I know, you are craving to enjoy a peacefull weekend on Lake Garda but you don’t know where to start planning. Don’t worry, go on reading these lines and you will find all the answers to your doubts.
In just three days, you can go from sipping wine in a vineyard to hiking up a mountain. You’ll see castles, taste amazing food, and probably even spot a few celebrities (okay, maybe not).
If you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and delicious food, Lake Garda is the perfect destination. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your three-day trip:
Day 1 – An historical full immersion
Start your trip in Sirmione, a charming town on a peninsula jutting out into the lake. Visit the Scaliger Castle, explore the historical center, or simply relax on the beach. After lunch, head to Desenzano del Garda, a vibrant town with a lively atmosphere.
Morning – Visit the beautiful Sirmione
To start your morning in Sirmione with style, I recommend having breakfast in one of the many pastry shops in the historic center. Try a fresh croissant, a stuffed brioche or a typical sbrisolona, accompanied by a hot cappuccino. Then go on with a morning walk along the shores of the Lake, while admiring the local fishermen casting their nets.
If you’re history and culture enthusiast, a visit to the Scaliger Castle at dawn is an unforgettable experience. The medieval towers, which stand out against the backdrop of the lake, seem even more majestic shrouded in the morning mist. Alternatively you can reach Grotte di Catullo, an UNESCO site near the city historic center.
Otherwise, if you prefer a more relaxing experience, you can take a swim in the neat waters of the lake or simply relax on one of the many beaches. Until head to Desenzano del Garda, choose one of the best restaurant of Sirmione, where you can try some tagliatelle alla trota e asparagi (trout and asparagus pasta).
From Sirmione to Desenzano del Garda
The train ride from Sirmione to Desenzano del Garda takes 21 minutes and covers 4.8 miles.
The distance between Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda is 3.8 miles and it should take 12 minutes to drive there.
It takes 1 hour and 26 minutes to walk from Sirmione to Desenzano del Garda. The distance is 3.8 miles.
Afternoon and evening – Relax at Desenzano del Garda
Arrive in Desenzano del Garda. The historic center of the town, a labyrinth of narrow streets and charming squares, invites visitors to delve into its rich past. The Roman Villa of Desenzano, a well-preserved archaeological site, provides a glimpse into the town’s ancient heritage. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maddalena, a beautiful Gothic church, offers a tranquil respite and a place of worship.
As the sun begins its descent, Desenzano’s waterfront promenade becomes a lively hub of activity. Stroll along the lakeside, taking in the breathtaking views of the Alps and the shimmering waters. Stop for a refreshing drink at one of the many bars, Spritz is a must-do!
For those seeking adventure, the town offers a variety of water sports, including boating, swimming, and windsurfing. After a day of exploration and recreation, indulge in a delicious meal at one of Desenzano’s many restaurants. Not tired yet? As the sun sets, Desenzano’s nightlife comes alive. Clubs, bars and street festive ambiance will satisfy your fun needs.
Day 2 – Activities on Lake Garda are calling!
Spend the morning in Bardolino, an artistic town known for its wine production. Take a boat tour of the lake, visit a winery for a tasting, or simply enjoy the stunning views. In the afternoon, head to Garda, the largest town on Lake Garda. Explore the historical center, visit the botanical gardens, or take a cable car ride to the top of Monte Baldo.
Morning – Outdoor activities in Bardolino
The morning air is filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. Many hotels in Bardolino offer stunning lake views, providing guests with the perfect opportunity to enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
For those seeking a more active start to their day, Bardolino offers a variety of outdoor activities. Explore the charming historic center, visit the Chiesa di San Zeno, or rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside. The scenic bike paths offer stunning views of the lake and vineyards, enjoying a peaceful and relaxing escape.
As lunchtime approaches, Bardolino’s restaurants and cafes come alive with the enticing aroma of fresh, local cuisine. Indulge in a delicious meal of fish, pasta, or risotto al tastasal, accompanied by a glass of Bardolino wine. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating just near the lake water, giving you the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch.
From Bardolino to Garda
The train ride from Bardolino to Garda town takes 17 minutes and covers 2.3 miles.
It will take 9 minutes to drive from Bardolino to Garda town. The distance is 2.3 miles.
It takes 48 minutes to walk from Bardolino to Garda town. The distance is 2.2 miles.
Afternoon and evening – Savor Garda’s products
Garda is the largest town on the shores of Lake Garda. Its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and lively squares create a unique atmosphere even in the afternoon. This is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the town.
A stroll through the historic center, among the artisan shops and noble palaces; a walk into the botanical garden, an oasis of peace, offers a wide variety of plants and flowers; and if you’re not enough jaded, the cable car to Monte Baldo is an unforgettable experience.
As the day goes by, Garda’s waterfront become the ideal spot for a romantic walk. The local cuisine, rich in authentic flavors, offers a wide selection of dishes based on fresh fish and typical products, like spaghetti al sugo di mare.
Day 3 – Enjoy nature and landscapes
Start your day in Limone sul Garda, a charming town surrounded by lemon groves. Visit the botanical gardens, take a boat ride to the nearby islands, or simply relax on the beach. In the afternoon, head to Malcesine, a peculiar town with a medieval castle.
Morning – Lemon scent in Limone sul Garda
The town’s name, Limone, is a testament to its abundance of lemon groves. The air is filled with the refreshing scent of citrus, creating a truly invigorating experience. One of the highlights of visiting Limone is the opportunity to explore the botanical gardens. These beautifully landscaped gardens showcase a diverse collection of plants and flowers, including exotic species from around the world.
For those seeking a more active start to their day, Limone offers a variety of outdoor activities. Take a boat ride to the nearby islands, explore the hiking trails in the surrounding hills, or simply relax on one of the town’s beaches.
As the morning progresses, you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast on a terrace overlooking the lake, but try not have it too late because there are a lot of incredible restaurants that will serve you lunch between 12am to 2pm, don’t miss bigoli, Limone sul Garda’s specialty.
From Limone sul Garda to Malcesine
It is not possible to directly reach Malcesine from Limone sul Garda, considering that are on the opposite side of the Lake.
Boat ride is around 25 minutes and costs around 10 €.
It is not possible to directly reach Malcesine from Limone sul Garda, considering that are on the opposite side of the Lake.
Afternoon and evening – Postcard from Malcesine
As the afternoon sun begins to descend, Malcesine transforms into a singular haven for relaxation and exploration. The town’s historic center, dominated by the imposing Scaliger Castle, is a delightful place to wander. The castle itself offers stunning panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, making it a must-visit attraction.
Malcesine is even a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. town is a popular destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the consistent winds that blow across the lake. The nearby Monte Baldo offers a variety of hiking and biking trails, providing breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. For a truly unforgettable experience, take a boat trip to the nearby island of Isola del Garda.
Where sun is almost set, enjoy the sky’s red colours from waterfront, drinking some aperitivo in a bar. End your trip with a real italian dinner at these historic restaurant of Malcesine, you won’t regret it!
Trip Highlights
- Day 1: morning in Sirmione and afternoon in Desenzano del Garda.
- Day 2: morning in Bardolino and afternoon in Garda.
- Day 3: morning in Limone sul Garda and afternoon in Malcesine.
Lake Garda is just the beginning. With its water adventures, charming villages, and delicious cuisine, it will ignite your desire to explore italian lakes even more. What’s your next destination?
