Where to stay in Lake Garda 

Lake Garda has towns to suit every type of traveler. For first-time visitors, Sirmione is the most iconic choice. Located on a historic peninsula, it has a medieval castle, Roman ruins and good ferry connections. Desenzano del Garda is the best option without a car, with direct trains from Milan, Venice and Verona. Families gravitate toward Peschiera del Garda for Gardaland access, while Malcesine and Riva del Garda suit active travelers wanting mountains and watersports. For a romantic or luxury stay, Limone sul Garda on the western shore and the resort hotels around Gargnano are the standout choices.

Italy's largest lake, Lake Garda, stretches across three regions of northern Italy.

And choosing where to stay is one of the more enjoyable planning decisions you'll make.

The south is flat, well-connected and ideal for first-timers, while the north is dramatic, mountainous and best for outdoor lovers. Western Lake Garda is romantic and quieter, while the east produces some of the best wine on the lake.

Every shore has a different character, and the town you choose can shape your entire trip.

I live in northern Italy and visit Lake Garda regularly throughout the year.

In this guide I'll break down the best towns for every type of traveler. Whether you're after luxury, adventure or simply a beautiful place to sit by the water, this guide will cover it.

✅ The best town for first-time visitors
✅ Where to stay in Lake Garda without a car
 
✅ Best towns for couples and honeymoons
✅ Where to stay for families and teenagers
✅ Best luxury resorts and spa hotels 
✅ How many days you need 

Where is Lake Garda? 

Lake Garda (Lago di Garda) is Italy’s largest lake and is situated in northern Italy.  

With a circumference of nearly 90mi (145km) it spans three regions (Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol). 

For first-time visitors, many have a hard time choosing between which town to visit. One day on Lake Garda doesn’t allow much time but you can still comfortably see one to two towns.  

One of the best places in Italy use this guide to plan your Italy trip. 

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Regions of Lake Garda: which side is best? 

Before choosing your ideal town, you should know that Lake Garda has two distinct regions. They are: 

• the southern shore (Sirmione, Desenzano, Peschiera, Bardolino) and 
• the northern Shore (Malcesine, Riva del Garda, Limone, Gargnano, Tremosine) 

Southern Lake Garda (Lombardy and Veneto) 

The southern part of Lake Garda typically has flat landscapes and good transport links. 

It’s ideal for families, first-time visitors and for anyone planning on traveling to Lake Garda without a car. 

Northern Lake Garda (Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol) 

Ideal for outdoorsy types and sports lovers, the north of the lake is surrounded by mountains views. It makes it ideal for hikers, windsurfers and for visiting the Dolomites after. 

Eastern Lake Garda (Veneto) 

Home to Bardolino, Garda and Lazise, the eastern side of Lake Garda is best known for its wine production. 

Western Lake Garda (Lombardy) 

Travelers looking for more tranquil towns might prefer the western side of Lake Garda. It’s home to quieter towns like Salò and Gargnano. 

It’s a great option for anyone looking to stay, or visit, less touristy towns on Lake Garda. 

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Map of Lake Garda towns and resorts

Lake Garda's four shores each have a distinct character, and the distance between towns is greater than it looks on a standard map.

Use the map below to get a clear picture of where each town sits before choosing your base.

Towns are color-coded by shore so you can see at a glance how the southern, northern and western options compare geographically.

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Best places to stay in Lake Garda for couples

Lake Garda has several towns that are perfect for a romantic stay.

Limone sul Garda on the western shore, has dramatic cliffside views and picturesque lemon groves. One of the most visually striking towns on the lake, it consistently draws in couples for that reason.

Gardone Riviera, further south on the western shore, has a refined, unhurried quality. Elegant gardens, Liberty-style architecture and a lakefront promenade with very few crowds compared to Sirmione.

For a luxury romantic stay, the western shore around Gargnano is the obvious choice.

Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli and Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda are two of the finest properties in northern Italy.

Within a short distance of each other, they’re designed around the kind of seclusion and service that suits a honeymoon or anniversary.

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Best places to stay in Lake Garda with teenagers

Teenagers get the most out of Lake Garda when the itinerary mixes activity with downtime rather than pure sightseeing.

For that reason, the southern shore towns work best.

