Malcesine
Malcesine
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Latest page update: 1 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Page contents
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The town of Malcesine is located on the Veneto shores of Lake Garda, in the Province of Verona and has a population of 7,672 inhabitants.
It's situated around 180 kilometres north west of Venice, the regional capital of Veneto. Standing at an elevation of 89 metres above sea level, it covers an area of 68 km². |
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What People Ask About Malcesine
Where is Malcesine located?
What is Malcesine famous for?
Can you take a cable car in Malcesine?
Is Malcesine reachable by ferry?
Does Malcesine have a train station?
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Malcesine • Lake Garda • Veneto • Historic Resort
Malcesine is one of the liveliest towns around Lake Garda and lies at the foot of the imposing Monte Baldo which reaches a height of 2,218 metres above sea level. The snow-capped mountains on either side of the lake are just one of the reasons it attracts so many visitors all year round.
During the warmer months of summer, it's the lake itself that gets most of the attention as you can swim in it, take a ferry across it or take part in any number of water sports on it with windsurfing a particularly favourite pastime.
The town itself is one of the most charming around the lake; its colourful buildings work their way around medieval streets and a pretty little harbour area called the porticciolo which effectively makes up most of Piazza Marconi.
The labyrinthine streets are peppered with restaurants and gelaterias all vying for your business alongside an equally healthy trade in boat trips to other towns around the lake such as Limone and Riva.
During the warmer months of summer, it's the lake itself that gets most of the attention as you can swim in it, take a ferry across it or take part in any number of water sports on it with windsurfing a particularly favourite pastime.
The town itself is one of the most charming around the lake; its colourful buildings work their way around medieval streets and a pretty little harbour area called the porticciolo which effectively makes up most of Piazza Marconi.
The labyrinthine streets are peppered with restaurants and gelaterias all vying for your business alongside an equally healthy trade in boat trips to other towns around the lake such as Limone and Riva.
Castello Scaligero
The most famous sight in the town is the Castello Scaligero which is just a 5 minute walk from the harbour. The medieval fortress, a favourite venue for weddings, affords some spectacular views across the lake and is itself the star of the show when viewing the town from a distance.
One of the best ways to create that distance is by taking a cable car up Monte Baldo. There are a series of paths and hiking routes at the top along with a number of refreshment options. For anyone not wishing to take a cable car, the same area is accessible by car, just with a significantly longer journey time.
One of the best ways to create that distance is by taking a cable car up Monte Baldo. There are a series of paths and hiking routes at the top along with a number of refreshment options. For anyone not wishing to take a cable car, the same area is accessible by car, just with a significantly longer journey time.
Comune di Malcesine
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Province: Verona
Region: Veneto Population: 3,576 (in 2024 - source) Size: 68 km² Elevation: 89 metres Highlights: Castello Scaligero, cable-car to Monte Baldo Close by: Brenzone sul Garda, Torri del Benaco, Garda, Bardolino |
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Perla del Garda, tra acqua terra e cielo (The Pearl of Lake Garda, between water, land and sky)
Listing headline: La Perla del Garda, tra acqua terra e cielo (The Pearl of Lake Garda, between water, land and sky)
My recommended accommodation options for Malcesine:
- Hotel Castello is a small, contemporary hotel located right on the edge of Lake Garda, with a private pebble beach and parasols between the grounds and the water. The 36 rooms and suites are decorated in a modern style, some featuring private balconies overlooking the lake. The excellent on-site restaurant offers a pleasant terrace, and guests can relax in the garden. This hotel is suitable for both romantic getaways and family holidays. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Bellevue San Lorenzo is a striking Belle Époque villa set in beautiful, cypress-planted grounds that extend to surrounding villas, now part of the hotel. The main villa offers rooms with the best lake views and spacious proportions, while all 52 rooms are decorated with contemporary simplicity. Amenities include a restaurant with panoramic views, a pool, and a small spa and fitness centre. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- Guesthouse Grand View lives up to its name with panoramic lake views from its hilltop location. The property, converted from a stone villa, features a contemporary bar and breakfast room extension. There are just five bedrooms, all simple yet stylish, each with either a balcony or private terrace. An infinity pool in the pretty garden enhances the relaxing atmosphere. Please note, this guesthouse does not accommodate children. Price Guide: €€€ (Mid-range).
