Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. The area of ​​the entire water surface is 370 square kilometers and the maximum depth reaches 346 meters. To travel around the entire lake along the shore it will take a whole day - the entire length coastline is 150 kilometers. The Mincio River flows out of Garda, and a river called Aril flows into it. The lake welcomes all tourists with lush vegetation and a mild climate, which is due to the fact that the lake is covered by a mountain range that protects from cold winds. Holidays on Garda are the most stunning way to spend a holiday - there are both old fortresses and modern entertainment complexes. A lake that has collected on its shores a huge amount of impressive monuments history, attracts more and more tourists every year.

Coordinates: 45.63333300,10.66666700

Malcesine

Not big city ok on east coast Lake Garda, 40 kilometers from Verona, is a fashionable and popular holiday destination.

Malcesini is called the “pearl of Garda”. Among the main attractions is, of course, the lake itself. From here you can go on a boat trip, go fishing, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, diving or just swim.

Among the historical treasures are the Scaliger Castle, rising on a cliff above the lake, the Pariani Museum, where valuable documents are kept, the Palazzo dei Capitani with unusual frescoes and painted ceilings, the 8th-century Church of San Stefano and the 11th-century Church of Santa Maria di Navene.

From the city you can take the funicular to the top of Monte Baldo. This is one of the most modern lifts in the world, the only one in the world with rotating cabins that allow you to enjoy a full panorama. In the mountains they offer rock climbing, mountain biking, and in winter – skiing.

Coordinates: 45.77231300,10.82544700

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Lazise

Situated on the shores of Lake Garda at the foot of the moraine hills, the small town of Lazise is considered one of the most popular local resorts. Its historical center with its characteristic narrow streets and medieval squares attracts thousands of tourists. It is here that Lake Garda reaches its greatest width - 17 km. And nearby is Kola, a famous spa resort with thermal springs.

It is believed that Lazise was inhabited in prehistoric times - this is evidenced by the discovered remains of pile dwellings. In the era Ancient Rome it was certainly an important settlement, as evidenced by numerous finds of ancient coins. In the 10th century, the Lombards appeared here, who built a castle and erected fortified walls around it. They also granted local residents the right to freely fish. In the 12th century, Lazise became an independent commune, but not for long - it soon fell into the hands of the Scaliegre family, and then passed to the Visconti family. In 1405, like most other cities of Lake Garda, Lazise became part of the Venetian Republic. Then it was part of the Cisalpine Republic, from 1815 it was part of the Austrian Empire, and only in 1866 it joined the united Italy.

The central promenade of the town of Malcesini is located on the eastern coast of Lake Garda. This area is called the “pearl of Garda” for its beauty. Located along the coast. From here you can go on a boat trip on a regular or pleasure boat, go fishing or surfing, or simply swim in the clear, cool water.

Although there are dozens of resort towns along the banks of the Garda, Malcesini is the most popular and fashionable holiday destination. On the embankment along the entire lake there are hotels, restaurants, cafes, a little higher - the historical center of the city and on a cliff above the lake - the Scaliger Castle of the 13th century. The poet Goethe was imprisoned here, mistaken for a German spy. On its shores there is a special microclimate, similar to the Mediterranean, among the plants are cypresses, pine trees, oleanders, palms, and olive trees.

From the city you can take the funicular to the top of Monte Baldo. This is one of the most modern lifts in the world, its cabins rotate, allowing you to enjoy the panorama.

Coordinates: 45.76512800,10.83035700

Resort Peschiera del Garda

The modern resort of Peschiera del Garda is located on a small island at the confluence of the Mincio River and Lake Garda. In the era of Ancient Rome, these regions were famous for their abundance of fish, which is reflected in the name of the fortified city.

There are many legends around Peschiera, one of which says that it was here in the 5th century that the historical meeting between the leader of the Huns, Attila, and Pope Leo I took place. Attila, who knew no defeats on his way, planned to attack Rome. The Pope, who went to him with a delegation, was able to convince the terrible and ferocious barbarian to abandon his plan, and Rome was then saved.

The fortification history of Peschiera dates back to the 6th century AD. In 1556, as the owner of these territories, Venice built a fortress in the shape of a five-pointed star on the island. Some time later, during the period of Austrian rule, the Peschiera fortress became one of the main strongholds in the quadrangle of the defense system of the Adige Valley.

Now the resort in Peschiera provides opportunities for recreation and sports: tennis courts, a golf club, a yacht club. The beaches here are beautiful, and access to nearby popular amusement parks is very convenient.

Coordinates: 45.43953800,10.69210100

Thermal springs "Parco termale del Garda"

If you want to spend your holiday in a quiet, peaceful place, combine relaxation with healthy and very pleasant water treatments, then choose the thermal springs near Lake Garda.

The healing springs in this place, as often happens, were discovered by accident. The owners of Villa dei Cedri were looking for water to irrigate the park, and found a real treasure - a layer of thermal water was discovered at a depth of 160 meters. To use it, an artificial lake was created, where this water is pumped. Numerous fountains, underwater jets, hydromassage baths right in the middle of the lake, comfortable water temperature - all this gives incomparable pleasure to swimmers. The lake is surrounded by a magnificent park, where centuries-old linden trees, cedars, and magnolias hide cozy benches for relaxation in their shade.

Villa dei Cedri, a Venetian-style mansion, is located right on the territory of an ancient park. Built at the turn of the 18th-19th centuries, it has now been converted into a hotel. The restoration carried out helped restore the building to its original beauty. The stucco decorations of the ceiling, the floor inlaid with valuable wood, doors, and windows were recreated. The hotel is supplied with thermal water, so you can take various healing and rejuvenating procedures here.

Coordinates: 45.47403900,10.74345900

Sign "Comune of Bardolino"

The sign "Comune Bardolino" ("Comune of Bardolino") is built directly into the pavement. It was not possible to find out who and when made and installed this sign on the street of the town.

Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is the largest freshwater body of water in Italy, lying halfway from Brescia to Verona, just 1.5 hours from Milan. The lake is divided between three Italian provinces: Verona (in the southeast), Brescia (in the southwest), Trentino (in the north). The name "Garda" is believed to be a corruption of the German word "warda", meaning "guard post". During the Roman Empire, it was called differently - Benaco (translated from Latin as “blessed”).

The area of ​​the lake is 370 square meters. kilometers, length - 51.9 kilometers, and maximum width more than 16 kilometers.

Hidden between the majestic Alpine rocks, Lake Garda was formed here at the end of the last ice age, under the influence of glaciers descending from the mountains. It is thanks to the glaciers that the water here has a slightly emerald tint.

Unique landscapes, picturesque views, and a pleasant climate attract crowds of tourists here. On the coast, all amenities have been created for them - well-maintained beaches, exclusive hotels, hostels, campsites. The beauty of these places has been famous for a long time; even the ancient Roman nobility loved to spend time here in luxurious villas, enjoying the amazing landscapes - mountain slopes buried in green forests, olive groves, gardens with lemons and cypress trees.

