Four Gorgeous Towns To Visit On Lake Garda, Italy

Despite being Italy’s largest, Lake Garda is an underrated travel destination overshadowed by the glitz and glam of Lake Como. But don’t let its quiet demeanour fool you. This incredible place nestled between the regions of Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige is a stunning mix of sparkling waters, marvellous medieval towns, and breathtaking mountain views.

It’s the perfect setting for an Italian vacation where you can spend time perusing outdoor adventure just as much as you can do nothing but sip wine and devour gelato to your heart’s content.

Table Of Contents

Travel and Accommodation Around Lake Garda

Getting to and travelling around Lake Garda is a lot easier than you may expect. While you can always turn this adventure into a road trip, it’s also completely possible to explore using public transport. The best way to do the latter is by flying into Milan and taking a quick 1.5-hour train journey to Peshiera del Garda.

Once you arrive, you can set your base in Peshiera del Garda and take the ferry or local buses to visit the gorgeous towns along Lake Garda.

NB. If you choose to use the ferry, I recommend pre-booking using the following link but also keep in mind that service is dependent on the weather and wind patterns.

Accommodation on Lake Garda:

No matter where you stay around Lake Garda, the natural beauty and lakeside charm will make your trip memorable. Here are a few wonderful options:

Hotel Gardenia al Lago
Villa Cortine Palace Hotel
Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda

Towns To Visit On Lake Garda

Peschiera del Garda: A Lakeside Fortress Town

Located on the southeastern shore, Peschiera del Garda is the hub of Lake Garda where history, natural beauty, and modern culture merge to create a lively atmosphere within a unique star-shaped fortress.

Strolling along Peschiera’s ancient walls or the charming streets feels like paradise. Whether you are admiring the reflections on the tranquil canals lined by vibrant florals or taking in the distant mountains, the town’s simple beauty is captivating and makes it the perfect getaway from big cities like Milan.

For outdoor lovers, the Mincio River cycle path offers a scenic biking route stretching to Mantua and its bustling marina is perfect for indulging in a variety of water sports including, sailing or paddleboarding. Meanwhile, if you want to kick back and relax, the local food scene is an absolute treasure trove paired with the crisp wines of the Veneto region.

Limone sul Garda: A Lemon-Scented Paradise

As the name suggests, Limone sul Garda is a town on Lake Garda famed for its lemon groves and citrus-scented air.

Once a quiet fishing village, it is now a popular stop for travellers seeking both charm and tranquillity and best of all, chasing the authentic Italian spirit at its oldest lemon groves, Limonaia del Castèl. Here, a museum expounds upon the history of lemon cultivation in the region, while the terraced lemon orchards serving limoncello against the backdrop of Lake Garda, create a symphony of leisure and luxury.

Sirmione: A Medieval Dream

Often called the Pearl of Lake Garda, Sirmione is a captivating town perched on a narrow peninsula that extends into Lake Garda and is famed for its striking 13th-century castle, thermal springs and picture-perfect scenery.

Exploring the cobbled streets lined with charming cafés and shops is met by the scent of flowers and fresh lake air, and the distant mountains are a reminder of the beauty of finding a genuine escape for wanders seeking a timeless sense of wonder.

Sirmione is both romantic and unforgettable, a place where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony – and where you can treat yourself to some of the best gelato and fresh lemonade in Italy.

Malcesine: Where the Mountains Meet the Lake

Snuggled between the water and the towering Monte Baldo mountain range Malcesine is a picturesque town located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, ideal for anyone who wishes for a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Take the Monte Baldo cable car from Malcesine’s centre to be whisked to the top of the mountain, where hiking, paragliding, and jaw-dropping views await – and if you happen to plan around winter, Monte Baldo naturally becomes a hidden playground for skiers and snowboarders.

Alternatively, marvel at the exquisite natural surroundings from lower altitudes by taking a boat ride across Lake Garda as tall cliffs and quaint villages catch your eye.