Peschiera del Garda is the most obvious base. Gardaland, Movieland and Caneva Aquapark are all within 10 minutes by car, and the town also has a pebble beach.

Desenzano del Garda is another alternative that has more nightlife options and direct train connections. It allows older teenagers some independence to explore nearby Verona or Brescia.

For teenagers who prefer adventure over theme parks, visit Riva del Garda in the north, the lake’s watersport’s capital.

It has windsurfing, kayaking and mountain biking on its doorstep, and an energy that better suits active families.

Now that you’ve a better idea of which part of the lake suits you, here's my town-by-town breakdown.

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Where to stay in Lake Garda 

1. Sirmione, southern Lake Garda 

Sirmione is a great choice when looking for where to stay in Lake Garda for first-time visitors. 

Lake Garda’s postcard town, Sirmione is located on a narrow peninsula extending into the southern part of the lake.  

Why stay in Sirmione? 

Sirmione is ideal for first-time visitors to Lake Garda because of its good mix of attractions and scenery.

On top of that it offers easy access to Verona and to the Milan-Venice train route. Sirmione is also well-connected with ferries and bus routes to other towns around the lake. 

Attractions in Sirmione 

The 13th century Scaliger Castle (Castello Scaligero di Sirmione) is one of Italy’s best-preserved water castles.  

Towards the tip of the peninsula is Grotte di Catullo, which are the ruins of an imposing Roman villa. Further north is the pretty Jamaica Beach. Ideal for couples, solo travelers and families, it’s a relaxing spot to relax by the lake. 

Downsides of staying in Sirmione 

Sirmione’s reputation as one of the most popular towns means that it’s also one of the busiest, especially in summer.  

The old town, located on the tip of the peninsula, has limited vehicle access. This means that it’s a short walk from the parking areas to get to the town. 

Lastly, the high number of tourists in Sirmione translates to higher prices. This can extend to anything from something as small as a gelato to something bigger like accommodation. 

Recommended hotels in Sirmione 

Start your search with where to stay in Sirmione by checking out the following options. 

Luxury – Villa Cortine Palace Relais Chateaux 

This 5-star lakeside retreat has luxurious rooms, some with terraces overlooking the lake and a private beach.  

Mid-range – Hotel Casa Scaligeri  

Located close to Scaliger Castle, the pet-friendly hotel has generous sized rooms and a free continental breakfast. 

Budget – Hotel Meridiana  

This family-friendly hotel is within walking distance of the castle, grotto and Jamaica Beach. Amenities include a bar, restaurant and a rooftop terrace.  

Pros and cons of staying in Sirmione 

✅ good transport links, historical sites and pretty scenery 

✅ iconic town to stay in Lake Garda 

❌ crowded in summer with high accommodation prices 

❌ limited access by car; parking is outside the old town 

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2. Desenzano del Garda, southern Lake Garda

Desenzano del Garda is Lake Garda’s largest town and the best place to stay in Lake Garda without a car. 

This is because Desenzano del Garda has direct train connections to Milan, Verona and Venice making it a convenient base. What’s more, ferries run frequently between Desenzano del Garda and nearby lake towns.  

Why stay in Desenzano del Garda? 

Desenzano del Garda is the easiest town to reach if visiting Lake Garda without a car. Trains from Milan, Venice and Verona stop here making the town also ideal for a day trip (see best day trips from Verona). 

Unlike some quieter Lake Garda towns Desenzano del Garda is lively year-round. The old town has several bars and restaurants making it ideal if looking for things to do at night. 

For day owls, the town also has historical points of interest to see. Desenzano Castle (Castello di Desenzano) and the Roman Villa of Desenzano (Villa Romana di Desenzano) are several noteworthy landmarks. 

Recommended hotels in Desenzano del Garda 

Begin your hotel search with where to stay in Desenzano del Garda with the below listings. 

Luxury – Villa Rosa Hotel  

A 4-star hotel with lake-view rooms, rooftop terrace and a seasonal outdoor pool.  

Mid-range – Hotel Piroscafo 

A lakefront hotel with modern rooms and breakfast included. Pets are also welcome. 

