Italy’s largest lake spans three regions and is home to Roman ruins, sandy beaches and striking natural beauty. More than twenty towns rest against Lake Garda’s banks, from the famous castle peninsula of Sirmione to hidden gems, such as the colourful fishing village of Torri del Benaco.

Things to do

Head north to the town of Malcesine, where visitors can scale the impressive Castello Scaligero. While Monte Baldo is stunning to look at from the castle tower, don’t miss out on a cable car ride to the top, where you can see the entirety of Lake Garda.

Sirmione is a must-see city on the southern tip of Lake Garda. Enter the old town by stepping across the drawbridge of Scaligero Castle, then make your way through narrow cobblestone streets to Catullo’s Grotto, a well-preserved Roman villa at the edge of Sirmione’s peninsula.

Outdoor enthusiasts should head to Torbole, home to an abundance of canyon and lake adventures, including kayaking, abseiling, hiking and surfing. Bussate Storm Panorama Trail is a terrific nature walk that reveals native flora and fauna, along with spectacular views over Lake Garda and its villages.

Getting around

Lake Garda is easily accessible by air, as the closest airport, Verona-Villafranca, is just nine miles away. Trains stop at two towns along Lake Garda’s southern shore, Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano. Ferries are a convenient way to access multiple towns in one day and make travelling to the northern shore a scenic journey in itself.