Where to Stay in Lake Garda – 6 DREAMY Towns & Top Hotels

Lake Garda is one of the most charming destinations in Italy and the biggest lake in the country! The lake is spread over 3 Italian regions (Veneto, Lombardy, and Trentino-Alto Adige), so it can be hard to choose where to stay in Lake Garda

And that’s where I come in! Since I’ve spent almost every summer of my life there, I decided to help you by creating this guide to Lake Garda and the best towns for your stay.

The best place to stay in Lake Garda is Sirmione, a picturesque town on the Southern shore of Lake Garda full of historical attractions, beaches, and fabulous hotels. 

To make things even easier, I also handpicked the best Lake Garda resorts and hotels for each recommended town. And if you want to stay in any of the hotels mentioned in the post, book them some months in advance – especially if you’re going to Lake Garda during summertime when it gets super crowded.

Let’s jump right in!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

If you want to book accommodation quickly, here are the best Lake Garda hotels, all situated in Sirmione:

Check out this map of the 6 Lake Garda towns I will be talking about in this post:

NOTE: When choosing where to stay on Lake Garda, the first thing to consider is whether you want to stay on the North or the South side of the lake. The North shore of the lake is more mountainous and a better choice if you want to be surrounded by nature and spend time outdoors, while the South has a more Mediterranean vibe and seems more laid-back.

1. Sirmione – where to stay in Lake Garda for the first time

Sirmione, located on the Southern shore of Lake Garda (on the Lombardy side), is a charming and lively town with plenty of things to offer! This is also one of the most popular towns on the lake, and there are many reasons why!

First of all, Simione has a very strategic position right in the middle of Milan, Verona, and Venice, and it also offers beautiful beaches and countless historical and cultural attractions. Some examples?

On the Lake Garda shores, you’ll find the medieval Scaligero Castle (map), dating back from the 13th century, or you can also explore The Archaeological Site of Grotte di Catullo (map), featuring a Roman villa and a museum… History buffs have just found their paradise!

But Sirmione’s historic center itself is worth a visit, where you can stroll around its charming small streets, buy some souvenirs at its small stores, and eat delicious Italian specialties at restaurants, cafes, and gelato places.

Other things you can do in Sirmione are enjoy some sun and crystal clear waters at the secluded Jamaica Beach (map) or join the many boat tours and cruises to other lakeside towns… You basically have no excuses for getting bored here!

If you want to try something different, I highly recommend you check out Sirmione’s thermal baths! The Aquaria Thermal SPA is the most popular place to enjoy the benefits of the town’s thermal waters, and it also offers a sauna, massages, and other spa treatments. 

Finally, if you’re traveling with kids, you’ll definitely want to check out Gardaland Resort, a super cool amusement park offering plenty of fun rides. The park is just a 20-min drive away from Sirmione, or you can take a bus that will get you there in about 45 mins. 

NOTE: I don’t recommend driving around Lake Garda; the roads are narrow and crowded, and parking is difficult to find. Luckily, there are buses that can take you around the lake to visit different towns, and there’s a fantastic ferry service that provides an even better way to explore the lakeside towns. 

Other accommodation options in Sirmione

Things to do in Sirmione

• Join this cruise around the Sirmione peninsula
• Visit the 13th-century old Scaligero Castle
• Explore The Archaeological Site of Grotte di Catullo
• Dine on delicious fresh fish at Trattoria La Fiasca (map)
• Spend a leisurely beach day at the beautiful Jamaica Beach
• Have a relaxing day at the Aquaria Thermal SPA
• Watch the sunset over the lake from Beach Brema Sirmione (map)
• Take the kids for some fun rides at Gardaland Resort

2. Desenzano del Garda – best town on Lake Garda for nightlife

Desenzano del Garda is a bustling resort town located on the Southern shore of Lake Garda and just a 25-min bus ride away from Sirmione. The town is close to many Italian cities like Bergamo, Venice, and Verona, which is why it offers many accommodation options as well as a vibrant nightlife!

In fact, here, there are bars and discos for any taste and music genre, like the Coco Beach Club (map) to enjoy happy hours with music right on the lakeshore or the Biblo Club (map) if you want to dance to Latin rhythms. 

But this small lively town offers much more than cool clubs, from a historical center to a wonderful promenade with many cafes and restaurants (like all the other Lake Garda towns), and countryside with vineyards and olive groves right in the surroundings!

