Top Things to do in Lake Garda
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10 Bus Tours in Lake Garda That You Shouldn't Miss
The largest of Italy’s fresh-water lakes, Lake Garda is located in northeast Italy. Tourists traveling here will find plenty of excursions and activities to keep them entertained year-round—everything from visiting hilly wine regions to exploring 14th-century castles. The towns and communities surrounding Lake Garda offer easy day trips from Venice, easily accessible by car or train. Major sights include the towns of Sirmione (which attracts most Lake Garda visitors thanks to its historic Rocca Scaligiera castle) and Riva del Garda (for the Varone waterfalls located nearby), as well as the region’s hills, which offer numerous hiking trails for adventurous walkers.
Restaurants in Lake Garda
1. Land of Venice: Verona, Lake Garda and countryside Small-group Tour
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
If you are staying in Venice for a few days, you cannot miss a visit to the romantic Verona and the charming Lake Garda. Join this 1-day experience and discover all the things this area has to offer. Visit the elegant hamlet of Sirmione, a beautiful peninsula in the middle of the lake, famous for its thermal baths and amazing villas. Then, relax enjoying a private boat tour and admire the beauty of this stunning place. Right after the boat tour you will discover the old town with your guide and enjoy some free time for a fresh gelato or for shopping. Leave Sirmione to reach one of the most beautiful villages of the area and have lunch with delicious local dishes and fine wine. Next stop? Verona, the romantic Roman city, famous for the amazing Arena amphitheatre and Romeo and Juliet. Meet with our local guide and discover the history, traditions and legends of the city. If you wish, you will have some free time at the end of the tour, before going back to Venice.
Inclusions: Private Van Transport, Expert guide, Lake Garda Boat Tour (optional), Lunch, Verona highlights walking tour
Exclusions: Hotel pick up and drop-off
Reviewed By CarolynL308
Our team did a virtual cooking class together on Zoom! The recipes and instructions were clear and we were ready when the class started. It was so much fun and I can't believe we were able to make an amazing risotto AND a tiramisu to enjoy with our families that evening. Julia, our chef, did a great job of identifying each next step while keeping us calm. She could look at our dishes and let us know if we needed a little something more or, uh oh, a little something less! The food was delicious and we really had a great time all together, despite being in different countries and different kitchens!
2. Palvico Canyoning
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
This canyon will surprise you. Initially not very demanding, after a crescendo of slides and jumps between waterfalls and natural pools you will find yourself passing almost in the cave ending with a 50-meter waterfall. It is one of the most fascinating routes in Northern Italy. Between light effects and vertical walls the progression of commitment and fun will make it an unforgettable experience. To fully enjoy the experience it is recommended a good physical shape, confidence with water and no fear of height. The overall difficulty of the Palvico canyoning, although the duration is about the same, is on the whole higher than in the Rio Nero canyoning due to the scarce possibility of exit, the deeper and darker environment, the greater water flow and in generally colder and finally the length of the falls decidedly greater. Minimum required weight 40kg
Inclusions: wetsuits in neoprene, harness, jacket and helmet, Air-conditioned vehicle, RC insurance, Alpine Guide Service
Exclusions: Snacks
Reviewed By Tiffany K
This was our first time doing a Via Ferrata and it won't be our last! We had such a wonderful time and can't wait to come back!
3. Via Albano via ferrata
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
This historic via ferrata, suitable for people with experience in the world of via ferrata and in good physical shape, puts us to the test. There are many physical and overhanging passages that will be faced, the via ferrata is very exposed and the view is postcard-like! Having been closed for a few years for safety reasons, the Monte Albano via ferrata is again viable! Absolutely not to be underestimated !!
Inclusions: Helmet, harness and ferrata set, Air-conditioned vehicle, RC insurance, mountain guide service
Exclusions: Snacks
Reviewed By Tiffany K
This was our first time doing a Via Ferrata and it won't be our last! We had such a wonderful time and can't wait to come back!
4. Via ferrata of the Eagles
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Certainly you will not miss the sense of emptiness under your feet on this brand new via ferrata. Brand new metal staircases with great exposure will take you through the imposing east wall of Paganella. Even the most experienced will be amazed by this truly incredible environment. In addition to the exposure, the view of the Adige Valley, the Brenta Dolomites up to Lake Garda is unique
Inclusions: Helmet, harness and ferrata set, Air-conditioned vehicle, RC insurance, Alpine Guide Service
Exclusions: Snacks, The cable car to get to Cima Paganella (17euro)
Reviewed By Tiffany K
This was our first time doing a Via Ferrata and it won't be our last! We had such a wonderful time and can't wait to come back!
