A holiday at Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, meets any tourist’s expectations. It is not without reason that the lake has always been of great inspiration to artists and writers; the mild climate, the vigorous and varied nature, the many vestiges from Antiquity and not least the hospitality and warm atmosphere make Lake Garda welcoming.

The old charming cities and new modern centres with all facilities give diversity to the place. You will find room for relaxation, the wild night life, nice trips to the many attractions in the area, beautiful flower parks and the famous amusement park, Gardaland. If you want an active holiday, you will find all kinds of water sports, you can rent bikes and there are cable cars; or how about some wonderful trekking in the scenic nature?

The landscape of Lake Garda

The lake itself is 50 km long and 12 km on the widest spot and not more than 4-5 km on the narrowest spot. To the North and to the West, the rock walls rise dramatically in an upright position. Otherwise, the lake is surrounded by green olive groves and vineyards. Vegetation is very rich and varied.

Large cities near Lake Garda: Garda, Bardolino and Sirmione

Lake Garda is divided between the provinces, Verona and Brescia, and the region, Trentino. The city of Garda is a wonderful city with a well-constructed promenade along the lake with shops and restaurants.

Bardolino is one of the beautiful towns near Lake Garda located on the south-eastern shores of the lake. The town has the same name as the recognised wine district; however, the town also offers a wonderful promenade, historical churches and nice biking and hiking trips in the surrounding area.

Sirmione is located in the southern part of Lake Garda and offers historical monuments such as Grotte di Catullo, which is a fantastic example of a Roman home, the medieval fortress, Castle del Scaliger, from the 13th century and the church, San Pietro in Mavino, that has beautiful frescos from the 12th century.

Tourist attractions by Lake Garda

In Verona, East of Lake Garda, everybody can quench their need for shopping in the shopping street, Via Mazzini. Furthermore, you can experience an authentic Italian opera as well as the famous balcony where Juliet met her Romeo.

South of Lazise, you will find the large and famous amusement park, Gardaland, which is worth a visit for the whole family. A little further south, you can visit the fantastically beautiful flower park, Parco Sigurta. Close to Bardolino, you will find a good and interesting safari park.

North of the lake, you will find the beautiful town, Arco, which was formerly known as a spa town, but also for its many palm trees.

In the charming town, Malcesine, you will find the fascinating medieval castle, Palazza dei Capitani. In the small paved streets, you will experience a genuine Italian atmosphere.

Sports activities by Lake Garda

The area has a lot to offer with regards to water sports; windsurfing, kite surfing, water-skiing, paragliding, hang gliding, etc. Furthermore, you can do horseback riding; you can sail as well as play tennis and golf.

Gastronomic characteristics of the area around Lake Garda

Lake Garda is situated in the Veneto region. The cuisine of Veneto is characterised by fresh fish and shellfish in the coastal areas, and this is cooked in a simple, tasty and elegant way.

Inland in the region, they will more often serve meat; and butter is used more frequently than olive oil here. Veal, pork, lamb, horse, sausages and hams are often on the menu just as Veneto’s famous cheeses made from sheep’s, cow’s and goat’s milk.

The most famous wines from the area is Amarone and Valpolicella Classico that are really worth tasting.

The climate of Lake Garda

The climate is wonderfully mild with many hours of sunshine and temperatures in the summer reaching 30 degrees in the daytime.

Some of the photos are kindly lent out from the Italian Tourist Office. Photographers: Vito Arcomano - Fototeca ENIT