The 12 best place to stay in lake garda and recommended hotels on Lake Garda 🇮🇹

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and stretches across three regions: Lombardy, Trentino-Alto Adige and Veneto.

The closest cities to Lake Garda are Brescia and Verona, but it is also easy to reach from Milan and Venice.

The southern towns on Lake Garda are popular destinations for day trips, but if you want to experience the whole region, I recommend spending at least three days on the lake.

A rental car is the best way to explore the area, but with a little patience you can also travel by bus.

In this guide, I will introduce you to 12 best place to stay in lake garda and recommended hotels on Lake Garda that you should definitely visit. Lake Garda is not far from Milan.

I’ve been living and traveling in Italy for over 15 years, and Lake Garda is one of my absolute favorite destinations in Northern Italy!

Whether you just want to circle the lake on a short road trip or spend several luxurious days exploring these beautiful towns in depth, Lake Garda will not disappoint.

12 best place to stay in lake garda

1. Sirmione

Sirmione is one of the most popular and picturesque towns on Lake Garda, so it’s perhaps no surprise that it’s at the top of our list for accommodation on Lake Garda.

Sirmione is located on a narrow peninsula that extends into the lake on the southern shore and is a popular starting point for boat trips and an ideal base for exploring the southern part of the lake.

At the tip of the peninsula, you can visit the archaeological site of Grotte di Catullo, where an imposing Roman villa was once located.

In the historic center of Sirmione, you should definitely visit the Castle Scaligero from the 13th century with its historic drawbridge and the charming medieval Church of San Pietro in Mavino.

Around the peninsula, you can take a walk along the lakeshore or relax and swim on one of the many beaches.

For a delicious lunch in a picturesque setting, head to the Bon Ton Bistrot. If you fancy a gourmet meal in a modern setting, visit La Rucola 2.0.

A great way to experience Sirmione is to take a boat tour around the peninsula.

There are many options, from half-hour tours that focus on the highlights to half-day tours.

Book in advance if you come in summer, as the tours get booked up quickly!

Best budget option: Hotel Pace 👈

An inexpensive option is the 👉 Hotel Pace, which is located directly on the beach near the old city walls of Sirmione.

This small, old-fashioned Italian hotel is air-conditioned, but guests should be prepared to carry their luggage as there is no elevator. Nevertheless, the hotel offers a charming and affordable stay in a prime location.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Hotel Casa Scaligeri 👈

The 👉 Hotel Casa Scaligeri is located within the old town walls of Sirmione and is a charming mid-range accommodation that is not too expensive.

The hotel’s rooms are modern and stylish, with clean geometric lines, warm lighting, natural wood and white bed linen.

Guests can even enjoy private sun loungers overlooking the lake to relax and find peace away from the crowds in Sirmione.

Best Luxury Option: Grand Hotel Terme 👈

The stunning 👉 Grand Hotel Terme, a 5-star hotel near the old town of Sirmione, is one of the best places to stay!

The biggest attraction is the thermal pool with naturally heated, mineral-rich thermal water and shower-like jets that are perfect for an invigorating bath.

There is also a private wellness area with a glass sauna from which you can enjoy a picturesque view of the lake while steaming.

The large and spacious guest rooms are minimalist in design to emphasize the beauty of Lake Garda.

2. Desenzano del Garda

Desenzano del Garda is located on the south-western shore of Lake Garda, just 20 minutes by car from Sirmione.

The town is much larger than Sirmione and has a charming historic center, a beautiful marina and several sights and museums.

Situated on a hill, the Castello di Desenzano del Garda, once a strategic military building and refuge from foreign invasions, is now one of the town’s most important landmarks and offers sweeping views of the lake.

Another attraction in Desenzano del Garda is the archaeological museum, the Villa Romana di Desenzano del Garda.

It is home to the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, whose impressive, well-preserved mosaics can still be admired today.

Desenzano is the ideal place to watch the sun rise over the lake.

You can also swim and sunbathe on one of the many beaches, visit the Museo Civico Archeologico Giovanni Rambotti and see the Dome of Santa Maria Maddalena.

From the port of Desenzano, you can take part in boat tours around the lake or even hire a boat to explore the lake on your own.

