Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake. It is located half way between Brescia and Verona, nestled between Venice and Milan. The lake and its shoreline are divided among Verona, Brescia and Trentino.
The area is a major tourist destination with grand hotels, modern apartments, and stylish restaurants and bars. Many visitors flock here starting in June to see the weekly Venetian gondoliering regattas, which takes place every Saturday evening from about mid-June to the beginning of September. The race happens in different towns around the lake all leading up to the glorious final race in Venice in early September.
Lake Garda climate
Lake Garda typically experiences a mild and temperate climate, punctuated by mountain winds. The temperature is usually between 12 C and 18 C from October to February with rain and snow likely. Temperatures are between 24 C and 30 C from June through September.
When to fly to Lake Garda
Peak season:
Lake Garda plays host to many visitors during its peak season, which runs from about mid-June through mid-September. Crowds are very likely during this time.
Off season:
The off season at Lake Garda runs from about October to May – crowds generally disappear during this time and prices drop accordingly. But keep in mind, some local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, do close after October.
Getting around Lake Garda
Getting Around:
Trains and buses are available from nearby airports to the lake. Once there, visitors can get from town to town via ferries and local buses.
The closest airports to Lake Garda are Milan Linate Airport (www.sea-aeroportimilano.it), Malpensa International Airport (www.sea-aeroportimilano.it) and Orio al Serio (www.sacbo.it/Airpor/portalProcess.jsp?languageID=2).
Lake Garda insider information
- Enjoy the cypress trees and the stunning views at Punta di San Vigilio, which is about half way along the eastern shore of Lake Garda.
- Take the cable car from Malcesine up to the top of Monte Baldo (1,980 metres/6,500 feet high) to see the views. This area is known as “The Garden of Italy” and you can see why from the range of plants and vegetation here.
- Sirmione is associated with the Roman poets Catullus and Vergil who sang its praises. It is a very popular village with visitors not only for the beautiful castle and vibrant atmosphere, but also for the supposed health-giving properties of its spa which reportedly cures many ailments.