5. The Wonders of East Lake Garda: Private Half Day Tour with a Local
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Lake Garda and its picturesque views are waiting, and on this private half-day day trip, it's time to explore the east side where villages, wine regions, and nature are the best! Join your favorite local on a scenic road trip full of beautiful sights and discover why Lake Garda is a must-visit destination. Hop on your local host's car and embark on a journey full of hidden gems. Drive through the country of Valpolicella, known for its wine and its hilly green backgrounds. Visit an ancient villa that has been a source of inspiration and the favorite destination for illustrious historical figures such as Alexander Fleming, Vivien Leigh, the English Royal Family, and Winston Churchill. And how about some wine? A tour to Lake Garda would not be complete without a visit to a winery and of course, some wine tasting. Ciao Lazise! Admire a 13th-century castle and visit the post of Lazise for a picture-perfect ending to your half-day day trip to Lake Garda.
Inclusions: Private tour, Air-conditioned vehicle, Local guide, Wine tasting
Exclusions: Food and beverages not listed as inclusions
Reviewed By ChloeNarcissse10
I booked this tour for me and my husband on a whim just to give us something to do for the weekend...and it was an excellent decision! Our guide Cristina responded to us within an hour to inquire about our food preferences and to also ensure that we didn’t have any allergies which we found to be very helpful and thoughtful. Once we met up at the designated time, she was very informative about each place we went to and she showed us some different restaurants that we may not have ventured into had we visited Verona on our own. At each place, she asked us if we wanted photos and let us take our time to marvel at everything after explaining the history behind it. We even got to see the arena which was sooo beautiful in person. If you want a tour guide that is going to show you more than just the typical tourists routes, book with Cristina. She made our experience worthwhile.
6. Private Lake Garda Day Trip: Villages, Wine & Roman Ruins
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Lake Garda and its cultural gems are waiting, and on this private day trip, it's time to explore the south and west side where villages, wine regions, and nature melt together! Join your favorite local on a scenic road trip full of beautiful sights and discover why Lake Garda is a must-visit destination. What a better way to start your Lake Garda day trip than with some hidden gems? Visit the Excavations of Desenzano, where you can find the most important archeological evidence of the great late antique villas in Northen Italy and admire gorgeous 18th-century historical residence. It's wine time! Make your way to a winery located at the heart of the medieval village of Pratello. This family-run winery is completely underground, and they exclusively use grapes from their family farm. Get a taste of 3 exclusive wines; all served with local cold cuts and cheeses. Visit quiet town with mountainous scenery and fronted by Lake Garda - it is the picture-perfect finale to your day trip!
Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Private tour, Wine tasting, Cold cuts and cheeses, Local guide, Entrance tickets to Roman Villa and Castle
Exclusions: Lunch, Food and beverages not listed as inclusions
Reviewed By ChloeNarcissse10
I booked this tour for me and my husband on a whim just to give us something to do for the weekend...and it was an excellent decision! Our guide Cristina responded to us within an hour to inquire about our food preferences and to also ensure that we didn’t have any allergies which we found to be very helpful and thoughtful. Once we met up at the designated time, she was very informative about each place we went to and she showed us some different restaurants that we may not have ventured into had we visited Verona on our own. At each place, she asked us if we wanted photos and let us take our time to marvel at everything after explaining the history behind it. We even got to see the arena which was sooo beautiful in person. If you want a tour guide that is going to show you more than just the typical tourists routes, book with Cristina. She made our experience worthwhile.
7. Lake Garda: 2-Hour Trike Tour as passenger(s) (1 traveler + 1 person free)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Do something different on your trip to Lake Garda and experience the stunning scenery and pretty villages from the back seat of a trike. Enjoy the luxury to be driven and enjoy the undisturbed view of the landscape of Lake Garda far from the crowds. We have choosen one of the most scenic routes you can find in the area which combines lake, mountains and backland. On our 2-hour tour we leave the coast and head for the hills, passing typical villages, olive trees and grapevines. We venture down winding side roads and stop at breathtaking vantage points to take stunning photos of the coastline. We return along a scenic coastal road and others will turn heads as we make our way back to the starting point.
