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Garda
What to see in Garda, in the province of Verona. Discover the romantic Punta San Vigilio, the beaches, the Rocca di Garda and the lakeside.
Garda what to see
Garda, in the province of Verona, is the municipality that gives its name to the largest lake in Italy.
It is located in the center of the gulf of the same name and includes the territory of Punta San Vigilio, creating a small peninsula. It is situated between the Veronese municipalities of Torri del Benaco and Bardolino.
In the past, it was known by the name “Benàcus” or “Benaco” and is historically famous for its Fortress (Rocca), from which it is still possible to admire breathtaking views and follow paths on foot or by bicycle.
Curiosity: The term ‘Garda’ is an evolution of the Lombard term ‘Warda’, i.e. guard, referring to the place of the fortress behind the village.
Garda in pills
THE UNMISSABLE
• Punta San Vigilio
• Rocca di Garda
• Piazza Catullo
top beaches
• Baia delle Sirene
• Spiaggia la Cavalla
• Spiaggia al Corno
weekly market
• Friday
What to see in Garda
This ancient medieval town, once a fishing village, is situated at the foot of the majestic Rocca di Garda and, like all towns on the lake, is rich in history and traditions, as witnessed by the various buildings and places of interest that we recommend you do not miss during your visit.
Here is what to see in Garda, a town on Lake Garda:
LAKEFRONT AND HISTORIC CENTRE
For those who love to enjoy the lake to the full, a walk along the lakefront is a must, admiring its characteristic harbour and stopping at Piazza dei Capitani, surrounded by historic buildings that still retain their old-world charm.
Among the most notable buildings is the Palazzo dei Capitani, an elegant palace in Venetian Gothic style dating back to the 14th century, which was the residence of the so-called Capitano del lago, the magistrate representing the authority of Venice over Garda.
Also overlooking the lakefront is the Palazzo La Losa, consisting of a portico surmounted by a loggia. Both floors feature five arcades.
Wandering instead through the streets of the centre, such as Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Via Spagna, and Calle dei Sottoportici, you will find shops, boutiques, restaurants and cafés that coexist harmoniously among ancient palazzi such as the 15th-century Palazzo Fregoso with its characteristic staircase and mullioned window above the arch, a point of passage for those passing through the old town.
You will then notice the Porta dell’Orologio, a small tower on the façade of which is a clock and, here too, an arched passageway on the ground floor that marks the entrance to the historic centre. Near the tower, in Piazzetta Calderini to be precise, there is another important building, Palazzo Carlotti, which today hosts cultural events and art exhibitions.
During the summer, the historic centre comes alive with festivals, concerts and shows. One of the most eagerly awaited events is the ‘Palio delle Contrade’, a boat race held on the lake and involving the various districts of the town.
PUNTA SAN VIGILIO
Whether you are visiting Garda as a couple for a romantic holiday, or simply want to admire a sunset over the lake in all its splendour, Punta San Vigilio is just right for you.
It is a small peninsula stretching elegantly into the lake, charged with a fascinating, dreamlike atmosphere.
The natural beauty of Punta San Vigilio is astounding. The peninsula is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It is an ideal place to enjoy tranquillity, nature and the picturesque landscape.
One of the main attractions of Punta San Vigilio is the Villa Guarienti, an elegant loggia building dating back to the 16th century that once hosted illustrious personalities such as Maria Luisa of Austria and Tsar Alexander II. The villa is surrounded by a magnificent Italian-style park with manicured gardens, statues and native plants such as olive trees and cypresses. There is even a small church dedicated to San Vigilio. Its architecture and charming ambience make it a popular location for weddings and other ceremonies or events.
To reach Punta San Vigilio on foot, there is a walk of almost 3 km along the lake, directly on the pebble beach (walk not suitable for prams and pushchairs), called Spiaggia Al Corno. Otherwise, it can be reached by car along the Gardesana road (SR249) following the signs for Villa Guarienti and Baia delle Sirene.
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BAIA DELLE SIRENE
Located close to Punta San Vigilio, the Baia delle Sirene Park is the perfect place to spend a carefree day of beach and sun on the lake.
Surrounded by nature, with numerous facilities provided by the park, it is ideal for spending the day even with children.
You can book your place on the beach here: baiadellesirene.com
PIEVE DI GARDA
Also called Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta, it stands on a pre-existing 5th century church of which only a few traces remain today, such as the capitals in the inner courtyard. Erected at the foot of the promontory la Rocca, its interior houses decorative and architectural elements dating back to the medieval period.
