If you are staying in Verona, then you almost certainly need to visit Lake Garda. The largest lake in Italy has some of the most breathtaking views in the country, and is rich in history that dates back all the way to the Bronze Age. Throw in the delicious food, delicately pretty villages and towns, as well as the beaches, then you have a perfect tourist destination. If you are planning a day trip to Lake Garda from Verona, then this is your ultimate guide. Enjoy.
Day Trip to Lake Garda from Verona | Your Ultimate Guide
Getting to and around Lake Garda
The journey couldn’t be easier to Lake Garda from Verona. Trains run from Porta Nuevo (the main station) to Desenzano del Garda or Peschiera del Garda frequently. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes and the tickets cost around £4.00 for a one-way. I found the train systems here super easy and efficient; much better than what you get in the UK!
If you rent a car, the journey is around 20 minutes and there are few turns from Verona to get to one of the key villages, such as Sirmione. You also then have the flexibility of exploring the roads that wrap around it.
From experience, I would say that a car isn’t necessary and that the public transport is excellent. By boat or bus, all of the lake’s towns are easily accessible and set-route tours run frequently. Just be sure to check ahead for any Italian bank holidays as this will make travelling around challenging.
Top Destinations for a Day Trip to Lake Garda
Discover Sirmione’s Historic Charm
Sirmione is one of my favourite towns on Lake Garda. Whilst it is arguably one of the tourist hotspots of the lake, you just can’t not enjoy the smooth Italian charm of this town. There are also plenty of places to explore here, such as the impressive Scaliger Castle or the Grotto di Catullo Roman ruins. For more information, check out my blog post on a day trip to Sirmione from Verona.
Experience Malcesine and Monte Baldo
To escape the bustle of Sirmione, but with all the charm, have a look at Malcesine. You still get the stunning medieval Castello Scaligero di Malcesine which gives you some great panoramic views of the lake. However, to get even higher and to see Lake Garda in all its glory, head up the Monte Baldo cable car. The round trip to the top of Monte Baldo costs €25.00, but gives you some of the best views in all of Italy.
Savour Local Flavours in Desenzano del Garda
Desenzemo del Garda is one of the largest towns on the lake and is perfect for sampling the local food. In this part of Italy, the fresh lake fish is absolutely incredible and you’ll be spoilt for choice here. Plus, the local Lugana wine is a perfect accompaniment. After your meal, why not check out the nearby Roman Villa or Castello di Desenzano del Garda.
Relax in Bardolino’s Wine Country
The area around Lake Garda is perfect for sampling locally-made wine. Italy by itself is an ideal wine-tasting destination, and the colour palette and breeze of Lake Garda just adds to the ambiance. The town of Bardolino is my favourite spot to do this and it incidentally has a rich wine history. Once you’ve enjoyed your fair share of the drink, head to the Museo del Vino to learn all about it. Easily one of my favourite day trips to Lake Garda from Verona!
Stroll Through Peschiera del Garda
The most likely first destination on the lake you’ll encounter is Peschiera del Garda. Whilst it is predominantly used as a hop from Verona to another picturesque town, it is worth exploring and spending some time in. There is a UNESCO-listed fortress, gorgeous canals and some of the best waterfront walkways anywhere on the lake. Once you’re done, you can then head over to other nearby places that are lesser-seen by tourists, such as Borghetto. Check out my blog post about a day trip to Peschiera del Garda for more information.
Experience the Thrills of Gardaland
Lastly, no post about a day trip to Lake Garda would be complete without Gardaland. When I first came to the lake I had no idea that one of Europe’s best theme parks was located just a few miles away. You’ll find some epic rides for all ages, as well as a SEA LIFE aquarium too! Top Tip: Tickets cost €49 if you book them online, saving you €7 or so!
Final Thoughts | A Day Trip to Lake Garda from Verona
Verona is an ideal base for a day trip to Lake Garda. Whilst you can obviously spend the days on longer tours, I hope that this blog post gave you inspiration for a day out whilst you are staying in Verona, one of my favourite Italian cities. If you have any questions, just let me know – I always love hearing from you.
