The Top 5 Things to Do in Lake Garda, Italy

Offering incredible views of the Alps, Lake Garda is one of the most scenic lakes in all of Italy, and that’s not just because of its natural beauty – Lake Garda was also the setting for Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, which gives it an air of romance to boot! No wonder it attracts over 6 million visitors each year. In fact, it’s one of the most popular vacation destinations in Europe!

Let’s dive into the 5 best things to do in Lake Garda, and explore the best attractions Garda has to offer.

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In order to understand what are the best things to do around Lake Garda, let’s look at some commonly asked questions about the lake.

Where is Lake Garda?

Lake Garda is located in the north of the country. The lake is about 62 miles long and 12 miles wide. It is bordered by the regions of Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Veneto.

lake Garda Italy Map

How Many Days Do You Need in Lake Garda?

You could easily spend a week here and not get bored. There are plenty of things to do, from swimming and sunbathing to hiking and biking.

And if you want to explore the surrounding area, there are plenty of day trips you can take. The best way to see Lake Garda is by boat, and there are plenty of companies that offer boat tours. If you’re not a waters person, know that a car would be very handy when exploring the villages and attractions on land.

So how many days should you spend in Lake Garda? That depends on what you want to do and how much time you have. If you just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, then 4-5 days will suffice.

Traveling tip: You might find yourself walking some distance in Lake Garda, so if you’re travelling with a kid, make sure you are prepared with the best traveling backpack for kids.
Lake Garda’s best activities are now ready to be explored! 

1. Scaligero Castle

The Scaligero Castle is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Lake Garda.

It is located on the island of Scaligeri in Sirmione and was built in the 13th century. The castle is open to the public and offers stunning views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.

Visitors can also explore the castle’s museum, which houses a collection of medieval weapons and armor.

2. Gardaland Resort

If you’re looking for some fun, head to Gardaland, one of the most popular theme parks in Italy.

The park has rides for all ages, plus a water park and a zoo. You could easily spend a whole day here and not get bored. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby if you need a break from all the thrill-seeking.

The park is 30 minuted drive from Verona Via Route SR11, and 1hr and 33 minutes from Milan, so plan your trip accordingly, and It will be open every day from 10 am to 11 pm over the summer, according to the official website.  

3. Brescia, Italy

Brescia is a historic city located in the Lombardy region of Italy.

The city is situated on the south shore of Lake Garda, making it a popular destination for tourists. Brescia is home to a number of historical landmarks and attractions, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Palazzo Della Loggia, and the Castello di Brescia. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities in and around the city, such as hiking, biking, and swimming.

If you are looking for beautiful lakes in Europe you should check out some of the 10 Lakes in France You Won’t Want to Miss.

Brescia, Italy

4. Tour Desenzano del Garda

Start your Lake Garda tour in Desenzano del Garda, a lively town with a beautiful lakeside promenade. Stroll around the town center and visit the castle of Desenzano del Garda, then take a dip in the lake at one of the many beaches.

If you’re looking for something more active, rent a bike and explore the surroundings, or go for a hike in one of the nearby nature parks.

In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of the town’s many restaurants or cafes.

5. Climb Monte Baldo

One of the best things to do around Lake Garda is climbing Monte Baldo.

This mountain is located in the northeastern part of the lake and offers stunning views. It is also one of the most popular hiking destinations in Italy.

The hike itself is not too difficult and can be completed in a few hours. However, there are some sections that are steep and may require some scrambling.

If you are looking for an easy hike with beautiful views, then Monte Baldo is definitely worth checking out.

Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions about Lake Garda

Where to Stay in Lake Garda

Lake Garda is filled with different options for accommodation all around, so you can be confident that you will find the right one to fit your budget, style, and traveling partners.

There are 2 main areas in the lake that you want to stay close to. The first being Sirmione, which is the touristic part of Lake Garda. It’s located at its very southern part. The second being Riva del Garda, which is a beautiful and fun town in the northern Italian province of Trento.

Give our booking engine a quick search to find the most beautiful places to stay in Garda Lake. And be wary, as it’s a very touristic place, meaning you should book your hotel a month in advanced at the very least.

How Far is Lake Garda From Lake Como?

It’s about a 2 hours and 45 minutes drive between lake Garda and lake Como.

The two lakes are not very close together, but it’s possible to visit both on one trip if you’re feeling adventurous. If you want more time on Lake Como or if you can’t fit it into your itinerary then don’t worry; they’re both stunning lakes with plenty of places to see!

Summary

In Lake Garda you will find beautiful views, great trails and tracks, lots of touristic attractions including one of the best amusement parks in the world and many more things to do and see.

This place really has it all, it’s budget-friendly compared to the rest of Italy, and you can find both peace and lifeful areas all across the lake. It’s a great place to visit whether you’re traveling as a couple, with a kid, with family, or all by yourself.

We look forward to hear from your experience in the lake. Visit our Facebook Community to tell us your stories, or to ask any question that pops in your head.