Things to do in Lake Garda
Welcome to Lake Garda
The largest lake in Italy—tucked to the side of the Dolomites and sandwiched between three provinces: Verona, Brescia, and Trento—Lake Garda is a long-time favorite of elegant travelers looking for wine-tasting at vineyards, healing sulfur springs, and laidback lakeside activities. Lake Garda has something to suit most, including historic landmarks, spa towns such as Bardolino and Sirmione, and even a family-friendly theme park. Meanwhile, on the water, windsurfing, sailing, and kiteboarding are among the most popular things to do.
Top 5 attractions in Lake Garda
Lake Garda (Lago di Garda)
Desenzano del Garda
Gardaland Park
Garda Thermal Park (Parco Termale del Garda)
SEA LIFE® Gardaland
Explore Lake Garda by interest
Top activities in Lake Garda
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All about Lake Garda
When to visit
Lake Garda’s hot springs attract visitors all year round, but best time of year to visit, if you want to take a dip in the lake, is late in the summer, when the water has lost its alpine chill. The area is at its most beautiful in spring, when the hills are covered in blossoms, and fall, when they turn golden. The town of Salò hosts two Garda Flowers botanical events, in April and September, and many of the area’s food and wine festivals take place in the fall.
Getting around
The main train station is in Peschiera del Garda, and it can be reached on the Milan–Venice railway line. From there, you can take one of the two bus routes around the lake—one stops at virtually all the villages on the eastern shore, and another covers the western shore. Navigarda ferries, which crisscross the lake, run all year long (though more frequently from spring through fall). Taxis and taxi boats are also plentiful, and you can rent a bike or e-bike in the larger towns.
Traveler tips
To satisfy a chocolate craving, head straight to the historic Vassalli pastry shop in the heart of Salò’s old town. This family-run pasticceria has been known for its artisan chocolates (as well as its pastries and cakes) since 1930. Pull up a chair at one of the dainty pink tables set up along the town’s main pedestrian thoroughfare, or choose a selection of hand-crafted chocolates from the display to take home.