Best budget option: Hotel Benaco 👈

The 👉 Hotel Benaco may be a little off the beaten track by the lake, but it’s still a perfect budget option with plenty of amenities you wouldn’t expect in this price range.

Although it’s certainly not a luxury option, there is a little oasis here in the form of your own little garden and outdoor pool if you want to relax in peace.

The hotel’s rooms have an antique, if somewhat dated, feel. The fitness room is also a little dated, but you can still get in a quick workout if you want.

For travelers on a budget: The free breakfast buffet is also very extensive!

Best option in the mid-price segment: Park Hotel 👈

The 👉 Park Hotel is a pretty cool place with some great features. We can’t emphasize enough that there’s a gorgeous rooftop pool with a sundeck overlooking the lake and even a hot tub to relax in.

The location is another big plus point. Situated directly on the Lungalago promenade, you couldn’t wish for a better view!

The hotel’s rooms are spacious and comfortable (air conditioning, WiFi, everything you need), but perhaps a little dated in terms of style.

Best Luxury Option: Palace Hotel 👈

The 👉 Palace Hotel in Desenzano del Garda is a great luxury hotel that has so much to offer. You have the choice of two beautiful pools, one of which is a heated outdoor pool with stunning views of the lake.

But the real highlight is the spa. It’s a paradise for all kinds of relaxation! We’re talking about a Finnish sauna, a Turkish steam bath, an infrared sauna and even a salt room.

And let’s not forget the rooms! The bathrooms are also a real wellness paradise with whirlpools and marble counters. The bedrooms may not be the fanciest rooms you’ve ever seen, but trust us, the other amenities more than make up for it.

3. Salò

The Lake Garda town of Salò is located in a natural bay on the western shore of Lake Garda.

From walks along the beautiful Lungolago di Salò to museum visits and delicious food – there is so much to experience in Salò.

No matter what you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.

Visit the beautiful Dome of Santa Maria Annunziata, stroll through the historic center and discover the art and science exhibitions at the MuSa – Museo di Salò.

If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, you can buy local delicacies and souvenirs at the weekly Mercato di Salò.

Along the lakeshore you will find countless panoramic views, beaches and restaurants. Salò is known above all for its elegant restaurants.

Enjoy a gourmet lunch with a view on the beautiful terrace of the Restaurant Magnolia or in the Locanda del Benaco by the lake.

You can find delicious baked goods at Pasticceria L’io Goloso.

If you like hiking, you should take an afternoon to explore the hiking trails in the hills around Salò and enjoy a wonderful view of the lake from the vantage points.

The most popular destinations include the Belvedere Amici del Golfo, La Corna and the Belvedere Isabella north-east of Salò.

Best budget option: Hotel Eden 👈

The 👉 Hotel Eden is an affordable option in the historic center of Salò. It is located on a large piazza with a view of the clock tower and the lake in the distance.

The hotel has an old-school feel, with elegant chandeliers and vintage furniture throughout. Some of the rooms even have a balcony overlooking the piazza!

The most important feature of the Hotel Eden is its location. It is right in the heart of Salò, making it easy to explore the charming streets and sights of the town.

And thanks to the lake view from some rooms, you can enjoy the beauty of Lake Garda even if you are not staying on the Lungolago promenade.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Hotel Laurin 👈

For an elegant stay in the mid-price segment, the 👉 Hotel Laurin is a good choice. The hotel was once a privately owned Art Nouveau villa and has retained much of its original aesthetics to offer you a unique stay.

Despite its historical roots, the hotel has been equipped with modern amenities such as WiFi and parking spaces with e-charging stations. The rooms themselves have been carefully renovated and tastefully furnished, combining the original details with modern amenities.

Of course, there is also a stunning outdoor pool and spacious gardens that invite you to relax away from the city.

The renowned Magnolia restaurant is an absolute must for gourmets looking for a breathtaking experience.

The ornate and elegant dining room is decorated with frescoes and chandeliers, creating an atmosphere of opulence and grandeur to match the fine dining menu.

Best Luxury Option: Villa Arcadio 👈

How about a stay in a former monastery that has been converted into a luxury hotel? The 👉 Villa Arcadio is tucked away in the hills behind the town of Salo.

