Limone sul Garda
Limone sul Garda
⭐ Ranked #12 in the Italy Review Top 100 – My Most Recommended Destinations
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Latest page update: 1 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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One of the most revered and popular lakeside towns in Italy, Limone sul Garda is situated in the Province of Brescia, on the shores of Lake Garda.
It has a population of around 1,000 residents and is located a distance of 167 kilometres north-east of Milan, the regional capital of Lombardy. The delightful name of the town which translates as Lemon on Garda, is fitting in many ways but something of a linguistic quirk. |
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What People Ask About Limone sul Garda
Where is Limone sul Garda located?
What is Limone sul Garda famous for?
Can you reach Limone sul Garda by ferry?
Does Limone sul Garda have a beach?
Does Limone sul Garda have a train station?
Related links
Limone sul Garda • Lake Garda • Lombardy • Historic Resort
Whilst there are indeed lemon groves around the town and it's also a fact that since the 13th century it was famous for the cultivation of lemons, the real origin of the name comes from way back, when the Romans called it limen, meaning frontier. At one point, in much more recent history, Limone Sul Garda was right on Italy's border with the Reich of Nazi Germany after they annexed the Trentino Alto Adige region to its north. That same frontier with Trentino, just a short drive north of Limone along the lake, still exists but is nowadays just a regional, rather than an international border.
Although Limone is really rather small with little more than a thousand inhabitants, it's one of the most popular destinations around the lake. With the dramatic backdrop of the mountains overlooking the town from the west, it creates quite a spectacle as you arrive from the water. From the imbarcadero, the jetty where the ferries arrive, the town sprawls out in every direction, characterised by tight, narrow streets with historic buildings. There are dozens of places to eat and drink along the shoreline while one of the prettiest areas of the town is the little harbour of Porto Vecchio.
Although Limone is really rather small with little more than a thousand inhabitants, it's one of the most popular destinations around the lake. With the dramatic backdrop of the mountains overlooking the town from the west, it creates quite a spectacle as you arrive from the water. From the imbarcadero, the jetty where the ferries arrive, the town sprawls out in every direction, characterised by tight, narrow streets with historic buildings. There are dozens of places to eat and drink along the shoreline while one of the prettiest areas of the town is the little harbour of Porto Vecchio.
Exploring Limone
Although Limone is really rather small with little more than a thousand inhabitants, it's one of the most popular destinations around the lake. With the dramatic backdrop of the mountains overlooking the town from the west, it creates quite a spectacle as you arrive from the water. From the imbarcadero, the jetty where the ferries arrive, the town sprawls out in every direction, characterised by tight, narrow streets with historic buildings. There are dozens of places to eat and drink along the shoreline while one of the prettiest areas of the town is the little harbour of Porto Vecchio.
South of the Porto Vecchio (Old Port), an expansive lakeside promenade stretches out, passing shops and restaurants on one side with the pleasure craft berthed at the lake's edge on the other. Around half a kilometre south of the Porto Vecchio you reach the edge of the town centre where there's a car park, but if you carry on beyond that, there's one of the most beautiful beaches around Lake Garda: the Spiaggia Cola or Cola Beach.
South of the Porto Vecchio (Old Port), an expansive lakeside promenade stretches out, passing shops and restaurants on one side with the pleasure craft berthed at the lake's edge on the other. Around half a kilometre south of the Porto Vecchio you reach the edge of the town centre where there's a car park, but if you carry on beyond that, there's one of the most beautiful beaches around Lake Garda: the Spiaggia Cola or Cola Beach.