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VILLA DEGLI ALBERTINI
Exploring Garda, the 16th-century Villa degli Albertini with its red crenellated towers cannot fail to catch your eye. Built by the Becelli family, it was named after the Counts Albertini, who restored it to its present majestic castle-like appearance.
The romantic English garden of this ancient villa was created in the first half of the 19th century and is rich in century-old plants and flowers. A visit to this unspoilt park is just what you need to spend a carefree afternoon.
The park is open to the public from September to Easter by appointment, and there is a car park for visitors. For info and reservations parcodeglialbertini.it
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What to do in the surroundings of Garda
Around Garda, in the province of Verona, there are many interesting attractions and activities to discover. Here are some of the things to do and places to visit in the hinterland and in the villages around Garda:
- Bardolino: Located just 4 kilometres south of Garda, Bardolino is famous for its wine of the same name. You can visit the local wine cellars to taste Bardolino wine and discover the production process. The historic centre of Bardolino also offers charming narrow streets, shops and restaurants, and a Ferris wheel. To reach Bardolino from Garda, on foot or by bicycle, simply take the scenic lakeside promenade.
- Lazise: Following the same lakeside promenade, you can reach Lazise. This pretty medieval village boasts an ancient town wall and a picturesque harbour.
- Malcesine: Located on the eastern shore of the lake, Malcesine is one of the most picturesque towns in the area. Its main attraction is the Scaliger Castle, which offers a spectacular panoramic view of the lake. The Monte Baldo cable car also starts here and will take you up to the peaks of this mountain, where you can hike or mountain-bike while enjoying dreamy views.
- Sirmione: If you are willing to take a slightly longer hike, Sirmione is definitely worth a visit. Located at the southern end of Lake Garda, Sirmione is famous for its thermal waters and Scaliger Castle. You can explore the historical centre, visit the Catullus caves and relax in the local thermal baths.
- Verona: The city of Verona, located about 30 kilometres from Garda, is an important tourist destination. Verona is famous for its Arena, an ancient Roman amphitheatre that hosts opera performances and concerts during the summer. You can also visit Juliet’s house, Piazza delle Erbe and Castelvecchio, just to name a few of the wonders of this city.
These are just some of the activities and places to visit around Garda. The area offers a fascinating combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage and local gastronomy that will make your stay unforgettable.
Garda: Faq
How to get to Garda?
-by car: A22 motorway (from the north), exit at the Rovereto Sud tollbooth, take the SS249 state road in the direction of Mori and Torbole following the signs for Garda.
A4 motorway (from the south), exit at the Affi tollbooth, direction Bardolino, Garda and Malcesine.
-By train: The nearest railway station to Garda is Peschiera station on the Milan-Venice line, then by bus to Garda (ATV lines).
-by plane: The nearest airports to Garda are the Gabriele D’Annunzio Airport in Brescia, the Valerio Catullo Airport in Verona and the Orio al Serio Airport in Bergamo. From your chosen airport, you can use public transport services or hire a car to reach Garda.
-It is possible to reach Garda from other locations on the lake by ferry. Check timetables and fares with the Lake Garda shipping company.
Where to park in Garda?
Parking free of charge in Garda, especially in the summer months with the highest tourist numbers, is not at all easy, practically impossible. The largest paid parking areas (blue stalls), however, are:
- Lungolago Europa: no. 50 parking spaces
- Via San Carlo: no. 51 parking spaces
- Piazzale Caboto: no. 70 parking spaces
- Parking Leopardi 30 parking spaces
What to do in Garda if it rains?
We recommend a visit to the local wine cellars with wine tasting or a visit to the wine museum in the nearby town of Bardolino, where there is also an interesting museum of olive oil, another prized local product.
To stay indoors, and perhaps you are travelling with children, you might consider a visit to the Sea life aquarium in Castelnuovo del Garda. For shopping addicts there is instead the Grand’Affi Shopping Centre, about 10 minutes’ drive from Garda.
What to do with children in Garda?
We recommend spending some time at the beach and taking a nice, easy walk or bike ride along the lake and reaching Bardolino. Moving by car, on the other hand, you could consider reaching Parco Natura Viva and Parco Sigurtà and, of course, the amusement parks in Castelnuovo del Garda.
What is Garda famous for?
In summary, the most characteristic elements of Garda are: the Rocca di Garda, Piazza dei Capitani and, of course, the romantic Punta San Vigilio.
In which region is Garda located?
Garda is located in the Veneto region, specifically in the province of Verona. Veneto is a region rich in history, culture and natural beauty, and is famous for cities such as Verona, Venice and Padua. Garda’s location in the province of Verona offers the opportunity to explore not only Lake Garda, but also the many attractions and towns in the surrounding region.