Dreaming of an idyllic Italian getaway? Lake Garda, Italy’s biggest lake, is a must-visit destination that offers an unbeatable mixture of natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant local culture. If you’re planning a visit, these Lake Garda itinerary ideas will help you make the most of this captivating region.
Hidden between the Alps and the Po Valley, Lake Garda boasts stunning landscapes, from crystal-clear waters to picturesque lakeside villages. This haven for holidaymakers is the epitome of la dolce vita.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, Lake Garda has something for everyone. Things to do in Lake Garda include exploring ancient castles and relaxing on beautiful beaches, savoring delicious Italian cuisine, and embarking on scenic hikes.
Below are detailed plans on how to spend three perfect days in Lake Garda, ensuring you experience the best it has to offer. Get ready to discover the ultimate travel guide for an unforgettable Lake Garda adventure.
Pick Your Base When Visiting Lake Garda
Choosing the right base is essential for a memorable Lake Garda adventure. When considering where to stay in Lake Garda, three standout towns offer unique experiences: Sirmione, Malcesine, and Desenzano del Garda.
Sirmione, with its historic charm and thermal spas, is perfect for relaxation and exploration. Think sublime castles, refreshing spas, and cozy eateries. Malcesine, settled at the foot of Monte Baldo, offers stunning views and easy access to hiking and cable car rides.
Desenzano del Garda, the lake’s largest town, provides buzzing nightlife, excellent dining options, and convenient public transportation. Each town offers a distinct taste of Lake Garda’s beauty and culture.
Sirmione
Sirmione, one of the most picturesque towns in the Italian lakes area, is situated on a narrow peninsula jutting into the lake’s southern end. Sirmione is renowned for its stunning scenery, historical sites, and dynamic atmosphere.
The town’s lively streets are lined with colorful houses, boutique shops, and delightful cafés. Sirmione’s thermal spas are perfect for relaxation, adding to its appeal.
Beyond its local charms, the strategic location allows for day trips from Sirmione to nearby towns.
If you want to immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty and adventure, Sirmione is the perfect launchpad.
NOTE: If you plan on using Sirmione as your base, it is best to rent a car. It’ll provide the most flexibility and make getting around simple. If you choose not to get a car, there are bus lines that run to some of the nearby towns.
Desenzano del Garda
Desenzano del Garda, the largest of the Lake Garda towns, is a great base for exploring this stunning region. Its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and modern amenities make it a favorite among travelers.
Its well-developed transportation system makes it the best place to stay in Lake Garda without a car. The train station, in particular, will connect you to many other cities, making getting around a breeze.
Enjoy a variety of activities in and around Desenzano del Garda, from strolling along the lakeside promenade to shopping in boutique stores and dining at excellent restaurants. The town also has a bustling nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs.
The pace of this town and its atmosphere makes it excellent for those who want to let loose and experience the entertainment and hospitality of the region.
Malcesine
Malcesine, nestled on the northeastern shore of Lake Garda, is an ideal place to stay when exploring the lake’s natural beauty and rich history. This lovely town is famed for its medieval charm, with narrow streets, quaint shops, and cozy cafés creating a delightful atmosphere.
Malcesine’s strategic location allows for easy day trips to other towns around Lake Garda, such as Limone sul Garda and Riva del Garda.
With its blend of historical attractions and outdoor activities and its proximity to other charming towns, Malcesine is an ideal hub from which to explore Lake Garda, especially if you’re interested in the area’s history and culture.
Lake Garda Itinerary from Sirmione
Known as one of the most romantic places in Italy, this colorful town is an ideal base for your Lake Garda road trip. Aside from the sights and activities here, its conveniently central location means you can visit Lake Garda’s other towns with ease. Take a peek at this three-day itinerary to see what your trip will look like.
Day 1 – Exploring Sirmione
Begin your Lake Garda adventure by exploring the picturesque town of Sirmione. Visit the imposing Sirmione Castle, which offers amazing views of the lake from its towers. Wander through the captivating, narrow streets of the old town, which are dotted with quaint shops and cafés.