From the ivy-covered exterior façade to the exposed beams and brickwork inside, the historical ambience is omnipresent.

Although you are about a 10-minute drive from the city, you still have a view of the lake from the pool area. There’s also a terrace that’s perfect for drinks at sunset.

The short drive away from the city is worth it; the secluded atmosphere cannot be found anywhere else on Lake Garda, especially considering the historical ambience of the hotel.

But that’s not all: there’s a great spa with a Finnish sauna and a range of massages and treatments.

4. Gardone Riviera

To the north of Salò lies Gardone Riviera, a town with magnificent villas and lush vegetation.

Villa Alba and Villa Fiordaliso are just two of the many luxury villas overlooking the lake, most of which have been converted into hotels or event venues.

The most impressive, however, is La Torre di San Marco, a venue with a beautiful Venetian tower right on the lakeshore.

The city’s most striking landmark is the Vittoriale degli Italiani, a monumental building complex that includes a modern amphitheater, a warship and beautifully landscaped gardens.

The complex was once the residence of the poet and writer Gabriele D’Annunzio, who lived here until his death in 1938.

He is buried in a mausoleum that is also part of the Vittoriale. You can visit the outside areas of the impressive complex and take a guided tour of D’Annunzio’s house.

Another place worth visiting in Gardone Riviera is the André Heller Botanical Gardens.

The garden dates back to the early 20th century and is home to a spectacular variety of plants as well as sculptures, ponds, bridges and a bamboo forest.

Best budget option: Hotel Du Lac 👈

Are you looking for an affordable hotel that won’t let you down? The 👉 Hotel Du Lac is located directly on the Lungomare and offers a fantastic view of the lake. There is also a wonderful panoramic terrace from which you can enjoy the view of Lake Garda.

If you really want to treat yourself, you should upgrade to a room with a balcony and lake view.

The rooms are a little smaller, but what can you expect at this price? You have to give a little to get a little, right?

Best option in the mid-price segment: Hotel Bella Riva 👈

The 👉 Hotel Bella Riva is a tribute to artistic design, full of personality and inspired by Klimt everywhere, even on the headboards of the beds. Talk about attention to detail!

The rooms are luxurious, offer plenty of space and some rooms even have fantastic bathtubs.

Outside, it gets even better: the sun terrace is absolutely stunning, with an outdoor pool, sun loungers and a view of the lake that is simply breathtaking. There are no spa facilities here, but who needs them when you have all this?

Best Luxury Option: Grand Hotel Fasano 👈

For the ultimate luxury experience, the 👉 Grand Hotel Fasano is worthy of Instagram gold. The lakeside location and outdoor pool will keep you snapping for days. Seriously, your feed will be on fire!

But that’s just the beginning: the spa is absolutely amazing. Inspired by the ancient Roman baths, it has an indoor pool, a whirlpool and a Turkish steam bath.

Moreover, the hotel is actually two buildings in one: a modern one and the renovated 19th century Villa Principe.

The rooms are also in keeping with the royal ambience!

5. Toscolano-Maderno

From Gardone Riviera, it’s just a five-minute drive north to Toscolano-Maderno.

Once they were two different cities, but over the years they have merged into a single destination.

If you are looking for a picturesque town on Lake Garda, you should pay a visit to Toscolano-Maderno.

One of the best things to do in the city is to visit the Paper Museum, Museo della Carta e della Valle delle Cartiere.

In an old paper mill, you can not only learn about the history of paper production, but also enjoy the peaceful location amidst the lush vegetation on the outskirts of the city.

Explore the hiking trails around the Valle delle Cartiere (Valley of the Paper Mills) and visit the museum.

You can explore many areas on your own, but the old part of the museum is only accessible with a guided tour, which is included in the entrance fee.

You should also not miss the breathtaking Chiesa di Montemaderno with its magnificent view.

Back in the city, you can stroll along the lake, relax on the small but beautiful beaches and enjoy a delicious lunch.

Try the delicious fresh pasta dishes in the Osteria Gatto d’Oro or enjoy refined dishes with a view of the lake in the tasteful La Terrazza sul Lago.