On Lake Garda in Italy there is always something to see and where to relax. This is an incredibly beautiful and interesting place where you can spend a vacation to suit every taste and budget. The local resorts will delight lovers family vacation, sailing, nightlife, active entertainment, quiet walks. And connoisseurs of Mediterranean landscapes and architectural monuments will appreciate the numerous attractions.

Resorts and Attractions

Along the coast of Garda there are many ancient villages, cities with cute streets, gardens and architectural complexes, many of which have survived to this day in their original form. Guests can expect numerous excursions, walking and boat trips, spacious promenades, beaches, luxurious villas, restaurants, as well as a fascinating atmosphere of parks and gardens. Active types of recreation, such as windsurfing, and more aristocratic ones - golf, tennis, squash, are popular.

Sirmione and Villa Catullus

One of the most popular resorts was the ancient Roman fort city of Sirmione, which occupies an entire peninsula in the south. There are restaurants, bars, hotels, shops, spa complexes and thermal baths, famous for their healing properties. The main attractions: the churches of Santa Maria Maggiore and San Pietro in Mavino, as well as the villa of the famous ancient poet Catullus.

The visiting card of the lake is the Grotto of Catullus (Grotte di Catullo). The grotto is the ruins of a huge ancient villa, built around 150 AD. e., on the edge of the Sirmione peninsula.

City of Garda

Another popular resort is called Garda, which is 30 kilometers from Verona. According to one version, the reservoir owes its name to this city. The place is exclusively touristic, with a population of only 4 thousand people. Nearby is one of the most famous amusement parks in Italy - Gardaland, and the Gardaland SEA PARK aquarium.

Riva and Torbole

In the northern part of the reservoir are the cities of Riva and Torbole, famous for their winds, which attract lovers of yachting, kitesurfing, and windsurfing.

Malcesine and Scaliger Castle

On a small cape in the north-eastern part of Lake Garda, on the slopes of Mount Baldo, stands the town of Malcesine. Built around the picturesque medieval Scaliger fortress. Near the castle, in a small marina, there are small squares and streets full of shops, cozy bars and restaurants that give this place a magical charm. In Malcesine there are hundreds of hotels, villas, and 12 campsites. The main harbor of the city is quite small, but attractive and constantly filled with boats and yachts.

Malcesine is considered one of the most elegant and well-equipped resorts on the Garda coast. In summer, the climate here is more moderate than in the south, which allows you to comfortably spend time going on excursions and walking around the surrounding area.

The main attraction for tourists in Malcesine is the historical Scaliger Castle. The name of the castle comes from the Dela Scala family, which owned it from the 13th to the 14th centuries. It was used, redesigned and adapted for military purposes until the 19th century. Today, guests can freely walk along the fortress walls and climb the main tower, from where they can admire the view of the tiled roofs of cozy Italian houses.

Mount Monte Baldo

Above Garda rises Mount Monte Baldo, also known as the European Botanical Garden, due to the diversity of the growing flora: vineyards, olives, oleanders, etc. The height of the mountain is about 2,000 meters. A cable car runs from the tops of the mountain ranges to Malcesine. Along it you can climb to a height of 1,760 meters and enjoy panoramic views of the Alpine foothills.

Mount Monte Baldo is perfect for walks and excursions to natural attractions. Especially on hot days, when the temperature in the mountains is lower and the winds are cooler than the surface of the water far below. In winter, the slopes serve as a base for winter sports.

When the snow melts, hikers and mountain bikers have the opportunity to explore mountain routes, both simple and extreme.

Limone sul Garda

Another popular resort in Garda is Limone Sul Garda. Arriving here on time summer holidays It is worth preparing for the crowds of tourists filling the already cramped streets. The heart of old Limone is the small harbor of Porto Viccio, from which narrow streets lined with souvenir shops diverge. There are many places in the city where you can have a drink and a snack overlooking the water.

The pier begins in the north of Limone. It is no longer as noisy and bustling as in the center, and the streets pass through numerous hotels, quiet cafes, abandoned lemon groves, and small beaches. To the south there is a more modern part of the city, with a wide promenade, parking, and hotel complexes.

Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda is noisy Italian city on the northern coast of Lake Garda, second in size after Desenzano del Garda. The city is surrounded on three sides mountain ranges Alps Until 1918, it was part of Austria, which greatly influenced it - there is something peaceful in the streets and architecture, not at all Italian. Now this is the Italian region of Trentino-Alto Adige, province of Trento.

There is a slightly different atmosphere here, different from other resorts - at the same time lively and very calm. Ideal place for relaxing in the squares along the coast and walking along cozy streets. The coastline includes a harbor, park, and beach.

The main building in the city is Torre Apponale - a clock tower built in the 13th century, with a bell and an observation deck. Access to the tower is open to everyone.

Islands on Lake Garda

There are many small islands and five large ones scattered around the lake. The largest of them is Garda Island (Isola di Garda). It was here that Francis of Assisi founded a monastery in 1220. In 1890 - 1903, according to the design of Luigi Rovelli, a villa was built here in the Venetian-neo-Gothic style. Since 2002, the island has been open to visitors.

A little further south is San Biagio (Isola di San Biagio), also known as the “Island of Rabbits”. Like the island of Garda, San Biagio is located closer to the western coast, on the border with the municipality of San Felice del Benaco.

Three others large islands- Olive Island (Isola dell'Olivo), Dream Island (Isola del Sogno), Island of Three Apples (Isola del Trimelone) - lie to the north, closer to the eastern side of the lake.

Weather

In summer it is quite hot here - the air temperature often exceeds 30 degrees. This weather encourages the growth of Mediterranean plants, including olives and lemons, which is very rare at these latitudes. The water warms up to 19-22 degrees on average. Climatic conditions greatly influenced the tourism potential of the region, which began to grow rapidly after the Second World War.

In ancient times, poets noted the mild climate and brisk winds of Lake Garda. It's really windy here often. Air currents descending from the mountains regularly sweep across the reservoir, and even have their own names. For example, getting up early in the morning north wind called "Peler". Thanks to the turbulent winds, this place has become one of the most attractive places for windsurfing in Europe.

Movement

The main ways to travel between resorts are by bus and ferry. The main advantage of the bus is its low cost and speed of travel. Bus routes run along both the east and west coasts. The operators are Transporti Brescia (in the west) and ATV (in the east).

The ferry, compared to land transport, is very slow and not always cheap, but at the same time it allows you to fully experience the atmosphere of the unique Italian lake. Other varieties also ply along it. water transport: hydrofoil boats, romantic paddle steamers, small catamarans.

In order to better get to know all the sights of Lake Garda, we recommend purchasing tickets for a sightseeing tour. The routes of such tours pass through most of the settlements along the coast - from Riva in the north to Sirmione in the south.

Information about costs and ship schedules are posted at the piers, and tickets can also be purchased there. Schedules and prices are also available on this website.

How to get to Lake Garda

Nearest major airport is Verona Valerio Catullo airport, you can also fly to the small airport of Brescia. In addition, many people start their journey from Milan, where the airports of Linate, Malpensa and Bergamo are located, or Venice (Marco Polo Airport). There are various ways to get from these cities.

