12 Best Things To Do in Lake Garda: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

With its colourful lakeside towns, mountain-backed scenery and elegant waterfront hotels, Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful destinations in Italy.

Stretching across three regions in northern Italy, it’s also the country’s largest lake. It offers everything from scenic boat trips and historic castles to vineyard-covered hillsides and some of the most spectacular hotel views in Europe.

What I love most about Lake Garda is its variety. One moment you’re wandering the cobbled streets of a medieval town like Sirmione, the next you’re riding a cable car high above the lake on Monte Baldo or enjoying a long lunch overlooking the water in Limone sul Garda.

The northern end of the lake feels almost Alpine, while the southern shores have a distinctly Mediterranean feel, giving each area its own character.

In this guide, you’ll find the very best things to do in Lake Garda, along with tips on where to stay, how to get around and how to plan the perfect itinerary.

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Contents

Lake Garda at a glance

Map of the best things to do in Lake Garda

Lake Garda is much larger than many first-time visitors expect. Stretching for more than 50km from north to south, it can take over two hours to drive between some of the lake’s most popular towns.

To help you plan your trip, I’ve created this interactive map. It features all of the best things to do in Lake Garda, including picturesque towns, scenic viewpoints, beaches, hiking trails, castles and hotel recommendations.

Use it to get your bearings before deciding where to stay and which areas of the lake you’d like to explore.

12 best things to do in Lake Garda

1. Take a boat trip on Lake Garda

One of the best ways to experience Lake Garda is from the water, and a boat trip offers a completely different perspective.

Soak in views of colourful lakeside towns, historic villas and mountain-backed scenery that simply can’t be appreciated from the shore.

The easiest option is to use Lake Garda’s ferry network, which connects many of the lake’s most popular destinations, including Sirmione, Malcesine, Limone sul Garda and Riva del Garda.

Not only is it scenic, but it’s often more relaxing than driving during the busy summer months.

2. Ride the Monte Baldo cable car

If you’re looking for the best views in Lake Garda, make your way to Malcesine and take the cable car up Monte Baldo.

In just a few minutes, you’ll travel from the lakeshore to over 1,700 metres above sea level, with spectacular views unfolding along the way.

The rotating cable car provides panoramic views throughout the ascent, while the summit offers sweeping vistas across the lake and surrounding mountains.

There are several walking trails to explore at the top; but even if you don’t plan to hike, the scenery alone makes this one of Lake Garda’s most memorable experiences.

3. Visit Scaliger Castle in Sirmione

Located at the entrance to Sirmione’s historic centre, Scaliger Castle is one of Lake Garda’s most iconic landmarks.

Surrounded by water and complete with towers, battlements and a drawbridge, it’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Italy.

Dating back to the 13th century, the castle was built by the Scaliger family of Verona and played an important defensive role in protecting the southern end of the lake.

For the best experience, head inside and climb the towers for panoramic views across Sirmione and Lake Garda.

4. Explore Isola del Garda

The largest island on Lake Garda, Isola del Garda is home to a striking Venetian Gothic villa surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens. Located near Gardone Riviera, it’s one of the lake’s most unique attractions.

The island remains privately owned by the Cavazza family and can only be visited as part of a guided tour, which includes a boat crossing and access to the gardens and villa grounds.

Combining fascinating history, elegant architecture and beautiful lake views, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.

5. Drive the Strada della Forra

Often referred to as Lake Garda’s “James Bond road”, the Strada della Forra winds through a dramatic gorge above the western shores of the lake.

Featured in the opening sequence of Quantum of Solace, the road passes through tunnels, steep cliffs and spectacular viewpoints before climbing towards the village of Tremosine.

While the drive itself is relatively short, it’s worth taking your time and stopping to admire the scenery along the way.

For one of the best views, head to Terrazza del Brivido, a clifftop viewpoint overlooking the lake from more than 350 metres above the water.

6. Go wine tasting in Bardolino

The eastern shores of Lake Garda are home to the Bardolino wine region, known for its light red wines, olive groves and rolling countryside.

A wine tasting is a wonderful way to experience a different side of the lake away from the busy waterfronts.

Many wineries offer tours and tastings, where you can sample local wines while learning more about the region’s winemaking traditions.

