Sirmione is an ideal base for exploring Lake Garda and its surroundings. Within a short distance you will find medieval villages, vineyards, art cities, amusement parks and Alpine mountains. Here are the best excursions with distances and tips.
One of the great advantages of staying in Sirmione is its location: at the southern tip of the lake, well connected to the main destinations in the area. Within an hour by car you can reach villages like Malcesine to the north, Verona to the east, or take a ferry to explore the lake shore. Every day can become a different adventure.
Lazise — medieval village
Lazise is one of the most charming villages on Lake Garda, with its virtually intact Venetian medieval walls, an ancient harbour and a lively square. The Venetian Dogana on the lakefront is iconic. Perfect for a morning: arrive early, walk along the walls, have breakfast at the piazza café. Nearby is the Caneva World water park, ideal for families.
Bardolino — wine and lakefront
Bardolino is the wine capital of the Garda — Bardolino Classico DOC, a light, fruity red, is produced on the hills around the village. The lakefront is beautiful with its plane trees and open-air cafés. Visit the Wine Museum (Zeni) and do a tasting. In October the Grape Festival takes place, one of the most beautiful events on the lake.
Malcesine — alpine village and cable car
Malcesine is the jewel of the Veronese shore in the north of the lake. Its scaligero castle on a rocky outcrop is one of the most photographed views on the Garda. The cable car ascending Monte Baldo (1760 m) offers extraordinary panoramic views of the lake and the Dolomites. Also excellent for mountain biking: the cable car carries bikes.
Verona — city of art 35 minutes away
One of Italy's most beautiful cities, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Roman Arena, Piazza delle Erbe, Juliet's balcony, Piazza Bra and the medieval historic centre can be visited in half a day. In summer the Arena hosts Opera — a unique experience not to be missed if you're in the area in July-August. In the evening you can return for dinner in Sirmione.
Garda e Punta San Vigilio
The village of Garda, which gives the lake its name, has an elegant lakefront with historic palaces. A few minutes away is Punta San Vigilio — considered the most romantic location on the lake — with the Baia delle Sirene, a small private beach with emerald-coloured water and century-old olive trees. A magical afternoon.
Gardaland — theme parks
Gardaland is one of Italy's largest amusement parks, perfect for a day with children. Nearby is also the Sea Life Aquarium (ideal in rainy weather) and Legoland Water Park. Buy tickets online to save money and arrive at opening time. From Sirmione it is one of the most practical day trips for families.
Riva del Garda — Alpine north
At the northern end of the lake, Riva del Garda has a completely different character: Alpine atmosphere, mountains dropping straight into the water, Varone waterfall, and a lively harbour with windsurfers and kitesurfers. Excellent for those who want to combine the Garda lake with the charm of the Dolomites. The road along the shore is one of the most scenic in Italy.