Inclusions: Trike with driver for 1-2 passengers • Helmet • Rain protection • Liability insurance
Exclusions:
Reviewed By Roseann R
We were two couples who planned to spend the day riding the trikes visiting different wineries and exploring the Bardolino wine trails. When we arrived at the gas station and saw the amazing trikes I noticed they were stick shift, not automatic. My fault, little girl who learned to drive in my parent's car, automatic. We were going to take two trikes, but only one of us knew how to drive a stick. The operator was prepared to refund all our money immediately, but we were all so saddened by the turn of events. As a means of pleasing us, he made a wonderful suggestion. He asked if we could come back in an hour, when his partner returned. They would then take us on a two hour tour through the mountains and along the lake. We all agreed and returned after a brief stroll through Bardolino for a light lunch. We never would have found the areas, roads and views we were treated to, had we driven ourselves. The trikes are great fun. If you know how to drive stick, or more accurately, a motorcycle, go for doing it, yourself. If not, I strongly suggest you do this for the two hour tour, as passengers. I took a live video at one point, but it's on a different social media. I will try to upload it or send it to the operator. Great fun!!!
8. Sirmione and Lake Garda Tour from Verona
Overall Ratings
4.7 based on 93 reviews
Meet the local guide in Verona city center, get on board a comfortable van and start this relaxing experience and head to Lake Garda. Reach Sirmione, a breathtaking medieval hamlet, famous for the clear waters, the beautiful castle and for the palaces full of flowers. Once arrived, the lake will be waiting for you: you'll enjoy a pleasant boat tour around Sirmione peninsula to admire the beautiful villas, the landscape and a part of the Grotte di Catullo made of a Roman villa at the head of the village. After this relaxing and refreshing moment you'll start exploring the village with your local expert that will show you the most fascinating corners walking through the cobblestone lanes and will tell you all about the history and local culture of this peninsula town. After the visit you'll have some free time to go shopping or relax by the lake. Sirmione is also famous for the amazing Gelato! So don't miss the opportunity to taste the yummy Gelato before going back to Verona.
Inclusions: Private transport, Local tour leader, Boat tour (depending on the weather conditions)
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup and drop-off
Reviewed By medlockcm
My husband and I did the private Online Fresh Pasta and Tiramisù Cooking Class today and it was simple incredible. It was our first cooking class of any kind and it was perfect. So well paced, easy to follow along, and fun! It felt so natural at times I forgot we were on Zoom. Definitely recommend, and would do it again.
9. Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 128 reviews
Explore the beautiful town of Verona and lakeside towns lining Lake Garda on a scenic day trip from Milan. You'll discover that Verona is one of Italy's loveliest towns, a major stop on the Shakespearean tourist trail, and be charmed by the towns and landscapes of Lake Garda.
Inclusions: 2 hour walking tour with tourist guide in Verona, Air-conditioned vehicle, Professional guide
Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop off, Food and drinks, unless specified
Reviewed By adcdiving
Como, the largest city in this region. Along the way we are regularly treated to beautiful views of small villages on the other side of the lake. The radiant sun makes it even more idyllic, but otherwise there is little to do in this region (at this time of year).
10. Venice Full-Day Tour from Lake Garda
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
Enjoy an 11-hour guided tour to discover Venice, the most romantic city in the world, from Lake Garda. Sightsee with a tour escort through the heart of Venice. During this excursion you will be able to see the most famous attractions of the city of the doges, such as the Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Cathedral and its square, the bell tower, and the Rialto Bridge. You will take a private boat through Venice's canals and have free time in the afternoon.
Inclusions: Tour guide, Live commentary on board, Private boat from bus to Saint Mark's square, Headphones during the walking tour, Air-conditioned vehicle, All taxes, fees and handling charges
Exclusions: Food and drinks, Hotel pickup
Reviewed By J4137THnancya
It was perfectly organized and Francesco was the best guide you could ask for! They picked us up on time and the bus ride was comfortable and fun. We had enough time to discover Venice on our own but also booked the Laguna Tour which was very interesting. I would highly recommend to bring sun screen or a hat if you go during summer.