On train It is worth going to the Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione station, located in the city of the same name and where the TrenItalia trains stop, running, in particular, between Milan and Venice.

On car It's also quite easy to get to: the southern part is reached by the A4 highway (Milan-Venice), and the A22 highway (Brenner-Modena) runs to the north. The SS 249 Gardesana Orientale road runs along the eastern bank, and the SS 45 bis Gardesana Occidentale along the western bank.

The usual concept of a lake as applied to Garda somewhat limited, since it is the largest lake in Italy by area with surface 370 sq. km. The name of the sea, hidden among the mountains, would be more suitable for it. This is exactly the first impression when you see it: no matter where you look, your gaze cannot completely cover the lake. The lake bathes three regions: Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, offering a magnificent variety of landscapes. Snow-capped mountains, soft contours of the hills, small villages on the shores, a number of islands in the center - a lake Garda able to satisfy any requests all year round.

...for its 158.4 kilometers of coastline, which is full of beautiful beaches;

... for its most famous places such as Sirmione, Desenzano, Gardine;

… because of rich history the lakes, with their islands, castles, churches and palaces;

... for the sake of the traditions of Italian cuisine and local products: wine, olive oil, cheese;

... for the sake of an unlimited number of parks;

...for entertainment and relaxation in the best tourist structures.

Below we will tell you in more detail about the top ten places that are worth seeing if you are going to spend some time on the lake Garda.

Sirmione Castle on Lake Garda (Il Castello di Sirmione)

Sirmione Castle dates back to 1250 and is one of the best preserved castles in Italy. Today it is in excellent condition: we can see two crenellated towers commanding the lake, which is guarded by a Roman goldsmith.

Sirmione Castle is a majestic rock facing the lake, to which it is connected by a drawbridge. 146 steps lead to the bypass routes, from where you can admire the surrounding area. Entering the castle is also the only way to get into the center of Sirmione, touch its history and observe the defensive system of the lake.

Built during the time of Mastino I Della Scala, Sirmione Castle is surrounded by many legends. Among them there is one about Ebengardo and his beloved Aricha. According to legend, one night a traveler arrived at the castle and asked for an overnight stay. He was struck by Ariche's beauty and forced his way into her chambers. When Ariche rejected him, he stabbed her with a dagger. In turn, Ebengardo killed the scoundrel, and now on stormy nights his ghost wanders around the castle in search of his beloved.

Caves of Catullus in Sirmione (Le Grotte di Catullo)

"Caves" are well-preserved ruins of a Roman villa dating back to the 1st century AD. They are regarded today as one of the finest examples of a Roman villa in northern Italy. A thousand years ago, this complex had no equal and stretched over an area of ​​about 2 hectares: the original building had 3 floors and long terraces, which offered a wonderful view of the lake.

Hidden in the dungeons of the villa was a pool with thermal waters, known back in the days of the Empire. Today the villa and its museum and olive grove are open to the public. Thanks to restoration work, today 1,500 olive trees produce the highest quality oil, and the museum contains archaeological finds from this and several other Roman villas on the lake Garda, not to mention various documents preserving the detailed history of the lake from ancient times to the Middle Ages.

Garda Island

Island Garda, or Bourgeois Island- the largest on the lake and located 200 m from the shore on the territory of San Felice Del Benaco. Today it can be reached by boat owned by the Cavazzas, who have been organizing excursions to the enchanting park and villa Ferrari, an admirable example of a villa built in the early 20th century. and the only example of Venetian neo-Gothic style on the lake.

In addition to the villa with gardens, the island is famous for its history. This place was inhabited back in the era of the Roman Empire, as evidenced by burials and ruins of temples, for some time it served as a refuge for pirates, and then became an important religious center, thanks to St. Francesco of Assisi, who built a hermitage on the island. Over the centuries, through successive rulers, the island has been home to such famous figures as Dante Alighieri, Sant'Antonio of Padua and Adelaide Malanotte, the main translator of Rossini's works.

Riva del Garda

Riva del Garda in Trentino is located north of the lake and deserves special attention. At this point the lake narrows and wedges itself between the steep cliffs of Mount Rocchetta: here the water is colder and clearer, in which the Dolomites are reflected, and the silence is more rarefied, because movement on motor boats is prohibited.

Riva del Garda, as the name implies, is connected to the lake and carries its waters far into the mountains. This area is well protected so that tourists can see numerous evidence of Roman and Medieval times.

In the center is 3 November Square And Apponale Tower, dating back to 1220, Palace of the Comune, reconstructed in the 15th century. And Municipal Palace, built in 1375 by order of the Della Scala family. A walk through the square will help you feel the Austro-Hungarian spirit of the river. Also worth a visit Church of the Virgin Mary made in Baroque style in 1603, medieval Morocco quarter(from “morokke” - shapeless swells of landslides on which palaces stand) and the lake embankment with balustrades facing the water.

Italian Vittoriale on Lake Garda

Italian Vittoriale is burial place of Gabriele D'Annunzio and the real citadel, built by him together with the architect Giancarlo Maroni between 1921 and 1938.

Here the poet wrote his literary works about the war, imbued with patriotism. The Vittoriale houses a museum with objects and reconstructions of that era, a park with statues, ponds and a garden, an auditorium for 200 people where exhibitions, meetings and other events are held, and an amphitheater.

Among the most exciting places - D'Annunzio's personal museum, where Vate’s everyday things are stored: clothes, shoes, his dog’s collars. One of the museum's attractions is the ship donated by D'Annunzio in 1923 and now located in the park, with its bow towards the Adriatic Sea. Vittoriale is not only a historical place, but also a wonderful point from which you can enjoy an ideal view of the local landscape.

Limone

Limone is one of the oldest and best preserved places on the shores of the lake. Garda. The origin of the name is not exactly known: perhaps it comes from the Latin “limes”, but, most likely, it still comes from lemons. Limone is famous precisely for the citrus fruits grown here, which, due to the warm wind from the lake and the unique microclimate, always produce an excellent harvest. The protected terraces are home to picturesque citrus groves, the most famous being the Castel Limonarium, which dates back to 1700 and is today open to the public.

In addition to the mentioned lemons, you will find citrons, tangerines, oranges, and kumquats here. In the historical center of Limone you can stroll along narrow alleys, look at old squares and fishermen's houses.

These houses have now been reconstructed and are open to visitors during the holidays. Don't miss it either Church of St. Pietro in Oliveto. It was built in the 9th century and is one of the oldest Romanesque churches in the region. Thanks to the restoration in 1989, the original frescoes can be seen today.

It’s worth coming to the 20 September Square, the ancient Market Square, With Visconti tower(XVI century), Basilica of St. Nicholas, today – to the city Cathedral, the Municipality of the 19th century. ( Palace of Bovar) And Azzone Visconti bridge with its arched spans. Built during the Renaissance, the bridge connected Lecco with the Duchy of Milan. Today you can use it to get into the city from Milan or Garda.

Gardaland and other parks on Lake Garda

In addition to unforgettable landscapes, untouched nature and cities frozen in time, the lake has several modern theme parks for the whole family. Most of them are located a few kilometers from the shores of the lake in the province of Verona. Typically, the parks are open from April to the end of October, with occasional weekends and Christmas.

