenging, head to the Vajo dell’ Orsa canyon in the Val d’Adige or the Vione canyon in Brescia. The latter is also home to some of the most extreme descents. Book a canyoning tour on Lake Garda in advance to avoid disappointment.
49. Visit Salò
Salò has had a long and fascinating history since Roman times. Most recently, as already mentioned, Salo was part of Nazi Germany’s puppet state – the Republic of Salò. However, these days its simply a beautiful town. Pastel coloured houses line a picturesque bay, whilst in its historic centre, palaces sit side by side with churches, shops, cafes and restaurants. Salò can also lay claim to having the longest promenade on Lake Garda. So if you’re looking for a stroll, this is the place to come. It’s also a good starting point if you’re looking to take a trip to the nearby Isola del Garda and Isola di San Biagio.
50. Visit Lake Garda’s most colourful town
Castelletto sul Garda certainly deserves to be named the most colourful town on Lake Garda. Sitting on the eastern shores of Lake Garda, it’s a small but beautiful town with pebbled beaches and a picturesque fishing harbour. Its streets are lined with houses and buildings painted in a vast array of bright colours. The town itself dates back to Roman times and its Roman remains can be easily seen today. In the cemetery in in the heart of Castelletto sul Garda are the excavated ruins of a rather impressive Roman villa. Take a leisurely stroll along the Zanardelli lakefront in Salò before visiting the city’s museum.
With the lake in front and Monte Baldo behind, it’s the most gloriously pretty spot on Lake Garda and a fitting final addition to our 50 things to do on Lake Garda.