Lake Garda

You can visit Lake Garda all year round. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making them great seasons for hiking and cycling. In summer, the lake is livelier, with beaches, events and plenty of outdoor activities. Winter has its own slower pace, with clear views, a quieter atmosphere and numerous Christmas events.

Find our tips for every season: ➡️ click here

Yes. Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, with a surface area of around 370 km². Its size means you can find very different landscapes around its shores, from beaches by the water to mountain scenery.

Lake Garda reaches a maximum depth of around 346 metres. Its deepest point is in the northern part of the lake, where the mountains descend steeply towards the water. To put that into perspective, imagine submerging an entire skyscraper and watching it disappear beneath the surface.

Yes, swimming is possible in many areas of Lake Garda. However, access to the water may be regulated or temporarily restricted in some places, so it is always worth checking local information and the latest conditions at the beach you plan to visit.

Looking for tips on open-water swimming? ➡️ read more here

Lake Garda is easy to reach by car, train or plane. The nearest railway stations include Rovereto, Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano del Garda, with onward bus connections. The most convenient airports include Verona, Bergamo and Milan.

➡️ Read more about how to reach Lake Garda

You can travel between the towns around Lake Garda by bus, boat and ferry. In the northern part of the lake, for example, you can combine journeys by land and water to explore different places without a car. One of the most popular options is the ferry service (Navigarda), which connects almost all the main towns and lets you avoid traffic along the lakeside roads.

There is plenty to do around Lake Garda even when it rains. Visit museums, castles and historic towns, or spend some time discovering wellness experiences and local food and wine. A rainy day is also a good opportunity to explore the area at a slower pace.

➡️ Find more ideas here for enjoying Garda Trentino when it rains.

Typical flavours of Lake Garda include freshwater fish, such as trout and whitefish, traditional dishes and local products including Garda Trentino PDO extra virgin olive oil and wines from the region. Each area has its own specialities, shaped by local traditions and the seasons.

Want to know more? ➡️ Discover all the local products

Yes. Lake Garda is one of Europe’s most popular destinations for families. There are beaches, cycle paths, easy routes and outdoor activities for different ages, as well as plenty of ways to explore the area together at a relaxed pace.

Looking for ideas for your family holiday? ➡️ Take a look here

Lake Garda is very dog-friendly. There are several dedicated dog beaches, known as “Bau Beaches”, including in Peschiera, Salò and Riva del Garda. Many accommodation providers and hiking trails also welcome dogs. It is always a good idea to check the rules before visiting your chosen beach.

Four-legged friends are welcome in Garda Trentino! ➡️ Find out more