- Hotel Val di Sogno is surrounded by nature, just 1.2 miles from Malcesine, overlooking Lake Garda. It offers beach access and a garden with an outdoor pool, sun loungers, and panoramic lake views. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
- Wellness Hotel Casa Barca (Adult Only) is an intimate, family-run hotel set on the banks of Lake Garda, offering spectacular 360° views across the water. The hotel features a wellness centre and is highly rated by couples. Price Guide: €€€€ (High-end).
My recommended restaurants in Malcesine:
- Ristorante Al Gondoliere: Specialising in fresh seafood and traditional Italian dishes, Al Gondoliere offers a variety of high-quality dishes with a focus on local ingredients. Located near the lake, it provides a charming setting with stunning views of the water. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante Il Pescatore: Known for its exceptional seafood and Mediterranean cuisine, Il Pescatore offers a variety of dishes, including fresh fish and pasta. Situated near the lakeside, it provides an ideal spot for enjoying a meal with beautiful views. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Trattoria da Lino: A family-run restaurant offering home-style Italian cooking, Trattoria da Lino is known for its delicious pasta, seafood, and regional dishes. Located in the heart of Malcesine, it offers a cosy atmosphere with friendly service. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante La Pace: Offering a blend of Italian and Mediterranean flavours, Ristorante La Pace serves a variety of dishes made from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Located near the town centre, it provides a comfortable setting with a welcoming atmosphere. Price guide: €€€ (mid-range).
- Ristorante Locanda del Benaco: Combining traditional Italian and local cuisine, Locanda del Benaco offers a refined menu with fresh fish, meat dishes, and delicious pasta. Situated near the waterfront, it provides an elegant atmosphere for dining with views of Lake Garda. Price guide: €€€€ (high-end dining).
Malcesine Gallery
Close to Malcesine
- Riva del Garda (approx. 25 km northwest of Malcesine): Located at the northern tip of Lake Garda, Riva del Garda offers a stunning mix of lake views, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the historic Forte Garda, relax by the lake, or enjoy hiking and mountain biking in the nearby Monte Baldo. The town also has a vibrant lakeside promenade and charming cafés perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
- Torbole (approx. 20 km northwest of Malcesine): Situated on the northern shore of Lake Garda, Torbole is a haven for windsurfers and sailors due to its ideal winds. The town’s scenic lakeside is lined with colourful buildings and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Visitors can also take a trip to the nearby Monte Baldo for hiking or enjoy the relaxing waterfront cafés.
- Bardolino (approx. 45 km south of Malcesine): A picturesque town on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Bardolino is famous for its vineyards and delicious wine. The town offers a mix of lakeside charm and history, with attractions like the Chiesa di San Severo and the vibrant market in the town centre. The lakeside promenade is perfect for a stroll, and the local wineries are a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.
- Garda (approx. 40 km south of Malcesine): A peaceful town set along the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Garda offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The town’s main attraction is the Parco Baia delle Sirene, a beautiful park by the lake, ideal for picnics, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty. The town also has a historic centre with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Veneto Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
1. Venice
2. Lake Garda
3. Verona
4. Padua
5. Burano
6. Vicenza
7. Bassano del Grappa
8. Cortina d'Ampezzo
9. Chioggia
10. Soave
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto
Malcesine Travel
By Rail: Malcesine does not have its own train station. The nearest stations are in Rovereto, approximately 33 km to the northeast, and Peschiera del Garda, about 60 km to the south. Trains from Verona to Rovereto take about 1 hour. From Rovereto, buses operated by Trentino Trasporti provide shuttle services to the northern end of Lake Garda, where connections can be made at Torbole onto ATV services to Malcesine.
