Lake Garda
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Latest page update: 7 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Lake Garda
Lake Garda offers one of Italy’s most diverse and prestigious hotel landscapes, shaped by grand lakeside villas, spa resorts and historic towns that ring its shoreline. In Gardone Riviera, Grand Hotel Fasano stands out for its elegant 19th-century character, palm-lined terraces and extensive wellness facilities, offering direct access to the lake in refined surroundings. Close by in Gargnano, Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda has become one of the lake’s most acclaimed addresses, set high on the slopes above the water with a vast spa, panoramic views and a focus on sustainable luxury. On the peninsula of Sirmione, Villa Cortine Palace Hotel provides Belle Époque grandeur amid landscaped gardens, while Grand Hotel Terme offers a spa-centred alternative with thermal facilities and a privileged position near the historic centre and Scaliger castle.
In the northern part of the lake, Lido Palace in Riva del Garda combines a Belle Époque façade with contemporary interiors and a strong reputation for gastronomy and wellness, appealing to guests who enjoy dramatic mountain-meets-lake scenery. On the eastern shore in Malcesine, Ambienthotel PrimaLuna offers a relaxed boutique option close to the beaches and cable car, appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and lakeside setting. Further south in Bardolino, Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme delivers a modern, eco-focused resort experience, centred around contemporary design and extensive spa facilities.
At the southern tip, Villa dei Cedri in Colà di Lazise is known for its thermal lake, parkland setting and elegant villa accommodation, reflecting the region’s long spa tradition. In the nearby countryside, Villa Cordevigo Wine Relais surrounds guests with vineyards and historic architecture, pairing luxury hospitality with a Michelin-starred dining experience. Completing the lake’s leading selection, Hotel Belvedere in Torri del Benaco offers a quieter option on the eastern shore, with lake views, warm hospitality and convenient access to the promenades and ferry routes that link the towns of Garda’s coastline.
In the northern part of the lake, Lido Palace in Riva del Garda combines a Belle Époque façade with contemporary interiors and a strong reputation for gastronomy and wellness, appealing to guests who enjoy dramatic mountain-meets-lake scenery. On the eastern shore in Malcesine, Ambienthotel PrimaLuna offers a relaxed boutique option close to the beaches and cable car, appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere and lakeside setting. Further south in Bardolino, Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme delivers a modern, eco-focused resort experience, centred around contemporary design and extensive spa facilities.
At the southern tip, Villa dei Cedri in Colà di Lazise is known for its thermal lake, parkland setting and elegant villa accommodation, reflecting the region’s long spa tradition. In the nearby countryside, Villa Cordevigo Wine Relais surrounds guests with vineyards and historic architecture, pairing luxury hospitality with a Michelin-starred dining experience. Completing the lake’s leading selection, Hotel Belvedere in Torri del Benaco offers a quieter option on the eastern shore, with lake views, warm hospitality and convenient access to the promenades and ferry routes that link the towns of Garda’s coastline.
Where is
Where is Lake Garda?
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Offering a captivating mixture between rugged mountain scenery, clear azure water and a sprinkling of delightful lakeside towns, it's no surprise that Lake Garda is one of Italy's most popular destinations.
With a total surface area of 370 km², Lake Garda is the biggest and best known lake in Italy covering three of the country's different regions: Lombardy (Lombardia), Trentino Alto-Adige and Veneto. From top to bottom the lake measures 51 km with the scenery between its northern and southern areas quite different. |
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Lago di Garda
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Surface area: 370 km²
Provinces: Brescia, Trentino, Verona Regions: Lombardy, Veneto, Trentino Alto-Adige South Tyrol Transport options: car bus, train, ferry, hydrofoil Nearest airports: Verona (int'l), Brescia (domestic), Bergamo (int'l) Close by cities: Verona (Veneto), Brescia (Lombardy) Recommended hotel: Garni Gianmartin |
What People Ask About Lake Garda
Is Lake Garda worth visiting?
What are the main attractions at Lake Garda?
When is the best time to visit Lake Garda?
Can you visit Lake Garda all year round?
Are there family-friendly attractions around Lake Garda?