Best budget option: Garda Friends Apartment 👈

The 👉 Garda Friends Apartment is a great choice for a budget vacation in the heart of Toscolano-Maderno if you don’t mind a small space to maintain your privacy!

This small loft-style apartment has a tiny dining area and kitchenette, a sitting area and a view of the city.

There is a loft bedroom with a king-size bed and a sofa bed that can accommodate up to four people (although it can be a little cramped).

Best option in the mid-price segment: Ennesima Osteria con Alloggio 👈

👉 Ennesima Osteria con Alloggio is a unique hotel in Toscolano-Maderno that is marketed as a “bike hotel” but is suitable for all types of guests.

The hotel is designed with a funky aesthetic and features modern rooms with colorful wallpaper and stylish decor.

One of the highlights of the Ennesima Osteria con Alloggio is the pretty bar in the town, which invites you to socialize and relax after a day full of activities.

The hotel’s bike-friendly amenities, including bike storage and maintenance, make it a great choice for anyone wanting to explore Lake Garda by bike.

Whether you are a cyclist or not, the Ennesima Osteria con Alloggio is a good choice for a comfortable and unique stay in Toscolano-Maderno.

With its funky decor, modern facilities and convenient, bike-friendly services, it is sure to appeal to a wide range of guests.

Best Luxury Option: Villa Mimosa au Lac 👈

If you are looking for a unique guest house, you are in the 👉 Villa Mimosa au Lac is just right: it is in a picturesque location, has a private beach, a garden and a terrace with a wonderful lake view.

The vintage furniture adds to the ambience of the “historic villa” and conveys a feeling of “home away from home”. Each room has its own entrance so that guests have their privacy despite the B&B style.

The villa is ideally located just a short walk from the town center, where guests can explore a variety of stores and restaurants.

6. Gargnano

The beautiful Gargnano on the western shore of Lake Garda is part of the Parco Regionale dell’Alto Garda Bresciano nature reserve.

Once you’re there, it quickly becomes clear why many historical figures and celebrities have chosen Gargnano as their home, from novelist D.H. Lawrence to Benito Mussolini, who lived in the imposing Villa Feltrinelli, which is now a magnificent five-star hotel.

Strolling through the picturesque town, it’s not hard to understand why anyone would want to live in Gargnano!

From the beautiful lakeside promenade Lungolago Gargnano to the picturesque alleyways and beautiful parks – the charm of Gargnano is undeniable.

Some places in the city that you should not miss are the beautiful Convent of San Francesco and the Limonaia la Malora, where you can taste and buy limoncello and other local products.

As far as food is concerned, you should visit the Trattoria S. Martino – le 3 oche or the Restaurant AEOLUS.

Last but not least, you should visit the monumental Villa Bettoni with its magnificent interiors and beautiful gardens on the lake shore.

The villa houses the original furniture and decorations from the 18th century as well as beautiful works of art.

Plan ahead, however, as a pre-booked guided tour is required to visit the villa.

Best budget option: Hotel Livia 👈

The 👉 Hotel Livia is a charming hotel near Villa Bettoni in Gargnano. The property is located on a hill with a slight elevation for a breathtaking view of Lake Garda.

The hotel has a small garden (with a lemon orchard and an olive grove – is there any more Eden?) and a small pool for guests to enjoy.

The hotel’s own restaurant is a real treat and offers delicious cuisine to satisfy even the hungriest stomach.

The rooms are clean and modern, nothing special, but still cozy.

If you are looking for a quiet retreat in Gargnano, the Hotel Livia is definitely worth a visit.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Corte Alma Spa and Luxury Hotel 👈

The 👉 Corte Alma Spa and Luxury Home is a beautiful Bed & Breakfast where you will feel at home from the very first second the friendly hosts welcome you!

This small but charming B&B exudes historic charm with stone walls and exposed wooden beams. There is a small courtyard with a terrace where you can dine al fresco and even a small hot tub that you can use.

The rooms are furnished in a minimalist style with some vintage details and feature a white and bright décor that lets in plenty of natural light and wooden elements.

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a quiet retreat, the Corte Alma Spa and Luxury Home is an excellent choice for your stay in Gargnano.

