Things to Do in Lake Garda for First Timers and Wanderers
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If you’ve looked through my guide to Lake Garda, you already know how many experiences this Northern Italian destination has to offer. There’s everything from museums and archaeological sites to peaceful beaches, towering mountains, scenic towns, and castles that seem frozen in time. With so much to choose from, planning your visit can be overwhelming. To help you make the most of it, here are some experiences and sights that will create a lasting first impression.
Good to know—these are the same attractions and experiences I included in my three-day Lake Garda itinerary. Check it out to see how you can make the most of a few days in this amazing destination.
Have you ever seen a castle with a fortified harbor? Castello di Sirmione, located on Lake Garda, offers just that. This medieval stronghold, built in the 14th century by the Scaligeri family, served as both a defensive fortress and a strategic point of control over Lake Garda.
Though smaller than many European castles, it boasts 13 distinct sections, including a keep, bailey, barracks, multiple towers, three ravelins, two wards, a fortified corridor, drawbridge, bridge ramp, dock, and dock ward.
Travelers can explore the well-preserved walls, walk across the ancient drawbridge, and wander through the narrow corridors. Inside the castle, you’ll find fascinating displays that illustrate its history and importance as a military outpost.
The dock ward and tower are especially worth visiting, offering sweeping views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Climbing the tower reveals a panoramic perspective of the medieval village and shimmering waters. For a different view, take a boat tour around Sirmione to fully appreciate the castle’s commanding position and its connection to the lake’s history.
Are you going to visit?
- Google Maps Location
- Estimate length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
- Visitor’s information: Official Website
Sirmione isn’t just known for its castle—it’s also home to the Grotte di Catullo, an archaeological site at the tip of the peninsula that’s thought to be the largest Roman villa in northern Italy. Built around the 1st century BCE, this villa was a luxurious getaway for wealthy Romans.
As you explore the ruins, it’s easy to picture the sprawling terraces, intricate baths, and beautiful gardens that once made this place extraordinary. The views are something else—Lake Garda stretches endlessly in every direction, creating a sense of calm and wonder.
The olive groves that surround the ruins add to the experience. Walking among the trees, some of which are hundreds of years old, feels almost like stepping into another time. The sunlight filtering through the leaves and the quiet atmosphere make it a peaceful spot to just take it all in.
There’s also a small museum on-site, and it’s worth checking out. It holds mosaics, pottery, coins, and other artifacts discovered in the area. They offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there centuries ago. Signs placed throughout the site help explain what the different areas of the villa were used for which turn the ruins into a story that’s easy to follow.
Do you want to visit?
- Google Maps Location
- Length of Visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Visitor’s information: Official website
Sirmione feels like stepping into a postcard.
The narrow, cobbled streets wind through pastel-colored houses with flower boxes overflowing from windowsills. Cafes and gelaterias spill out onto the streets, filling the air with the smell of freshly brewed espresso and homemade gelato. It’s impossible to resist stopping for a quick cone or a cappuccino.
Take your time wandering the streets—you’ll find little shops offering handcrafted goods, local olive oil, and regional wines. Every corner seems to hold a new surprise, whether it’s a quiet courtyard or a vibrant square filled with conversation and laughter.
The lakefront paths offer endless views of Lake Garda’s clear blue water. Down at the small harbor, boats gently bob in the water, and the soft sound of waves hitting the shore adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Jamaica Beach is a well-loved spot for its wide, flat rocks that lead into crystal-clear water—perfect for lounging or swimming.
When the exploring wears you out, head to the thermal baths to soak and unwind. It’s the ideal way to recharge before setting off for more discoveries. There’s a peaceful energy here, but it’s never too quiet. Just the right balance of relaxation and life.
The boat tour around Sirmione gives a new perspective on the medieval village and its history from the water. You’ll pass by Sirmione Castle and the Grotte di Catullo, which we talked about earlier. But those aren’t the only sights you’ll catch on the 25-minute route.
There’s also Maria Callas’s former villa, where the famous opera singer lived during her time with Italian industrialist Giovanni Battista Meneghini. Another stop is the Aquaria spa, famous for its thermal waters from the nearby Boiola sulfur spring, known for its calming and healing effects.
The boat even goes under the drawbridge of Sirmione Castle, giving a closer look at its fortress-like design. As you cruise, the captain shares stories about the area’s Roman past, medieval defenses, and natural features, all while Lake Garda’s blue waters stretch around you.