If you’re visiting during autumn, you’ll also find vineyards glowing with seasonal colour.

7. Swim at Lake Garda’s beaches

While Lake Garda isn’t known for sandy beaches, it does have plenty of beautiful places to swim.

From small pebble coves to larger lakeside beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to cool off during the warmer months.

Some of the most popular spots include:

• Jamaica Beach in Sirmione
• Spiaggia Sabbioni in Riva del Garda
• Baia delle Sirene near Punta San Vigilio

You cannot beat a refreshing dip in the clear water surrounded by epic mountain scenery.

8. Visit the lemon groves of Limone sul Garda

Limone sul Garda is famous for its historic lemon groves, known as limonaie, which have been cultivated on the shores of Lake Garda for centuries.

Thanks to the lake’s mild microclimate, lemons have thrived here since at least the 13th century.

One of the best places to learn about this unique history is the Limonaia del Castel, where terraces filled with citrus trees overlook the lake below.

It’s a fascinating glimpse into a tradition that helped shape the identity of one of Lake Garda’s most beautiful towns.

9. Hike or e-bike around Monte Baldo

While many visitors take the cable car up Monte Baldo for the views, it’s also one of the best places in Lake Garda for outdoor adventures.

The mountain is criss-crossed with hiking and cycling trails, ranging from gentle panoramic routes to more challenging climbs.

Whether you choose to explore on foot or hire an e-bike, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across the lake and surrounding mountains.

It’s a great way to escape the crowds and experience a wilder side of Lake Garda.

10. Watch sunset at Punta San Vigilio

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, Punta San Vigilio is one of the lake’s most picturesque spots.

With its small harbour, cypress trees and historic lakeside buildings, it feels as though little has changed here for centuries.

It’s particularly beautiful at sunset, when the warm evening light reflects across the water and the crowds begin to thin.

Arrive early and enjoy a drink by the lake before settling in for one of the best sunsets in Lake Garda.

11. Relax at Sirmione’s thermal spa

Located at the tip of the Sirmione peninsula, SPA & Thermal Garden (formerly Aquaria Thermal SPA) is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Lake Garda.

Fed by the region’s famous thermal waters, the spa features indoor and outdoor pools, whirlpools, saunas and wellness facilities overlooking the lake.

It’s a wonderful place to unwind after a morning of sightseeing, particularly during spring and autumn when the warm thermal pools can be enjoyed in cooler temperatures.

Whether you book a few hours or spend the entire day here, it’s a relaxing addition to any Lake Garda itinerary.

12. Explore Lake Garda’s most beautiful towns

While Lake Garda is home to some fantastic attractions, much of its appeal lies in simply exploring its lakeside towns.

Each has its own character, from the medieval streets of Sirmione and the colourful harbour of Malcesine to the lemon groves of Limone sul Garda and the mountain scenery of Riva del Garda.

Whether you’re browsing local shops, enjoying a leisurely lunch by the water or wandering along the waterfront, spending time in the lake’s towns is one of the highlights of any visit.

Below, you’ll find my guide to the best towns in Lake Garda and what makes each one worth visiting.

The best towns in Lake Garda

One of the highlights of visiting Lake Garda is exploring its lakeside towns. If you’re wondering which towns to prioritise, here’s a quick overview:

1. Sirmione

Famous for its fairytale castle, thermal waters and beautiful peninsula setting, Sirmione is one of Lake Garda’s most iconic destinations.

2. Malcesine

With its cobbled streets, lakeside castle and mountain backdrop, Malcesine is often considered one of the prettiest towns on the lake.

3. Limone sul Garda

Nestled between the mountains and the water, Limone sul Garda is known for its colourful waterfront and historic lemon groves.

4. Riva del Garda

Located at the northern end of the lake, Riva del Garda combines dramatic mountain scenery with a lively waterfront atmosphere.

5. Bardolino

Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Bardolino is a great choice for food and wine lovers.

6. Lazise

With its medieval walls, charming old town and lively promenade, Lazise is one of the most enjoyable towns to explore on foot.

For a more detailed breakdown of where to stay and what to see, read my full guide to the best towns in Lake Garda (coming soon).