Let's start with the famous Gardaland park, the largest in Italy, with more than 35 themed attractions (and this number is growing every year) for adults and children. It is located in Castelnuovo del Garda, in the province of Verona.

Adventure lovers will love the Kaneva World theme parks. Movieland, dedicated to the world of cinema, and Waterpark Kaneva, a real paradise of large and small pools, water slides, attractions and games. Both parks are located in Lazise, ​​in the province of Verona.

Wildlife Park in Pastrengo, all in the same province of Verona, is a zoo with 1,500 animals of 200 species from all continents of the Earth. This is a good opportunity for children to observe and learn about animals from all over the world. However, this is not just a zoo, but a center for animal protection and research. It includes a Safari Park with African mammals and birds, an aquaterrarium and an area dedicated to dinosaurs.

Cathedral of Salò (Duomo di Salò) on Lake Garda

The Cathedral of Salo in the province of Brescia is an example of the late Gothic style, as if transporting the visitor back to 1453, when its first stone was laid.

Its facade, simple, with a touch of incompleteness, is made of ordinary brick, and only in 1509 was a marble portal in the Renaissance style added to it. Inside the cathedral you will find works by Paolo Veneziano, Romanino and Moretto. The Cathedral of Salo is the most important place of worship in the city, dedicated to St. Mary Annunzio. This is evidenced by a wooden icon covered with gold, found on a spade behind the main altar. The icon dates back to the 15th century, with openwork carvings, a fine example of Brescia art from this area. In the center of the church there is a large wooden crucifix from 1493 by Giovanni Teutonica. To the left of which is a large, rich organ, made in 1489 and placed under the protection of the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage in 1957.

Giant cauldrons on Lake Garda

The Giant's Cauldrons are a true natural miracle; they are unique because they are perfectly preserved. Imagine huge basins 5 m in diameter and up to 12 m deep, rounded into a canyon shape on a landscape similar to Lunar.

This name was generated by human imagination, unable to explain the origin of these giant wells. In fact, they were formed from a glacier that passed here 130 thousand years ago. In summer, glaciers melted at high speed, forming streams. They, accelerating, broke into the valleys with a stormy stream of water along with stones. Which destroyed the rock and created the pools that we still see today.

Interesting fact: ceramics and arrowheads found near the Giant's Cauldrons in Torbole indicate that the valley was inhabited in prehistoric times.

Where to stay overnight on Lake Garda

Lake Garda – large resort international scale, loved by representatives of different segments of the population from all over the world.

Celebrities prefer to buy houses in this area and spend some part of their holidays here. The flow of tourists is very intense, even taking into account more than 2,100 recreational structures. In spring and summer there are a lot of people who want to stay near the lake, so it is advisable to book hotels in advance. In autumn it is not so warm and therefore not so crowded. Therefore, if you want to enjoy the beauty of the lake Garda calmly and slowly - it is worth visiting it at this time.

After visiting the lake Garda you can also continue your holiday around the region. Of course, you can hear or read 100 times, but the best thing is to see these beautiful cities once with our positive team of local guides from.

If you want to combine seemingly incompatible things: a beach holiday without the sweltering heat; living in one place, but with an active tourist life, including visiting famous and not so famous sights of Italy; natural beauty with comfort and access to the benefits of civilization, then you are definitely here on Lake Garda.

Some facts

Lake Garda of extraordinary beauty is located in the north of the country in the foothills of the Alps. This is the largest and one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. It stretches from north to south for almost 52 kilometers. In the northern part, the lake is very narrow, even a little reminiscent of the Norwegian fjords.

The lake is of glacial-tectonic origin. In some places its depth exceeds 300 meters. Its northern part is especially picturesque, where the width of the lake is minimal and they go straight down to the water. high mountains reaching 2 kilometers in height.

The mountains shield the lake from the cold northern winds, so a unique and very comfortable microclimate is created on its coast.

Holidays on Lake Garda are considered elite; they are not cheap, but worth it. It’s not for nothing that Kafka and Goethe loved to relax here, and among our famous contemporaries Brad Peet and Ricky Martin have villas on Garda.

Who is a holiday on Garda suitable for?

For families with children

It is better to live with children in the southern part of the lake. The terrain here is smoother, there are almost no mountains, but there are more beaches and a gentle entrance to the lake.

In addition, this is where the most interesting places for children are located: near the town of Castelnuovo del Garda there is “ sweet couple» the Gardaland amusement park and the Sea Life aquarium, and a little further north along the lake coast near the village of Lazise there is another couple - the Canevaworld water park and the Movieland Studios amusement park.

For lovers of sights

Lake Garda is a great starting point for exploring and. If you want to get to Verona quickly, inexpensively and without problems, then it is better to use by commuter train, which stops in two towns located in the south of Lake Garda: Pieschiera (15 minutes from Verona) and Desenzano (20 minutes). Trains run every approximately 30 minutes. The schedule and fares can be found on the official website of Italian railway lines.

There is also a bus service. Along the eastern and southern coasts of Garda there are two regular services to Verona. bus routes 162 and 163. But we must take into account that this will be approximately one and a half times more expensive in cost and several times longer in time. In addition, traffic jams are very likely on some sections of the road. All information about the schedule, route, fare

Seeking silence and solitude

People who avoid crowded places and want to spend time in the lap of beautiful nature, most likely the middle part of the lake is suitable, and it is better to look for a hotel not in a populated area, but between them, right on the shore of the lake.

There are a sufficient number of such hotels on Booking.com. That’s exactly what we did and booked the wonderful aparthotel Residence Lido Hotel for our stay. two kilometers from the ancient atmospheric town of Malcesine.

Isn’t it a miracle when you have such a view of the lake from your room window?

For lovers of active recreation

For those who prefer active recreation, it is better to pay attention to the north of the lake. For example, Riva del Garda is an ideal place for lovers of windsurfing and sailing. There is always wind here, there are rental points, and there are schools and instructors for beginners.

What to do on the lake?

Kuppuzing

There are many small pebble beaches along the lake.

It is very comfortable to be on them, because even when the air temperature reaches 30 degrees, a cool, fresh breeze blows from the mountains and the heat is easily tolerated. Sometimes a sunbathing area is equipped right on small piers above the lake. And sometimes a green lawn under olive trees is used as a beach.

The water in the lake is clean, absolutely transparent and invigorating. In summer, the water temperature is 20 – 22 degrees.

Active leisure

In addition to the “seal” holiday, you can engage in active sports on the lake. The mountains hanging over the lake are a great place for hang gliding enthusiasts.

Even if you have never practiced this sport, you can make a jump together with an instructor if you wish.

Garda is simply a paradise for water sports lovers. Fans of sailing and windsurfing are welcome in the northern part of the island.

There are all the conditions here: constant wind, beautiful views, equipment rental points, experienced instructors and a variety of programs.

You can also rent a boat and ride on the mirror-like surface of the lake.

Regular ferries and pleasure boats run along the entire coast.