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Discover
Discover Lake Garda
Sheer cliffs at the northern end of the lake
The top (north) of the lake feels hemmed-in on all sides with the sheer cliffs standing guard over the water. If driving in this area for example you'll pass through tunnels of various shapes and sizes while vertiginous drops with spectacular scenery loom around each corner.
Parts of the north-western stretch of road can make you feel like you're driving along the Amalfi Coast Road but with the big difference of the land-mass and mountains on the opposite shore.
Compared to the narrow, thin northern section of the lake, the southern half, also known as Basso Garda ("Lower Garda"), takes a more circular form and is surrounded by gently rolling hills and verdant countryside interspersed with holiday resorts and larger towns alike.
Parts of the north-western stretch of road can make you feel like you're driving along the Amalfi Coast Road but with the big difference of the land-mass and mountains on the opposite shore.
Compared to the narrow, thin northern section of the lake, the southern half, also known as Basso Garda ("Lower Garda"), takes a more circular form and is surrounded by gently rolling hills and verdant countryside interspersed with holiday resorts and larger towns alike.
Lake Garda's geography
As well as covering three geographical regions, Lake Garda also spans three distinct provinces. The northernmost section of the lake belongs to Trento Province in the Trentino Alto-Adige Region, with most of the western shore belonging to Brescia Province (Lombardy Region) and the eastern shore to Verona Province (Veneto Region).
Sometimes referred to by its Latin name "Benaco", Lake Garda is famous for water sports, particularly in the northern section with its predictable winds providing succour to windsurfers and sailors alike; there are companies that hire out equipment as well as schools where you can take lessons.
Sometimes referred to by its Latin name "Benaco", Lake Garda is famous for water sports, particularly in the northern section with its predictable winds providing succour to windsurfers and sailors alike; there are companies that hire out equipment as well as schools where you can take lessons.
Lakeside resorts
Aside from its at times dazzlingly-blue water, the main attraction of Lake Garda lies with the dozens of pretty towns that are spread out along its shoreline.
The most populous town around the lake is Desenzano del Garda (around 28,000 residents) which lies at its south-eastern corner while some of the favourite destinations for tourists include the likes of Riva del Garda (Trentino) at the northern tip and the delightful Limone sul Garda (Lombardy) just a short drive south away.
Other highlights include the Roman town of Sirmione (Lombardy) with its castle and thermal spas while on the lake's eastern shores lies Malcesine (Veneto) with its tight, narrow streets and multi-coloured buildings.
The most populous town around the lake is Desenzano del Garda (around 28,000 residents) which lies at its south-eastern corner while some of the favourite destinations for tourists include the likes of Riva del Garda (Trentino) at the northern tip and the delightful Limone sul Garda (Lombardy) just a short drive south away.
Other highlights include the Roman town of Sirmione (Lombardy) with its castle and thermal spas while on the lake's eastern shores lies Malcesine (Veneto) with its tight, narrow streets and multi-coloured buildings.
Lake Garda travel
There are many ways to reach Lake Garda; if flying in from abroad the closest airport is Verona Villafranca Airport which is just a 20 minute drive to Peschiera del Garda (Veneto) while there are also domestic Italian flights to Brescia's Montichiari Airport to the west of the lake and around a 30 minute drive to Desenzano.
An alternative airport for international flights is Orio al Serio Airport serving Milan but closer to the city of Bergamo with a journey time of roughly one hour from the lake by car. The southern half of the lake is easy to reach by train with stations at Desenzano and Peschiera among others while for the northern section things get a little more complicated; the closest station being Rovereto which is a 45 minute bus ride from Riva.
Allowing for the irregular shape of the lake, a ring road circles it which is mainly single carriageway and narrow at times, particularly on the north-western section. The road passes through each of the main towns and whilst it can get very busy during peak season, some of the scenery is breathtaking and a circuit of the road itself can provide a memorable day out.
If you're not travelling by car or simply don't wish to drive then the easiest way to move around the lake is on the lake itself. There are roughly 30 stops dotted around the lake from where you can take ferries, catamarans and hydrofoils to each of the main destinations.