Step into some of Sirmione’s beautiful churches, such as the Church of Santa Maria della Neve or Chiesa San Pietro in Mavino. Enjoy a lakeside lunch at La Speranzina Restaurant, known for its exquisite Italian cuisine and breathtaking views of the lake.
After lunch, head to the Grotte di Catullo, an archaeological site with ruins of a vast Roman villa set on a beautiful promontory. Spend some time at Jamaica Beach at the tip of the Sirmio Peninsula. The beach is made up of unique flat rocks, not the sands you’d expect. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you can take a refreshing dip here.
Afterward, relax at the renowned Aquaria Thermal Spa, where you can soak in thermal pools and enjoy spa treatments with lake views. As the sun rolls below the horizon, take a leisurely stroll along the lake promenade, capturing the stunning sunset. End your day with dinner at Ristorante Al Pescatore, which is famous for its fresh seafood and romantic setting.
Day 2 – Day Trip To Desenzano del Garda, Bardolino
After breakfast, drive to Desenzano del Garda, just a short 10-minute drive from Sirmione by car or bus. Explore the energetic town center, visit the Roman Villa with its beautiful mosaics, and, if you happen to visit on a Tuesday, wander through the local market.
Take a boat tour around Lake Garda to see the town from the water and learn about the area from knowledgeable guides. Then, visit the Museo Rambotti, an archaeological museum where you can see the oldest plow in the world. Have lunch at Al Fattore, a traditional trattoria offering delicious regional dishes.
Next, take a 30-40 minute drive to Bardolino, known for its wine. Visit a local vineyard, like Zeni Wine Museum, and go on a wine tasting and tour. Amble through the narrow, winding streets and enjoy the beautiful lakeside views. Stop at Piazza San Marco for a photo or two.
Dine at Taverna da Memo, which offers fantastic pasta and a cozy ambiance. Return to Sirmione for a relaxing evening by the lake. The drive is roughly half an hour, giving you plenty of time for an after-dinner stroll or drink.
Day 3 – Day Trip To Malcesine and Limone sul Garda
In the morning, take the road to Malcesine, a little over an hour away. The town is located on the northern end of Lake Garda. Visit the Scaliger Castle for panoramic views and explore the medieval town. Take the cable car up to Monte Baldo for breathtaking vistas and opportunities for hiking or paragliding.
Enjoy a meal at Al Gondoliere, a restaurant offering a mix of local and Italian dishes with great views. Afterward, you can take a ferry across Lake Garda and visit Limone sul Garda (20 minutes each way) or drive for around 30 minutes. The town’s selling point is its famous lemon groves.
Tour the Limonaia del Castel, a traditional lemon house, and stroll through the picturesque streets of one of the most beautiful towns on Lake Garda. Stop by the waterfront for a swim in the crystal-clear waters.
Dine at La Cantina del Baffo in Limone, known for its excellent food and wine selection. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely drive back to Sirmione(approximately 90 minutes), soaking in the serene nighttime views of Lake Garda.
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Where to Stay in Sirmione
With a variety of options available, here are some suggestions for the best hotels for your stay.
Luxury – Villa Cortine Palace Hotel
The Villa Cortine Palace Hotel is a luxurious 5-star retreat offering an array of amenities, including elegant rooms, a private dock, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Thanks to the hotel’s prime location, you can enjoy stunning vistas of Lake Garda.
The hotel is conveniently close to the town center and top sights like Scaligero Castle and Catullus’s Villa. The perks of staying here include access to a private, secluded beach, a heated outdoor pool, and gourmet dining at the on-site restaurant. The hotel provides free parking, making it an excellent choice if you’re exploring the area by car >> Check Rates and Availability.
