Book your experience

If you are looking for an escape from the daily chaos, Lake Garda is the ideal destination for an unforgettable weekend. With its crystal clear waters, picturesque towns and natural wonders, this pearl of northern Italy offers a unique experience that combines adventure and relaxation. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff or a foodie looking for new delicacies, Lake Garda has something to offer everyone. In this article, we will explore what to do in Lombardy to make your stay at the lake simply perfect. Get ready to discover fascinating itineraries, exciting activities and hidden corners that will make your weekend a memorable experience!

Panoramic excursions on Monte Baldo

Discovering Lake Garda cannot be complete without a panoramic excursion to Monte Baldo, a true jewel of nature that offers breathtaking views and unique biodiversity. With its well-marked paths, Monte Baldo is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, from the most experienced to those simply looking for a relaxing walk.

Imagine being immersed in greenery, surrounded by aromatic plants and wild flowers. As you climb, the panorama opens up and the spectacle of Lake Garda is shown in all its beauty, with the blue waters blending with the sky. Don’t forget to bring a camera with you: the Ventrar trail is famous for its incredible viewpoints.

For an even more fascinating experience, consider taking the Malcesine-Monte Baldo cable car, which will quickly take you to the top, giving you time to explore without rushing. Once you arrive, you can choose between various routes, such as the Grom path, which winds through beech forests and natural strongholds.

Remember to dress in layers - the weather can change quickly and a light jacket can be very useful. Conclude your adventure with a lunch in one of the restaurants at high altitude, where you can taste typical dishes paired with local wines, making your experience at Monte Baldo truly unforgettable.

The best restaurants on Lake Garda

When talking about a weekend at Lake Garda, we cannot fail to mention the extraordinary gastronomic experience that this region offers. Local restaurants are not just places to eat, but real oases for the senses, where the Lombard culinary tradition blends with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Imagine enjoying a perch risotto, prepared with local fish, while the sun sets over the lake, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Restaurants such as “Il Ristorante da Rino” in Gardone Riviera and “La Cantina del Gusto” in Sirmione offer typical dishes that tell the history of the area, such as meat tortellini or beef carpaccio with truffles.

For an even more authentic experience, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the family trattorias, where recipes are passed down from generation to generation. Here, you can savor dishes such as polenta and braised meat, accompanied by a good red wine from Garda, such as Groppello.

If you want a romantic atmosphere, “L’Osteria da Beppe” in Malcesine offers a breathtaking view of the castle and the lake, perfect for an unforgettable dinner. Don’t forget to book in advance, especially during the summer months, to guarantee a table with a view!

Discovering the best restaurants on Lake Garda means immersing yourself in a gastronomic journey that will satisfy every palate, making your weekend truly perfect.

Winery tour: wine and nature

Immerse yourself in the heart of Lake Garda with a tour of the cellars, an experience that combines the passion for wine with the beauty of nature. This region, known for its breathtaking landscapes, offers a variety of wineries producing renowned wines, such as Lugana and Chiaretto.

Set off to discover the vineyards overlooking the lake, where the sun kisses the grapes and the wind brings with it the scents of the local flora. Many wineries, such as the historic Cà dei Frati and the modern Bertani, offer guided tastings that will allow you to taste their wines directly from those who produce them. During your visit, you can learn about winemaking techniques and the history behind each glass.

Don’t forget to pair the wines with local delicacies, such as Monte Veronese cheese and Montagnana salami, for a complete gastronomic experience.

We recommend booking in advance, especially during high season, to ensure a place in the best wineries. If you want a touch of adventure, consider combining the tour with a walk through the vineyards, where the beauty of the landscape will leave you breathless. A weekend at Lake Garda cannot be complete without a taste of its wine wonders, a perfect balance between wine and nature.

Relax on the beach in Sirmione

Sirmione, one of the gems of Lake Garda, is the ideal place for a weekend of pure relaxation. With its crystal clear waters and enchanting beaches, it offers a unique experience for those seeking a moment of tranquility. Imagine lying on a lounger, while a light breeze caresses your face and the sun gently warms you.

The most famous beaches, such as Spiaggia Brema and Lido delle Bionde, are perfect for families and couples. Here you can take a refreshing dip, try your hand at water sports or simply enjoy a stroll along the shore. Don’t forget to bring a good sunscreen and a bottle of water to stay hydrated during the hot summer days.

Furthermore, Sirmione is famous for its spa, where you can treat yourself to a wellness treatment after a day in the sun. Thermal waters are known for their healing properties, and a relaxing bath can be the perfect way to regenerate.

If your desire for adventure continues, explore the paths that run along the coast, admiring breathtaking views of the lake. And to end the day, don’t miss an aperitif at sunset in one of the many bars on the lakefront, where the sky is tinged with warm colors and time seems to stop. Sirmione is truly a corner of paradise where relaxation is guaranteed!

Discovery of the caves of Catullus

Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of the Caves of Catullus, an archaeological site overlooking Lake Garda and representing one of the most fascinating wonders of the region. These remains of a majestic Roman villa, dating back to the 1st century AD, offer not only a fascinating testimony to the past, but also a breathtaking panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Walking among the ruins, you can admire the remains of the ancient columns and mosaics, which tell stories of a distant era. The magic of the place is accentuated by the lush vegetation that surrounds the site, making this corner a perfect starting point for a day of exploration.

Don’t forget to visit the Archaeological Park surrounding the caves, where you can enjoy a picnic overlooking the lake. If you are a photography lover, this is the ideal place to capture unforgettable shots.

To make your visit even more memorable, we recommend booking a guided tour. The expert guides will take you through the history and architecture of the villa, enriching your experience with fascinating anecdotes.

