5-Day Itinerary on Lake Garda

Lake Garda is one of the most captivating destinations in Northern Italy, nestled between Lombardy, Veneto, and Trentino-Alto Adige.

Ready to explore it all in one breath? Discover Lake Garda through a 5-day journey across poetic villages, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views. An itinerary designed for travelers who want to see a lot, but with a slow-travel spirit.

Day 1 – Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda

Morning:
Start your itinerary in Sirmione, one of the lake’s gems. Visit the Grotte di Catullo, an ancient Roman villa with a stunning panoramic view. Continue with a walk through the historic center and a visit to the Scaligero Castle, one of the most scenic in Italy.

Afternoon:
Head to Desenzano del Garda, just 20 minutes away. Stroll along the lakeside promenade, explore the old town, and enjoy an aperitif at sunset.

Overnight in Desenzano.

Day 2 – Salò and Gardone Riviera

Morning:
Travel to Salò, an elegant town with a beautiful lakefront. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Sant’Annunziata and the MuSa – Salò Museum.

For lunch, we recommend Osteria dell’Orologio, known for its traditional cuisine and welcoming atmosphere – a perfect place to savor local flavors.

Afternoon:
Continue to Gardone Riviera, where you can visit the famous Vittoriale degli Italiani, the villa-museum of Gabriele D’Annunzio. End your day with a romantic dinner overlooking the lake.

Overnight in Gardone Riviera.

Day 3 – Limone sul Garda and Riva del Garda

Morning:
Drive the scenic Strada della Forra (from Tremosine) to reach Limone sul Garda, a village known for its lemon groves and dramatic lake terraces.
We suggest lunch at Cantina del Baffo, a cozy restaurant offering traditional lake cuisine and local wines.

Afternoon:
Head to Riva del Garda, an elegant Trentino town. Highlights include the Apponale Tower, the Venetian Bastion, and a walk along the Ponale trail, one of the most stunning cycling and hiking routes in Europe.

Overnight in Riva del Garda.

Day 4 – Malcesine and Monte Baldo

Morning:
Head down the eastern shore to Malcesine, one of the most picturesque villages on the lake. Take the panoramic cable car up to Monte Baldo for spectacular views of the lake and the Alps – perfect for hiking or simply admiring the scenery. Enjoy lunch in one of the mountain huts.

Afternoon:
Visit the Scaligero Castle and explore the charming alleys of the town center.

Overnight in Malcesine.

Day 5 – Bardolino, Lazise, and Peschiera del Garda

Morning:
Make your way to Bardolino, famous for its namesake wine. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the lakeside.
For a sweet break, stop by Bar Cristallo on the promenade – their gelato won’t disappoint.

Afternoon:
Continue to Lazise, a medieval village with well-preserved walls and a lovely harbor. End your journey in Peschiera del Garda, a UNESCO site known for its Venetian fortifications and canals.

Overnight in Peschiera or start your journey back home.

Practical Tips

• Best time to visit: Spring and early autumn, to avoid summer crowds.
• Recommended transport: Car, for maximum flexibility.
• Food to try: Bigoli with sardines, polenta with local cheeses, lavarello (lake whitefish).
• Wine: Lugana, Bardolino, Chiaretto.

This itinerary allows you to circle the entire lake — but if you can, take a few extra days to slow down and soak in the peaceful rhythm only a lake can offer.