How long to spend in Lake Garda

How long you spend in Lake Garda will largely depend on your travel style and whether you’re combining it with other destinations in northern Italy.

2-3 days

A long weekend is enough time to experience some of Lake Garda’s highlights.

You could visit a handful of the lake’s most beautiful towns, take a boat trip, ride the Monte Baldo cable car and enjoy a few leisurely meals overlooking the water.

4-5 days

For most visitors, 4-5 days is the ideal amount of time to spend in Lake Garda.

This allows you to explore both the northern and southern shores at a more relaxed pace, while leaving time for activities such as wine tasting, hiking or a spa day.

1 week

If you’re looking for a slower-paced holiday, a week in Lake Garda gives you plenty of time to discover lesser-known corners of the lake, enjoy longer lunches, spend time on the water and venture beyond the main tourist hotspots.

Best time to visit Lake Garda

The best months to visit Lake Garda are May, June and September, when you’ll enjoy warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine and fewer crowds than the peak summer months.

During this time, daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), making it ideal for sightseeing, boat trips, hiking and long lunches by the lake.

The surrounding landscapes are also at their most beautiful, with spring flowers blooming in May and vineyards beginning to change colour in September.

July and August are the busiest months to visit Lake Garda. The atmosphere is lively and all attractions, ferries and restaurants are operating at full capacity, but you’ll need to be prepared for larger crowds.

Temperatures regularly exceed 30°C (86°F), which can make sightseeing less enjoyable during the middle of the day.

If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting in April or October. While temperatures are cooler, you’ll benefit from lower accommodation prices, fewer visitors and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Most attractions and ferry services are still operating, although schedules may be reduced outside the main season.

Lake Garda can also be visited during winter, particularly in December when Christmas markets and festive events bring extra charm to many of the lakeside towns.

However, some hotels, restaurants and seasonal ferry routes close during the off-season, so you’ll have fewer options than during the warmer months.

How to get to Lake Garda

Lake Garda is easily accessible from several airports in northern Italy, making it an ideal destination for a long weekend or as part of a wider Italian road trip.

For my recent trip, I flew into Venice, spent a night exploring the city, and then picked up a hire car the following morning before driving to Lake Garda. It’s a fantastic option if you’re planning to combine a visit to the lake with some of northern Italy’s other highlights.

✈️ By plane

The closest airport to Lake Garda is Verona Airport, located around 15-45 minutes from the southern shores of the lake, depending on your destination. It’s served by a number of airlines, including direct flights from several UK airports.

Other convenient options include Milan Bergamo Airport, which is around an hour’s drive from the southern end of the lake, and Venice Marco Polo Airport, which is approximately 1.5-2.5 hours away by car.

🚆 By train

If you’re travelling around Italy by rail, the nearest train stations are Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano del Garda on the southern shore. Both are served by high-speed trains from cities including Milan, Venice and Verona.

From the station, you can continue your journey by taxi, bus or ferry, depending on where you’re staying.

🚗 By car

Hiring a car is one of the easiest ways to get to and explore Lake Garda, particularly if you’d like to visit multiple towns or venture beyond the waterfront.

The roads around the lake are generally well maintained, although traffic can be heavy during July and August.

If you’re planning a northern Italy itinerary, hiring a car also gives you the flexibility to combine Lake Garda with destinations such as Venice, Verona or the Dolomites.

How to get around Lake Garda

One of the most common questions people ask is whether you need a car in Lake Garda. 

For my visit, I hired a car and found it gave me the most flexibility, particularly when visiting viewpoints, towns and attractions away from the lakeshore.

However, it’s entirely possible to explore Lake Garda without a car if you’re staying in one of the main towns and don’t mind relying on ferries and public transport.

⛴️ By ferry

Lake Garda’s ferry network is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to travel between towns.

Regular services connect popular destinations including Sirmione, Malcesine, Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda and Bardolino, making it easy to explore without driving.

If you’re staying on the lake, I’d highly recommend taking at least one ferry during your trip, even if you have a car.

🚗 By car

A hire car is the best option if you’d like to explore multiple areas of the lake or visit attractions such as Strada della Forra, local wineries and mountain viewpoints.

Do bear in mind that roads around the lake can become congested during the summer months, particularly around popular towns and ferry terminals.