Finally, to complete your day, you could treat yourself to a dinner in one of the adjacent restaurants, where you can savor typical dishes of Lombard cuisine, perhaps accompanied by a good local wine. The Caves of Catullus are not just a journey into the past, but an experience that stimulates all the senses.

Sports activities: kayaking and trekking

If you are looking for a weekend at Lake Garda that combines adventure and… nature, you can’t miss the sports activities offered in this stunning region. Imagine paddling on the crystal clear waters of the lake, surrounded by breathtaking views: the kayak is a perfect option for exploring hidden coves and rugged coastlines. We recommend renting a kayak in Sirmione or Malcesine, where you will also find expert guides ready to show you the most evocative places.

But it doesn’t end here! trekking on Monte Baldo will give you an unforgettable experience. The well-marked paths offer routes for all levels, from simple walks to more challenging itineraries. Don’t miss the chance to reach the top, where the view of the lake is so spectacular it seems like a painting. During your hike, you may also come across fascinating wildlife and thriving flora.

To make your experience even more memorable, consider planning a picnic with local products, such as the famous Garda olive oil and typical cheeses. Remember to bring water and suitable shoes, and get ready for a weekend full of adventure and natural beauty. Don’t forget your camera: the views you will encounter are simply unmissable!

Walk through the historic villages

Imagine walking through the charming streets of Lazise, Bardolino and Sirmione, where every corner tells a centuries-old story. These historic villages, overlooking Lake Garda, offer a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making your visit an unforgettable experience.

Start your adventure in Lazise, famous for its medieval walls and picturesque port. Here, don’t miss the opportunity to savor a homemade ice cream while enjoying the view of the lake. Continue towards Bardolino, where the wine cellars will welcome you with their fine local wines. A stop in one of these cellars can transform into a tasting of Chiaretto or Ripasso, accompanied by typical appetizers.

Finally arrive in Sirmione, where the Roman ruins of the Grotte di Catullo and the Scaligero Castle will make you feel as if you have gone back in time. The cobblestone streets, craft shops and small squares invite you to take a contemplative stroll. Don’t forget to visit the local market, where you can buy fresh and authentic products.

Practical advice: Wear comfortable shoes to explore and bring a camera with you to capture the breathtaking views. These historic villages are not just a stopover, but a journey into the heart of Lombard tradition.

Local markets: genuine flavors to discover

Immersing yourself in the local markets of Lake Garda is an experience that goes beyond simple purchasing; it is a journey into the flavors and traditions of the area. Every week, the villages around the lake come alive with colorful stalls, where local producers offer their treasures. Here, the scent of freshly baked bread mixes with that of aromatic herbs and fresh cheeses, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

One of the most renowned markets is that of Desenzano del Garda, which is held every Thursday. Here you can find not only seasonal fruit and vegetables, but also typical products such as extra virgin olive oil and lake fish. Don’t forget to taste the local cured meats, such as Montagnana salami, a true delight that tells the gastronomic history of the area.

In Bardolino, the market takes place on Wednesdays and offers a unique selection of wines. It is the ideal place to discover the region’s famous rosé wines, such as Chiaretto, directly from the producers.

Visit the markets not only to shop, but also to interact with locals and immerse yourself in the culture of Lake Garda. Remember to bring a reusable bag with you: not only is it eco-friendly, but it will be useful for carrying your genuine purchases home. Discovering the local markets is a perfect way to end a day of exploration, bringing home a piece of Lombardy.

Visit to Malcesine Castle

The Castle of Malcesine, nestled between the blue of Lake Garda and the green of the surrounding mountains, is an unmissable stop for those who want to immerse themselves in the history and beauty of this region. This fascinating castle, dating back to the 13th century, offers not only a journey through time, but also breathtaking views.

Once you enter the front door, you will feel transported to an era of knights and princesses. You will be able to explore the ancient walls, towers and frescoes that tell stories of an eventful past. The view from the top of the tower is simply spectacular: the lake stretches out before you like an immense blue mirror, while the mountains rise majestically in the background.

To make your visit even more memorable, we recommend taking one of the guided tours, where expert art historians will reveal fascinating details and curious anecdotes.

Don’t forget to spend some time walking around the picturesque village of Malcesine, with its cobbled streets and artisan shops. For a complete experience, stop in one of the local restaurants to savor the typical dishes of Lombardy cuisine, perhaps accompanied by a good Garda wine.

Ending your day at Malcesine Castle will be an indelible memory of your weekend at Lake Garda, a perfect balance between history, nature and gastronomy.

Spend a night in an authentic farmhouse

Imagine ending your day at Lake Garda with a night in an authentic farmhouse, where the beauty of nature blends with the warmth of local hospitality. The farmhouses in the area offer a unique experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in rural life in Lombardy, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves that extend as far as the eye can see.

Choose from the many options available, such as Agriturismo Ca’ del Sol, which offers cozy rooms with lake views and dishes prepared with fresh ingredients from its own garden. Here, you can enjoy a typical dinner based on homemade pasta and local meats, accompanied by a good wine from the neighboring cellars.

During your stay, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in cooking workshops, where you will learn the secrets of traditional recipes. Additionally, many agritourisms offer guided tours of the vineyards, where you can discover the wine production process and taste the fine wines of the area.

Located in panoramic positions, the farmhouses will allow you to enjoy an awakening immersed in nature, with birdsong and the sweet breeze of the lake that will accompany you. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding trails, perfect for a morning stroll.

Choosing to spend the night in a farmhouse is an extraordinary way to end a weekend at Lake Garda, leaving the chaos behind and giving you moments of authentic tranquility.