For lakes touring enthusiasts, Lake Garda offers a plethora of must-see attractions that showcase its stunning scenery, charming towns, and rich history. From the medieval town of Sirmione to the awe-inspiring Varone Waterfall, this guide will take you through the top spots to include in your Lake Garda itinerary.
Sirmione: Explore the Charming Medieval Town
Situated on the southern side of Lake Garda, Sirmione is a must-visit destination for its impressive castle, drawbridge, and quaint historical center. Stroll through the town’s narrow streets, lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, and take a 25-minute boat cruise to navigate the entire peninsula, offering picturesque views of the lake.
Boat Cruise Cost: Approximately €15 per adult
Isola del Garda: Discover the Hidden Gem
Accessible only by small boats, Isola del Garda is a hidden gem on the central-western side of Lake Garda. Tours are available from March to October, providing an uncrowded and tranquil experience. Explore the spectacular Gothic-Venetian palace and the beautiful botanical garden, which are popular locations for weddings and special events.
Tour Cost: €20 per adult
Limone sul Garda: Immerse Yourself in Lemon Groves
Towards the northern end of the lake, the charming town of Limone sul Garda is famous for its lemon groves. Discover three lemon groves: la limonaia del Tesol, la limonaia di via Borghi, and la limonaia del Castèl, which serve as outdoor museums showcasing the cultivation of lemons, a key ingredient in Italian cooking.
Entrance Fee: Varies by grove, typically around €5 per person
Malcesine: Ride the Cable Car to Mount Baldo
Situated on the north-eastern side of the lake, Malcesine is home to the medieval Castello Scagliero and a popular cable car that takes you up to Mount Baldo at an altitude of 1760m in just 15 minutes. The cable car offers stunning birds-eye views of the lake, but be sure to bring layers as temperatures can be significantly lower at the top.
Cable Car Cost: €22 for a return ticket
Lazise: Explore the Picturesque Waterfront and Nearby Attractions
Lazise, a small town on the south-eastern side of the lake, is known for its picturesque waterfront, colorful buildings, and numerous boats. Nearby vineyards offer wine tasting and Italian cooking classes, and the town is also close to Gardaland, one of Europe’s largest attraction parks, making it a perfect family outing.
Gardaland Ticket Cost: €45 for a one-day ticket
Il Vittoriale degli Italiani: Discover the Legacy of Gabriele D’Annunzio
In Gardone Riviera, the historical site and museum of Il Vittoriale degli Italiani is dedicated to the Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. The complex includes a house, a mausoleum, an amphitheater, and a park, offering a glimpse into the life and work of the renowned artist.
Ticket Cost: €15 per adult
Gardaland Park: Enjoy the Thrills of a Theme Park
Castelnuovo del Garda is home to Gardaland Park, a popular amusement and theme park offering a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.
Ticket Cost: €45 for a one-day ticket
Grotte di Catullo: Explore the Roman Archaeological Site
In Sirmione, the Grotte di Catullo is a well-preserved Roman archaeological site featuring the remains of a large villa and stunning views of the lake.
Ticket Cost: €8 per adult
Torbole and Arco: Discover the Windsurfing Hotspots
The charming towns of Torbole and Arco in the Trentino region are known for their windsurfing opportunities, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes.
Windsurfing Rental Cost: Approximately €25 per hour
Varone Waterfall: Experience the Refreshing Scenery
Located near Riva del Garda, the Varone Waterfall offers a spectacular and refreshing experience for visitors.
Entrance Fee: €5 per adult
These are just a few of the must-see attractions around Lake Garda. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor activities, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable lakes touring experience at this stunning Italian destination.
References:
– Live in Italy Magazine
– TripAdvisor
– Earth Trekkers
– Untold Italy