Lake Garda – Top Travel Destination Guide

As a travel writer with 30 years of experience, Lake Garda is a place I recommend to just about anyone. Be they young or old, married or single, with or without family. 

Why? First and foremost, Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Set at the base of the soaring Italian Alps, carved out of the mountains by gigantic glaciers in the last ice age, it offers breathtaking views wherever you are on the lake. It also has its own micro-climate, welcoming and warm during the summer months. But it also experiences cooling winds that flow over the lake during the day. And it is these same winds that make the lake a sailing and watersports paradise. 

And that is another thing about Lake Garda – there is so much to do! I share my recommendations on the Top Travel Destinations podcast (linked here). Have a listen and take a read below of my list of the top activities to keep any traveller of any age enthralled on their visit. As I think you’ll agree, there are not many places to rival it.

Things To Do Around Lake Garda – Enjoy La Dolce Vita!

Italians have an exceptional attitude to life, summed up by this immortal phrase ‘La Dolce Vita’ meaning the sweetness of life. In and around Lake Garda, you can indulge in La Dolce Vita all day and all night long! 

I went with my two grandkids Kuba (8) and Maya (6) and when I asked them what they most enjoyed about the lake, they said simply, “Just walking around!” 

Kevin’s grandkids in Lake Garda

I know exactly what they mean. Each town on the lake has its old churches, beautiful squares, shops to die for and a range of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes. More importantly, each town has a promenade where you can simply walk, take in the spectacular views and enjoy the world-famous gelato or ice cream. 

If you want to enjoy La Dolce Vita on Lake Garda, simply find a coffee shop or bar that faces the lake and sit sipping an espresso in the morning, or an Aperol Spritz in the afternoon and watch the world pass by, while the mountains soar over the ever-present lake. It is so beautiful it takes the eyes out of your head. And it is never boring.

From watching the ferries disgorging locals and visitors alike, to the buskers and musicians filling the air with song, to waiters bustling about taking orders, to kids playing catch while retirees watch on, hands resting on their walking sticks. The sun, the water, and the laughter all combine to give one a great slice of La Dolce Vita. And one more thing – it costs no more than a coffee or a drink!

But if you want more to do, then the list in Lake Garda is endless. 

Notable Towns

Malcesine. Image by kordula vahle from Pixabay

Sirmione: Famous for its thermal baths, medieval castle, and picturesque peninsula setting.

Malcesine: Known for its Scaliger Castle, historic centre, and outdoor activities like hiking and paragliding.

Riva del Garda: A charming town with a lively waterfront, historic fortress, and opportunities for water sports.

Gardone Riviera: Home to the Vittoriale degli Italiani and beautiful botanical gardens, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.

Limone sul Garda: Renowned for its lemon groves, historic streets, and scenic beaches.

Places To Stay

Malcesine: Hotel Castello Lake Front

Lake Garda has some of the best hotels and pensione in Italy – so all categories are catered for. Here are some notable hotels in the main tourist towns:

Places To Eat

Ristorante Gemma

Places To Drink

Places To Explore

Scalinger Castle. Image by Michelle Raponi from Pixabay
  • Scaliger Castle (Sirmione): A medieval fortress overlooking the lake, offering panoramic views and historical exhibits.
  • Mount Baldo (Malcesine): A scenic mountain with cable car access, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.
  • Rocca di Riva (Riva del Garda): A historic fortress with a museum showcasing the region’s history and culture.
  • Vittoriale degli Italiani (Gardone Riviera): The former residence of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, now a museum and cultural center.
  • Limone sul Garda: Explore the charming streets lined with lemon groves, visit the Limonaia del Castel for a glimpse into lemon cultivation, and relax on the town’s picturesque beaches.

Activities

Limone, Lake Garda. Image by Tommy from Pixabay
  • Water Sports: Windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities on Lake Garda, with rental facilities available in various towns.
  • Cycling: Explore the scenic countryside and lakeside paths by bike, with numerous rental shops and guided tours to choose from.
  • Wine-Tasting: Visit local wineries around Lake Garda to sample regional wines like Bardolino, Lugana, and Valpolicella.
  • Hiking: Discover scenic trails and panoramic viewpoints in the surrounding mountains, such as Monte Baldo and Monte Brione.
  • Boat Tours: Take a leisurely boat tour around Lake Garda to admire its beauty from the water, with options for private charters and group excursions.

Getting To Lake Garda

I booked my trip to Lake Garda with Topflight, who are experts in Italian holidays and can help to create personalised packages suited to your interests. I’d recommend speaking to Topflight if you’re planning a Lake Garda trip and they’ll be able to do all the heavy lifting, from booking the hotel and flights to escorted tours. All you have to do is sit back, relax and soak up La Dolce Vita!

Check out www.topflight.ie

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