Best Luxury Option: Lefay Resort & Spa 👈

Would you like to swim in an infinity pool that seems to extend endlessly into the lake behind you? Then the 👉 Lefay Resort & Spa is the place for you, one of the most beautiful hotels on Lake Garda.

It is located in the hills above Gargnano, creating the breathtaking optical illusion of floating into the lake behind you. But this location has even more advantages than just the view!

You are surrounded by olive groves, lush hills and breathtaking gardens. But don’t worry, a free shuttle will be happy to take you into town, so you don’t have to worry about finding a parking space in the center.

Of course, the hotel has the name “Spa” in its name, and that’s a good thing: We are of course talking about the Mondo Lefay Spa with its Turkish steam bath, sauna, solarium and indoor pool!

7. Limone sul Garda

The charming Limone sul Garda is located on the western shore of Lake Garda, at the northernmost end of the lake.

As the name suggests, Limone sul Garda is famous for its lemon houses, or limonaie in Italian, an alternative to an orangery.

Strangely enough, despite this history, the name of the town is not derived from lemons, but probably from limo or lemos, the Celtic word for elm.

For centuries, the city was isolated because there were no roads!

Until the 1940s, Limone sul Garda could only be reached by boat or on foot via the paths in the southern mountains.

With the construction of roads came international tourism, and today Limone sul Garda is one of the most popular places on Lake Garda.

It is therefore not surprising that one of the city’s most important sights is a museum dedicated to lemon trees.

Limonaia del Castèl offers beautiful terraced lemon groves with views of the lake and exhibitions on lemon trees and other citrus fruits.

A recently constructed pedestrian and cycle path follows the old path that once led people from the southern mountains to Limone and offers a truly magnificent view of the lake.

North of Limone, you can discover the beautiful Sopino waterfall on the hiking trails.

Best budget option: Garni Gianmartin 👈

The 👉 Garni Gianmartin is a great choice for those on a budget who want to stay right on the water without breaking the bank.

The hotel offers free private parking, making your stay hassle-free. The rooms are small and sparsely lit, but comfortable and offer a wonderful view of the lake.

The breakfast buffet is really good, and even if the decor is a bit strange with the oddly placed stones reminiscent of an old stone wall (which obviously isn’t one?), it doesn’t detract from the overall experience.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Hotel Caravel 👈

For a mid-range stay, the 👉 Hotel Caravel offers large, comfortable rooms in a well-equipped and scenic hotel with a wonderful view of the lake.

In summer, guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and the numerous sun loungers with plenty of space to stretch out and enjoy the sun of Lake Garda.

For those who want to relax, the sauna with windows overlooking the forest is a great perk – there’s even an outdoor wooden tub where you can dip water on your head afterwards!

Best Luxury Option: Park Hotel Imperial 👈

The 👉 Park Hotel Imperial is a luxurious hotel above the town of Limone sul Garda. It offers elegant rooms with large balconies offering sweeping views of the lake.

The hotel features a hot tub and sauna, as well as an impressive fitness center with outdoor exercise bikes and views of the lake. Lemon trees surround the pool area and add to the beauty of the surroundings.

The rooms are decorated in a minimalist style with gray tones, and the marble bathrooms have rain showers. Guests can also enjoy the spa with sauna and various treatments.

Free parking is available and the town is only a 15-minute walk away.

8. Riva del Garda

At the northernmost end of the lake lies the enchanting Riva del Garda with its elegant old town, magnificent viewpoints and great museums.

The city is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts due to the constant winds.

There are many sights to see in Riva del Garda, starting with the medieval fortress Rocca di Riva on the lake shore with the archaeological and artistic exhibitions of the MAG Museo Alto Garda.

After getting to know the history of the city, you should climb the Torre Apponale clock tower to enjoy a magnificent view of the lake and explore the lively area around the Via del Marocco.

To the east of the city center, you can take the mountain railroad and visit the Bastione di Riva, a 16th-century fortress that rewards its visitors with a sweeping view over Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains.

If you are feeling adventurous or just want to stretch your legs a little, you can also take a beautiful hiking trail up to the fortress.