🚌 By bus

A network of local buses serves many of Lake Garda’s towns and villages. While buses are generally affordable, journeys can be slower than driving and services are less frequent in some areas.

Where to stay in Lake Garda

Choosing where to stay in Lake Garda can feel overwhelming at first. The lake stretches for more than 50km from north to south, and each area offers a slightly different experience.

For a first visit, I’d recommend basing yourself in one area and exploring from there rather than trying to move hotels throughout your trip.

1. Torri del Benaco

⭐ Best for: Luxury stays and a quieter atmosphere

🏨 My hotel recommendation: Cape of Senses – I stayed here on my most recent visit and it’s one of the most beautiful hotels in Lake Garda, with a stunning infinity pool, exceptional spa and panoramic views across the lake.

2. Sirmione

⭐ Best for: First-time visitors, sightseeing and thermal spas

🏨 My hotel recommendation: Hotel Ocelle Thermae & Spa – An adults-only lakeside hotel with direct access to the lake, thermal pools and a fantastic location just a short walk from Sirmione’s historic centre.

3. Malcesine

⭐ Best for: Scenery, photography and access to Monte Baldo

🏨 My hotel recommendation: Bellevue San Lorenzo – A peaceful hillside retreat with beautiful lake views, lush gardens and easy access to Malcesine’s old town.

4. Limone sul Garda

⭐ Best for: Couples and lakeside views

🏨 My hotel recommendation: EALA My Lakeside Dream – An adults-only luxury hotel with infinity pools, an exceptional spa and some of the best lake views in Lake Garda.

5. Riva del Garda

⭐ Best for: Hiking, cycling and outdoor adventures

🏨 My hotel recommendation: Lido Palace – A five-star lakeside hotel combining historic grandeur with a contemporary spa and excellent location.

For more inspiration, including luxury hotels, boutique stays and lakeside retreats, read my full guide to the best hotels in Lake Garda (coming soon).

Suggested Lake Garda itinerary

Not sure how to structure your trip? Here’s a quick overview of what a Lake Garda itinerary could look like.

3-day Lake Garda itinerary

Spend your first day exploring Sirmione and the southern shores of the lake. On day two, take a boat trip to Limone sul Garda and Malcesine, before riding the Monte Baldo cable car.

Finish your trip with a scenic drive along the Strada della Forra and a visit to one of the region’s wineries.

5-day Lake Garda itinerary

With five days, you’ll have time to explore the lake at a slower pace.

In addition to visiting the main towns and attractions, you’ll be able to enjoy experiences such as wine tasting, hiking, spa days and leisurely boat trips across the lake.

1-week Lake Garda itinerary

A week allows you to fully embrace Lake Garda’s relaxed pace of life. You’ll have time to discover lesser-known corners of the lake, enjoy longer lunches by the water and venture beyond the main tourist hotspots.

My top Lake Garda travel tips

• Visit popular towns early in the morning. Sirmione, Limone sul Garda and Malcesine are at their quietest before the day-trippers arrive.
• Take the ferry at least once. Even if you’ve hired a car, travelling by boat is one of the most scenic ways to experience Lake Garda.
• Book the Monte Baldo cable car in advance during summer. Queues can be long during peak season, particularly in July and August.
• Pack layers for Monte Baldo. Temperatures at the summit can be significantly cooler than at lake level, even on hot summer days.
• Allow more time than you think for driving. Roads around the lake can be slow and congested during the summer months, particularly around popular towns.
• Consider staying for at least 4-5 days. While it’s possible to see Lake Garda in a long weekend, having a few extra days allows you to experience the lake at a much more relaxed pace.
• Don’t try to see everything. Lake Garda is much larger than many first-time visitors expect. You’ll enjoy your trip far more if you focus on a handful of towns and attractions rather than trying to tick off the entire lake.

Planning your Lake Garda trip

Whether you’re drawn by the colourful lakeside towns, dramatic mountain scenery or beautiful waterfront hotels, Lake Garda is one of those destinations that manages to exceed expectations.

Despite being Italy’s largest lake, it never feels overwhelming, with each town offering its own distinct character and charm.

I hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Lake Garda. For more inspiration, head over to my Instagram or TikTok for more Italy travel content.