Learn more about the details of the boat tour here.
Lake Garda is home to several scenic towns, but Malcesine, set between Mount Baldo and the lake’s eastern shore, is a true gem. Its medieval charm and 13th-century Scaliger Castle give it a timeless feel.
Start your visit with a walk through the historic center, where cobblestone streets are lined with vine-covered houses, inviting shops, and cozy restaurants. Stop by the Garden of the Palazzo dei Capitani, a 14th-century Venetian palace with a serene lakefront setting, or relax at Posterna or Piana Beach.
For the best photo of Malcesine, head to the lakefront near the castle or ride the cable car up Mount Baldo, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the village, shimmering lake, and towering mountains.
Lakefront promenades and beaches are beautiful, but climbing the 31-meter tower of Malcesine’s castle takes the view to another level. From the top, you can see the entire medieval village and Lake Garda spread out below.
The castle, built around the first millennium B.C., carries traces of its past with every step. Over the years, it’s been influenced by different civilizations like the Lombards and Venetians, and many of its original features are still intact. Walking along the old walls, you can spot the crenellations and merlons that once protected the fortress.
Inside, there are frescoes showing scenes from the past and old Austrian gunpowder magazines from the 19th century. The castle also has a hands-on natural history museum with exhibits about local wildlife, geology, and Lake Garda’s fishing traditions. The museum is designed to be experienced with all the senses, making it more interactive and engaging.
Interested to explore Malcesine Castle?
- Google Maps Location
- Length of Visit: 2 to 3 hours
- Visitor’s information: Official website
If you are currently in Verona, Venice, Milan, or any place more south than Lake Garda, Malcesine is the place you’re looking for if scenic beauty, adventure, and convenience are what you’re after. In the preserved village of Malcesine, you’ll find the cable car station to Monte Baldo, where plenty of adventures await.
Honestly, the cable car to the mountain is already an experience on its own. The views are absolutely breathtaking, and the cable car slowly rotates to give you an epic 360-degree view of the Italian Alps, even if you’re just sitting still.
The Monte Baldo-Malcesine cable car ride takes about 20 minutes and comes in two stages. You’ll start in Malcesine, heading up to the San Michele Cableway Station at 580 meters above sea level. From there, hop on the second cable car to Monte Baldo, near Passo Tratto Spino, which sits at an impressive 1780 meters.
As you reach the top, you’ll be greeted with jaw-dropping views of the Italian Alps’ snowy peaks and a one-of-a-kind view of Lake Garda. On a clear day, you can watch the landscape of central-northern Italy rise up from the south, making the ride even more unforgettable.
When you reach Monte Baldo, there’s Nordic walking, trekking, and mountain cycling to try. If you’re up for a thrill, paragliding down to Lake Garda is a must! The rush of soaring through the air is unforgettable. Never tried paragliding before? No problem—just hire an experienced pilot for a tandem flight, and you’ll have a safe and exciting adventure.
For all the details on getting there and the available activities, check out the official Monte Baldo Cable Car website. Be sure to read the announcements on their site before your trip!
If you’re looking for another town to check out near Malcesine, take a quick 20-30 minute boat ride across Lake Garda to Limone Sul Garda. Like Sirmione and Malcesine, Limone has colorful houses covered in flowering vines, peaceful lakefront walkways, and scenic beaches that are perfect for photos.
The town is located between a towering limestone mountain and the calm waters of Lake Garda, giving it a beauty that can even outshine Sirmione and Malcesine from certain angles. Limone may not have a castle or famous landmarks, but its incredible view is reason enough to visit, especially if you want great scenery to photograph or enjoy while exploring.
When you visit Limone, don’t miss the San Giovanni stream or Sopino Waterfall for a peaceful hike. I recommend the San Giovanni stream because there’s a nice path along it that gives you great views of the lake and snowy mountains on the eastern bank of Lake Garda as you walk downhill.
The hike is easy, and the sound of rushing water is really calming. If you enjoy walking or cycling, you should try the 2-kilometer cycle path along Lake Garda’s shoreline. The views from the path are beautiful, and it’s well worth checking out!
Did you know?
Lemons grown in Lake Garda were once so prized that they were exported across Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, with those from Limone being especially favored for their sweetness and unique taste. These lemons thrived due to the town’s mild climate and the heat-retaining stone walls, which created a natural greenhouse effect.
