When the stress of everyday life in Munich gets to you, relief is relatively close at hand: In about five hours by car and roughly 420 kilometers, you’ll swap the Isar for azure-blue water, Aperol, and authentic espresso. In northern Italy , a true classic offers the perfect destination for a dream vacation or a relaxing week-long getaway. Here are our tips for your stay at “Lago di Garda”!
The Most Beautiful Places on Lake Garda
Lake Garda is also known as the “Gateway to the South.” With an impressive area of about 370 km² and a length of over 51 kilometers, it is not only Italy’s largest lake but also incredibly diverse. If you head down there for a weekend, you can experience completely different worlds within a very small area.
At the very southern end, the historic old town of Sirmione stretches far out into the lake on a narrow peninsula. Stroll through the imposing Castello Scaligero and enjoy a true Mediterranean vibe away from the mountains. On the lake’s western shore, meanwhile, the picturesque town of Limone sul Garda nestles right against the steep cliffs. The town is famous for its quaint lemon groves, beautiful narrow streets, and enchanting evening atmosphere. In addition, one should definitely mention the town of Malcesine, the heart of the eastern shore, which delights visitors with its cobblestone streets, colorful fishing boats, and a spectacular Scaliger Castle right on the shore.
Activities & Cooling Off: Between Mountain Panoramas and Lake Breezes
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or simply want to float for hours in the clear water, the range of activities on Lake Garda leaves nothing to be desired. An absolute must-do in the north near Riva del Garda is the Strada del Ponale. This cycling and hiking trail, carved into the rocks, offers breathtaking views down into the azure-blue lake and is perfect for all sports enthusiasts. Another great excursion option is the Monte Baldo cable car: From Malcesine, the rotating gondola takes you up to an altitude of about 1,760 meters in just a few minutes. At the top, you’ll find cool mountain air, stunning hiking trails, and a view that stretches all the way to the lowlands.
If you’re looking to cool off, Jamaica Beach is the perfect spot. True sun worshippers are drawn to the flat limestone cliffs of the Sirmione Peninsula, where a fantastic swimming spot awaits you—one that, depending on the water level, can only be reached from the water. Alternatively, on the gentle eastern shore, you’ll find Spiaggia d’Oro near Lazise—one of the few true sandy beaches along the lake’s shore—whose shallow, calm waters are ideal for relaxing days at the beach with the family.
To fully experience that authentic “dolce vita” feeling, your best bet is to rent a classic Vespa for a day and zip along the picturesque lakeside roads from town to town with the wind in your face. You can find an overview of various Vespa rental shops here.
Cuisine for the Soul
A short trip to Lake Garda is one thing above all else: a journey for the palate. Avoid the tourist traps and stick to the local specialties.
- Olive Oil & Wine Tastings: A detour to the rolling hills of Valtènesi or Bardolino is a must. Stop by one of the many wineries, sample the typical olive oil from Lake Garda, and stock up on a few bottles for your pantry back home. Our tip: At the Calvino Gusto Supremo farm shop, you’ll also find high-quality Grana Padano and many other regionally produced delicacies. There’s no better souvenir to bring back from your vacation!
- Pizza & Pasta: Skip the tourist traps and keep an eye out for small osterias or trattorias in the countryside. Try a crispy stone-oven pizza topped with the finest fior di latte, homemade tortelli, and delicate ribbon pasta, over which fresh Monte Baldo truffles are shaved right at your table. Here you’ll find Italian classics of the highest quality!
- The perfect aperitif: Round off your evenings with an ice-cold glass of Lugana or a classic Aperol Spritz along the waterfront promenade in Bardolino or Salò.
Secret Tips for Getting There
The best time to visit for short trips is May through June and September through October. Temperatures are pleasantly mild, and you’ll avoid the heavy holiday traffic on the Brenner Highway. If you prefer a traffic-free journey , you can rely on public transportation—for example, taking the DB train from Munich Central Station with one transfer to Peschiera del Garda.
