Things to do in Lake Garda
Discover the best attractions and experiences Lake Garda has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore the medieval fortresses and ancient ruins that overlook Lake Garda and its northern shores.
Castello Scaligero di Sirmione
A well-preserved medieval fortress perched above the lake with panoramic views.
Grotte di Catullo (Sirmione)
Ruins of a Roman villa at the tip of Sirmione, set on terraces above the water.
Rocca di Riva (Riva del Garda)
A mighty northern fortress offering sweeping views over the Garda landscape.
Castello di Malcesine
A dramatic Scaliger castle crowned by towers facing the lake.
Museums
Cultural treasures reflect the lake's history, art, and traditional crafts across towns around Garda.
Vittoriale degli Italiani (Gardone Riviera)
A grand villa and gardens once home to poet Gabriele d'Annunzio, full of unique memorabilia.
Museo Civico di Salò
Local history and art showcased in a historic lakeside setting.
Museo del Vino Bardolino
A wine-focused museum exploring Bardolino's vine-growing heritage.
Museo della Carta (Toscolano-Maderno)
Exhibits on the history of papermaking and local paper craft.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites with dramatic views and classic architecture dot the Garda region.
Santuario della Madonna della Corona (Spiazzi)
A cliffside sanctuary reached by steps and trails, offering striking views.
Basilica di San Zeno Maggiore (Verona)
A celebrated Gothic church in Verona, reachable on a day trip from Garda.
Duomo di Verona (Verona Cathedral)
Majestic cathedral blending Romanesque and Gothic elements with grand interiors.
National & Theme Parks
Family-friendly parks and thrilling rides around the lake for all ages.
Gardaland
Italy’s most famous theme park with rides, attractions and shows set near the southern shore.
CanevaWorld (Movieland Park & Caneva Aquapark)
A resort of themed parks including film-inspired attractions and a water park.
Parco Natura Viva
A wildlife park and zoo offering up-close encounters with animals and educational exhibits.
Neighborhoods
Colorful towns and villages hugging the lakefront are perfect for wandering and seating-by-the-water.
Sirmione
Romantic peninsula town famed for its Scaliger Castle and thermal springs.
Desenzano del Garda
Lively lakeside town with a long promenade and historic harbor.
Lazise
Medieval walls, waterfront cafés and a bustling old town by the lake.
Bardolino
Wine country town known for its lakeside lanes and wine-tasting terraces.
Malcesine
Picturesque town dominated by a castle and dramatic lake views.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the scenery and experiences around Garda without spending a euro.
Lakeside promenades (Lazise, Desenzano)
Stroll along the water’s edge and soak in sunset views.
Monte Baldo hiking trails
Explore alpine trails that reward with panoramic lake vistas.
Torbole viewpoint and beach stroll
Capture dramatic sunsets and watch wind-sculpted cliffs around the promontory.
Gastronomy
Savory bites and regional wines showcase Lake Garda’s culinary character.
Lugana DOC wine tasting
Sample the crisp white wines from the southern shore vineyards.
Bardolino wine tasting
Discover the light, fruit-forward wines from Bardolino country.
Risotto al pesce persico
Creamy risotto featuring perch caught from Garda waters.
Pesce persico del Garda al forno
Oven-roasted perch highlighting lake-fresh flavors.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive along the lake with bars, live music, and waterfront buzz.
Lakeside bars in Desenzano
Relaxed terraces and music along the illuminated promenade.
Bardolino waterfront venues
Casual spots for a glass of wine and sunset views.
Riva del Garda waterfront clubs
Bands and outdoor venues by the northern lakefront.
Entertainment
Shows, movie nights and theme-park excitement for all ages.
Gardaland
A full-day of rides and family-friendly entertainment.
Movieland Park
Film-inspired attractions set in a lively theme park.
Caneva Aquapark
Water-based fun and slides in a tropical setting.
Sports
Active adventures on the water and in the hills surrounding Garda.
Windsurfing in Torbole
World-renowned windsurfing hotspot with warm water and steady winds.
Sailing on Lake Garda
Learn or sail on the lake with scenic coastal routes.
Mountain biking around Monte Baldo
Challenging trails and alpine scenery for riders.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and quieter routes for a different Garda experience.
Lago di Ledro and prehistoric pile dwellings
Visit the pristine Ledro Lake and its ancient lake-dwelling sites.
Strada Panoramica di Tremosine
Venture along a dramatic scenic road through hillside villages.
Parco Alto Garda Bresciano hikes
Explore protected landscapes with fewer crowds and great views.