But one thing you cannot miss if you stay in Desenzano is visiting the famous Villa Romana (map), a short walk from the old town, offering ancient ruins, colorful mosaic floors, and breathtaking lake views from its rooms.

Other things you should add to your ‘to-visit’ list include the Desenzano Castle (map) and the Weekly Market (map), which takes place every Tuesday morning (between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.) and is a great place to get some souvenirs. 

NOTE: Desenzano del Garda is ideally located for exploring the Gardone Riviera (map) on the lake’s Western shores. Here, you can visit Vittoriale degli Italiani (map), the former home to the Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. And if you want to spend a night here, Grand Hotel Gardone is a great choice and one of the best hotels in Lake Garda. 

When you’re looking for something more relaxing, head to Desenzanino Beach (map), rent a paddleboat and go out on the water. Alternatively, you can walk the Lungolago di Desenzano del Garda (map), which will take you around the lake and provide some stunning views. 

So basically, Desenzano is the perfect place in Lake Garda to enjoy culture during the day and some crazy fun at night!

Other options in Desenzano del Garda

Things to do in Desenzano del Garda

• Visit the ancient mosaics of the Villa Romana
• Enjoy an aperitif with music at Coco Beach Club and do some dancing at Biblo Club
• Go up to Desenzano Castle and admire the panoramic views
• Check out the Bronze Age artifacts at the Giovanni Rambotti Archeological Museum 
• Browse the stalls at the Weekly Market
• Go paddleboarding at Desenzanino Beach
• Try delicious Italian food at Agriturismo Locustione (map)
• Go for a walk along Lungolago di Desenzano del Garda

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3. Riva del Garda – where to stay in Lake Garda for luxury

Located on the North shore of Lake Garda in the Trentino Region and 88 km (55 miles) North of Sirmione, Riva del Garda town offers something literally for everyone: tourist attractions, a chill atmosphere, historical sights, and outdoor activities. 

Sitting right between the mountains and the water, Riva del Garda is the perfect place to chill in one of the charming restaurants/cafes on the shore of Lake Garda while you’re sipping your coffee or aperitif!

And when you are not enjoying the panoramic lake views, you can walk around its historic town center, particularly charming for its medieval old streets, visit the ancient churches and museums, or join some outdoor activities. Riva del Garda is especially great for hiking and mountain biking. 

From Riva, you will also have access to one of the best things to do in Lake Garda: the Rocca di Riva (map). This imposing fortress hosts the MAG Museo Alto Garda, with art exhibitions, photographs, archaeology, and much more; this is a real must if you are in the area!

Some other things you should check out during your stay in Riva del Garda are the Torre Apponale (map), a clock tower in the town center that you can climb to get some fantastic views, and Santa Maria Inviolata (map), a Catholic church with impressive architecture. 

For a relaxing day under the sun, visit Sabbioni Beach (map), and if you’re feeling adventurous, head to Pini Beach (map) and try some windsurfing! Lastly, you should definitely check out Cascate del Varone (map), i.e., Varone Waterfall, a truly stunning natural attraction surrounded by many walking paths. 

If you like the idea of staying here, check out the following hotels in Riva del Garda, and don’t forget to book them far in advance if you want to secure yourself a spot. Also, prepare to spend a little bit extra, as this is one of the most luxurious destinations for Lake Garda holidays. 

Other accommodation options in Riva del Garda

Things to do in Riva del Garda 

• Visit the Rocca di Riva fortress and the MAG Museo Alto Garda
• Climb to the top of Torre Apponale and enjoy the views of Lake Garda
• Admire the architecture of the Catholic church Santa Maria Inviolata
• Spend a relaxing beach day at Sabbioni Beach
• Eat a pizza with panoramic lake views from Bellavista Ristorante Pizzeria (map)
• Try windsurfing at Pini Beach
• Spend a few hours exploring the area around the Varone Waterfall

4. Malcesine – where to stay in Lake Garda for couples

One of the most charming towns of all Lake Garda, and personally my favorite, is Malcesine! Located on the Northern shores of the Lake, in the Veneto region, about 1.5 hrs by car from both Sirmione and my hometown, Verona! Malcesine has a very laid-back atmosphere, making it the perfect destination for a couple’s getaway! 

This little town has a beautiful historic center that will make you travel immediately back in time, many typical restaurants, and a lot of panoramic spots, which makes it the perfect setting for a romantic getaway with your couple!

TIP: If you’re staying in Malcesine and want to visit other towns on Lake Garda or take a day trip to Verona, I recommend renting a car. Public transport connections are not as good from Malcesine, i.e., there are not as many direct lines and the trips take longer, so driving is the better option. 

