Best Places to Visit Around Lake Garda

In your itinerary on Lake Garda, don't miss the beauty of Sirmione, with its castle and thermal springs. Explore romantic Limone sul Garda for its narrow streets and breathtaking views. Bardolino offers renowned wines and a lively environment. Riva del Garda fascinates with its impressive mountains and water sports. Finally, Gardone Riviera enchants with the Vittoriale degli Italiani and its splendid botanical gardens.

In Sirmione, don't miss these attractions: Scaligero Castle, an imposing medieval fortress located at the entrance to the city, Caves of Catullus, ruins of a Roman villa from the 1st century AD, located on a rocky peninsula, The Baths of Sirmione, thermal springs known for their healing properties, historic center, stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, full of shops, cafes and restaurants, beaches, relax on the beaches of Sirmione

Scaligero Castle: Explore this medieval fortress with stunning views of Lake Garda.
The Scaligero Castle is a medieval fortress located in Sirmione. It offers panoramic views of Lake Garda and hosts cultural events throughout the year.

Terme di Sirmione: Relax in the thermal baths known for their healing properties.
The Sirmione Spa is famous for its beneficial thermal waters. They offer a variety of spa treatments, from thermal pools to spa treatments. Located by the lake, they also offer stunning panoramic views while you relax and rejuvenate.

Grotte di Catullo: Discover the ruins of a Roman villa overlooking the lake.
The Caves of Catullus are the ruins of a Roman villa from the 1st century AD. Situated on a rocky peninsula in Sirmione, they offer insight into the region's rich Roman history and command breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Garda.

In Malcesine, don't miss these attractions: Scaligero Castle, an imposing medieval fortress located on the shores of Lake Garda, Monte Baldo, historic centre, Palazzo dei Capitani, an elegant Renaissance palace located on the lakefront, home to the town hall and cultural events, Church of Santo Stefano, an evocative Gothic church with 15th century frescoes and a panoramic view from the bell tower.

Monte Baldo: Take a cable car ride for breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.
A trip to Monte Baldo is a must-do when visiting Lake Garda. Take a cable car ride from Malcesine to reach the summit and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you can explore hiking trails, enjoy alpine flora and fauna, or simply relax at one of the mountain huts. It's an unforgettable experience offering panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.

Scaliger Castle: Visit this medieval castle perched on a cliff with panoramic vistas.
The Scaligero Castle is a majestic fortress located in Malcesine, on the shores of Lake Garda. Built in the 13th century, it offers spectacular views of the town and lake. Explore the medieval towers, ramparts and dungeons, learn about the history of the castle at the museum inside and admire the breathtaking landscape from the top of the walls.

Limone sul Garda: Explore this picturesque town known for its lemon groves and charming streets.
Limone sul Garda, an enchanting town on the western shores of Lake Garda, fascinates with its narrow cobbled streets, colorful historic buildings and peaceful atmosphere. Explore the historic center, admire the Church of San Benedetto and stroll along the lakeside. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake and surrounding mountains. Taste local produce, such as lemons and olive oil, in shops and restaurants. With its natural and historical beauty, Limone sul Garda offers an authentic and unforgettable experience on the shores of the lake.

In Garda, don't miss these attractions: Punta San Vigilio, an enchanting promontory offers breathtaking views of the lake and a peaceful environment for walking or relaxing, Villa dei Cedri, Port of Garda, Church of San Nicolò, beaches, relax on local beaches such as Baia delle Sirene or Punta San Vigilio and enjoy the sun and the lake.

Punta San Vigilio: Enjoy the scenic beauty of this peninsula with a historic villa and lush gardens.
Punta San Vigilio is an enchanting promontory located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, near Garda. This place offers spectacular panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is renowned for its natural beauty, its well-kept gardens and the picturesque Mermaid Bay. Punta San Vigilio is also famous for its historic restaurant and its ancient inn, which offer a unique gastronomic experience in an idyllic setting.

