Lake Garda

Italy's largest lake ringed with stunning villas and towns

Lake Garda (“Lago di Garda”) is one of the gems of Northern Italy. Its claim to fame is being the country’s largest lake, followed by Maggiore and Como.  

Nestled between the Alps and the Po Valley, Lake Garda’s clear waters and picturesque landscapes have drawn visitors since Roman times. The Romans were the first to recognise the lake’s strategic and economic importance, establishing settlements that thrived due to the fertile land and mild climate. 

Today, you can visit the remnants of some of these sites as well as medieval castles to immerse yourself in the history of the region. Or simply enjoy strolls through one of the many charming towns and villages dotted around the lake. 

You’ll be spoilt for choice with spots such as Limone sul Garda, often called the prettiest village by Garda. Or take in the sights around Malcesine, with its ancient fortress and scenic cable car. 

In the south, you’ll want to take some time to explore Sirmione, a peninsula that juts out into the lake. It is famous for the Grottoes of Catullus, the ruins of a vast Roman villa, and the Scaligero Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. 

Finally, don’t miss Riva del Garda, at the northern tip of the lake, a quieter yet still impressive resort town. 

Each of these locations offers unique historical and cultural experiences. But on top of this, you can expect plenty of opportunities to bask in the sunshine, walk along waterfront promenades, delight in Italian cuisine, and more. 

A popular way to take in the different locations is to hop on boat tours, or even rent your own vessel. For the adventurous, you can try water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and kayaking.  

If you’d rather some lakeside relaxation, head to one of the many beaches. Or treat yourself to a spa day, as the region is home to hot springs and thermal baths.  

At all points around the lake, you won’t miss the incredible backdrop of Lake Garda, which is renowned for its stunning Alpine scenery. You can spend days on end exploring the hiking trails of the surrounding mountains. 

Or simply sit back and relax while enjoying some of Italy’s most famous food and wine. The Lake Garda region is renowned for its lemons, olives and grapes thanks to its warm climate. 

Lake Garda is not just a destination – it’s an experience of Italy's timeless charm, where nature and modern leisure come together in perfect harmony.