You can see the latest information about the schedule and cost of the boat trip.

Hiking and walking

In the middle part of the lake, near the village of Malcesine, there is a lift to the highest local peak. There are many walking routes of varying length and difficulty at the top.

You can also take a walk along the lake shore. Between coastal settlements Almost everywhere there are cozy embankments with flower beds and benches.

In the evening they are illuminated. Well, where there are no embankments, there is simply a convenient path along the shore.

Getting to know authentic towns

It is wonderful to visit the interesting and original ancient towns located along the lake. They are full of charm and charm.

For example, completely unique and atmospheric Malcesine. Preserved from the Middle Ages small town very cozy, there are flowers all around and small restaurants and cafes with several tables, and on a high cape jutting into the sea there is an ancient Scaliger castle with interesting museums inside.

In the northernmost part of the lake is the city of Riva del Garda.

The city looks very picturesque, because right behind the houses you can see high mountains, up to 2 kilometers high. Riva del Garda has a wonderful long promenade, surrounded by flowers and allowing you to admire magnificent views of the lake, as well as a park.

A holiday on Lake Garda is hard to miss. After all, in addition to the surrounding beauty, the purest mountain air and tonic lake water, you can find here exactly what is interesting to you. The choice of activities and entertainment is huge.

Discounted hotels here

Details Liya Usmanova, photo: Natalya Studenkova March 02, 2019 Garda

Lake Garda in northern Italy: how to plan a route, where to swim and what cities to see - I will answer these and other questions and tell you where else to go if you are staying on this lake

I like Lake Garda at any time of the year - the views of the mountains and lake are mesmerizing even in cloudy weather. Small cozy towns delight with ancient houses and castles. Germans, Austrians and Swiss like to relax here - residents of these countries can easily get here. Russian speech is also heard often.

Like Como, people of different incomes relax here - both billionaires and European pensioners. Not far from expensive villas you can rent a budget apartment or a room in a guest house.

Lake Garda in Italian - Lago di Garda. Italy's largest lake is fed by the glacial waters of the Alps. The length of the lake is 52 km, maximum width is 17 km. The northern part of the lake is narrow, similar to fjords: here the mountains approach the very shore. In the southern part, Garda is much wider, the terrain is more flat, and the mountains are visible only in the distance.

When to go to Lake Garda and how to dress

The weather on Lake Garda is slightly different in the north and south. I’ll give you the average temperature and tell you how to dress, what to take with you. This information can be used as a basis, but keep in mind that the weather is different every year.

June, July and August

Summer on Garda.

Sirmione in August.

June is a wonderful month: air temperature up to 25 degrees, lots of sun.
Most tourists come in July and August. Prices for hotels and dinners in restaurants are high at this time.
The guidebooks write that due to the proximity of the Alps, in summer it is not as hot on Garda as on the Adriatic or Mediterranean coasts. “Not hot” is relative here. The temperature in July-August is up to +30 degrees. This is not comfortable for those who do not like heat.
There are thunderstorms in summer. They don't last long, but they rumble loudly.
Unlike Lake Como, there are many beaches. Swimming season is from June to August. The water in the southern part of the lake warms up to +26-27 degrees. In the northern part, the water is a couple of degrees colder. An alternative to swimming in the lake is the thermal baths in the southern part of the lake. This is the name for pools with hot water from underground sources, usually at hotels.
Pack clothes as if you were going to a resort. Warm clothes are worth taking for trips to the mountains. Slippers that fit your feet will be useful for entering the water over pebbles.

September

September is sunny and warm, temperatures up to +24. Just like in the summer, thunderstorms thunder. There are fewer tourists as holidays and holidays are over. By the middle of the month, only a few swim – the water quickly cools down. You need summer clothes, something warm for the evening, a windbreaker for hiking in the mountains.

October and November

I love looking at the lake framed by gold and red leaves. Roses, pansies and something else are still blooming. There are still many days in October when the daytime temperature reaches +19. You need a light autumn jacket, jeans, and a sweater.
By the end of the month it gets colder, usually sharply. At this time, you already need a warmer jacket.
In November - +11-14 degrees, but snow may also fall. There are fewer and fewer leaves on the trees. Need a fall jacket. It gets foggy after lunch. Heavy rains are rare, drizzle is more common. It is worth taking an umbrella or a cape over your clothes.

December and January

It's festive and beautiful on the lake at Christmas. But after the New Year, many restaurants and hotels close until Easter. There are supermarkets and restaurants for local residents. Sirmione, Riva and Desenzano remain more or less lively.
Relaxation for everyone. Temperature - +5-10 degrees, often humid and windy. Sometimes wet snow. But there are also many sunny days. In winter, people on Garda dress like in Moscow or St. Petersburg in October-early November - a warm autumn jacket or a light winter down jacket, it depends on your cold tolerance.

February-March

In February, nature wakes up and spring is felt in the air. Sunny days alternate with cloudy and foggy ones. Flowers are already blooming in the flower beds. You need an autumn jacket, jeans or trousers, low shoes or sneakers. Air temperature - +8-10 degrees.
At the beginning of March it is joyful, sunny, bushes and trees begin to bloom. Although the weather is unpredictable, snow may fall. At the end of March up to +13 degrees, cold in the evenings. Fog and rain are possible.

April and May

In May, near Garda.

A wonderful time to go to the lake. Warm, joyful from the sun and greenery, few people. In April it is up to +17, there are many sunny days, camellias and azaleas bloom. In May, the temperature on other days reaches +22. It's still cold to swim. The lake is deep and warms up slowly. Fog and rain are possible.

Where are the most beautiful views on Lake Garda?

View of Riva del Garda.

From the city of Garda and above. The lake narrows to the north, the mountains approach the water. The views from the eastern shore are better than from the western shore. The TOP 4 for scenic views are occupied by Malcesine, Limone sul Garda, Riva del Garda and Torbole.

Which roads are the most beautiful?

Road from Riva del Garda.

East coast of Garda.

There is a 260 km long road around the lake. The sections from Torbole to Malcesine and some sections from Malcesine to Bardolino are considered the most photogenic. The Riva-Torbole section partially runs along the coast. There are many tunnels from Riva to Limone.

What is the relief like in cities?

All hotels are near the lake, but at different altitudes.

Peschiera and Sirmione are almost flat. In the rest, the terrain is hilly to one degree or another. So, when choosing a hotel, consider how high you will have to climb. On the map the object is next to the lake, but in reality it is on a hill.

Como or Garda: where to go

It depends on the route and purpose of the trip. Both lakes are wonderful.

From Venice and Verona it is easier to get to Garda, from Milan and Bergamo - to Como.

Como is distinguished by its ancient villas with botanical gardens; it is a leader in picturesque views. On Garda there are castles, the remains of Roman villas, in the south of the lake there are thermal springs.

If you want to look at villas that belong to movie stars, then look no further than Como. Many Hollywood stars have villas here, but they rarely appear.

Prices are slightly lower in Garda than in Como.

During the season, Garda is more crowded than Como.