Villa dei Cedri Thermal Park: Relax in the natural thermal waters surrounded by parkland.
Villa dei Cedri is a historic villa located in Garda, on the shores of Lake Garda. Surrounded by a large park, the villa is famous for its ancient thermal baths, which offer thermal pools fed by natural springs with mineral-rich hot water. It is an ideal place to relax and regenerate immersed in the natural beauty and comfort of the thermal waters.

Church of San Nicolo: Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic church.
The Church of San Nicolò is an iconic church located in the historic center of Riva del Garda, on the northern shore of Lake Garda. Built in the 13th century in Gothic style, it features a majestic façade and a distinctive bell tower. Inside, you can admire medieval frescoes and sacred works of art. The Church of San Nicolò is an important place of worship and a historical testimony to the rich religious tradition of the area.

In Riva del Garda, don't miss: Bastione del Ponale, a historic fortress with spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains, Chiesa dell'Inviolata: A majestic baroque church with decorated interiors and frescoes, Piazza III Novembre, the heart of the city with cafes, shops and the old town hall, Port of Riva del Garda, a charming tourist port with boats and a picturesque lakeside promenade, Alto Garda Museum, a museum that displays archaeological finds, works of art and local history.

Exploring Riva del Garda will make you discover its history, its natural beauty and the vibrant atmosphere on the shores of Lake Garda.

Varone Waterfall: Experience the power of nature at this impressive waterfall located in a lush gorge.
The Varone Waterfall is a spectacular waterfall located near Riva del Garda, accessible via the Varone Waterfall Grotta Park. Here, a path will lead you through a natural cave where you can admire the roaring waters of the waterfall pouring from a rock face about 100 meters high. It is a natural wonder not to be missed for anyone visiting the Lake Garda area, offering an evocative and memorable experience in contact with the beauty of nature.

Rocca di Riva: Explore this medieval fortress offering panoramic views of Lake Garda and the town.
Rocca di Riva, also known as Castello di Riva, is a historic fortress located on the northern tip of Riva del Garda. Built in the 12th century and subsequently enlarged, the fortress dominates the city and offers spectacular panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Today it houses the Civic Museum, where you can explore local history, art exhibitions and enjoy breathtaking views from its panoramic terrace. The Rocca di Riva is an essential stop for those visiting Riva del Garda, offering an immersive experience in the history and beauty of the lake.

Apponale Tower: Climb this iconic tower for stunning vistas of Riva del Garda and the surrounding area.
The Bastione del Ponale is a historic fortress located near Riva del Garda, on the northern side of Lake Garda. Built in the 19th century by the Austrians, the bastion offers spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It can be reached via a suggestive panoramic walk along the Vecchia Strada del Ponale, which offers breathtaking views and a unique experience in contact with the nature and history of the area. The Bastione del Ponale is an unmissable destination for trekking lovers and for those who want to enjoy unforgettable views of Lake Garda.

A Bardolino, non perderti il suo incantevole centro storico con le sue vie acciottolate, la Chiesa di San Severo e il Museo dell'Olio di Oliva. Goditi una passeggiata lungo il porto turistico e assapora i famosi vini locali nelle cantine della zona. Le spiagge come la Spiaggia degli Ulivi offrono relax e divertimento sulle rive del Lago di Garda.

Wine Tasting: Sample the famous Bardolino wines in local vineyards and wineries.
Assaggiare i famosi vini Bardolino direttamente nei vigneti e nelle cantine locali è un'esperienza imperdibile per gli amanti del vino. Situata sulle sponde del Lago di Garda, la regione vitivinicola di Bardolino è rinomata per i suoi vini rossi leggeri e fruttati. Durante una degustazione, avrai l'opportunità di assaporare diverse varietà di Bardolino, come il Bardolino Classico e il Bardolino Chiaretto, mentre scopri la storia e le tradizioni della produzione vinicola locale. Con paesaggi mozzafiato e un clima favorevole, la degustazione di vini a Bardolino promette un'esperienza indimenticabile per i tuoi sensi.

