Lake Garda is the perfect place to stay if you want to explore Northern Italy
Lake Garda, or Lago di Garda in Italian, is a fantastic holiday destination with beautiful towns in the mountainous north like Limone to the tranquil south with many campsites and several of Italy’s most interesting cities. From Limone to Madonna di Campiglio, one of Italy’s best ski resorts, is within walking distance. I’ve hiked along well-planned paths up the mountain during Easter, passing blooming almond trees and seeing more and more snow until reaching the heart of Madonna di Campiglio. You have so many options.
We’re taking the entire trip around Lake Garda. Do you want to join?
Lago di Garda, or Lake Garda in English, is the largest lake in Italy and is located in the northern regions of Lombardy, Trentino, and Veneto. It stretches over an impressive 370 square kilometers and is surrounded by picturesque towns, mountains, and olive groves. Visitors flock to Lake Garda for its natural beauty, history, and outdoor activities such as water sports and hiking.
Why visit Lake Garda?
Lake Garda attracts visitors for many reasons. Here are some of the most compelling:
Natural beauty: Surrounded by mountains and with crystal-clear water, Lake Garda offers breathtaking views and a soothing atmosphere.
Activities: The lake is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts who can enjoy sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and much more. There are also fantastic hiking trails and cycling routes along the lake’s shores.
Culture and history: The charming towns around the lake have a rich history and culture with castles, churches, and ancient city walls to explore.
Food and wine: The region around Lake Garda is known for its delicious food and wine. Visitors can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and local specialties.
Riva is a beautiful town, north of Lake Garda
A trip around Lake Garda
Taking a tour by car or bicycle is a fantastic way to experience the region’s diversity. Here are some of the main tourist destinations and towns you will encounter along the way:
Riva del Garda: Located at the northern tip of the lake, Riva del Garda is a charming town known for its medieval architecture and impressive rock formations. Visitors can explore the old town, the castle, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake.
Tourist information about Riva del Garda
Desenzano del Garda: A lively town on the southwestern shore of the lake, Desenzano del Garda is a popular resort with beautiful beaches, lively restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife.
Tourist information about Desenzano del Garda
Desenzano del Garda
Limone sul Garda: This picturesque town on the northwestern shore of the lake is famous for its lemon groves and colorful buildings. It’s an ideal place to stroll along the promenade and enjoy the view.
Tourist information about Limone sul Garda
Sirmione: Located on a narrow peninsula on the southern shore of the lake, Sirmione is one of Lake Garda’s most iconic destinations. The town is known for its thermal baths, the medieval castle, and the picturesque old town.
Tourist information about Sirmione
Malcesine: Located on the eastern shore of the lake, Malcesine is a charming town with an impressive medieval castle, narrow streets, and fantastic views of the water and mountains.
Tourist information about Malcesine
The town of Malcesine, where the famous castle Scalinger is located
Hiking from the northern part to Madonna di Campiglio
It is possible to hike from the northern part of Lake Garda to the Madonna di Campiglio ski resort, but it is a challenging hike that requires a certain level of physical fitness and planning. The route leads through the mountains and covers a significant distance, so it is important to be well-prepared with appropriate equipment and plan accommodation along the way.
Distances to major nearby cities
Here are the distances to some major nearby cities:
Milan: Approx. 140 km (about 1 hour and 45 minutes drive)
Verona: Approx. 40 km (about 45 minutes drive)
Venice: Approx. 150 km (about 2 hours drive)
Brescia: Approx. 60 km (about 1 hour drive)
Town in Lago di Garda
Accommodation and campsites
Lake Garda offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to waterfront campsites. Here are some of the best places to stay and campsites:
Grand Hotel Fasano (Luxury hotel in Riva del Garda)
Hotel Splendid Palace (4-star hotel in Limone sul Garda)
Camping Bella Italia (Campsite in Peschiera del Garda)
Camping Europa Silvella (Campsite in San Felice del Benaco)
This is a wonderful travel destination in Northern Italy, offering something for everyone, whether it’s natural beauty, culture, activities, or a relaxing holiday by the water.
How to get to there?
The nearest airport to Lake Garda is Verona Villafranca Airport (Valerio Catullo Airport – VRN). The airport is located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Verona and is therefore a convenient choice for travelers.
All regions of Italy, you can enjoy