Where to swim on Lake Garda: beaches

There are many beaches on Garda, most of them are pebbly and rocky, as well as grass. There are sandy ones at hotels.
Paid beaches with sunbeds and sun loungers cost from 3.5 to 12 € per 1 day. The sandy beaches, suitable for families with children, have trampolines and other entertainment. There are paid parking lots near the beaches. Cost - 1.5 - 3 € per hour. There are many free beaches, this is not a problem.
The peculiarity of the lake is that the water level sometimes suddenly rises by 20-30 cm. This is due to a drop in atmospheric pressure. The tide lasts from a few minutes to several hours, and sometimes the whole day.

How to choose a beach

The beaches on Lake Garde are different, so you need to decide what is important to you.

1. Is it necessary quiet deserted beach, a beach equipped for families with children, or beach with bars and restaurants, where music constantly pours out.

2. The water is clear where the beaches are pebbly or rocky. On sandy beaches the water is often cloudy. Sometimes algae washes up on the beaches, and reeds grow along the shores.

3. Water temperature. In the north of the lake the water is colder, but the scenery is more picturesque. The southern part is attractive because the water here is 2-3 degrees warmer, and there are also thermal baths - pools with thermal water.

1. Spiaggia Tifu beach in Limone sul Garda

A pleasant place for a family holiday.

2. Parco Baia delle Sirene near the town of Corno

Paid beach in the park area. Restaurants, gelaterias (ice cream shops), tennis tables, children's entertainment, etc. A 1-day ticket in the summer of 2018 cost 12 euros.

3. Salo

Pebble beach with piers that are great for jumping into the water. The place is liked by both people with children and young people. Sun loungers are available at Mokai Beach Bar.

4.Desenzano

Beach in Desenzano.

Pebble and rocky beaches. There are a lot of young people, music is constantly playing in bars.

5. Malcesine

Not a bad place if you combine a beach holiday and cultural tourism.

6. Sabbioni Beach in Riva del Garda

An option for those who are interested aquatic species sports including windsurfing and kayaking. There is a path along the beach with bars, cafes, and gelaterias.

7. Lazise

Sandy beach in Lazise handsome. Part of the beach, however, is occupied by a campsite, but there are also free places.

8. Sirmione

Beach in Sirmione

Sirmione has several beaches. Jamaica Beach ( Giamaica Beach small, crowded during the season. The beach is rocky, with slabs near the shore that people like to walk on - it’s fun, but slippery. This beach has a section with free thermal mineral water. Water from the thermal baths is drained here, more on that below.

How to get to Lake Garda

Ferry on Lake Garda.

From Milan, Bergamo, Venice, Verona, take the train to the town Desenzano del Garda. Schedule on trenitalia.com.
From Verona it is 20 minutes by train, ticket 4.5 €. From Milano ( Milano Centrale) – from 1 hour 20 minutes, ticket from 9 €. From Bergamo - with a transfer to Rovato or Treviglio, and also (more expensive) through Brescia.
Boats leave from Desenzano del Garda in different directions. For example, the ferry takes 20 minutes to Sirmione and the ticket costs 5 €.
There are many other options, see schedules:
- buses from Brescia, Trento, Verona and along the western bank of the Garda.
- buses on the eastern part of Lake Garda.
Schedule of boats on the lines Desenzano – Peschiera – Riva del Garda And Maderno– Torri on the shipping company website.
There are also small boats that do not run according to a schedule, but when they are full. They are often cheaper than larger ones.
Please note that buses and trains may be late from time to time.

Where to stay, hotel prices

If you are going to Garda, then you need to look for a hotel or guesthouse in advance. Moreover, the sooner, the greater the chances of finding something decent for an adequate amount. The place is popular, and Europeans sometimes plan their vacation a year in advance. True, sometimes you manage to grab an inexpensive refusal number literally on the eve of your trip. From the second half of July and in August, prices are high everywhere in Garda and many good places busy.

You can see hotel prices on the map:

Where to stay closer to Verona

Sirmione, Lazise

Amusement parks on Garda

In the southern part of Lake Garda there is the most popular amusement park in Italy, Gardaland, with attractions for visitors of all ages, and an aquarium nearby. Gardaland is a very popular destination, with 2.8 million visitors in 2018.
A little to the north is Movieland, a theme park with attractions based on the plots of popular films, and there are also attractions for kids.

Restaurants and supermarkets

Restaurant on the shores of Lake Garda.

In resort towns there are many trattoria and pizzerias with colorful interiors and a variety of dishes. Prices are a little higher than average, designed for European tourists. Lunch time starts from 13:00, dinner - from 19:00. At this time, everyone rushes to restaurants, and there are queues in popular places.

I advise you to look for specific addresses by names of supermarkets on Google maps: type in the search Conad Limone Sul Garda or COOP Sirniome and find the address. Here are the names of supermarkets that are on the lake: COOP, Carrefour, Conad, Lidl, EuroSpar. Or search without a name, just supermercato, but a lot of unnecessary stuff will pop up.
Don't forget about the markets, prices are lower there, and local residents They do their shopping at the markets.
On the central streets there are many shops with gifts and souvenirs, clothing and accessories. Souvenir shops sell ceramics and forged items, but the quality of workmanship does not always correspond to the price. Ceramics are only suitable for kitchen decoration, and they are unlikely to be used for their intended purpose.

Is it safe to holiday on Garda

This safe place. You can calmly walk around the neighborhood, relax, go to bars. Within reason, of course. Crime cases happen everywhere.
Natural hazards: bears and poisonous snakes live in the mountains. The chances of meeting them are extremely small, but you need to know about them. There are ticks and mosquitoes below. Anti-mosquito products are more expensive than in Russia.
Be careful on the roads - Italians often break the rules.

Which towns on Garda are worth visiting?

Southern part of the lake

Sirmione

Castle of the Scaligers.

Archaeological zone.

A popular tourist town on the Garda is Sirmione (8 thousand inhabitants). It is located at the end of a cape that extends far into the lake

Tall pine trees and ancient villas, with water approaching from both sides - this is the picture that opens when you drive onto the cape. On the shore and at the beginning of the cape, in front of Sirmione, there is the village of Colombare, where you can also rent apartments and villas, there are cafes and shops.
After driving along a narrow isthmus, you find yourself in a parking lot in front of Sirmione, which is actually an island because it is separated from the cape by a moat.

The area is very green, along the alleys there are oleanders, pines, shrubs, palms and olive trees. From the embankment there is a stunning view of the lake, the opposite shore with houses above the water and the Alps in the haze in the distance. Swans and ducks swim near the shore, and even go out for a walk on the steps, which delights tourists. It's even more beautiful here in the evening. The sunset in the sky and the lights of the buildings create a fabulous view.
Sirmione itself begins with a well-fortified castle Castello dei Scaligeri, built in the 13th century by the Veronese Scaliger family, which owned the city at that time. Later the city came under the rule of the Venetian Republic. Back in the era of the Roman Empire, there was a resort here; the rich residents of Verona had villas here.

