Lake Garda Travel Guide: Must-Do Activities

Quick Summary

Thinking of exploring Lake Garda? Here’s your all-in-one travel guide packed with first-hand tips, safety insights, budget hacks, and itinerary musts.

From navigating ferry rides to discovering hidden gems like Sirmione and Malcesine, I’ll show you how to explore Italy’s largest lake like a seasoned traveler.

Whether it’s your first time or a return visit, this guide covers everything—when to go, how to get there, what to do, where to stay, and more.

Why Lake Garda Captivated Me: An Introduction

I still remember my first ferry ride on Lake Garda—it felt like floating through a watercolor painting. The lake, surrounded by dramatic alpine peaks, pastel villages, and olive groves, offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re into history, hiking, food, or sailing, Lake Garda delivers. Let me walk you through exactly how to experience it best—with real insights and practical tips.

Top Things to Do in Lake Garda

Explore the Towns: Sirmione, Malcesine, and Riva del Garda

Each lakeside town has its vibe. Sirmione is famous for its fairy-tale castle and thermal spas. Malcesine boasts a scenic cable car up Monte Baldo, while Riva del Garda is an outdoor lover’s paradise with climbing, cycling, and windsurfing.

Visit Gardaland and Caneva World

Perfect for families or the young at heart, Gardaland is Italy’s most famous amusement park. Right next door is Caneva Aquapark—a waterpark that’s fun and refreshing during the summer.

Go Wine Tasting in Bardolino

Lake Garda’s eastern shores are lined with vineyards. I loved my afternoon sampling local wines in Bardolino. Look for a tour like WineTourism.com for a curated experience.

Take a Lake Ferry or Private Boat

One of the most relaxing and scenic ways to explore the towns is via the lake’s public ferry system. The official ferry website has schedules and pricing. You can also rent a boat for a half-day tour.

How to Get to Lake Garda

Lake Garda is easily accessible from multiple international airports:

• Verona Airport (VRN): Closest to the southern lake towns like Sirmione (about 30 mins)
• Milan Bergamo (BGY): Budget-friendly airport, ideal for Desenzano or western towns
• Venice or Milan Linate: Farther out but well connected by trains and buses

Train + Bus Combo

You can take a train to Desenzano or Peschiera del Garda and transfer to a local bus. Visit Trenitalia for train schedules.

How to Get Around Lake Garda

Ferries, buses, and rental cars are your best bet. Ferries are scenic but slower. Buses run frequently between main towns but expect delays in summer. Renting a scooter or e-bike in places like Malcesine is a great way to explore freely.

Where to Stay Around Lake Garda

I recommend staying on the east or south shore for easy access to attractions.

Safety Tips for Lake Garda

• Always check ferry schedules in advance—especially in low season.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. Some towns have cobbled streets.
• Drink bottled water in smaller villages unless tap is marked potable.
• Watch out for slick paths near the water—especially early morning.

Typical Costs & Suggested Budget

Here’s a rough daily budget per person (in EUR):

Money-Saving Travel Tips

• Buy a multi-day ferry pass instead of single trips.
• Eat where locals eat—look for fixed-price menus (menu fisso).
• Book hotels directly for better deals—many offer discounts or extras.
• Visit in shoulder season (April–June, September–October) for better rates.

Best Time to Visit Lake Garda

Spring (April–June) and early Fall (September–October) are ideal. Avoid July-August if you dislike crowds and heat.

Popular Tours to Consider

• Lake Garda Day Cruise (GetYourGuide)
• Wine & Olive Oil Tasting (Viator)
• Monte Baldo Cable Car

How Many Days to Spend in Lake Garda?

Plan for 3–5 days to explore comfortably. If you’re doing watersports or day trips to Verona or Venice, aim for 5–7 days.

Emergency Contacts in Lake Garda

• Police: 112
• Medical Emergency: 118
• Tourist Info Desenzano: +39 030 9999180
• Tourist Info Riva del Garda: +39 0464 554444

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lake Garda better than Lake Como?

Lake Garda is larger, more family-friendly, and offers more variety in activities. Lake Como is more upscale and romantic.

Can you swim in Lake Garda?

Yes, and there are several public beaches like Jamaica Beach in Sirmione.

What’s the best base town?

Desenzano or Bardolino if you want a central location with easy transport links.

Do you need a car?

No, not necessarily. Ferries and buses are very accessible. However, for rural areas or vineyards, a car helps.

Map: Plan Your Route