Talking about sightseeing, in Malcesine, you can have amazing views of both the mountains and the lake from the Castle of Malcesine (map). This is the most popular attraction in the city, featuring striking architecture and a Natural History Museum.

Another must in Malcesine is definitely the Monte Baldo cable car, which will take you to a 1,800-meter-high (5,905-feet) viewpoint in just a few minutes. This is THE place to enjoy the panorama and take some pictures!

The town’s historic center is dotted with restaurants, perfect for a romantic dinner with your significant other! I’d recommend trying Bar Pizzeria da Pedro (map) to have a meal right by the water and Al Gondoliere (map) for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional service. 

Are you already thrilled by everything Malcesine has to offer? Then check out the following hotel options:

Other accommodation options in Malcesine

Things to do in Malcesine

• Visit the 13th-century Castle of Malcesine and its Natural History Museum
• Take the Monte Baldo Cable Car and enjoy the stunning lake views
• Check out the ancient Palazzo dei Capitani (map)
• Have a romantic dinner at Bar Pizzeria da Pedro or Al Gondoliere
• Take a day trip to the city of Verona

5. Limone Sul Garda – the most laid-back town on Lake Garda

If you are looking for a very quiet town that also gives you access to many activities, Limone Sul Garda is for you. It’s located on the Northwest shore of Lake Garda in the Lombardy Region, and 1h 30 mins by car (2h 20 mins by bus) from Sirmione. 

‘Limone’ literally means lemon, and the town got its name after the countless lemon trees surrounding it, growing thanks to the mild climate of the area. You should check out one of the beautiful lemon groves in the area – I suggest Limonaia del Castèl (map), which, besides lemon trees, features educational exhibits on the city’s history. 

As I said, there are countless things you can do in Limone. If you’re an active person, you need to take a panoramic ride (or walk) on Limone’s scenic new cycle path right on the Garda Lake shore (map).

TIP: if you want to cycle on the path around Limone sul Garda, you can rent a bike from Limone Bike Rental (map). They offer electric as well as regular bikes in various sizes, so you’ll definitely find one to your liking. 

Limone sul Garda is surrounded by stunning nature, and some of the best places to enjoy it are Cola Beach (map), surrounded by the mountains, and the hike up to the San Giovanni stream (map)! 

And the good thing is that after joining all these activities, you can always go back to the laid-back old town and just enjoy its dining and shopping options!

Other accommodation options in Limone Sul Garda

Things to do in Limone Sul Garda 

• Admire the lemon groves at Limonaia del Castèl and learn about the town’s history
• Rent a bike and go cycling on the path along Lake Garda
• Check out the ancient Church of San Rocco (map)
• Enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains from Cola Beach
• Hike up to the San Giovanni stream
• Go up to the 20m-Waterfall (map)

6. Bardolino – the coolest place to stay in Lake Garda

Nestled on the Eastern shore of the lake in the Veneto region, Bardolino has become one of the most important tourist destinations on Lake Garda during summer! Bardolino is a vibrant town situated just a 45-min bus ride away from Sirmione, and it’s one of the best towns to stay in Lake Garda if you want a vacation full of cool activities. 

This historic town has the perfect combination of old and new, hosting ancient buildings and cool bars and restaurants at the same time (that get super lively at night), which makes a very cool contrast!

Shopping addicts will also be happy here because, in this picturesque village, you’ll find countless options to empty your pockets, from souvenir shops to boutique stores and high-end fashion places!

But one of the main reasons Bardolino is famous is its amazing red wine, Bardolino (or the Rosé Chiaretto), a PDO regional wine produced in the surrounding vineyards, so you cannot leave town without trying a glass of it in one of the many wine bars of the town center!

TIP: If you’re going to Lake Garda during late September/early October, Bardolino hosts the yearly ‘Festa dell’Uva,’ a harvest festival dedicated to the rosé wine ‘Palio del Chiaretto.’ This a great opportunity to experience a real local event and enjoy wine stands by the lake, live music, street food, and fireworks!

Besides wine, Bardolino is also known for its olive oil – here, you can visit the unique Museo dell’Olio, i.e., the Olive Oil Museum, where you can learn more about the production of olive oil and buy some delicious olive oil to take home with you. 

When you need some time to unwind and relax, Punta Cornicello (map) is a lovely beach where you can enjoy the most spectacular sunsets. And if you’re craving more of those views, I recommend going for a ride on the Ferris wheel of Bardolino (map)! and enjoy wine stands by the lake, live music, street food, and fireworks… You will love it!