Budget – South Garda Suites  

Good-size rooms, modern, colorful and ideal for families. The small beach (Spiaggetta Via Lario) is a 5-minute walk from the hotel and 3 minutes to the ferry terminal. 

Pros and cons of staying in Desenzano del Garda 

✅ the best town for visiting Lake Garda without a car 

✅ lively year-round with bars and restaurants 

❌ other towns like Sirmione or Garda are more scenic 

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3. Peschiera del Garda, southern Lake Garda

Peschiera del Garda is the first town you’ll pass if visiting from Verona. 

The town’s a great choice for families looking for where to stay in Lake Garda given its proximity to family-friendly attractions.  

Gardaland (book skip-the-line tickets), Movieland and Caneva Aquapark are around a 7-to-10-minute drive from the town.  

Peschiera del Garda also has direct trains to Milan and to Venice making it accessible to travelers without a car. 

Why stay in Peschiera del Garda? 

As mentioned above, Peschiera del Garda is a convenient choice for families and visitors wanting to visit the theme parks. 

The town’s most notable historic landmark is its Venetian walls. Dating to the 15th century, they’re a fascinating look into renaissance military architecture. Some parts of the wall are also walkable, from which you can enjoy panoramic views of the lower lake. 

Just outside the town is the 16th century Santuario della Madonna del Frassino. The sanctuary and pilgrimage site houses two chapels, a convent and a 14cm statue of the Madonna. 

A worthy mention goes out to Peschiera’s Braccobaldo Beach. The pebble beach is dog-friendly and attracts many owners for its informal vibes. 

Santuario della Madonna del Frassino, Loc, Via Frassino, 4 

Recommended hotels in Peschiera del Garda 

If Peschiera del Garda sounds like your kind of town, these hotels might match your travel needs. 

Luxury – Le Ali del Frassino  

The 4-star resort has elegant rooms that come with either a lake or garden view and an onsite pool and spa. There are also two restaurants, and breakfast is included in the price. 

Mid-range – Hotel Acquadolce  

A family-friendly hotel with modern, bright rooms and a rooftop terrace. Gardaland is a 3-minute drive from the hotel while the Zenato Winery is 4 minutes by car. 

Budget – Happy Camp in Camping Bella Italia  

This affordable lakefront campground has four restaurants, pools and a kid’s club. The mobile homes are fully equipped with a kitchen, bathroom and a fridge/freezer.  

Pros and cons of staying in Peschiera del Garda 

✅ good for families wanting to visit Gardaland and other amusement parks 
✅ good train connections and ferry access to explore the lake 
✅ pretty beaches and dog friendly 
❌ not many attractions 

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4. Bardolino, Eastern Lake Garda

Bardolino is the wine capital of Lake Garda. 

Famous for its vineyards and Bardolino DOC wines, it’s not surprising that wine enthusiasts are drawn here. 

Given its biggest, and most famous, export, vineyard tours with wine tastings and festivals are regular events in Bardolino. 

Some online sources also cite Bardolino as the best place for where to stay in Lake Garda for food lovers. Personally, I wouldn't agree, only because you can eat very well in other towns too.

Bardolino has a good number of places to eat but so do other towns on Lake Garda.

Why stay in Bardolino? 

Aside from the Bardolino DOC wines, Bardolino has one of the prettiest lungolago (lakeside promenade) on Lake Garda. 

It's the perfect spot to take long, peaceful walks while enjoying views of the lake. 

Unlike Sirmione, Bardolino doesn’t have much in the way of historical sites. The Church of San Zeno and the Church of San Severo date to the mid 9th and 11/12th centuries respectively. 

The former is one of Italy's few remaining Carolingian structures, while the latter houses early medieval frescoes. 

Not far from Bardolino harbor is the 19th century Villa Carrara Bottagisio. Set with a pretty park the venue hosts concerts and public events. 

Church of San Zeno (Chiesa di San Zeno), Via S. Zeno, 7 
Church of San Severo (Chiesa di San Severo), Via S. Severo, 5 
Villa Carrara Bottagisio, Via XX Settembre, 11 

Other good reasons to stay in Bardolino is its easy access to other towns like Garda and Lasize. Bardolino is also less touristy than Sirmione and has more wider spaces. 