Comune di Limone sul Garda
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Province: Brescia
Region: Lombardy Population: 1,093 (in 2024 - source) Size: 23 km² Elevation: 69 metres Highlights: Porto Vecchio, Spiaggia Cola, swimming in the lake Fly to: Verona Airport - 1 hour 20 minutes by car (94 km) Close by: Riva del Garda, Arco, Lake Tenno, Lake Idro, Salò |
My recommended accommodation options for Limone sul Garda:
- EALA My Lakeside Dream - Adults Friendly is a luxurious 5-star hotel situated in a tranquil lakeside location. The property offers an infinity pool, rooms with panoramic views of Lake Garda, and a free shuttle service to Limone sul Garda's centre. Its serene environment is ideal for adults seeking relaxation. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- LLAC Living Nature Hotel is a modern 4-star establishment offering minimalist-style rooms, each with a private patio or terrace overlooking Lake Garda. Amenities include an outdoor infinity pool, bicycle rentals, and a spa. Its design emphasizes natural elements, providing a chic and comfortable stay. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- Hotel Splendid Palace is a 4-star hotel located near the historic centre of Limone sul Garda. The hotel features comfortable rooms with lake views, an outdoor pool, and a private beach area. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant overlooking the lake. Its location offers easy access to local attractions and the town's vibrant atmosphere. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Hotel San Pietro is a 4-star hotel situated near the historic centre, offering panoramic views of Lake Garda. The property features modern rooms with private balconies, an outdoor pool, and a wellness centre. Its location provides a peaceful retreat while still being close to Limone's attractions. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Evo Suites Apartments offers spacious, airy suites with light wood furnishings and sleek design, each with a terrace for al fresco dining. Guests can enjoy spectacular lake views, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub. The tranquil setting is perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
My recommended restaurants in Limone sul Garda:
- Ristorante La Cantina: Known for its authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, La Cantina offers a variety of fresh, local dishes, including homemade pasta and seafood. Located near the lake, it provides beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere for diners. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante Al Lago: Specialising in traditional Italian dishes, Ristorante Al Lago is famous for its fresh fish and high-quality ingredients. Situated by the lake, it provides an excellent setting to enjoy a meal with scenic views of Lake Garda. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Trattoria Da Luigi: A cosy, family-run restaurant offering home-style Italian cooking with a focus on local produce and fresh seafood. Located in the heart of Limone sul Garda, it provides a warm and welcoming environment for a relaxed meal. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante Tovo: This charming restaurant offers a variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes, including fresh fish and regional specialities. Located near the lakeside promenade, it provides a stunning setting to enjoy a meal with views of the lake. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante La Pergola: Offering fine dining with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, La Pergola is known for its refined dishes and excellent service. Situated in a peaceful area with lake views, it provides an elegant atmosphere for a special meal. Price guide: €€€€ (high-end dining).
Limone sul Garda Gallery
Close to Li mone sul Garda
Transport options in Limone are limited to the lake and the road but to use the word "limited" is something of a misnomer in this instance as there are endless possibilities of places to visit. Using the Lake Garda ferry system the most popular destinations are Malcesine which is on the opposite side of the lake in the Veneto region or the next major town to the north of Limone, Riva del Garda which belongs to Trentino Alto-Adige. These are the three most popular towns at this, the northern end of the lake, but there are countless others to explore if you want to break from the crowds a little.
Aimlessly exploring the lake from the water is a wonderful way to spend your time in the area but it can also boast one of the prettiest driving routes in Italy. If you were to drive the whole way around the lake with stopping, you'd be back at your starting point within two and a half hours or so; this makes it ideal for a day-trip if you have your own car and allows you to enjoy the stunning lake views from another angle.
North of the lake, there are some lesser-known places that merit some exploration: taking the main road north of Limone, passing Riva along the way, you eventually come to the beautiful Lake Tenno with its impossibly bright blue water. Alternatively, heading north-east and inland from Riva you shortly reach the pretty town of Arco. Beyond Arco you enter more deeply into the Alps where there are dozens of smaller lakes and numerous historic towns including Rovereto and the larger Trento.
