Bardolino
Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Bardolino is located on the shores of Lake Garda, in the Province of Verona and has a population of 7,178 inhabitants.
It's situated around 145 kilometres west of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto. Standing at an elevation of 65 metres above sea level, it covers an area of 57 km². Among the nearby places of interest are Garda, Torri del Benaco and Peschiera del Garda. |
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Bardolino • Lake Garda • Veneto
Bardolino is a picturesque town located in the Veneto region of northern Italy, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, approximately 30 kilometres west of Verona. Known for its stunning lakeside views, medieval charm, and rich winemaking tradition, Bardolino is a popular destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting.
The town’s historic centre is characterised by narrow, cobbled streets, charming squares, and traditional stone buildings, creating a delightful atmosphere for strolling. One of Bardolino's main attractions is its lakeside promenade, which offers panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. The town is also home to several churches, including the Church of San Zeno, and is famous for its vineyards, producing the renowned Bardolino wine. Visitors can explore local wine cellars and enjoy tastings of the region's signature red wine.
Nearby, the town of Lazise is known for its medieval walls, while the larger town of Desenzano del Garda offers a more lively atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. To the north, the town of Garda is another scenic spot on the lake, offering beautiful views and outdoor activities. Bardolino, with its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and proximity to other towns around Lake Garda, provides an ideal base for exploring the Veneto region.
The town’s historic centre is characterised by narrow, cobbled streets, charming squares, and traditional stone buildings, creating a delightful atmosphere for strolling. One of Bardolino's main attractions is its lakeside promenade, which offers panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. The town is also home to several churches, including the Church of San Zeno, and is famous for its vineyards, producing the renowned Bardolino wine. Visitors can explore local wine cellars and enjoy tastings of the region's signature red wine.
Nearby, the town of Lazise is known for its medieval walls, while the larger town of Desenzano del Garda offers a more lively atmosphere with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. To the north, the town of Garda is another scenic spot on the lake, offering beautiful views and outdoor activities. Bardolino, with its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and proximity to other towns around Lake Garda, provides an ideal base for exploring the Veneto region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Lake Garda: The town's waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Lake Garda, and visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the shore or relax on the beaches.
- Wine Tourism: Bardolino is renowned for its wine production, and wine enthusiasts can visit local wineries and vineyards to taste Bardolino wine, which is a light and fruity red wine.
- Historic Centre: The town's historic centre features narrow streets, charming squares, and colorful buildings. The main square, Piazza Matteotti, is a lively spot with cafes and restaurants.
- Olive Oil Mills: Bardolino is also known for its olive oil production, and visitors can tour olive oil mills to learn about the traditional methods of oil extraction.
- San Zeno Church: This 9th-century church is an important historical and architectural site in Bardolino. It boasts beautiful frescoes and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
- Water Sports: Lake Garda offers ample opportunities for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
- Cycling: Bardolino and its surroundings have several cycling routes, making it a great destination for cycling enthusiasts.
- Gardaland: The famous Gardaland amusement park, located nearby, is a fun-filled attraction for families.
- Olive Oil Museum: The Museo dell'Olio (Olive Oil Museum) in Bardolino provides insight into the olive oil production process and the region's agricultural heritage.
- Festivals: Bardolino hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Bardolino Wine Festival, which celebrates the local wine.