Olive Oil Museum: Learn about the production of olive oil in the region at this informative museum.
The Olive Oil Museum in Bardolino is an interesting stop for lovers of local gastronomy and culture. Located in the heart of the city, this museum offers an interactive experience that illustrates the history, production and importance of olive oil in the Lake Garda region. Through multimedia displays, guided tours and practical demonstrations, visitors can learn about the art of olive cultivation, oil extraction and the traditions linked to the production of olive oil in Bardolino. It's a fascinating way to explore the local culture and food and wine of the region.

Church of San Severo: Admire the beautiful frescoes and architecture of this historic church.
The Church of San Severo is an important church located in the historic center of Bardolino, on the shores of Lake Garda. Built in the 12th century in Romanesque style and subsequently renovated, the church has a simple and elegant façade. Inside, it is decorated with frescoes and sacred art, including an 18th-century altarpiece depicting San Severo. The Church of San Severo is a historic place of worship and a cultural reference point in the heart of Bardolino, not to be missed during a visit to the city.

In Gardone Riviera, explore the Vittoriale degli Italiani, the majestic residence of the poet Gabriele D'Annunzio, with its gardens and museum. Visit the botanical gardens of Isola del Garda, enriched by a variety of exotic and subtropical plants. Admire the Church of San Nicolò and stroll along the lakeside. Taste the local cuisine in the lakeside restaurants and discover the picturesque streets of the historic center. Gardone Riviera offers a cultural, historical and naturalistic experience on the shores of Lake Garda.

Vittoriale degli Italiani: Visit the eccentric estate of poet Gabriele D'Annunzio, featuring gardens, museums, and a warship.
The Vittoriale degli Italiani is a monumental residence located in Gardone Riviera on the shores of Lake Garda, famous for being the home of the poet and politician Gabriele D'Annunzio. The complex includes the main residence, the mausoleum, the park and the museum. It is a place rich in history, art and culture, enriched by works of art, personal objects and memories of the poet, as well as landscaped gardens that offer breathtaking views of the lake. The Vittoriale is an unmissable destination for those visiting Gardone Riviera and offers a unique experience immersed in the life and work of D'Annunzio.

Heller Garden: Wander through this unique botanical garden showcasing sculptures and exotic plants.
The Heller Garden is a charming botanical garden located in Gardone Riviera, on the shores of Lake Garda. Founded in the 19th century by Arthur Hruska, an Austrian entrepreneur, the garden offers a large collection of exotic and subtropical plants from around the world. Through scenic routes and terraces overlooking the lake, visitors can admire a variety of rare and exotic botanical species, as well as enjoy spectacular views. The Heller Garden is an oasis of natural beauty and an unmissable stop for lovers of nature and the art of gardening.

Lake d'Idro: Explore the tranquility of Lake d'Idro, located near Lake Garda, offering serene waters and opportunities for water sports and relaxation.
Nestled in the mountains of Alto Garda Bresciano, Lake Idro offers a quiet and relaxing escape from the urban frenzy. Explore its quiet and wild shores, ideal for scenic walks or family picnics. Enjoy water activities such as swimming, sailing and fishing in its crystal clear waters. Walk the hiking trails surrounding the lake and admire breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With its uncontaminated natural environment and the quiet that characterizes it, Lake Idro is the perfect place to regenerate and reconnect with nature.

The choice of place to stay overnight during a holiday on Lake Garda depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to carry out. Here are some popular options:

Sirmione: Perfect for those seeking spa relaxation, history and breathtaking landscapes.

Bardolino: Excellent choice for wine lovers, with a vibrant lakeside atmosphere and numerous wineries to visit.

Malcesine: Ideal for adventure lovers, with the nearby cable car leading to Monte Baldo and splendid panoramic views.

Riva del Garda: Perfect for fans of water sports and outdoor activities, with a lively lakeside atmosphere and plenty of hiking opportunities.

Garda: Excellent option for those looking for a central base with easy access to the lake's main attractions and a lively nightlife.

They are all locations near Lake Idro where you can stay overnight and use as a base for all your excursions.