Budget to Midrange – Hotel Eden
Hotel Eden in Sirmione is a delightful lakeside retreat offering modern amenities and breathtaking views of Lake Garda and Sirmione Castle. It offers well-appointed rooms with a sun terrace and a cozy bar, making it ideal for exploring Sirmione and its surroundings with ease and comfort.
The hotel’s central location provides easy entry to the historic old town and the thermal baths. Your stay includes complimentary breakfast, private parking, a welcoming atmosphere, and the convenience of being steps away from the lake >> Check Rates and Availability.
Lake Garda Itinerary from Desenzano del Garda
Desenzano del Garda could be your perfect home base to tour Lake Garda due to its spirited atmosphere, excellent transport links, and central location. Enjoy easy access to nearby towns like Sirmione and Peschiera del Garda.
Plus, the dynamic nightlife, beautiful beaches, and historic sites right at your doorstep make for a trip to remember. Here’s an itinerary giving you three days of all the best on offer.
Day 1 – Explore Desenzano Del Garda and Sirmione
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel. Explore the vital center of the town, starting with a visit to the Roman Villa to admire its stunning mosaics. The Desenzano Castle and the Archeological Museum will round out your morning. Before you get too hungry, head to Desenzano’s picturesque harbor, perfect for some morning photos.
Enjoy a lakeside lunch at Trattoria Il Tagliere. Try one of the delicious pasta dishes with great views of the lake. In the afternoon, take a short 10-20 minute ferry ride to Sirmione. Roam through the alluring old town, where you can shop for souvenirs and taste artisanal delicacies. Visit the Scaliger Castle and explore the Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of an ancient Roman villa.
Dine at Ristorante Risorgimento, offering beautifully plated meat and fish dishes, a fabulous wine list, and, of course, a view of the lake. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Sirmione’s lakefront before returning to Desenzano for the night.
Day 2 – Visit Bardolino and Lazise
After breakfast, travel to Bardolino, best known for its lush vineyards. You can travel by train to Peschiera, the nearest station, and then take a bus or taxi to Bardolino. The journey will take you roughly 80-90 minutes. If you’re driving, your trip will only take a little over 30 minutes.
Visit the Zeni Wine Museum for a tour and tasting session. Explore the town’s quaint streets and beautiful churches, including the Church of San Zeno.
Have lunch at Ristorante La Loggia Rambaldi, located in a charming square with lovely views and delicious local dishes. While you eat, marvel at the vaulted ceilings and columns of this 16th-century building, originally constructed by Marquis Girolamo Rambaldi.
Continue on to Lazise, a medieval town with well-preserved walls and towers. The ferry ride will take you around 17 minutes, while a bus or car ride is around 10 minutes. Visit the Scaliger Castle and take a walk along the scenic lakefront promenade. Don’t miss the thermal park, Parco Termale del Garda, for a relaxing swim in its natural hot springs, surrounded by gorgeous rare greenery.
For dinner, try some fresh seafood at Cozzeria Alle Mura. Try the mussels and end your meal with an indulgent tiramisu. Enjoy the sunset over Lake Garda before heading back to Desenzano via car (27 minutes), train (approximately an hour), or ferry (68 minutes).
Day 3 – Day Trip To Malcesine and Riva del Garda
Start your day with a scenic drive (70 minutes) to Malcesine on the northeastern shore of Lake Garda. If you don’t have a car, there is a local bus( a little over three hours) and a ferry (four hours) that can get you there. Alternately, the train ride is around two and a half hours.
The town is a haven for adventure seekers, thanks to its location near the mountains and the plethora of water sports available. Visit the Palazzo dei Capitani and Scaliger Castle for panoramic views and a glimpse into the medieval town’s history. Take the cable car up to Monte Baldo for breathtaking vistas and opportunities for hiking or paragliding. If you visit Lake Garda in January, you can test your mettle on the slopes.
Enjoy a meal at Ristorante Vecchia Malcesine, a Michelin-starred restaurant with great views and beautifully plated, innovative dishes.
Next up is Riva del Garda, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning scenery. The bus will take you there in just half an hour, while the ferry is around 65 minutes. If you’re driving, the ride is only 20 minutes.