Comune di Bardolino
Location: Lake Garda
Province: Verona Region: Veneto Population: 6,931 (in 2024 - source) Size: 57 km² Elevation: 65 metres Close by: Garda, Lazise, Torri del Benaco, Peschiera del Garda |
My recommended accommodation options for Bardolino:
- Color Hotel Style, Design & Gourmet This uniquely designed hotel offers rooms and suites with vibrant décor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy multiple swimming pools, lush gardens, and an on-site gourmet restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine. The hotel is a short walk from Lake Garda’s shores and Bardolino’s historic centre, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration. €€€ (high-end)
- Aqualux Hotel Spa & Suite Bardolino This eco-friendly hotel features contemporary rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows allowing in plenty of natural light. Visitors appreciate the extensive spa facilities, including saunas, pools, and treatment rooms, as well as the on-site restaurant offering organic dishes. Located close to Bardolino’s centre, it provides easy access to local shops and cafés. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Caesius Thermae & Spa Resort Set amidst beautifully maintained gardens, this resort offers spacious rooms and suites with classic furnishings. Guests can unwind in the thermal spa, enjoy five swimming pools, and dine in one of the hotel’s restaurants serving Italian and international cuisine. The resort is a short stroll from Lake Garda, providing a comfortable stay with convenient lake access. €€€ (high-end)
- Parc Hotel Gritti Located directly on the lakefront, this hotel provides comfortable rooms with traditional décor. Visitors can relax by the outdoor pool, enjoy the wellness centre, and dine in the on-site restaurants. Its prime location near Bardolino’s centre allows guests to explore the town’s attractions with ease. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel 4 Stagioni Sensus Spa This family-run hotel offers cosy rooms with elegant décor and balconies overlooking the garden. Guests enjoy the intimate spa, outdoor pool, and bar serving light snacks and drinks. Situated in a quiet area, it is still within walking distance of Bardolino’s bustling centre and the lake. €€ (mid-range)
Bardolino Gallery
Lake Garda Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Limone sul Garda
2. Sirmione
3. Peschiera del Garda
4. Riva del Garda
5. Malcesine
6. Lazise
7. Salò
8. Desenzano del Garda
9. Bardolino
10. Gargnano
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Garda
1. Limone sul Garda
2. Sirmione
3. Peschiera del Garda
4. Riva del Garda
5. Malcesine
6. Lazise
7. Salò
8. Desenzano del Garda
9. Bardolino
10. Gargnano
👉 Explore the Top 10 Towns on Lake Garda
Bardolino Travel
By Rail: Bardolino does not have its own train station. The nearest stations are Peschiera del Garda, approximately 15 km to the south, and Verona Porta Nuova, about 30 km to the southeast. Trains from Milan to Peschiera del Garda take around 1 hour, from Verona approximately 15 minutes, and from Venice about 1 hour and 20 minutes. From these stations, you can reach Bardolino by bus or taxi.
By Road: Bardolino is approximately 30 km northwest of Verona, with a driving time of around 40 minutes via the SR249 road, also known as the Gardesana Orientale. From the A4 motorway, exit at Peschiera del Garda and follow signs for Bardolino along the lakefront.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Garda Ferry Services:
Bardolino is served by regular ferry services on Lake Garda, connecting it to various towns around the lake, including Garda, Sirmione, and Riva del Garda. Services range from standard ferries to faster hydrofoils and catamarans. For example, the ferry journey from Bardolino to Garda takes approximately 15 minutes. Ferry schedules and ticket prices vary seasonally; it's advisable to check the current timetables and fares before planning your trip.
By Road: Bardolino is approximately 30 km northwest of Verona, with a driving time of around 40 minutes via the SR249 road, also known as the Gardesana Orientale. From the A4 motorway, exit at Peschiera del Garda and follow signs for Bardolino along the lakefront.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Valerio Catullo): Located about 27 km southeast of Bardolino, the drive takes approximately 30 minutes via the SR249 road. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus to Verona Porta Nuova station, then continue by bus or taxi to Bardolino.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 115 km west of Bardolino, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes via the A4 motorway. Train and bus combinations are available via Brescia and Verona.
Lake Garda Ferry Services:
Bardolino is served by regular ferry services on Lake Garda, connecting it to various towns around the lake, including Garda, Sirmione, and Riva del Garda. Services range from standard ferries to faster hydrofoils and catamarans. For example, the ferry journey from Bardolino to Garda takes approximately 15 minutes. Ferry schedules and ticket prices vary seasonally; it's advisable to check the current timetables and fares before planning your trip.