Lake Garda travel guide
Lake Garda travel guide
Rachael
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Are you planning a trip to Lake Garda but don't know where to start? I put this Lake Garda guide together whilst I was planning my trip to Lake Garda so you don't have to do the research as well.
I have included the closest airports you will likely use, the best towns to visit during your stay including day trips and where to stay and eat during your trip.
If you would like a more personalised recommendations list then you can refer to my services.
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Towns to visit
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Sirmione
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It’s known for its thermal baths and Rocca Scaligera, a medieval castle overlooking the lake.
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Peschiera del Garda
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This is where I based myself for 5 days on Lake Garda. The 16th-century Porta Verona is one of the gateways in the old city walls that ring the historic center.
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Limone Sul Garda
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Limone sul Garda is the northernmost town on the Brescia side of Lake Garda. The town is nestled in the mountains, so that until a few decades ago it was not easily connected to the other towns on the lake.
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Riva del Garda
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Riva del Garda is a resort in northern Italy, on Lake Garda’s northern shore. Strong winds make it a popular windsurfing destination.
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Garda
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The small town, which gives its name to Lake Garda, is one of the most popular destinations in the Italy sections of the lakes and mountains holiday brochures.
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Desenzano del Garda
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Desenzano del Garda has some pleasant winding historic streets between the town's castle on its hill, and the lakeshore below. A busy road runs along the edge of the lake, and on the inland side is a small peaceful harbour, where little boats are moored and swans glide about in front of several comfortable cafe-bars.
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Salò
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Salò is the largest city on the west shore of Lake Garda and is part of the province of Brescia. The old town centre is made of a dense net of alleys and small squares, with many stores and excellent restaurants. The enchanting promenade on the lakeshore is the longest on the whole Lake Garda. It takes to the idyllic, inviting gravel beaches in the south of the bay.
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If you are stuck on what to do then save time and follow my daily itinerary
Are you planning a trip to Lake Garda but don't know where to start? I put this 5-day Lake Garda itinerary together whilst I was planning my trip to Lake Garda so you don't have to do the research as well.
Is this right for you?
- You want to take the stress out of a planning a trip and have an itinerary planned for you
- You like to visit musems and churches
- You want a jam packed itinerary to see and do as much as possible
- You are travelling on a budget
If you said yes to any of these then this itinerary is right for you
Female Solo • Backpacker • Budget • People & Culture • Photography • Adventure • Architecture • Van Life • Foodie
$12.00
Places to eat
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Pizzeria Bar La Brema
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Pizzeria trattoria la rotonda
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NONNA DINA
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Bella Vista | Ristorante Pizzeria
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Pasticceria Torta della Nonna
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Bella Napoli
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HOSTARIA AL BUONGUSTO
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Focacceria Dal Piasarot
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Places to stay
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Meet Garda Lake Hostel
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Only 15 minutes by train from Verona, 1 hour from Milan and 1 hour 20 from Venice, Meet hostel is 2 minutes walking from the lake, 5 minutes walking from the city center of Peschiera del Garda, the beaches and the train station of Peschiera del Garda.
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Residence Bellavista
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The house is in a panoramic position above the bay of Manerba del Garda, in the center of the town, near services such as bakery, a butcher shop, supermarket, and news-stand. It has a kidney-shaped swimming pool (open from April to September) with loungers, a sun terrace and a small lawn with beach chairs. Outdoor Bar by the pool (open from May to September) is open daily from 18.30 pm and is accessible to the general public.
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Hotel Mauro
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A family-run hotel with a quiet location on the peninsula of Sirmione. It is close to the Virgilio Spa Centre, and offers free WiFi and a garden.
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Day trips from Lake Garda
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Verona
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Verona is only a 20 minute train from the southern side of Lake Garda and is a beautiful city to visit.
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Mantua
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One of Italy's major art cities, Mantua is surrounded by water and marked by a prestigious history. It is one of the most important towns in Lombardy, particularly from an artistic standpoint: Mantova is recounted among the imposing residences, museums and a perfectly preserved historical centre.
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Autonomous Province of Trento
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Featuring 118,000 inhabitants, Trento is the capital of the Trentino region and actually boasts a fascinating history. The city of Trento has a lot to offer: from palazzi and castles to a peaceful atmosphere, lots of culture and not to forget its oh-so tasty culinary delicacies!
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Bolzano
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If you would like a taste of the Dolomites then this is a great day trip. Taking the train up here can be a bit time consuming so renting a car would be the easiest way to read Bolzano.
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Bergamo
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A beautiful city located an hour outside of Milan and full of beautiful architecture and views. The Cittá Alta is worth a visit and you can take a ride from the funicular or enjoy the steep climb up the cobblestone steps.
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Brescia
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Rich in history and only a 30 minute train ride from Peschiera Del Garda.
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Nearby airports
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Venice Marco Polo Airport
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Milan Bergamo Airport
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I have flown in and out of this airport numerous times as you can find really cheap flights around Europe.
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Valerio Catullo Airport
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Check out more Italy guides
Are you planning a trip to Lake Garda but don't know where to start? I put this 5-day Lake Garda itinerary together whilst I was planning my trip to Lake Garda so you don't have to do the research as well.
Is this right for you?
- You want to take the stress out of a planning a trip and have an itinerary planned for you
- You like to visit musems and churches
- You want a jam packed itinerary to see and do as much as possible
- You are travelling on a budget
If you said yes to any of these then this itinerary is right for you
Female Solo • Backpacker • Budget • People & Culture • Photography • Adventure • Architecture • Van Life • Foodie
$12.00
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This guide includes:
- Tips for getting around
- Where to stay
- Things to do that aren't just for tourists
- Cafés, bars and restaurants
Follow me on Instagram and Tiktok @postcardsfromrachael
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If you are looking for the perfect 3 day itinerary in Florence to give you a good taste of Italy then this is the itinerary for you. You will explore the beautiful food and architecture that Tuscany.
This guide includes:
- Tips for getting around
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- Things to do that aren't just for tourists
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Follow me on Instagram and Tiktok @postcardsfromrachael
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If you are looking for the perfect 3 days or long weekend in Rome then this is the itinerary for you. You will explore the beautiful food and architecture that Italy's capital city has to offer.
This guide includes:
- Tips for getting around
- Where to stay
- Things to do that aren't just for tourists
- Cafés, bars and restaurants
Follow me on Instagram and Tiktok @postcardsfromrachael
$8.00
You can also follow me on Instagram and Tiktok for more free guides and itineries to help plan your trip to Lake Garda and the rest of Italy.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rachael
Available for hire
My name is Rachael and I am a travel content creator based in the UK local to the beautiful Cotswolds.
I first found my love for travel when I visited South Africa to volunteer for a month back in 2018. Since then I have visited numerous counties on a budget and spent 2 months travelling around Italy in 2022.
I have put together extensive travel guides and itineraries from my travels around Europe to help make your next trip an unforgettable experience.
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