Garda
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Latest page update: 6 March 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Garda is located on the shores of Lake Garda, in the Province of Verona and has a total population of 4,116 permanent inhabitants.
It's situated around 150 kilometres west of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto. Standing at an elevation of 67 metres above sea level, it covers an area of 14 km². |
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Garda • Lake Garda • Veneto
Garda is a charming town located in the Veneto region of northern Italy, situated on the southeastern shore of Lake Garda, around 30 kilometres north of Verona. Known for its stunning lakeside setting and beautiful natural surroundings, Garda offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. The town’s position at the foot of the Monte Luppia and the lake provides breathtaking views of both the mountains and the water, making it a popular destination for those seeking both tranquillity and scenic beauty.
Garda’s historic centre is characterised by narrow, cobbled streets, traditional buildings, and picturesque squares, where visitors can explore local shops, cafes, and restaurants. The lakeside promenade is a particular highlight, offering pleasant walks along the water with views across the lake. The town is also home to several notable landmarks, such as the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and has a lively cultural scene, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Nearby, the town of Bardolino is famous for its vineyards and Prosecco production, while the village of Torri del Benaco, located to the north, offers a more tranquil atmosphere with its medieval castle and charming harbour. To the east, the town of Lazise is known for its well-preserved medieval walls and vibrant lakeside atmosphere. Garda, with its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and proximity to other towns around Lake Garda, is an ideal base for exploring the Veneto region.
Garda’s historic centre is characterised by narrow, cobbled streets, traditional buildings, and picturesque squares, where visitors can explore local shops, cafes, and restaurants. The lakeside promenade is a particular highlight, offering pleasant walks along the water with views across the lake. The town is also home to several notable landmarks, such as the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and has a lively cultural scene, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Nearby, the town of Bardolino is famous for its vineyards and Prosecco production, while the village of Torri del Benaco, located to the north, offers a more tranquil atmosphere with its medieval castle and charming harbour. To the east, the town of Lazise is known for its well-preserved medieval walls and vibrant lakeside atmosphere. Garda, with its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and proximity to other towns around Lake Garda, is an ideal base for exploring the Veneto region.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Historic Centre: The heart of Garda is its historic centre, characterized by cobbled streets, charming squares, and ancient buildings. Explore the medieval town walls, the Torre dell'Orologio (Clock Tower), and the Palazzo dei Capitani (Palace of the Captains).
- Lakeside Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, which offers panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. The promenade is lined with cafes, gelaterias, and shops, perfect for enjoying the serene setting.
- San Vigilio Castle: Visit the ruins of the ancient San Vigilio Castle, perched on a hill above Garda. The castle offers breathtaking views of the town, the lake, and the surrounding countryside.
- Church of Santa Maria: The Church of Santa Maria, dating back to the 12th century, features beautiful frescoes and a Romanesque bell tower. It is a significant religious and architectural landmark in Garda.
- Beaches: Garda boasts several beaches along the shores of Lake Garda, providing opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
- Boat Tours: Explore the beauty of Lake Garda by taking boat tours that depart from Garda's harbor. These tours offer visits to nearby towns and scenic spots on the lake.
- Olive Oil Tasting: The area around Garda is known for its high-quality olive oil production. Visitors can indulge in olive oil tasting tours and learn about the olive oil-making process.
Comune di Garda
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Location: Lake Garda
Province: Verona Region: Veneto Population: 4,113 (in 2024 - source) Size: 16 km² Elevation: 67 metres Close by: Torri del Benaco, Bardolino, Lazise, Malcesine |
My recommended accommodation options for Garda:
- Hotel Villa Anthea Located in the heart of Garda, this boutique hotel offers modern rooms with vibrant décor. Guests appreciate the proximity to the lakefront, the outdoor swimming pool, and the personalized service provided by the attentive staff. The hotel's central location allows easy access to local shops, restaurants, and the picturesque harbor. €€ (mid-range)
- Sky Pool Hotel Sole Garda This contemporary hotel features rooms with minimalist design and private balconies. Visitors enjoy the rooftop infinity pool offering panoramic views of Lake Garda, the on-site restaurant serving Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, and the short walk to the historic center. The hotel's modern amenities and central location make it a popular choice for travelers seeking both comfort and convenience. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Excelsior Le Terrazze Nestled amidst lush gardens, this hotel provides elegantly furnished rooms, some with lake-view balconies. Guests value the outdoor pool, the terrace bar overlooking the lake, and the complimentary breakfast buffet. The tranquil setting, combined with proximity to the town center and the beach, offers a serene getaway for visitors. €€€ (high-end)
- La Vittoria Boutique Hotel Set along the lakeshore promenade, this boutique hotel offers individually decorated rooms with classic furnishings. Visitors praise the stunning lake views, the on-site restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, and the hotel's historic charm. Its prime location allows guests to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Garda's waterfront. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Remàt Housed in a restored historic building, this hotel features rooms with unique designs reflecting local fish species. Guests enjoy the central location in Garda's main square, the on-site restaurant offering traditional cuisine, and the blend of modern comforts with historical ambiance. The hotel's position provides easy access to cultural sites, shops, and the lake. €€ (mid-range)
Garda 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
Garda Travel
By Rail: Garda does not have its own train station. The nearest stations are Peschiera del Garda, approximately 17 km to the south, and Verona Porta Nuova, about 25 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 Garda by bus or taxi.
By Road: Garda 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 Garda along the lakefront.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Garda Ferry Services:
Garda is served by regular ferry services on Lake Garda, connecting it to various towns around the lake, including Bardolino, Sirmione, and Riva del Garda. Services range from standard ferries to faster hydrofoils and catamarans. For example, the ferry journey from Garda to Sirmione takes approximately 2 hours. Ferry schedules and ticket prices vary seasonally; it's advisable to check the current timetables and fares before planning your trip.
By Road: Garda 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 Garda along the lakefront.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Valerio Catullo): Located about 35 km southeast of Garda, the drive takes approximately 35 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 Garda.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 110 km west of Garda, 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:
Garda is served by regular ferry services on Lake Garda, connecting it to various towns around the lake, including Bardolino, Sirmione, and Riva del Garda. Services range from standard ferries to faster hydrofoils and catamarans. For example, the ferry journey from Garda to Sirmione takes approximately 2 hours. Ferry schedules and ticket prices vary seasonally; it's advisable to check the current timetables and fares before planning your trip.