Explore the old town, visit the MAG Museo Alto Garda, and stroll along the beautiful lakeside boardwalk. Take a cool afternoon dip in the lake at one of the public beaches.
After your swim, indulge in a delicious dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Maffei, located in a historic building with excellent food and a cozy ambiance. Check out the historic town and grab a drink or dessert before you head back to Desenzano. Head back by bus (approximately two hours), car (75 minutes), or ferry (about three and a half hours).
Where To Stay in Desenzano del Garda
When choosing where to stay, accommodations near the lakefront or town center are best for easy access to attractions and dining. Ensure that your choice offers amenities like parking and breakfast. Here are a few of the best options in town to ensure a convenient, enjoyable stay.
Luxury – Villa Rosa Hotel Desenzano
The Villa Rosa Hotel is a medley of luxury and comfort, making it an ideal base for your Lake Garda visit. The hotel features elegantly styled rooms, an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a gourmet restaurant.
The terrace or balcony of your room offers a grand view of Lake Garda. The hotel’s beachfront location provides quick access to the water and is just a short walk from the vibrant town center. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and attentive service. The hotel offers on-site parking at a rate of 12 Euros per day >> Check Rates and Availability.
Midrange – Hotel Piccola Vela
Hotel Piccola Vela is an elegant family-run establishment offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel boasts an extensive range of utilities, including an outdoor pool, a lush garden, a bar, and an in-house restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
The hotel provides beautiful views of Lake Garda and is conveniently situated just a short walk from the lake and the bustling town center. A complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and personalized, friendly service are part of your stay here. To top it off, Piccola Vela Hotel offers free parking, giving you convenience and peace of mind while you are in the area >> Check Rates and Availability.
Lake Garda Itinerary from Malcesine
Malcesine is one of the best places to tour Lake Garda due to its stunning location, historic charm, and easy access to nearby towns. The town itself offers fantastic activities, great views, delectable food, and convenient modes of transportation. Here’s a three-day itinerary to show you how to get going.
Day 1 – Experience Malcesine and Limone sul Garda
Start your day with a scrumptious hotel breakfast to fuel you up before you begin exploring Malcesine. Begin by visiting the Malcesine Castle, perched above the town with stunning views of Lake Garda and Monte Baldo. Wander through the castle’s museum and climb the tower for panoramic photo opportunities.
The unmissable Palazzo dei Capitani is next on your agenda. The 14th-century building is one of the most iconic landmarks in Malcesine. Before you break for lunch, don’t forget to ride the cable car to get up to Monte Baldo to take in the awe-inspiring vistas.
Enjoy lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Da Pedro e Pedrotto, which is known for its delicious Italian dishes and relaxed al fresco ambiance. The menu boasts an extensive list of pizzas with every topping you could want.
Take a ferry (25 minutes) to Limone sul Garda, the home of lemons, olive oil, and residents who defy age. Visit the historic lemon house, Limonaia del Castel, as well as the village’s specialty museums.
Amble through the pretty streets filled with colorful buildings and quaint shops. Stop at the Villa Borghi Park and see a few of the town’s ancient churches, the Church of San Benedetto, in particular.
Dine at Ristorante Gemma in Piazza Garibaldi, which is renowned for its excellent food and curated wine selection. After dinner, take the ferry back to Malcesine and enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the lake.
Day 2 – Tour Peschiera del Garda and Lazise
Peschiera del Garda, at Lake Garda’s southern tip, is approximately 55 minutes by car and two hours by bus or ferry. Explore its historic fortifications, stroll along scenic canals, and visit the Sanctuary of Madonna del Frassino. For a memorable experience, enjoy a boat tour on the lake, relax at local cafés, and dine at lakeside restaurants.
Have lunch at L’Osteria, a classic tavern boasting true Venetian cuisine. The decadent dessert menu offers perfect wine pairings for your meal.
