Compare Lake Garda holidays

What to do in Lake Garda

Lake Garda holidays go beyond the spectacular views and romantic lunches by the shores. Discover historic castles, ancient ruins and rolling vineyards as you village-hop across the waters. For an active holiday, climb mountains, windsurf the northern waves or cycle between attractions – the possibilities for fun are endless.

Boat trips

Ferries sail between the villages of Lake Garda all day long – and by the end of your trip, you’ll no doubt know the timetable off by heart.

Taking the boat is a wonderful way to soak up the scenery, see the grand hotels on the shore, and day trip to the different attractions. Hop off for lunch on the lakefront in Malcesine, explore Sirmione’s medieval castle walls, and overload on Instagram shots (if that's your thing).

Monte Baldo

Want to get active? Conquer Monte Baldo, Lake Garda’s highest mountain at 2,218m (7,277ft). It’s a hiker’s and mountain biker’s dream with well-marked trails and stunning views.

But, if you’re not feeling that energetic, a rotating cable car can take you from the base station in Malcesine to 1,760m (5,774ft), where you can walk to the summit (or just enjoy a cold beer with the view). Getting down is easy too – many people paraglide off the ridge to make a spectacular descent through the air.

Wine tasting

The hills and valleys surrounding Lake Garda are carpeted with vineyards, many of which are open for tours and tastings. Bardolino (a light red wine) is well-known, but there are also delicious summer whites and local sparkling wines to try as well.

Tours often include a guided introduction, a chance to wander between the vines, tastings in the wine cellar and, of course, an opportunity to buy (don’t forget to leave space in your suitcase for a bottle or three).

Windsurfing

Lake Garda’s northern shores have a different climate to the south – and it’s one that lends itself well to watersports. Windsurfers, kitesurfers and sailing enthusiasts are out on the water throughout the summer, making the most of the windy conditions.

Even if you’re a complete beginner, you can try it out at one of several surf schools close to Riva del Garda and Linfano.

Grotte di Catullo

Perched on the tip of Sirmione’s peninsula, the Grotte di Catullo is a significant Roman archaeological site, with ruins that are still in good condition. Wander the grounds of this impressive family villa, taking in the stone colonnades and spectacular views, before visiting the museum where excavated artefacts from the area are on display.

Sirmione is also home to a 13th-century castle, a 14th-century fresco-filled church – Chiesa San Pietro in Mavino – and a pretty maze of cobbled streets to explore.

Where to stay in Lake Garda

For travellers on a budget

Lake Garda doesn’t exactly have a reputation as a budget destination, but it’s possible to find cheap hotel deals if you know where to look. The south, around Desenzano and Sirmione, has more affordable choices, as well as being close to several campsites.

In the north, Riva del Garda and Linfano also have excellent value accommodation close to the lake. Or, if you’re happy to be a bit further inland, there are even more options, often with gorgeous views. Plus, being away from the lake is a great excuse to hop on a bike to explore the area.

For food and drink

Wine tasting, limoncello and fresh local produce – there’s so much to look forward to when it comes to eating and drinking in Lake Garda. Stay in Bardolino to be in the home of the famous red wine, where vineyards roll down the hills. In October, the wine festival sees the town come alive with wine and food stands lining the picturesque waterfront.

Malcesine is another option for foodies, with restaurants running along the harbour and beyond. Alternatively, head to Riva del Garda, where the food takes as much inspiration from Austria as it does Italy and the wine continues to flow.

For nightlife

There’s a low-key romantic vibe to the nightlife in Lake Garda, rather than boisterous parties – think long, lazy meals and evening strolls along the promenade. Maybe it’s their love of wine, but Bardolino does have a lively atmosphere after dark, with a good selection of bars.

Desenzano is one of the biggest nightlife hubs, with several late-night bars and even a few nightclubs. Being a larger lakeside town, there are plenty of hotels to suit every budget. It’s a convenient place for Verona and the airport too.

For culture

Stay in Sirmione to be in the heart of its medieval castle walls, with cobbled streets, Roman ruins and thermal baths. Everything from spa hotels to cheap and cheerful B&Bs are available here, so you should be able to bag a good deal to suit your preference.

Gardone Riviera is home to Il Vittoriale degli Italiani – the estate of the Italian poet, Gabriele d’Annunzio – as well as a complementary museum and gardens. Elsewhere, Salo has MuSa (the Salo Museum), where you can see art and sculpture that gives a window into the town’s unique history.