By Road: Malcesine is approximately 60 km northwest of Verona, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A22 motorway. From the A22, exit at Rovereto Sud-Lago di Garda Nord and follow the SS240 and SP249 roads towards Malcesine.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Malcesine is approximately 60 km northwest of Verona, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 20 minutes via the A22 motorway. From the A22, exit at Rovereto Sud-Lago di Garda Nord and follow the SS240 and SP249 roads towards Malcesine.
Nearest International Airports:
- Verona Villafranca Airport (Aeroporto di Verona-Valerio Catullo): Located about 60 km south of Malcesine, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A22 motorway. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus to Verona Porta Nuova station, then a train to Rovereto, followed by a bus to Malcesine.
- Milan Bergamo Airport (Aeroporto di Bergamo-Orio al Serio): Situated around 130 km southwest of Malcesine, the drive takes approximately 2 hours via the A4 and A22 motorways. Train and bus combinations are available via Brescia and Rovereto.
Lake Garda ferries
The Lake Garda ferry system is by far the most convenient way to explore the lake area. Aside from nearby Limone and Riva which occupy the same northern stretch of the lake (albeit across three different regions with Limone in Lombardy and Riva in Trentino Alto Adige), there are dozens of other beautiful towns worthy of a day-trip.
Any of Torri del Benaco, Garda, Bardolino and Lazise just on the eastern shore merit attention while further afield at the southern end of the lake are the larger towns of Peschiera del Garda, Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda. The list is almost endless which is just one reason why people choose Lake Garda as a base for their summer holiday.
With a car there are numerous other options that come into play; the mountain areas to the east of the lake conceal places such as the quirky but beautiful Santuario Madonna della Corona and the vineyard town of San Giorgio di Valpolicella, while to the south of the lake are the charming village of Borghetto and the nearby Parco Giardino Sigurtà. It's also just an hour from Malcesine to Verona by car.
Any of Torri del Benaco, Garda, Bardolino and Lazise just on the eastern shore merit attention while further afield at the southern end of the lake are the larger towns of Peschiera del Garda, Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda. The list is almost endless which is just one reason why people choose Lake Garda as a base for their summer holiday.
With a car there are numerous other options that come into play; the mountain areas to the east of the lake conceal places such as the quirky but beautiful Santuario Madonna della Corona and the vineyard town of San Giorgio di Valpolicella, while to the south of the lake are the charming village of Borghetto and the nearby Parco Giardino Sigurtà. It's also just an hour from Malcesine to Verona by car.
Verona Airport to Malcesine Private Transfer
For your private transfer from Verona Airport to Malcesine, we provide a fast and efficient service designed for your comfort. Upon your arrival at the airport, your driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, holding a sign with your name for easy identification. They will then escort you directly to Malcesine in a luxury sedan or minivan, based on the size of your group.
Our English-speaking drivers are professional, courteous, and well-dressed, ensuring a high standard of service throughout your journey. To ensure everything runs smoothly, we provide you with the driver’s contact number so you can easily get in touch on the day. The transfer service is available for groups of 1 to 8 passengers, but we can accommodate larger groups if needed. As all transfers are private, you’ll enjoy a direct, uninterrupted journey to your destination without having to share the vehicle or wait for others to arrive.
Our English-speaking drivers are professional, courteous, and well-dressed, ensuring a high standard of service throughout your journey. To ensure everything runs smoothly, we provide you with the driver’s contact number so you can easily get in touch on the day. The transfer service is available for groups of 1 to 8 passengers, but we can accommodate larger groups if needed. As all transfers are private, you’ll enjoy a direct, uninterrupted journey to your destination without having to share the vehicle or wait for others to arrive.
