Where to Stay in Lake Garda

Like many other touristic destinations, Lake Garda offers a lot of opportunities to stay and to suit every taste and budget. Luxurious villas with a private pool, cozy apartments in the heart of a lively town, or a rustic campsite by the lake, you’ll find it here.

Maybe you thought all accommodations were just hotels, apartments, and campsites? Think again! Lake Garda is a playground for the quirky and unconventional, offering a range of unique and downright bizarre places to stay.

Treehouses, Houseboats, Castels, Underground dwellings… why not step outside the box and try one of these unique and unforgettable accommodations? Anyway, this guide will lead you to the perfect choice in terms of geographic distances, relax and comfort and cost-quality ratio.

Best staying options by strategy location

Lake Garda offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, let’s first consider the proximity of your accommodation to the attractions and activities you want to enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of the best staying options based on location strategy:

Strategy towns on Northern Lake Garda

For those seeking a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of water sports and outdoor activities, Riva del Garda is an excellent choice. It offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments. Riva del Garda is a great base for exploring other parts of Lake Garda, including the Desenzano del Garda and the historic city of Verona.

You can also reach the town of Torbole, the nearby mountains or visit the medieval Castle of Arco and even explore the charming villages of Tenno and Nago. Someone said Torbole? If you’re a windsurfing enthusiast, Torbole is the place to be. It has a lively beach scene and a good selection of hotels and apartments. Even from Torbole, you can easily reach the village of Arco, the nearby towns of Nago and Torri del Benaco.

Malcesine is a popular choice too, as it’s well-connected by boat and road. The town offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the iconic Scaliger Castle. Next, we have Limone sul Garda. Limone offers beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and a variety of water sports opportunities. Its secluded location makes Limone a perfect destination to easily reach all the northern or western towns of Lake Garda.

Strategy towns on Western Lake Garda

Known for its historic castle and thermal baths, Sirmione is a popular tourist destination. It offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming bed and breakfasts, of course is not the cheapest option to stay on Lake Garda. Starting from here, you’ll find the bustling town of Desenzano del Garda to the north, and to the east, Bardolino. Don’t miss exploring the stunning island of Isola del Garda, accessible by boat and offering a peaceful retreat.

Desenzano del Garda offers a mix of history, culture, and nightlife. It’s a great base for exploring the western part of the lake and has a variety of accommodation options, from family-friendly hotels to romantic apartments. From Desenzano, you can easily reach Sirmione or the nearby vineyards of Bardolino. Additionally, with its famous Arena amphitheater and Juliet’s House, Verona is within easy reach by train or car from Desenzano.

Gargnano offer strategic advantages as places to stay on Lake Garda. Located on the western shore of the lake, Gargnano serves as a central hub with excellent transportation connections. Its proximity to the main highways and ferry routes allows for easy access to other destinations around the lake and beyond. Additionally, Gargnano’s central location provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding towns, vineyards, and natural attractions.

Strategy towns on Eastern Lake Garda

Bardolino is a natural beauty leaning on Lake Garda shores. It offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. It offers a good selection of hotels, apartments, and villas. From the town center, you can easily reach the town of Garda or the town of Malcesine, offering opportunities for hiking to the top of Monte Baldo.

For your journey between the towns you’ll find a variety of transportation options to suit your needs. You can rent a car for maximum flexibility, take a scenic train ride between towns, hop on a bus for convenient transportation, or enjoy a relaxing ferry trip across the lake.

Garda is known for its medieval castle and stunning views of the lake. It offers a range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments. Just a short drive away is the historic town of Lazise, You can also explore the beautiful surrounding countryside, with its olive groves, vineyards, and charming villages.

Peschiera del Garda serves as a gateway to the entire region. Its strategic location, at the southern tip of the lake, provides easy access to major highways and transportation links and makes it a convenient base for exploring both the lake and the surrounding areas. Additionally, Peschiera’s historic center, charming piazzas, and proximity to Gardaland theme park make it a popular choice for tourists.

Lazise, another pretty town on the southern shore of Lake Garda, offers a similar blend of convenience and charm. Its central location provides easy access to various attractions, including the beautiful town of Bardolino, the charming village of Castelnuovo del Garda, and the renowned thermal baths of Sirmione.

Best staying option for cost-quality ratio

Want to make the most of your money? You won’t have to sacrifice any of the beauty and charm that Lake Garda has for you. This stunning Italian lake offers a variety of accommodation options that won’t break the bank without sacrificing comfort or quality. Let’s dive into the best staying options for those looking to get the most bang for their buck.

Apartments

Apartments provide a more personalized and flexible living experience compared to traditional hotels. With a kitchen, living area, and separate bedrooms, you have the freedom to cook your own meals, relax in your own space, and enjoy the comforts of home.

Lake Garda boasts a variety of charming towns and villages where you can find exceptional apartments. Some of the most popular areas include Desenzano del Garda, Sirmione and Bardolino, each one with its own peculiarities.

The price of apartments on Lake Garda can vary depending, from a budget-friendly apartment (in a less touristy area) for around €50-€80 per night; to luxury ones with premium features around €200 per night. It is suggested if more than 4 people.

Bed and breakfast

Bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) offer a unique and intimate travel experience, providing a home away from home. With their personalized service, comfortable accommodations, and often delicious homemade breakfasts, B&Bs cater to those seeking a more relaxed and authentic journey.

For a truly romantic getaway, the bed and breakfasts located along the magical shores of Lake Garda in are the best choice. Each one offers its own distinctive character and ambiance. For example, in Malcesine or Bardolino, you can find the perfect B&B to suit your preferences.

