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Discover the stunning beauty of Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and charming towns.
Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, draws in visitors with its picture-perfect landscapes. Nestled between the towering Alps and Italy’s rolling countryside, this lake glistens making every viewpoint picture-perfect. With lots of charming towns dotted along the lake’s shorelines, there is ample to explore and discover during your stay. Whether you're looking for beautiful views and a more peaceful trip with vineyards and beaches or you are looking for a more active trip you can head out to explore the lake and maybe even try out some water sports like windsurfing. This destination has something for everyone and promises its visitors a memorable experience.
Fly from London and all main regional airports from the UK to the surrounding airports of Milan Linate (LIN), Milan Bergamo Airport (BGY) and Verona Airport (VRN). The flight time from London is around 2hrs.
Lake Garda is best enjoyed in the warmer climate starting from May through to early October. The peak season gets underway in late June to early September, drawing in larger crowds to the lake.
You can easily explore the lake and the towns by hopping on one of the ferries, offering stops at all the major locations around the lake. To travel around the lake on land, you can easily hop on one of the buses, running down each side of the lake (East and West) and connecting visitors to the nearby large cities.
In the summer, you will rarely see the temperatures drop below 25 degrees, with the peak summer hitting average highs of 30 degrees. The shoulder months of late spring and early autumn sit at temperatures around 20 degrees.
All our holidays to Italy can be tailored to suit your every need. You can choose your preferred duration, board, hotel etc. Below you'll find a popular itinerary that incorporate Lake Garda. If you can't find the right holiday, feel free to contact us and one of our travel consultants will be in touch.
Scaligera Castle (Rocca Scaligera): During your stay at Lake Garda, a visit to the medieval Scaligera Castle is something to add to your activity list. Situated at the tip of the Sirmione Peninsula, this castle is one of the best preserved in Italy. Its grand façade of the protective moat and access bridge stands tall protecting its historic old town secluded behind its walls. Visitors can explore the old town for themselves or step back into the past with a guided tour learning all about the castle’s significance in the 13th century. For those who love incredible views and photographer enthusiasts, a climb up the tower is a must, with stunning vistas of the lake that awaits, and take in the rich history that surrounds them.
Cable Car up Monte Baldo: If you are a nature lover, adventurer and/or hiker alike, then a visit to Monte Baldo is where you will want to visit, no matter the season. Located on the eastern side of the lake you can easily get to by using the public buses, ferries or walking depending on where you are staying. Head to the top using the cable car, taking in the breath-taking, panoramic views of the lake below. With three stations, the departure station is in Malcesine, the intermediate station at San Michele and the third station at the top of Monte Baldo in Tratto Spino.
As you ascend the second part of a trip between San Michele and the top you will enter a rotating cabin, ensuring all aboard get a 360 panoramic view. Once at the top, spend the time marvelling at the views and enjoying the local cuisine in the nearby restaurants or try out one of the many hiking or mountain bike trails on offer that vary in difficulties.
Relax at the beach: Lake Garda is not just a picturesque lakeside town, it is home to some beautiful beaches that provide its visitors the perfect spot to swim, soak up some vitamin D or just relax along the water's edge. Jamaica Beach in Sirmione, Baia delle Sirena Beach in Garda and Rivoltella Beach in Desenzano are some of the most well-known beaches, showcasing crystal clear waters and creating stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Water Sports: The northern tip of Lake Garda, particularly near the town of Riva del Garda and Torbole is the perfect destination for water sport enthusiasts. With its rugged landscapes and consistent winds, the combination makes it the best place to take part in water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the lake. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced participant the conditions are usually ideal. These water sports don’t just offer some fun, adrenaline and adventure but also another way to explore the lake’s pristine waters.
Vineyards and Local Cuisine: Italy of course well known for its fantastic cuisine and wine and Lake Garda does not disappoint! After a busy day of exploring and relaxing around the lake, unwind with a taste of the local flavours. Fresh fish, locally made olive oil, fresh pasta and risotto are just some you can enjoy during your trip. It's not just the food that is incredible, Lake Garda and its surroundings are also celebrated for its fantastic vineyards and wineries. There are a variety of excursions you can embark on, whether it be combining cuisine and vineyards with a cooking masterclass to making pasta with wine tasting or adding a bit of adventure to your day with an E-bike tour with wine tasting.
Boat Trips to other Lakeside Towns: With so many charming lakeside towns that sit on Lake Garda, getting around could not be easier with frequent ferries. Both the ferries and boat excursions allow you to experience Lake Garda from another perspective. If you plan on visiting the north of the island, the ferry is the best way to get there as there are restrictions on motorised boats in this area of the lake. With only one ferry company running multiple routes on the lake offering both passenger and car ferries, reaching your next destination is simple. If you are looking for a smaller, more personalised trip around the lake, then a boat excursion may be for you, from sunset cruises to tours visiting key landmarks, a trip on the lake should be on everyone's to-do list.
Venice: Wander through its labyrinthine streets, marvel at iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, and experience the unique charm of this floating city. Take a leisurely gondola ride along the Grand Canal, soak up the atmosphere in cosy cafes, and indulge in delicious Venetian cuisine. Whether you're an art lover, history buff, or simply seeking a romantic getaway, Venice offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and stunning beauty. The quickest way of getting to Venice is by train where a regular service from the southern towns of Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Verona: A city steeped in history and romance, Verona makes for a delightful day trip from Lake Garda. Known for its stunning Roman Arena, where opera performances are held each summer, Verona offers a captivating blend of ancient architecture and medieval charm. Stroll through the picturesque streets of the historic centre, visit the iconic Juliet's Balcony, and explore the charming shops and cafes. With its rich cultural heritage and romantic atmosphere, Verona is a perfect destination for a day of exploration and inspiration. The southern towns of Desenzano and Peschiera del Garda are connected to Verona by train and takes 15-20 minutes. Other towns on the lake are connected by regular buses.
