Lombardy And The Lakes, Italy
Scaliger Castle (Sirmione): This remarkably preserved medieval fortress stands at the entrance to Sirmione, surrounded by lake waters. Built in the 13th century, it was a vital defensive port. It ranks among Italy's best-kept castles. For tickets and further info, check GetYourGuide.
Grotte di Catullo (Sirmione): The impressive ruins of a vast Roman villa, from the 1st century BC, at Sirmione's northernmost tip. This is thought to be the largest Roman villa in northern Italy, traditionally tied to the poet Catullus. The site offers insight into Roman aristocratic life. For guided tours and passes, explore GetYourGuide.
Book island tours well ahead, especially in high season, as they often sell out.
Beyond Grotte di Catullo, the Roman Villa of Desenzano del Garda has impressive mosaics and remains of another aristocratic residence.
Explore old town centers of Salò, Desenzano, Limone sul Garda, and Malcesine with their narrow streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque harbors.
Many towns feature beautiful churches and cathedrals like Duomo di Salò or Chiesa di San Pietro in Mavino in Sirmione.
Salò's complex history during WWII is reflected in various historical locations and plaques.
Valle delle Cartiere showcases disused paper mills; WWI fortifications exist in the northern lake region.
The natural beauty of Lago di Garda is a main appeal, with stunning landscapes, parks, and unique geological features.
Known as the "Garden of Europe," accessible via a rotating cable car from Malcesine. It presents panoramic lake views and hiking trails. A popular spot for paragliding.
A dramatic waterfall inside a natural gorge, north of Riva del Garda. Visitors explore via tunnels and walkways to different viewpoints.
A picturesque and serene private peninsula with a charming historic villa and a small bay. You can often access the bay and enjoy a drink at the café.
The northernmost town, surrounded by steep mountains plunging into the water. A hub for outdoor activities and stunning natural scenery, including the Ponale path.
A significant safari park and zoo near the southern lake, dedicated to endangered species. Features a drive-through safari and pedestrian zoological park.
Various towns host public gardens and parks perfect for a stroll or relaxing among nature.
This evocative and serene valley near Toscolano Maderno has atmospheric ruins of ancient paper mills along a river. It presents a blend of industrial archaeology, history, and nature trails. Good for a historical walk and a quiet escape.
A beautiful nature park with lush greenery, impressive waterfalls, and walking paths. It presents a refreshing escape into nature and showcases geological features. Less frequented by international visitors.
Arco di Catullo is a natural rock arch near Garda, providing unique photo spots. Castello di Arco is a ruined medieval castle on a cliff overlooking Arco, with stunning panoramic views of the northern lake region.
Lake Garda holds more special spots that bring unique experiences and a glimpse into local life away from the main tourist paths.
Discover the charm of Lake Garda's surrounding areas. Each offers unique facets of Northern Italy's culture and landscape.
From historic cities to picturesque valleys, the vicinity of the lake extends your exploration options.
Just a short distance from Lake Garda, Verona, an UNESCO World Heritage site, presents a rich Roman and medieval history.
Milan, a global capital of fashion and design, is accessible by train from towns like Desenzano del Garda, offering a change of pace.
The hills surrounding Lake Garda are prime wine country, known for Lugana, Bardolino, and Valpolicella wines. Wineries often have tours and tastings.
For a dramatic change of scenery, the Dolomites mountains are within driving distance from the northern part of Lake Garda, offering incredible views and hiking.
Make the most of your sightseeing with these practical pointers.
The ferry network connecting towns around Lake Garda is a beautiful way to travel and see the scenery from the water. It offers different views than driving.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience, often with better light for photos.
Pair visits to historical sites with nearby natural attractions. For example, combine a castle visit with a stroll along the lake or a short hike.
Spend a day in Sirmione visiting the Scaliger Castle and Grotte di Catullo. Dedicate another day to Gardone Riviera for Il Vittoriale degli Italiani and its gardens. Take a day trip to Verona.
Find culture tours.Explore the hiking trails of Monte Baldo from Malcesine. Walk or cycle the Ponale Path near Riva del Garda. Visit Parco Natura Viva for wildlife. Consider a day in the Dolomites.
Discover outdoor tours.Spend a day at Gardaland theme park. Visit Parco Natura Viva. Enjoy swimming and lakeside parks in Peschiera del Garda. Take a boat tour on the lake.
Book family experiences.Indulge in a thermal spa day at Terme di Sirmione. Take a leisurely ferry ride around the lake, stopping at picturesque towns. Find a quiet beach or enjoy a lakeside cafe.
Explore relaxation tours.Participate in a cooking class focusing on regional dishes. Visit a local vineyard for wine tasting. Explore the weekly markets for fresh local produce. Enjoy traditional lakeside dining.
Find food & wine experiences.Ferries are excellent for lake-based travel, while buses link many towns. Trains from Desenzano and Peschiera reach larger cities.
A flexible approach to your itinerary allows for spontaneous discoveries. Local tourism offices are a good resource for maps, event calendars, and personalized recommendations.
Many attractions offer combined tickets for multiple sites, which can be cost-effective.
Always wear comfortable walking shoes, especially when exploring historical districts or natural paths.
Lake Garda presents many family-friendly attractions and experiences, ensuring fun for all ages.
The area around Peschiera del Garda is home to several large theme parks, ideal for a day of excitement and entertainment for children and adults.
For nature lovers and animal enthusiasts, there are parks that offer educational and engaging experiences for the whole family.
The lake itself presents many chances for family enjoyment, from swimming to boat trips, making the most of the beautiful setting.
Many towns offer playgrounds and safe areas for children along the promenade.
Lake Garda has many cycling paths suitable for families, offering a healthy and scenic way to explore the region.
Bike rentals, including child seats and tandem bikes, are widely available.
Many of Lake Garda's castles invite families to step back in time, offering history mixed with engaging views.
Kids often enjoy exploring the towers, walls, and historical settings.
Pizza is an universal crowd-pleaser and widely available in family-friendly settings. It is often a quick and affordable choice for meals.
Enjoying gelato is a classic Italian experience loved by children. There are countless Gelaterie with many flavors to choose from.
Purchase fresh local produce, cheeses, and bread from markets or supermarkets for a pleasant picnic by the lake, saving on dining costs.
