Welcome to Lake Garda in Italy, one of our favourite countries to visit in Europe!
Use the map below to look for the most popular towns, landmarks and best things to do.
Below the map, you can find what the destinations are famous for.
Early modern history
In the early modern period, Lake Garda’s control frequently changed hands.
Initially dominated by the Visconti family from Milan, the region later came under the Venetian Republic’s influence around the middle ages and 15th century, particularly after Venice defeated the Scaligeri family and weakened the Visconti.
This led to a period where parts of Lake Garda enjoyed a degree of autonomy under Venetian rule, which allowed local governance in exchange for loyalty.
Why is Lake Garda so famous?
Throughout history, from ancient times to now, Lake Garda also known as Lago di Garda has captivated empires and people. This mix of influences has given the area a diverse culture.
On the eastern shore, old villages with walls full of stories stand tall and visitors are very curious to learn about it. Its beauty and unique landscape attract travelers from all over the world, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy.
FUN FACT: Italy has won for six consecutive years Best Destination of the World Award and Hotel Feltrinelli on Lake Garda Best Hotel Award.
But what makes Lake Garda REALLY famous?
For starters, its size. With a surface area of 369.98 square kilometers, it is the largest lake in Italy and the third largest in Europe. It also has a stunning location at the foot of the Alps, with picturesque towns and villages surrounding its shores.
Lake Garda Italy Map with best places to see
Many beautiful cities on Garda Lake offer a perfect base for a day of sightseeing on Lake Garda.
The interactive Google Map map of Lake Garda in Italy provided here is an essential tool to help you navigate the area.
Where is Lago di Garda located?
Lake Garda, or Lago di Garda in Italian, is located in Northern Italy between the regions of Lombardy, the Veneto region, and Trentino-Alto Adige.
Must-Visit Towns on Lake Garda
Riva del Garda
Located at the northern Lake Garda, Riva del Garda is known for its rugged mountains and vibrant windsurfing scene. The town blends Italian charm with a hint of Austrian influence, reflecting its historical past under the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
The Rocca di Riva, a medieval fortress turned museum, was a highlight of our visit, offering not just history but stunning views from its towers.
Sirmione
Sirmione sits on a slender peninsula that juts into Lake Garda and is famed for its thermal baths and the Rocca Scaligera also known as “Scaliger Castle”, a beautifully preserved castle.
Walking through the castle gave us panoramic views that were gorgeous, and the nearby Grotte di Catullo, ruins of a Roman villa, felt like stepping back in time. The town is also home to the Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of a Roman villa.
Malcesine
On the lake’s eastern shores, Malcesine is dominated by its castle, Castello Scaligero, which hosts a museum and provides stunning lake views.
The town is also the gateway to Monte Baldo, accessible via a cable car ride that offers spectacular views of the lake from above and opportunities for hiking or paragliding. It’s a perfect spot for those who love a bit of adrenaline with their culture.
Bardolino
Bardolino is an amazing wine region, even though it is often overlooked by Valpolicella. Lucky for you, there is a blog post about all the best up and coming wine regions in the world!
During the autumn wine festival, Bardolino comes to life. Strolling along the lakefront, wine glass in hand, and exploring the local shops was as relaxing as it was delightful.
The vineyards around the town offer a deeper dive into the local wine-making tradition.
Lazise
With its medieval castle and ancient walls, Lazise offers a picturesque setting along with family-friendly beaches and a charming old harbor. It’s an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy a quieter side of Lake Garda while still having access to cafes and gelaterias.
Garda Town
Named after the lake itself, Garda Town is known as the place to be for a vibrant stroll, bustling with restaurants and shops. Nearby, Punta San Vigilio and Baia delle Sirene provide tranquil escapes with beautiful beaches and lush gardens.
Desenzano del Garda
As the largest town on the shoreline, Desenzano combines nightlife, shopping, and culture, making it a popular destination for those seeking a more lively atmosphere. The town also boasts several historical sites, including a Roman villa with well-preserved mosaics.
Torri del Benaco
This charming village features an ancient harbor, a medieval castle with a citrus grove, and a museum dedicated to the local fishing industry and olive oil production. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxing day trip.
Limone sul Garda
Limone sul Garda, nestled on the lake’s western shores, is celebrated for its picturesque lanes and historic fishing village charm. The town is famously known for its lemon groves, which thrived during earlier centuries.
Visitors often explore the old lemon houses and enjoy scenic walks along the lakeside promenade, appreciating the tranquil waters and the lush, mountainous backdrop.
Our trip to Limone sul Garda last summer was unforgettable. We wrote a dedicated blog post featuring our 3 day itinerary of this trip.
Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda is a charming town located at the southern end of Lake Garda. Its strategic location, surrounded by water on three sides, made it an important military fortress in ancient times. Today, this picturesque town boasts a lively harbor and colorful buildings that line its streets.
One of the highlights of our trip to Peschiera del Garda was exploring the impressive fortifications that still stand today. We also enjoyed strolling through the bustling market square and indulging in some delicious local cuisine at one of the many restaurants overlooking the lake.
Tremosine sul Garda
Perched high above the western shore of Lake Garda, Tremosine is a collection of 18 hamlets spread over a wide area. The drive along Strada della Forra, often called one of the most scenic roads in Europe, winds through gorges and tunnels carved into cliffs.
Once in Tremosine, you can explore the Pieve, a stunning village with narrow alleys that open unexpectedly to vistas of the lake below. It’s a haven for food lovers too, with restaurants offering local specialties like truffles and freshwater fish.
Gargnano
This quiet lakeside town is less frequented by tourists and maintains an old-world charm with its elegant villas and peaceful gardens.
Gargnano offers a more laid-back atmosphere, ideal for those in search to escape the hustle and bustle of the more popular Lake Garda towns.
The historic lemon houses—large stone columns used historically for growing lemons, now often beautiful ruins or restored structures nestled among olive groves.
The town also hosts a series of literary and cultural events throughout the year, reflecting its history as a retreat for intellectuals, including the famous writer D.H. Lawrence.
Tignale
Tignale is a gateway to the Alto Garda Bresciano Park, making it a prime location for hiking and mountain biking. The sanctuary of Montecastello dates back to the 16th century is perched on a rocky ledge overlooking the lake, is a must-visit for its peace and historical art.
Tignale also prides itself on its sustainable tourism initiatives, including guided nature walks and eco-friendly accommodations.
San Felice del Benaco
This small village is located on a quiet peninsula on the western shore of the lake. It’s known for its beautiful scenery, olive groves, and a charming old town center. San Felice del Benaco is perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a slower pace of life.
You can visit the Isola del Garda, a private island with a neo-Gothic villa and lush gardens that are open for tours.
Back on the mainland, the town’s historical center offers quaint shops and cafés amidst ancient buildings. The local wineries around San Felice del Benaco are less commercial and offer intimate tasting sessions, often with the winemakers themselves.
Cassone
A tiny village near Malcesine, Cassone is home to the world’s shortest river, the Aril. This picturesque spot is often overlooked but offers a lot of tranquility with its lovely fishing harbor.
The Museo del Lago, located right in Cassone, showcases traditional fishing techniques and boats, offering insights into the lake’s historical relationship with its surrounding communities.
How do you get to Lake Garda?
Lake Garda is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. If you are coming from another major city in Italy, such as Milan or Venice, there are direct trains that can take you to one of the many towns surrounding the lake. Alternatively, you can also rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque countryside.
By Bus:
If you are coming from Verona, some buses run to Lake Garda multiple times a day. The journey takes about an hour and is very affordable.
By Train:
The nearest train station to Lake Garda is located in the small town of Peschiera del Garda. From there, you can easily take a bus or taxi to your desired destination around the lake.
By Car:
Driving to Lake Garda is also a popular option, especially for those who want more flexibility in their travels. There are several highways that connect to different towns on the lake so you can choose the best route based on your starting point.
When we travel, we always rent our car with Discover Cars. Their platform is straightforward and user-friendly, offering a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices.
Accommodation Options Visiting Lake Garda
Luxury
QC Termegarda Spa & Golf Resort located 3.1 miles from Lake Garda and Padenghe, features a wellness center, an 18-hole championship golf course, and a 9-hole course, with rooms offering free Wi-Fi and views of the golf course or spa.
Conti Thun Wine Resort in Puegnago offers luxurious accommodations with amenities including a restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool, plus free WiFi and private parking, all set in a scenic garden setting near Spiaggia La Romantica.
Mid Range
Park Hotel Ville Montefiori nestled in lush parkland just a 5-minute walk from Lake Garda, features a wellness center, two swimming pools, and air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, all close to the center of Gardone Riviera.
Hotel Augusta Garnì located lakefront in Limone sul Garda, offers an outdoor pool and serves breakfast on a large terrace with scenic views of Lake Garda or the mountains.
Budget
Agricampeggio Paradiso nestled in Monzambano’s countryside amidst an apple tree plantation, offers modern apartments and classic ground-floor rooms with garden access, situated between Lake Garda and Mantova.
Best time to visit Lake Garda Italy
The best time to visit Lake Garda is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying water activities and exploring the towns around the lake.
However, if you prefer a quieter and less crowded experience, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May or September.
Conclusion
It’s a wrap for this blog post!
We hope you found our Lake Garde map helpful, let us know in the comments below which destinations you chose to visit!
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