Lake Garda

Overview

Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning scenery and recreational activities. Located in Northern Italy, it spans three regions: Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige. The lake is surrounded by picturesque towns like Sirmione, Riva del Garda, and Malcesine, each offering unique attractions. Visitors can explore historical sites, such as Scaliger Castle in Sirmione or the medieval fortress in Malcesine. The lakes clear waters are ideal for swimming, sailing, and windsurfing, especially in the northern part where the winds are stronger.

Beyond water activities, Lake Garda is surrounded by mountains that offer excellent hiking and cycling trails. The area is also known for its local cuisine and wines, with many restaurants offering lakeside dining. Throughout the year, various cultural events and festivals take place, providing visitors with a taste of local traditions.

Italy

Destination Type Lake

Currency Euro

Languages Italian, German

Best Time to Visit June, July, August

Recommended Duration 3-5 days

Elevation 65 meters

Popularity Score 8/10

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Safety and Security

🥽 Overall Safety

9.0/10

👩‍🦰 Solo Female Safety

8.0/10

🌈 LGBTQ Safety

7.0/10

Travel Advisory

Exercise normal precautions.

Drinkable Tap Water? 💧

Yes

Safety Info

Generally safe with low crime rates.

Remember to get your travel insurance! Our recommended insurer is SafetyWing

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Budget and Cost of Living

Cost of Living Level

$$$$$

Accommodation (Per Night)

Budget €40-€60

Mid-Range €80-€150

Luxury €200-€500

Eating Out

Budget Meal €10-€20

Mid-Range Meal €20-€50

Luxury Dining €100-€200

Activities

Budget Activities €10-€30

Mid-Range Activities €30-€60

Luxury Activities €150-€300

Money Saving Tips

Visit in shoulder seasons, use public transport, book accommodations early.

Top Things to Do in Lake Garda 2025

Check out the best things to do in Lake Garda, Italy 2025. Here are the very best experiences, upcoming events, and attractions in Lake Garda. We've rounded up everything you need to take full advantage of what this destination has to offer.

Tours & Activities

Upcoming Events

No upcoming events found for Lake Garda

Attractions

Sirmione

Historical Town

Sirmione is a charming town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. Known for its stunning views…

9.2/10

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Sirmione

Historical Town

Sirmione is a charming town located on the southern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. Known for its stunning views and historical landmarks, it attracts visitors from around the world. The Scaliger Castle, a 13th-century fortress, offers panoramic views of the lake and is one of the key attractions. Visitors should check Sirmione opening hours online or at local tourist centers to plan their visits to these sites. In addition to historical sites, Sirmione is famous for its thermal baths, which provide a relaxing experience for travelers. The town also boasts several quaint shops and cafes where tourists can enjoy local cuisine. With its blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Sirmione provides a unique destination for those exploring Lake Garda. Proper planning ensures that you enjoy all the experiences Sirmione has to offer.

9.2

Open: Monday to Sunday (Year-round)

Price:
Adult: Free
Child: Free
Student: Free
Senior: Free

Sirmione, Province of Brescia, Lombardy, Italy

https://horizonjumpers.com/europe/italy-travel/lake-garda/sirmione/

Malcesine

Town

Malcesine is a picturesque town located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. Known for its stunning medieval…

9.0/10

View Attraction

Malcesine

Town

Malcesine is a picturesque town located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in Italy. Known for its stunning medieval architecture, the town features a well-preserved castle, Castello Scaligero, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the towns charming narrow streets full of shops and cafes. Malcesine opening hours vary depending on the season, so its advisable to check local listings when planning a visit. The town is also a popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports. The Monte Baldo cable car provides easy access to mountain trails and breathtaking scenery. In addition to natural beauty, Malcesine hosts various cultural events throughout the year. Travelers can easily reach Malcesine by car or public transportation from nearby cities like Verona and Milan.