Back in the city, you can relax on the beaches to the west, stroll along the paths by the lake and enjoy the view from Punta Lido.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can enjoy a delicious aperitivo at Panem, eat a delicious pizza at Bella Napoli or try the unusual dishes at Al Volt.

Best budget option: Villa Bellaria 👈

The 👉 Villa Bellaria is a great value choice if you’re looking for a cozy, family-run atmosphere.

There’s a mix of rooms and self-catering apartments, so you can choose what works best for your group (e.g. if you want your own kitchen, although it would be a shame to miss out on the Lake Garda restaurant scene).

Fancy a bit of adventure? Borrow a couple of mountain bikes for free and explore the area on the trails. If you’d rather relax, the lake and the old town are just a short walk away.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Hotel Luise 👈

If you are looking for a boutique hotel at a good price, you should visit the charming 👉 Hotel Luise. It’s only a 5-minute walk from the lake and just as close to the city, so it’s super convenient.

It also has a beautiful outdoor pool with great views and offers free bike rental if you want to explore the surrounding area.

The rooms are really fun and individually designed, with their own funky flair and expressive wallpaper. Themes include geography, the underwater world and much more!

Best Luxury Option: Lido Palace 👈

If you have high expectations, you should take a look at the 👉 Lido Palace: Today’s 5-star luxury hotel was once a former summer palace of the Habsburgs, furnished in the style of the Belle Époque.

No wonder it has earned its place in the prestigious group of Leading Hotels of the World!

Don’t expect a dusty palace atmosphere here: the interior has been renovated in a modern and elegant way, with extra-large beds and a super-luxurious, minimalist design.

But let’s talk about the real highlight: the spa. It has an indoor pool, a sauna, a Turkish bath and a salt therapy room, and it’s all just glorious. And don’t even get me started on the outdoor pool, which offers a fantastic view of the lake!

9. Malcesine

The town of Malcesine stretches for several kilometers along the eastern shore of Lake Garda, but its historic center is a small spider’s web of narrow, cobbled streets with colourful houses.

The town is the last in the Veneto region and borders the Trentino-Alto Adige region to the north. A ferry connects Malcesine with Limone sul Garda on the opposite shore.

The castle of Malcesine, known as Castello Scaligero, is the main attraction of Malcesine and dominates the town from a small rocky hill on the lake shore.

Like the castle in Sirmione, it was owned by the noble Della Scala family, hence the name Castello Scaligero.

However, these are two different locks and should not be confused!

The castle became famous after Goethe described it in his Italian Journey.

Apart from the castle, the Palazzo dei Capitani, an imposing palace with beautiful gardens on the lake, which also houses a history museum, is another must-see in Malcesine.

For one of the best views of Lake Garda, take the cable car up Monte Baldo and explore the beautiful hiking trails.

In contrast to the expensive towns on the west bank, Malcesine has several cozy and affordable restaurants that serve hearty local dishes.

Try the tasty pasta at Trattoria da Nonna Pina or the hearty, traditional Emilia-Romagna dishes at Vidoc.

Best budget option: Hotel Meridiana 👈

The 👉 Hotel Meridiana is located near the waterfront and the city’s castle and offers large, modern rooms with high ceilings that create an open and spacious ambience.

The bathrooms may not be the most modern, but the delicious breakfast and proximity to local attractions make up for it.

The hotel also offers a small fitness area for those who want to stay active during their stay, as well as a large pool where you can take a dip or even do a few laps.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Hotel Vega 👈

The 👉 Hotel Vega is a jewel on the lake and offers a private beach and a garden terrace with a wonderful lake view.

Take a dip in the small pool with hydromassage jets to relax tired muscles while you enjoy the breathtaking views all around.

The rooms are modern and bright, with balconies that offer both lake and mountain views – every room in this hotel offers incredible views. The coolest feature of the hotel is its unique semi-circular pool overlooking the lake.

The Mediterranean-style rooms with white arches, blue details and the flair of a Greek island contribute to the overall image of the “island escape”.

But what’s even better: the terrace with sun loungers and parasols is the perfect place to enjoy the view of Lake Garda. A little piece of the Mediterranean in northern Italy!

Best luxury option:Ambienthotel PrimaLuna 👈 👈

The 👉 Ambienthotel PrimaLuna is an excellent choice for a luxurious stay in Malcesine.