The price range for bed and breakfasts on Lake Garda start around €80 per night. As you venture towards more upscale establishments in popular tourist destinations, prices can climb to €150 or more. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that many B&Bs offer excellent value for money, providing a comfortable and memorable stay.

Hostel

Hostels provide clean, comfortable accommodations and a chance to meet fellow travelers from around the world. Many hostels also offer communal areas, such as kitchens and lounges, where you can relax, socialize, and save money on meals. They are the preferred choice of solo travelers.

You’ll find a wide selection of hostels in popular towns like Riva del Garda, Bardolino, and Desenzano del Garda. These towns offer a variety of hostels, from basic budget options to more upscale accommodations with amenities like swimming pools and on-site bars.

You can expect to find budget hostels for as little as €15-20 per night, while more upscale options may cost €30-40 or more. For example, a basic hostel in Riva del Garda might cost around €15 per night, while a hostel with a pool and a bar in Bardolino could cost €35 per night.

Top quality Hotel

Unlike many other destinations, top-quality hotel in Lake Garda are incredibly worth to stay. The luxury and the amenities that come with that will let you join every second of your staying. There are hotels in various styles and locations, from historic properties to modern resorts.

The mid-range options ranges from €100 to €200 per night, offering comfortable accommodations and additional amenities, but the Luxury options, from €300 per night or more, provide high-end services and some unique amenities that you can’t find anywhere else.

Indulge in sunbathing and swimming at private beaches, relax and rejuvenate in thermal spas, sample local wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions in wine cellars, play a round of golf with stunning lake views, this is the zero worries vacation!

Resort

Resorts offer a luxurious escape from everyday life, providing a haven of relaxation, comfort, and indulgence. For a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, resorts cater to diverse preferences with their comprehensive amenities and personalized services. From world-class spas and gourmet dining to pristine beaches and exciting activities, resorts offer an all-inclusive experience.

From historic properties with charming architecture to modern complexes with state-of-the-art facilities, Lake Garda offers a variety of resort options to cater to every budget and preference.

Luxury resorts with private pools, spa treatments, and gourmet dining experiences can cost upwards of €500 per night. Mid-range resorts with comfortable accommodations, basic amenities, and access to lake activities typically range from €200 to €400 per night. Budget-friendly options, such as guesthouses and apartments, may be available for as little as €100 per night.

Villas

Here some Villas, from traditional italian villas to modern villas, in these flexible rental option you will find ample space for your family or group with private gardens, pools and all outdoor areas and amenities. Many villas offer breathtaking views of the lake, spa and relaxing activities.

Villas are scattered throughout the Lake Garda region, but you’ll find a higher concentration in the following areas: Riva del Garda, Torbole, Desenzano del Garda, Sirmione, Bardolino and Garda.

The price of a villa on Lake Garda can vary significantly depending on its size, location, amenities, and season. However, you can generally expect €500 – €1000 per night for a budget-friendly visit, €1000 – €2500 per night for a mid-range, and a €2500+ per night for a Luxury.

Unique staying option on Lake Garda

Lake Garda offers a variety of unique accommodation options that go beyond the traditional hotel or apartment. Live among the trees in a cozy and eco-friendly treehouse, a whole new perspective by staying on a houseboat, a historic castle converted into a hotel or an underground dwelling.

1. Grand Hotel Villa Feltrinelli (Gargnano)

The Grand Hotel Villa Feltrinelli is housed in a historic villa dating back to the 19th century, offering a blend of elegance, history, and modern amenities. This historic villa, once the private residence of a prominent Italian family, has been transformed into a world-class hotel that offers an unforgettable experience.

The hotel’s stunning architecture and lush gardens create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The interior design is a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary styles, featuring exquisite furnishings, artwork, and antique details. Each room and suite is meticulously appointed with the finest amenities, ensuring utmost comfort and luxury.

Guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delicacies at the hotel’s award-winning restaurants. From gourmet Italian cuisine to international specialties, the chefs expertly craft dishes that tantalize the taste buds. The hotel’s wine cellar boasts an impressive collection of fine wines, perfect for pairing with your meal.

2. TreeLodgy, The Tree House (Riva del Garda)

TreeLodgy is a tree house room with terrace and spa bath in Riva del Garda. Guests can avail of all the resort facilities including a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a bar and garden. The unit comes with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a bidet, a hairdryer and a wardrobe.

The resort features a collection of charming treehouses, each designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. The treehouses are built using sustainable materials and offer modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm. Guests can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains from their private balconies.

Popular points of interest near TreeLodgy include MAG Museo Alto Garda, Riva del Garda Congress Center and Riva del Garda Ferry Terminal. The nearest airport is Verona, 34 mi from the resort, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

3. Houseboats

Houseboating gives you the freedom to explore the lake at your own pace. Anchor in secluded coves, dock in charming towns, or simply drift along the shoreline, taking in the stunning scenery. Instead of staying in a traditional hotel or apartment, you’ll be living on the water, surrounded by nature.

Modern houseboats are equipped with all the comforts of home, including kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Some even have air conditioning and heating. You can make the best of this accomodation visiting charming towns and villages directly along the lake, navigate from one to other.

The price of a houseboat vacation on Lake Garda can vary depending on the common factories like time of the year, duration, size of the boat and amenities. More or less, as a general guideline, you can expect to pay between €1,000 and €3,000 per week for a houseboat rental on Lake Garda. This price will include the rental of the houseboat, fuel, and basic amenities.

Ready to plan your vacation to Lake Garda? Start organizing your ideal trip by consulting our other guides and resources. We can’t wait to hear about your adventure!