Other accommodation options in Bardolino

Things to do in Bardolino

• Join a guided wine tour and try some delicious Bardolino wines
• Learn more about olive oil production at the Museo dell’Olio
• Go on a tour of an olive oil mill and taste some of the local olive oils
• Watch the sunset from Punta Cornicello beach
• Go for a ride on the Ferris Wheel of Bardolino
• Treat yourself to a drink with a view at Lido Mirabello Beach (map)

Bonus: 5 other amazing places to stay on Lake Garda

Lake Garda is one of the most fascinating spots in Italy, its shores dotted with many lovely towns that can provide an unforgettable stay. As you can imagine, choosing only 6 of the best places to stay on Lake Garda was extremely difficult.

So, before I wrap up this post, I wanted to share 5 more great places where you can spend your Lake Garda vacation – check out the list below: 

• Peschiera del Garda – situated on the Southern tip of the lake, this resort town features a few amazing beaches and some historic churches and is a great base if you’re planning a trip to Verona.
• Garda – this small town is nestled on the Eastern shore of the lake and has a very rich history that you can experience through many of the town’s landmarks. But remember, this is a very popular destination, so be ready to face some crowds. 
• Gargnano – located in the Lombardy region, on the West shore of Lake Garda, the town is quieter and laid-back than some other places on the lake. Here, you can discover a few historical landmarks and take your pick among the many restaurants. 
• Lazise – a very picturesque small town on the Southeastern shore of Lake Garda, home to one of the best-preserved castles on a lake and a top choice if you want to visit the Movieland Studios (map) amusement park. 
• Salò – on the lake’s Western shore, this quaint town has the longest promenade on Lake Garda – perfect for relaxing walks – and some impressive historical buildings and churches. 

FAQs about where to stay in Lake Garda

🚆 Can you get to Lake Garda by train?

Yes. Even though Lake Garda does not have a train station directly on its shores, you can access the lake via train stations in nearby cities like Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, and Verona, which are well-connected to Lake Garda by bus or taxi.

📍 Which are the best places to stay in Lake Garda?

🤔 Which side of Lake Garda is best?

The North side of Lake Garda is surrounded by mountains, so it’s the better choice for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, while the South side has some great beaches and is better connected to other Italian towns like Verona. 

💗 Where to stay at Lake Garda for a romantic break?

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 Where to stay at Lake Garda with kids?

🚌 Where can I stay in Lake Garda without a car?

The best place to stay on Lake Garda without a car is Desenzano del Garda. You can easily explore the town on foot and reach other towns on Lake Garda via bus and ferry. Plus, you’ll get to stay in great hotels, like Antica Dimora Desenzano and Hotel Nazionale. 

🤽 Where to stay in Lake Garda for a water sports holiday?

Riva del Garda is ideal for water sports enthusiasts, especially if you’re into windsurfing. However, you can also try paddleboarding, kayaking, and diving. Some of the best hotels for your stay here are Lido Palace and Hotel Gabry. 

📅 What is the best month to stay in Lake Garda?

The best months to visit Lake Garda are from May to September, when the weather is warm enough to swim, and the towns get more lively than in winter.

❓ How many days is enough in Lake Garda?

I recommend spending at least 3 to 4 days on Lake Garda. During this time, you can visit some of the top historical attractions on the lake, spend a fun day on the beach, dine at some incredible restaurants, and maybe even go on a day trip to Verona. 

Final thoughts on the best places to stay in Lake Garda

Here we are at the end of this extensive guide on where to stay in Lake Garda! We saw cities for any kind of traveler, and for each one, I included accommodation options for different budgets, so there’s something for anyone here!

If you are still undecided about which is the best hotel for you, check out my 2 favorite Lake Garda hotels, located in Sirmione, the best place for first-timers:

• Villa Cortine Palace Hotel  – this Lake Garda resort boasts a private pier, an outdoor pool, and a tennis court to keep you active
• Hotel B&B il Mosaico – this comfortable hotel features a lovely garden for relaxing and offers a delicious breakfast and free parking

Do you like something? Then book your nights immediately to avoid losing your spot, especially if you are going during summertime!

Have you ever visited Lake Garda? If so, and you have other suggestions for me, please let me know in the comments below. And don’t be afraid to share your doubts or questions. I look forward to answering them!

Enjoy Lake Garda!

Elena 

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