The uniquely shaped, curved pool is a real special feature – it is elevated above the lake and offers an incredible view of the water.

There is also an outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for enjoying the hot water and the view.

The dining room is an experience in itself – with its large glass windows overlooking the lake, it’s like dining on the water!

The rooms are colorful and vibrant, with industrial flair and bold furniture. The bathrooms are just as bright and cheerful!

And the breakfast buffet is plentiful and delicious, with lots of fresh fruit – perfect for fortifying yourself before a day of adventure on the lake.

10. Bardolino

Beautiful Bardolino is a small town on the eastern shore of Lake Garda that is best known for its wine production, particularly the local grape variety that bears the town’s name.

With its lively and colorful marina, a charming medieval center and several museums, Bardolino is the perfect place to relax and enjoy peaceful walks by the lake.

The city has a long history dating back thousands of years, although most of the archaeological finds date back to the Roman settlement.

The historic center of Bardolino, as you see it today, consists of beautiful medieval buildings, churches and city walls. The Chiesa di San Severo is the most remarkable church in the town.

Bardolino is home to several museums, including the Museo dell’Olio, which is dedicated to olive oil production, the ethnographic Museo Sisàn and the Zeni Museum, which is dedicated to wine production.

The latter is not to be missed, as it not only offers free guided tours, but also wine tastings!

Another great way to enjoy a glass of Bardolino wine is to combine it with a delicious meal in one of the many restaurants in the historic center.

Try the fish restaurant La Virata Trattoria del Pesce or the charming La Piccola Osteria.

Best value for money:Albergo Fiorita 👈

Whenever you see the word “Albergo”, you can be sure that you are staying in an authentic Italian place: The 👉 Albergo Fiorita is just that.

This quaint little guesthouse offers a typically Italian stay in the heart of the old town.

The guest house offers comfortable but not overly trendy rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

The friendly hosts and free parking add to the charm of this traditional Italian guest house.

It is also just a short walk from the lake, making it an ideal location for your Lake Garda adventure.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Palace Hotel San Pietro 👈

The charming 👉 Palace Hotel San Pietro is a 4-star gem with a magnificent inner courtyard that conceals a pool away from the hustle and bustle of Lake Garda and offers you a private oasis.

The sun loungers and parasols surrounding the pool make it a luxurious retreat, and there is also a small terrace area where you can enjoy an aperitivo.

With their high ceilings, chic vintage furniture and modern, upscale bathrooms, the rooms are fit for royalty.

The city center is just a few minutes’ walk away, so you’re never far from the action.

Best Luxury Option: Hotel Caesius Thermae & Spa Resort 👈

The 👉 Hotel Caesius Thermae & Spa Resort offers everything you need for a relaxing vacation on Lake Garda.

You have 5 (yes, five) pools to choose from, both indoor and outdoor, including some with thermal water.

Speaking of thermal water: let’s talk about the spa!

Yes, there are the eponymous thermal pools, but there are also other typical spa facilities such as a Turkish bath, a Finnish sauna and a tea room to relax in.

They are also known for their Ayurvedic treatments!

The rooms are simple but spacious, and the emphasis is on the fantastic spa amenities and views!

11. Lazise

You may be surprised to learn that Lazise is the most visited lakeside town in Italy and one of the most visited tourist destinations in the whole country!

Around 3.5 million visitors come to the town every year. So if you want to visit Lazise in summer, you should be prepared for a large crowd.

The town was already inhabited in prehistoric times, but its greatest heyday began in the late 10th century, when the Roman Empire permitted the construction of the castrum (a fortified settlement) and granted Lazise unprecedented autonomy.

Today you can still visit the well-preserved remains of the town walls and the imposing Castello di Lazise, one of the many castles built by the Della Scala family.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit the castle, but you can admire the impressive building from the outside.

Stroll along Lungolago Marconi at sunset, explore the charming old town and visit the beautiful church of Saints Zenone and Martino.

Finally, enjoy a delicious meal in the Cozzeria, one of the most famous restaurants in Lazise.

Best budget option: Albergo Tecla 👈

👉 Albergo Tecla is a charming traditional Italian hotel in the center of Lazise, just a few steps from the beautiful lakeshore.