To get to the castle, you need to cross the bridge. The moat surrounding the castle also serves as a marina - boats are moored here motor boats and boats. The fortress in Sirmione is the steepest on Lake Garda. For 6 € you can walk around the fortress walls and climb the towers. With a combined ticket for 12 € you can also see the Grottoes of Catullus, more about them below.
Behind the castle begin the quarters of Sirmione, typical of Italian cities, with stone houses with tiled roofs and palm trees. But the streets end on the shore, near the water. Life is in full swing until nightfall - there are dozens of hotels, restaurants, bars. Stores Armani, Dolce & Gabbana And Versace are adjacent to souvenir shops that sell trinkets, T-shirts and beach towels.

If you step aside, you will find yourself on quiet medieval stone streets. Next begins a calm green area where there is a spa complex, hotels and villas, and the Lido del Biondi beach. At the end of the cape there is a zone archaeological excavations and the grotto of Catullus. These are the remains of a villa that supposedly belonged to the ancient Roman poet Catullus. Close to via Catullo, 9 lived the famous opera singer Maria Callas. Now this is a hotel Villa Callas Diana Sirmione.

The rapid development of tourism in Sirmione began after the discovery of the healing properties of the local thermal spring. Water rich in minerals helps with joint diseases, rheumatism, psoriasis, etc. Some hotels have swimming pools with thermal water, and guests can swim in them freely. Or live somewhere else and buy a ticket to the thermal baths. This is not a cheap pleasure.
Sirmione has several spa hotels and several dozen cheaper hotels and apartments. You can see prices, for example, on the Hotellook website.
You can sit in the thermal water for free. On the beach Giamaica Beach We were near the grotto of Catullus in the spring, still in warm jackets, and were surprised that people were sitting and lying there. Excess flows from the pipe here mineral water, and local residents and tourists take advantage of this - they fenced the area with stones. The hot water of the spring and the cold water of the lake mix. The water temperature, depending on the season, is +30-35 degrees. The beach smells like rotten chicken eggs - the smell of hydrogen sulfide. From the Scaliger Castle it takes 15 minutes to walk here.

Peschiera del Garda

Sunrise in Peschiera del Garda

The city of Peschiera del Garda (11 thousand inhabitants) is not so popular as a resort, however, two whole objects in it are included in the list World Heritage UNESCO - a historical center inside the defensive walls and remains of prehistoric pile settlements in the Alps

The city is quite small and surrounded by fortified walls.
IN Tourism Peschiera InfoPoint- tourist information office - at Piazza Cesare Betteloni, 15 There are employees with knowledge of Russian. In the office you can buy transport tickets, get a schedule, and book an excursion. During the low season it is only open on weekends. On Mondays there is a large market next to the office, and there are supermarkets in the city Lidl And Eurospar.
Peschiera is convenient from a logistics point of view. It has a ferry port, a train station, regular buses and is close to the motorway. From here to Verona - 20 minutes by train, it is also easy and convenient to get to Milan, Venice and cities on the lake. This is a big advantage, since not all towns on the Garda have good connections with other settlements. It is also close to Gardaland, Movieland and other attractions, so families with children planning to visit these parks will find it convenient to live here.

Sigurta

Sigurt Park.

August in the park.

8 km from Peschiera there is the beautiful Sigurta Park - Parco Giardino Sigurta in the town of Valeggio sul Mincio

People walk around the park, ride in golf carts, and there is a sightseeing train. You can have lunch in the village of Borghetto, although it is a tourist place, everyone really likes it. And also take a walk to the ruins of the Scaliger Castle (it is visible from the park). In 2019, the operating schedule of Sigurty Park is as follows: from March 8 to November 10: from 9:00 to 19:00, in early March, October and November - from 9:00 to 18:00. The ticket office closes an hour earlier. The ticket costs 14 €.

Desenzano del Garda

Embankment in Desenzano.

Castello in Desenzano.

Desenzano del Garda (29 thousand inhabitants) is the largest city on the lake and a mecca for lovers of shopping and restaurants

This city comes alive in the afternoon. Vacationers walk along the embankments past numerous boats and yachts. At night, it is a paradise for party and nightclub lovers. People from surrounding towns come here to have fun.
This is an expensive place. Therefore, there is a reason to stay somewhere else and come here for half a day. Desenzano - beautiful city, and it's worth a stroll through its winding streets.
I would recommend walking to the castle Castello di Desenzano, from there there is a wonderful view of the city and the lake. Only big fans of castles should go inside - it's mostly new. From antiquity, the masonry of the former walls of the castle remains, which is visible under the glass on the floor.
Excavation of the ruins of a Roman villa ( Villa Romana and Antiquarium) is another attraction of Desenzano. The villa has restored mosaics on the floor and the remains of an ancient underground heating system. A combined ticket entitles you to visit Villa Romana and fortresses.
The city also has railway station, from where trains go to Verona, Venice and Milan. On high speed train It takes 1.5 hours to get to Venice, and less than an hour to Milan. The station is 1 km from the lake - walk uphill or take the local bus.

Padenghe sul Garda

Castle in Padeng.

Medieval festival in Padeng.

Padenghe sul Garda (4.6 thousand inhabitants) is a small town with medieval castle on the mountain

IN Castello(castle) there are still people living there. In the second half of August, a two-day Medieval Festival takes place here - a market for ancient crafts is open, knightly tournaments, a costume procession, etc. are held.

Gardone Riviera

Gardone.

Residential building in Gardone.

Gardone Riviera (2.6 thousand people) on the western shore of the lake is a small tourist town

In Gardone, it is pleasant to stroll along the promenade, enjoying the amazing views. Sometimes it feels like you're at sea.
Villa Fiordaliso, where Mussolini once lived, is located 1 km from the city center. Now this is an expensive hotel Villa Fiordaliso. Below are the main attractions of this city.

Villa Vittoriale

A visit to Villa Vittoriale takes several hours.

The most famous landmark of Gardone is the Villa Vittoriale ( Il Vittoriale degli Italiani), where the famous Italian poet, politician and pilot Gabriele d'Annunzio (1863-1938) lived.
To be honest, I didn’t know anything about this lean man with a Salvador Dali mustache before. And the personality is extraordinary. He proclaimed and for 16 months headed the Republic of Fiume, which no one in the world except the USSR and Catalonia recognized. Its constitution stipulated that every citizen of Fiume should receive a musical education. So Villa d'Annunzio is something. Here, among the cypress trees, all sorts of things are displayed - from old shells and an amphitheater to a blue horse and a destroyer. Half a day flies by instantly. The house itself is also worth going to. You are allowed inside only with a guided tour in English and Italian , but they give printouts in Russian. A ticket to the garden and house in 2019 costs 16 €.

Botanical Garden André Heller

IN botanical garden Andre Heller collected 3 thousand plant species.

A minimum of 1 hour is required to visit the garden.

Botanical Garden Giardino Botanico Fondazione André Heller founded by dentist Arthur Grushka, who treated Nicholas II. He was fond of botany and collected a collection of exotic plants - he brought magnolias, primroses, and irises from the Himalayas, Australia, and New Zealand. He collected 3 thousand plants on 1.5 hectares. Artificial ponds, gorges and waterfalls add charm. In 1988, the garden was purchased by the Austrian artist Andre Heller, and now the garden is managed by his foundation. Entrance - 12 €.