If you want to learn more about lemons in Limone, head to the Limonaia del Castèl museum. You can explore the history of lemons, including how they were first introduced to the region and the evolution of local cultivation methods. Visitors can see historical tools used in lemon farming, traditional storage techniques, and early irrigation systems.
The museum also showcases the cultural significance of lemons in the area, from their role in local cuisine to their use in traditional remedies. Outside, you can observe lemon trees in various stages of growth and see how they are nurtured through the seasons, all while enjoying a panoramic view of the town.
Do you want to visit?
- Google Maps Location
- Length of visit: 1 to 2 hours
- Visitor’s information: Official website
Riva del Garda is another beautiful town located at the northern tip of Lake Garda, just below the wedge-shaped Monte Brione.
Like other nearby towns and villages, Riva has a historic center that’s great for a leisurely stroll. What makes Riva different from other Lake Garda towns, though, is its mix of Italian and Austrian culture. You’ll notice this in the architecture of some buildings and especially in the local cuisine.
When spending a day in Riva, a few activities come to mind.
- First, make sure to explore the historic center. The area is filled with cute shops, cozy cafes, and pastel-colored houses that are hard to resist.
- Don’t forget to take a selfie in front of Torre Apponale, a 13th-century clock tower that stands tall over Riva. If you’re up for a little adventure, climb the 34-meter tower for a great view of the area.
- Another thing to do in Riva is visit the Museo Alto Garda, located in Rocca di Riva, the town’s castle fortification. We’ll cover more about this attraction late
- Also, make sure to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. While Riva’s beaches are already impressive, there’s even more to see beyond the town. A hike up Monte Brione or along the Ponale Trail, just outside Riva, are both great options.
For more information about Torre Apponale, please kindly check its page in Garda-Trentino official website.
If the weather isn’t great during a visit to Lake Garda, Riva del Garda’s Museo Alto Garda (MAG) can be a perfect way to spend the day.
It gives a deep look into the history and culture of Upper Garda. The museum covers three floors with a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts—some of them dating back to prehistoric times. The exhibits cover everything from the Roman era to World War II, making it easy to follow how the area developed over the centuries.
The medieval and Renaissance sections show how the region’s art evolved, while the World War II displays give a glimpse of what life was like during that time.
What makes MAG even more memorable is its location inside the 12th-century Rocca di Riva fortress. This old defensive stronghold sits on an artificial island just off the lake, close to Riva del Garda’s historic center. The fortress still has its medieval stone walls and narrow arched windows, offering some great views of the lake.
Walking through Riva del Garda’s old town, you might not even notice the fortress is on an island until you reach Piazza Cesare Battisti. But getting closer, it becomes obvious. Boats are docked alongside it, and a small bridge is the only thing connecting it to the town.
The whole experience—exploring the museum, taking in the history, and enjoying the scenery—makes it easy to feel connected to the region’s past.
Do you want to visit?
- Google Maps Location
- Length of visit: 1 hour to 1.5 hours
- Visitor’s information: Official website.
If you think the Malcesine castle or Sirmione castle is the most breathtaking castle around Lake Garda, think again. Lake Garda also has an 11th-century castle that will leave you in awe: The Arco Castle. It may have partly fallen into disrepair, but its ruined tower and half-intact walls remain, with some frescoes still visible.
Reaching the castle is an experience in itself. The path begins at the edge of the historic town of Arco, winding through narrow streets and olive groves before transforming into a more rugged trail.
As you ascend, every step offers panoramic glimpses of the lush vineyards, Lake Garda glistening in the distance, and the towering peaks of the Dolomites. The trail’s peacefulness is often accompanied by the sound of birdsong, creating a serene atmosphere. It’s a 20-minute hike that is both invigorating and rewarding.
Once at the top, you’ll be treated to views that stretch from the towns of Arco and Riva to the vineyards below and the distant mountain ranges. Somehow, the vineyards resemble giant green carpets in varying shades.
The castle itself is divided into two areas: the historic section and a garden, both connected by a tempered glass boardwalk. From this vantage point, you can enjoy more striking views of the towns below and soak in the history that still lingers in the ruins.
Planning to visit the castle?
- Google Maps Location
- Length of Visit: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Visitor’s information: Garda-Trentino website.
Go Beyond Lake Garda
Just 15 to 20 minutes from Lake Garda lies the romantic city of Verona—the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Short on time? You can easily see both Lake Garda and Verona in just three days, using Verona as your home base.
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