An alternative airport for international flights is Orio al Serio Airport serving Milan but closer to the city of Bergamo with a journey time of roughly one hour from the lake by car. The southern half of the lake is easy to reach by train with stations at Desenzano and Peschiera among others while for the northern section things get a little more complicated; the closest station being Rovereto which is a 45 minute bus ride from Riva.
Allowing for the irregular shape of the lake, a ring road circles it which is mainly single carriageway and narrow at times, particularly on the north-western section. The road passes through each of the main towns and whilst it can get very busy during peak season, some of the scenery is breathtaking and a circuit of the road itself can provide a memorable day out.
If you're not travelling by car or simply don't wish to drive then the easiest way to move around the lake is on the lake itself. There are roughly 30 stops dotted around the lake from where you can take ferries, catamarans and hydrofoils to each of the main destinations.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Lake Garda
- Sirmione’s Scaliger Castle is a striking medieval fortress located on a peninsula extending into Lake Garda. Visitors can explore its towers, ramparts, and drawbridge while enjoying panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- The Grotte di Catullo are the ruins of a Roman villa situated at the tip of Sirmione. This archaeological site offers insight into ancient Roman life alongside scenic views of the lake’s clear waters.
- Riva del Garda is a lively town at the northern tip of the lake, known for its harbour, historic centre, and outdoor activities. Visitors can stroll the lakeside promenade, visit museums, or take part in sailing, windsurfing, and hiking.
- Gardone Riviera’s Vittoriale degli Italiani is a vast hillside estate and museum dedicated to poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. The grounds include gardens, an amphitheatre, and eclectic architectural features reflecting D’Annunzio’s life and works.
- Guided boat tours and cycling routes around Lake Garda offer ways to explore the lake’s scenic shores, charming villages, and natural parks. Local guides share stories about the area’s history, geology, and traditions. Tours often include stops for swimming and tastings of regional food and wine, providing a full cultural and natural experience.
Tours and Activities
Lake Garda Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Lake Garda
- Ristorante La Speranzina: Situated in the old town of Sirmione, this fine dining restaurant has a lakefront terrace and a Michelin star. The menu offers contemporary Italian cuisine with tasting options and a strong emphasis on presentation and seasonal ingredients (high-end €€€).
- Vecchia Malcesine: Located in Malcesine, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers creative dishes with views over the lake. The chef’s tasting menu is based on reinterpretations of local specialities, with attention to detail and service (high-end €€€).
- Lido 84: Found in Gardone Riviera, this is one of the most renowned restaurants on Lake Garda, with a Michelin star and lakeside views. The cuisine is inventive, combining regional ingredients with modern techniques, and the wine list is extensive (high-end €€€).
- La Veranda del Color: In Bardolino, this restaurant forms part of the Color Hotel and is known for its elegant garden setting and refined menu. Dishes include seafood, risotto and meat courses with modern flair, and there's a well-stocked cellar (high-end €€€).
- Trattoria Al Combattente: Located just outside Riva del Garda, this rustic trattoria serves traditional dishes such as canederli, carne salada, and freshwater fish. It's appreciated for its authenticity, generous portions and mountain-lake blend of cuisine (budget to mid-range €–€€).
Photo Gallery
Lake Garda Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Lake Garda
- Verona (approx. 30 km east of Lake Garda): Famous for its Roman ruins and the Arena di Verona, Verona is a city rich in history and culture. Visitors can explore Juliet’s House, wander through the medieval streets, or enjoy an opera performance in the ancient amphitheatre.
- Mantua (approx. 50 km southeast of Lake Garda): A UNESCO World Heritage city, Mantua is known for its Renaissance architecture and historical landmarks, including the Palazzo Ducale and Palazzo Te. Visitors can stroll through the town’s charming squares, visit the local museums, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the lakes.
- Brescia (approx. 40 km southwest of Lake Garda): A city with a rich historical legacy, Brescia is home to the ancient Roman Capitolium and the Castello di Brescia. Visitors can explore the archaeological sites, stroll through the medieval streets, or visit the Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo art gallery.
- Trento (approx. 90 km north of Lake Garda): Set in the Dolomite Mountains, Trento offers a mix of history, art, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Castello del Buonconsiglio, walk along the old town’s charming streets, or take a cable car to the surrounding mountains for stunning views.