Saló del Garda

Salo has the longest embankment in Garda.

Salo is a calm town.

The town of Salo (10 thousand inhabitants) on the southwestern shore of the lake in the shadow of Monte Bartolomeo is not as publicized as others, but deserves attention

This city has the longest promenade on Lake Garda Lungolago- with picturesque views, yachts, cafes and restaurants. Lard is also suitable for sports and fishing. On Saturdays there is a market here, popular with locals.

Portese

Portese is a tiny quiet town where three hundred people live

The easiest way to get here without a car is by ferry, since the train station is far away. An ideal place if you don't like fuss and crowds. The beach is pebble, but there are large stones from which people jump into the water. The beach is never crowded.

Northern part of the lake

Malcesine

Malcesine (4 thousand inhabitants) is considered the most beautiful in Garda. Mountain landscapes, tiled roofs, resort atmosphere - this is what attracts tourists

The city is small but densely built up. Attractions are located compactly, within a 5-10 minute walk. There is also a Scaliger fortress here ( Castello Scaligero), its history begins in the 6th century AD. It was destroyed, restored, and changed many owners.
Lots of shops in the center. On the outskirts of Malcesine, north of the city, there is sandy beaches, but they are small. And the sand there is coarse.
Malcesine - starting point for the cable car ride up the mountain Monte Baldo(1700 m). The view of the lake from a height of 2 thousand meters is magical, and this must see!
Look for the cable car following the signs for Funivia Malcesine. Address - Malcesine, Via Navene Vecchia, 12. From the pier - 10 minutes walk. The carriages can accommodate 30 people and the ascent takes 20 minutes. During the season there are queues, sometimes for 2 hours: first to the ticket office, then to the ski lift. It is optimal to arrive at opening at 8 o'clock. If you have time, you can go down the trails on foot. Schedule and cost on the cable car website, you can also buy a ticket here. On the same site there are routes for walking in the mountains. It is more profitable to buy a combined ticket for the castle + funicular. Monte Baldo popular with cyclists and paragliders. There is a farm of alpacas, artiodactyls from South America. Don't forget warm clothes, it is windy and cool at the top.

Riva del Garda

Center of Riva del Garda.

Promenade of Riva del Garda.

Riva del Garda (17.5 thousand inhabitants) is the northernmost and second largest city on Lake Garda. A favorite place for those who love mountains and hiking.

This town was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire until 1918. The beaches here are mostly rocky.
The medieval fortress (1508) houses the city museum MAG Museo Alto Garda with paintings from different eras, weapons and clothing, ancient tools. The symbol of the city is the Apponal Tower ( Torre Apponale), which is depicted on postcards. 2 €, 165 steps up - and admire the view of the lake.
I recommend going up to the chapel Santa Barbara. The trail is beautiful, although steep and rocky in places. Not very prepared people spend 1.5-2 hours climbing. The chapel is tiny, in front of it is a two-level recreation area. In the evening the church is illuminated.
The 11 km long walking route to the waterfall is popular Ponale. It goes from Riva del Garda to the Ledro Valley, the elevation gain is 600 meters. The route is wonderful and does not require special preparation. Cyclists love this route.
From Riva you can go to Villa Canale, an authentic medieval village protected by UNESCO. Everything here has been preserved as it was 300-400 years ago. The village is 12 km away, but on mountain roads.

Limone Sul Garda

Limone sul Garda (1.2 thousand inhabitants) - a picturesque mountain town on the opposite bank from Malcesine

Dishes, ceramics, textiles - everything here is painted with lemons. And of course, limoncello, a liqueur infused with lemon zest, is sold everywhere, although it is mostly produced in the south of Italy.
The indigenous inhabitants of this city are carriers of the longevity gene. They are less likely than others to suffer from atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.
Several small beaches are pebble. Remember the car chase along the lake in the James Bond movie Quantum of Solace? This part was filmed right here.

Where else to go if you're staying in Garda

Isola del Garda

tiny island Isola del Garda located in the commune of San Felice del Benaco / San Felice del Benaco in the southwest of the lake.
The length of the island is 1 km, width - up to 600 m. This is a private territory that belongs to an aristocratic family. The place is interesting: there is a villa in the Gothic Venetian style, reminiscent of the Doge's Palace in Venice, and a luxurious garden with a collection of roses.
How to get to the island of Garda: take a tour, the schedule is published on the official website of the island of Garda. You need to select your departure city and reserve a tour (in English, Italian or German). You can only get to the island during certain hours. Allow three hours for the trip, including the journey to the island.

Parco Natura Viva Zoo and Safari Park

The park consists of two zones: a safari park (excursion by car) and a wildlife park (on foot). An adult ticket for both parts in 2019 costs 22 €. Best time visits - during feeding, around noon, when the animals go to the feeders. On holidays and weekends the park is crowded. Address: Bussolengo 40, Località Figara.
The park is closed from January 7 to March 7.

Parco Grotta Cascata Varone

Near Riva del Garda there are small lakes Ledro and Tenno. Don't miss it on your way to Tenno Parco Grotta Cascata Varone With beautiful waterfall. Although on the map it is next to Riva del Garda, it’s difficult to reach on foot, you have to go up the serpentine road. You can take a taxi. The ticket costs 6 €.
Park opening hours:
January-February from 10:00 to 17:00,
March - from 9:00 to 17:00,
April - from 9:00 to 18:00,
May, June, July, August - from 9:00 to 19:00,
September - from 9:00 to 18:00,
October - from 9:00 to 17:00,
November and December - from 10:00 to 17:00.
The ticket office closes an hour earlier.

Parco delle Cascate di Molina

Waterfalls Park in Molina - budget at least 3 hours for a visit, or better yet the whole day. There are two walking routes in the park: the shorter one is marked in red, the longer one is marked in black. On the “black” route the views are more beautiful. There are queues for tickets at the height of the season. The ticket costs 6 €.
Park operating schedule in 2019:
from March 31 to September 30 - daily from 9.00 to 19.30 (last entry at 17.30),
from October 1 to November 4 - daily from 10.00 to 18.00 (last entry at 16.00),
from November 5 to March 30 open on Sundays and holidays from 10.00 to 15.30 (last entry at 14.00). The park is closed from December 21 to January 5. In winter it closes in case of unfavorable weather.

Sanctuary of the Mountain Madonna

In the mountains of the eastern part of the lake there is a church Santuario Madonna della Corona, carved into the rock. You can get there from the village of Spiazzi on foot or by bus. Stop at the trattoria Speranza. Round trip ticket 3 €.

Viewpoint at Santuario Di Montecastello

Church Santuario Di Montecastello next to Gardola on the western shore of the lake - people come here for the views of the lake.

Thermal Park del Garda in Cola

The thermal park in Cola in the mountains (see map near Lazise) is an artificial lake with a grotto and a jacuzzi. The water temperature in its different parts is +35-39 degrees. Transparent plastic curtains are installed from the building where the cafe, sauna, bar is located to the entrance to the water during the cold season.

Trento and Rovereto