Lake Garda: day trips to the most charming towns

In Gardone Riviera, the mild climate, magnificent gardens filled with citrus trees, cypresses, and agaves, along with the elegant villas, attract both those seeking relaxation and those who like to bask in the vibrant lake lifestyle. The absolute highlight for art and nature enthusiasts is the botanical garden “Giardino Botanico Fondazione André Heller”, which features around 3,000 plant species from around the world, along with world-famous artworks by Keith Haring, Roy Lichtenstein, Auguste Rodin, Fernand Léger, and many others.

Salò, the largest town on the western shore of Lake Garda, is particularly popular among families. Due to its geographical location, the area enjoys pleasantly Mediterranean temperatures all year round. The lively town centre delights with its charming cafés, exquisite restaurants, and great selection of boutiques and shops.

Desenzano del Garda, the largest town on Lake Garda, captivates not only with its rich history but also with its lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife in the picturesque old town. One must-see highlight is the stunning Villa Romana, a Roman villa dating back to the 1st century. Its remarkable architectural ruins and beautifully preserved mosaics transport visitors to times long gone.

Limone sul Garda, which translates to “Lemon on Lake Garda”, gets its name from the lemon trees that have been cultivated here since the 18th century, thriving due to the area’s exceptionally mild climate. Today, Limone sul Garda is renowned for its thriving tourism industry. The town delights with its winding alleys, colourful architecture, and relaxed atmosphere. Still, visiting the lemon museum and the traditional lemon orchards is a real must.

Sirmione, a picturesque peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Garda, captivates visitors with its timeless beauty and historical charm. Ancient ruins like the Scaliger Castle and the Grottoes of Catullus, along with winding alleys, tell tales of times long past, while charming cafés and restaurants invite you to pause and linger.

In the old town of Riva del Garda, situated at the northern tip of the lake, visitors enjoy getting lost in winding alleys lined with historical buildings, small boutiques, as well as inviting cafés and restaurants. The landmark is the medieval Rocca di Riva fortress, which nowadays houses the city museum and an art gallery.

The small town of Bardolino is widely known beyond Italy thanks to its namesake red wine. Here, in the middle of gentle hills and vineyards, time seems to stand still. It’s the perfect place to fully enjoy the beauty of nature. A dinner by the shore, a stroll along the harbour, and a visit to the Wine or Olive Oil Museum create unforgettable memories.

Thanks to its unparalleled beauty, Malcesine is without a doubt one of the most popular holiday destinations at Lake Garda. Majestically towering above the city is the impressive Scaliger castle, offering a spectacular view across Lake Garda. To the south, a promenade leads to the Val di Sogno peninsula, passing by beautiful swimming spots. A special experience for hiking fans: the cable car ride up to Tratto Spino, a mountain pass at 1,760 metres above sea level on Mt Baldo.

Lazise, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, marks the point where the lake reaches its maximum width of 17km. The town is shaped by its rich history, which is especially reflected in the six towers of its Scaliger castle and the crenellated city walls. These structures, which date back to the Middle Ages, testify to Lazise’s original defensive layout against attacks from the lake and give the town a unique charm.

Peschiera del Garda, located at the southern end of the Veronese shore of Lake Garda, is a town surrounded entirely by canals and historic walls. Situated approximately 25km west of Verona, it boasts not only a captivating old town but also Lake Frassino, the largest among several moraine lakes in the area. This lake is a European protected site due to its rich wildlife and plant species. Additionally, a picturesque bicycle path begins here, leading all the way to the city of Mantua.

Torbole is nestled between the steep cliffs of Mt Baldo and the sparkling waters of Lake Garda. It is a quaint town as well as a natural paradise, famous for its ideal conditions for windsurfing and sailing. The lake’s strong winds draw water-sports enthusiasts from all over the world, who are enchanted by the beauty of this exceptional setting.