- Borghetto (approx. 60 km southeast of Lake Garda): A small, picturesque village located on the River Mincio, Borghetto is known for its charming medieval bridges and watermills. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the village, relax by the river, or visit the nearby Parco Giardino Sigurta, a beautiful botanical garden.
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How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Lake Garda
By Rail: Lake Garda is accessible via several railway stations along its southern and eastern edges. The main stations are Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda, both on the Milan–Venice high-speed line, with Trenitalia and Italo trains offering frequent services. Journey times are around 1 hour 20 minutes from Milan and 1 hour 30 minutes from Venice. Verona Porta Nuova also connects to the lake by bus and regional train services to towns such as Bardolino and Garda.
By Road: Lake Garda lies between Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. The A4 motorway (Milano–Venezia) runs along the southern edge of the lake, with exits for Desenzano, Sirmione, and Peschiera. The A22 motorway provides access to the northern end, including Riva del Garda and Torbole. Driving from Milan or Venice takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Public parking is available in major towns, especially near ferry terminals and historic centres.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
Public ferry services: Navigazione Lago di Garda operates regular ferries linking towns around the lake, including Desenzano, Sirmione, Salò, Limone, Malcesine, and Riva del Garda. Services vary by season, with more frequent crossings in spring and summer.
High-speed services: In addition to traditional ferries, there are hydrofoils and catamarans that connect the northern and southern parts of the lake more quickly. These are ideal for covering longer distances efficiently.
Car ferry routes: A regular car ferry runs between Toscolano-Maderno and Torri del Benaco, offering a short crossing across the lake’s central section that takes about 25 minutes.
By Road: Lake Garda lies between Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. The A4 motorway (Milano–Venezia) runs along the southern edge of the lake, with exits for Desenzano, Sirmione, and Peschiera. The A22 motorway provides access to the northern end, including Riva del Garda and Torbole. Driving from Milan or Venice takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. Public parking is available in major towns, especially near ferry terminals and historic centres.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Airport (Valerio Catullo): Located around 30 kilometres south-east of the lake, with a drive of approximately 30–40 minutes to the eastern shore.
- Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport: About 80 kilometres west, the drive to the lake takes roughly 1 hour 10 minutes, making it convenient for the southern and western shores.
- Milan Linate Airport: Situated around 110 kilometres south-west, the drive takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
Ferry Connections:
Public ferry services: Navigazione Lago di Garda operates regular ferries linking towns around the lake, including Desenzano, Sirmione, Salò, Limone, Malcesine, and Riva del Garda. Services vary by season, with more frequent crossings in spring and summer.
High-speed services: In addition to traditional ferries, there are hydrofoils and catamarans that connect the northern and southern parts of the lake more quickly. These are ideal for covering longer distances efficiently.
Car ferry routes: A regular car ferry runs between Toscolano-Maderno and Torri del Benaco, offering a short crossing across the lake’s central section that takes about 25 minutes.
Private Transfers
Lake Garda Private Transfers
A private transfer offers a convenient and comfortable way to reach Lake Garda or continue your journey to nearby destinations. You’ll be collected directly from your chosen location and driven by a professional driver—no need for car hire, public transport changes, or navigating unfamiliar roads.
From Verona Villafranca Airport, journey times to the southern shores of Lake Garda—such as Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda—are around 30 to 40 minutes (approx. 20–35 kilometres). Reaching Riva del Garda in the north takes around 1 hour 20 minutes from Verona. From Milan Malpensa Airport, transfer times to the western or southern lakeside towns range between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 15 minutes, while Venice Marco Polo Airport is around 2 hours away from the eastern towns such as Lazise or Bardolino.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Verona Villafranca Airport, journey times to the southern shores of Lake Garda—such as Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda—are around 30 to 40 minutes (approx. 20–35 kilometres). Reaching Riva del Garda in the north takes around 1 hour 20 minutes from Verona. From Milan Malpensa Airport, transfer times to the western or southern lakeside towns range between 1 hour 45 minutes and 2 hours 15 minutes, while Venice Marco Polo Airport is around 2 hours away from the eastern towns such as Lazise or Bardolino.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