9.0

Open: Monday to Sunday (April to October)

Price:
Adult: 10
Child: 5
Student: 8
Senior: 8

Malcesine, Province of Verona, Italy

https://horizonjumpers.com/europe/italy-travel/lake-garda/malcesine/

Monte Baldo

Mountain

Monte Baldo is a mountain range located near Lake Garda in northern Italy, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding…

9.0/10

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Monte Baldo

Mountain

Monte Baldo is a mountain range located near Lake Garda in northern Italy, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It stands at approximately 2,218 meters high and is popular for activities like hiking and paragliding. Visitors can access Monte Baldo via a cable car from the town of Malcesine, which provides a scenic ride to the top. The cable car operates with specific Monte Baldo opening hours that vary by season, so it is important to check the schedule in advance. In addition to outdoor activities, Monte Baldo is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an interesting spot for nature enthusiasts. There are several trails suitable for different skill levels, ensuring that both beginners and experienced hikers can enjoy the area. Furthermore, during winter months, skiing becomes a popular activity on its slopes. With its varied offerings throughout the year, Monte Baldo serves as an accessible destination for people looking to experience natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

9.0

Price:
Adult: 22 EUR
Child: 12 EUR
Student: 18 EUR
Senior: 20 EUR

Via Monte Baldo, 37018 Malcesine VR, Italy

https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Monte%20Baldo%2CLake%20Garda&partner_id=D1I5ACM

https://horizonjumpers.com/europe/italy-travel/lake-garda/monte-baldo/

Scaliger Castle

Historical Castle

Scaliger Castle is a significant historical site located in Sirmione, a town on the southern bank of Lake Garda, Italy.…

9.0/10

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Scaliger Castle

Historical Castle

Scaliger Castle is a significant historical site located in Sirmione, a town on the southern bank of Lake Garda, Italy. Built in the 13th century, this fortress served as a defensive structure and was crucial for controlling access to the lake. The castle is well-preserved and features impressive crenellated walls, a drawbridge, and a small harbor enclosed within its boundaries. Visitors can explore the towers and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Garda and the surrounding areas. In addition to its architectural features, Scaliger Castle houses a museum that offers insights into the regions history. It is a popular tourist destination with clearly marked paths and informative displays. For those planning to visit, it is important to check the Scaliger Castle opening hours in advance, as they can vary depending on the season. This ensures that visitors can make the most of their trip to this historic landmark.

9.0

Open: Monday to Sunday (Closed in January)

Price:
Adult: 6
Child: 3
Student: 4
Senior: 4

Via Guglielmo Marconi, 25019 Sirmione BS, Italy

https://horizonjumpers.com/europe/italy-travel/lake-garda/scaliger-castle/

Gardaland

Theme Park

Gardaland, located near Lake Garda in Italy, is one of the countrys largest and most popular amusement parks. It offers…

8.5/10

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Gardaland

Theme Park

Gardaland, located near Lake Garda in Italy, is one of the countrys largest and most popular amusement parks. It offers a wide variety of attractions suitable for all ages, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas. The park is open from late March to early November, with Gardaland opening hours typically starting from 10:00 AM and closing at either 5:00 PM or later, depending on the season and specific events. Visitors will find plenty of dining options within the park, ranging from quick snacks to full-service restaurants. For those planning an extended stay, there are on-site accommodations such as the Gardaland Hotel and Adventure Hotel. Additionally, the park frequently hosts special events and seasonal celebrations that provide unique entertainment experiences. Always check the official website for the most current information on opening hours and event schedules.

8.5

Open: Monday to Sunday (March to January)

Price:
Adult: 45
Child: 39
Student: 42
Senior: 39

Via Derna, 4, 37014 Castelnuovo del Garda VR, Italy

Booking Required: Yes

https://www.getyourguide.com/s/?q=Gardaland%2CLake%20Garda&partner_id=D1I5ACM

https://horizonjumpers.com/europe/italy-travel/lake-garda/gardaland/

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