The rooms are simply furnished but comfortable, with basic amenities such as air conditioning and WiFi.

You can look forward to a free continental breakfast buffet, and if your room has a balcony, you can enjoy the view of the city with a cup of coffee.

Overall, the Albergo Tecla is a great, affordable option for travelers looking to stay in the heart of Lazise.

Best mid-range option: Classique 👈

The 👉 Hotel Classique lives up to its name and offers an elegant and refined atmosphere that preserves the charm of the original building.

The rooms and suites at the Classique are simply beautiful. High ceilings and original details such as chandeliers or exposed beams give each room character and charm.

The rooms are spacious and sophisticated, but the Queen Suite stands out in particular, stunning with its two-story floor plan and breathtaking decor.

What’s more, the hotel is just a few hundred meters from the lakeshore, so days by the water are a breeze.

Best Luxury Option: Hotel Corte Valier 👈

The 👉 Hotel Corte Valier is a luxurious hotel on Lake Garda with many amenities that will make your stay unforgettable.

From the large outdoor pool surrounded by lush grasses and trees to the spa with dry sauna, Turkish bath, indoor pool and whirlpool, you will find yourself in a wellness paradise.

Indulge in relaxation with one of the signature spa treatments or keep up your exercise routine in the excellent modern fitness center.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable and have a spa-like bathroom with separate shower and bathtub. Each bathroom is also equipped with all the toiletries you need.

Best of all, all the rooms have stunning views of the lake, so you’ll never get tired of looking at the scenery – there really isn’t a bad view in the house!

One of the highlights of the hotel is the incredible breakfast that is included in your stay. The breakfast menu is very extensive and offers a variety of options to suit all tastes and diets.

12. Peschiera del Garda

Finally, Peschiera del Garda is located on the southern shore of Lake Garda, east of the Sirmione peninsula.

The town lies on a series of small islands and is surrounded by a fortress wall.

The fortified town was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2017 as part of a series of fortified towns famous for their Venetian defense system.

Porta Verona is one of the gates of the fortified city and is still the main entrance to the old town, built at the end of a bridge over the Mincio River.

At the other end of the city is the less elaborate (but still beautiful) Porta Brescia.

The old town of Peschiera del Garda extends over two small islands, which are connected to each other and to the two banks of the Mincio River by several bridges.

The best place to explore in the city is the impressive old town with its numerous defensive structures.

Alongside Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda is one of the two towns on Lake Garda with a railroad station.

This makes it an ideal city for a day trip from Milan, Venice or Verona.

North of Peschiera, you can spend a day at Gardaland, one of the largest and most visited amusement parks in Europe – a great choice for families!

Best budget option: SEI Garda Apartments 👈

👉 SEI Garda Apartments offers 6 private apartments with a beautiful, modern design, mostly in a black and grey color palette.

The apartments have large and spacious bathrooms as well as a small kitchenette and seating/dining areas that are perfect for self-catering.

This is not a typical hotel, but a modern and stylish apartment complex where you can stay: somewhere between an Airbnb and a hotel.

The apartments are ideal for families, with bunk beds for the children. The location is also a plus, as it is close to Gardaland, one of the most popular theme parks in the area.

Best option in the mid-price segment: Ziba Hotel & Spa 👈

If you’re looking for a wellness experience that won’t take up your entire vacation budget, you should check out the 👉 Ziba Hotel & Spa.

Located in a 19th-century building just outside the city center, the hotel has retained its original décor, but the rooms have been modernized and given a minimalist facelift.

In addition to the outdoor pool, there is also a spa with a Finnish sauna, a Turkish bath and a whirlpool, perfect for relaxing between adventures on Lake Garda.

Best Luxury Option: Le Ali de Frassino 👈

👉 Le Ali Del Frassino is a luxurious hotel with several outdoor pools, including a larger pool for families and a quieter infinity pool right on the water.

The spacious rooms are minimalist but beautiful, with exposed beams that add a touch of rustic charm.

The hotel also has a first-class spa with a heated plunge pool and sauna, as well as a fitness center.

A highlight of the stay is undoubtedly the fantastic free breakfast!

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