Aimlessly exploring the lake from the water is a wonderful way to spend your time in the area but it can also boast one of the prettiest driving routes in Italy. If you were to drive the whole way around the lake with stopping, you'd be back at your starting point within two and a half hours or so; this makes it ideal for a day-trip if you have your own car and allows you to enjoy the stunning lake views from another angle.
North of the lake, there are some lesser-known places that merit some exploration: taking the main road north of Limone, passing Riva along the way, you eventually come to the beautiful Lake Tenno with its impossibly bright blue water. Alternatively, heading north-east and inland from Riva you shortly reach the pretty town of Arco. Beyond Arco you enter more deeply into the Alps where there are dozens of smaller lakes and numerous historic towns including Rovereto and the larger Trento.
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 Places to Visit 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 Places to Visit on Lake Garda
Limone sul Garda Travel
By Rail: Limone sul Garda does not have its own train station. The nearest major station is in Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, approximately 50 km to the south. Trains from Milan take about 1 hour, from Verona around 20 minutes, and from Venice about 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Desenzano, you can continue to Limone by ferry, bus, or car.
By Road: Limone sul Garda is approximately 95 km northwest of Verona, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A22 and SS45bis roads. From the A22, exit at Rovereto Sud-Lago di Garda Nord, then follow signs for Riva del Garda and continue south along the lake to Limone. The route offers scenic lake views but includes narrow and winding sections.
Nearest International Airports:
Lake Garda Ferry Services:
Limone sul Garda is well connected by Lake Garda ferry services, with routes linking to towns including Riva del Garda, Malcesine, Sirmione, and Desenzano del Garda. Ferries range from regular passenger boats to high-speed services. For example, the ferry to Riva del Garda takes about 20 minutes, while a trip to Sirmione may take around 2 hours depending on stops. Timetables vary by season, and day passes are available for flexible travel on multiple routes.
By Road: Limone sul Garda is approximately 95 km northwest of Verona, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 40 minutes via the A22 and SS45bis roads. From the A22, exit at Rovereto Sud-Lago di Garda Nord, then follow signs for Riva del Garda and continue south along the lake to Limone. The route offers scenic lake views but includes narrow and winding sections.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Valerio Catullo): Located about 95 km southeast of Limone sul Garda, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. From the airport, travel via Verona Porta Nuova station to Desenzano, then continue by ferry or bus.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 115 km southwest of Limone, the drive takes approximately 2 hours via the A4 and SS45bis roads. Travel options include train and bus connections via Brescia or Desenzano.
Lake Garda Ferry Services:
Limone sul Garda is well connected by Lake Garda ferry services, with routes linking to towns including Riva del Garda, Malcesine, Sirmione, and Desenzano del Garda. Ferries range from regular passenger boats to high-speed services. For example, the ferry to Riva del Garda takes about 20 minutes, while a trip to Sirmione may take around 2 hours depending on stops. Timetables vary by season, and day passes are available for flexible travel on multiple routes.
Verona Airport to Sirmione Private Transfer
For your private transfer from Verona Airport to Limone sul Garda, we offer a seamless and direct service tailored to your needs. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name for easy identification. From there, they will take you directly to Limone sul Garda in a luxury sedan or minivan, depending on the size of your group.
Our courteous, English-speaking drivers are professional and well-presented, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant journey. To make your transfer even smoother, we provide you with the driver’s contact details, so you can stay in touch and confirm any last-minute details on the day. Our service is available for groups of up to 8 passengers, and larger groups can be accommodated if needed. With private transfers, you can enjoy the convenience of a direct, uninterrupted trip, without sharing the vehicle or waiting for other passengers.
Our courteous, English-speaking drivers are professional and well-presented, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant journey. To make your transfer even smoother, we provide you with the driver’s contact details, so you can stay in touch and confirm any last-minute details on the day. Our service is available for groups of up to 8 passengers, and larger groups can be accommodated if needed. With private transfers, you can enjoy the convenience of a direct, uninterrupted trip, without sharing the vehicle or waiting for other passengers.