Your next stop is Lazise, a medieval town dominated by ancient walls and towers. A 12-minute car ride, or 16 minutes by bus, will get you there. A ferry also goes over regularly and will take you roughly half an hour.
As you make your way through the town, visit the Scaliger Castle, and get some afternoon pictures along the lakefront. Don’t miss Parco Termale del Garda, where you can swim in the relaxing natural hot springs.
The Dome Restaurant is perfect for dinner because of its panoramic views and fusion cuisine. Enjoy the sunset over Lake Garda before heading back to Malcesine for the night. The ride home is about 45 minutes by car and around two hours by bus or ferry.
Day 3 – See Riva del Garda and Arco
Your day begins in Riva del Garda, a lively town at the northern tip of Lake Garda. Travel by bus (28 minutes), car (21 minutes), or ferry (65 minutes). Explore the old town, visit the MAG Museo Alto Garda, and take photos at the Bastion, one of the most distinguishing marks of Riva del Garda. Sabbion Beach is a great place to take a dip before you stop for lunch.
Have lunch at Ristorante Pizzeria Leon D’Oro Riva, a homely little eatery where the food is reminiscent of homemade Italian fare.
Once you’ve eaten, move on to Arco, a 15-minute drive by bus or car. This quaint yet exciting town is known for its rock climbing and medieval castle. Visit Arco Castle, which overlooks the town and offers unbeatable vistas of the surrounding valley below.
Wander through Arco’s botanical gardens and quaint streets. Return to Malcesine by car (22 minutes), bus (1 hour 50 minutes), or ferry (140 minutes). Dine at La Pace, a lakeside restaurant offering a delightful mix of local and Mediterranean dishes. Experience the town at night, stopping at a bar or two or relaxing with a view of the water.
Where to stay in Malcesine
Choosing where to stay in Malcesine should be a breeze. With its proximity to other towns, star attractions and historical sights, and fantastic amenities, hotels here are top-notch.
Luxury – Hotel Vega
Hotel Vega is a stylish lakefront hotel offering everything you need for a relaxing stay. The outdoor pool with massage jets and private beach area are great ways to unwind when you’re not on the go. There is also a secluded garden and a furnished terrace where you can enjoy a cocktail or hot drink.
The nearby restaurants serve delectable cuisine with all the Italian flair you’re looking for. Perks of staying here include free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and private parking, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable stay.
Hotel Vega boasts stunning views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains, making it perfect for picturesque moments. Located just a short walk from Malcesine’s town center, it’s easy to get to local sites like Scaliger Castle and the Monte Baldo cable car >> Check Rates and Availability.
Midrange – Hotel Castello Lake Front
Hotel Castello Lake Front in Malcesine offers a luxurious stay with a range of top-notch amenities. Enjoy a beautifully appointed room, a private beach, and a panoramic terrace overlooking Lake Garda and Scaliger Castle.
A complimentary full breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking are included in your stay. There is a sunbathing area as well as a terrace where you can put your feet up. The hotel is perfectly situated a stone’s throw away from Malcesine’s charming town center, making finding places to eat and shop stress-free >> Check Rates and Availability.
READ: Our full guide on Where to stay on Lake Garda.
Summing Up Your Lake Garda Itinerary
Lake Garda offers a diverse and enriching experience, from historical exploration and scenic beauty to wine tastings and outdoor adventures.
For a colorful mix of charming towns, outdoor activities, and accessible relaxation, Lake Garda is a perfect choice. As the largest lake, and with its varied landscapes and family-friendly attractions, Lake Garda promises to be unforgettable.
If you were wondering whether to visit Lake Como or Lake Garda, now you know what’s up for grabs. Lake Garda offers a broader range of activities, more expansive views, and the chance to explore both tranquil villages and bustling towns.
Our team of writers and creatives at Untold Italy are experts in keeping you informed and inspired about travel in Italy. Our team collaboration involves writers, photographers and editorial staff dedicated to sharing accurate Italy travel information.
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