Recommended hotels in Bardolino 

Like the sound of Bardolino? These hotels are worth a closer look when looking for where to stay in Lake Garda. 

Luxury – Aqualux Hotel Spa & Suite  

This 4-star hotel has four indoor and four outdoor pools as well as a spa onsite. The closest winery is 1mi (1.6km) away. 

Mid-range – Hotel Capri 

A family-friendly 3-star hotel, amenities include a bar, pool and air conditioning/heating. Breakfast is also included in the price. 

Budget – Blue Lake Residence – Bardolino 

Modern apartments with colorful, bright rooms and terraces. Close walking distance to the center and surrounded by shops.  

Pros and cons of staying in Bardolino 

✅ great for wine enthusiasts 

✅ long lakeside promenade and plenty of space 
✅ easy access to other nearby towns 

❌not many historical sites 

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5. Torri del Benaco (eastern Lake Garda)

One of the quieter and less visited towns on the eastern shore, Torri del Benaco is worth knowing about.

It’s ideal if you're looking for somewhere more authentic than the busier southern towns.

Why stay in Torri del Benaco?

Torri del Benaco has a underrated character that's becoming harder to find on the more popular stretches of the lake.

The small harbor is one of the prettiest on the eastern shore. It’s home to the 14th century Scaliger Castle (the third on Lake Garda after Sirmione and Lazise), which today operates as a museum. Here, you can learn more about Torri’s local fishing traditions, olive cultivation and limonaia culture.

Unlike the castle in Lazise, this one is open to the public.

The town also has a reliable ferry connection to Maderno on the western shore. It makes Torri del Benaco a practical base for exploring both sides of Lake Garda without a car.

Recommended hotels in Torri del Benaco

Does Torri del Benaco sound like your ideal Lake Garda town? If so, here are some hotels worth taking a closer look.

Luxury – Albergo Gardesana - Residenza d'epoca

A beautifully restored 15th century harbor master's building directly on the waterfront. Rooms have lake views and the rooftop terrace is one of the best spots on the eastern shore for an aperitivo.

Mid-range – Hotel Al Caval

A family-run hotel in the town center with comfortable rooms, a garden and lake views from the upper floors.

Budget – Garni Onda

A simple, well-located guesthouse in Torri del Benaco with clean, comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere. No-frills option for budget-conscious travelers.

Pros and cons of staying in Torri del Benaco

✅ quieter and more authentic than busier eastern shore towns
✅ Scaliger Castle open to the public with local history museum
✅ ferry connection to the western shore
❌ limited dining and nightlife options
❌ smaller range of accommodation than larger towns

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🎥 Watch: best towns to stay in Lake Garda

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6. Lazise, eastern Lake Garda

Located on Lake Garda’s southeastern shore, Lazise offers a blend of historical landmarks and recreational activities.  

Lazise is great for couples looking for a relaxing getaway or for families wanting to visit the surrounding theme parks. 

The town’s also known for its well-preserved city walls and thermal spas. 

Why stay in Lazise? 

When considering where to stay in Lake Garda there are several good reasons why Lazise might top the list.  

Like Sirmione, Lazise also has its own Scaliger Castle (Castello Scaligero di Lazise) and medieval walls. Unfortunately, the 14th century castle is privately owned and not open to the public. However, there’s nothing stopping you from photographing the exterior as much as you want. 

Relax in the thermal waters at Villa dei Cedri Thermal Park & Natural Spa. Located just outside Lazise in Colà, the thermal park with natural hot springs is a seriously relaxing retreat.  

Other surrounding thermal spas include Parco Termale del Garda and Spa Aquavitae. 

Like Bardolino, Lazise also has a pretty lakeside promenade to stroll along as well as a pretty pebble beach. 

The ferry terminal routes service Sirmione, Bardolino and Peschiera del Garda.  

Recommended hotels in Lazise 

Does Lazise fit your travel style? If so, here are some hotels worth looking into.  

Luxury – Quellenhof Luxury Resort  

A 5-star adults’ only luxury Lake Garda resort. Amenities include a spa, gym and restaurant on site. Breakfast is included and pets are welcome. 

Mid-range – Hotel Giulietta Romeo  

Modern, large rooms with an outdoor garden and pool. LGBTQ-friendly and a 5-minute walk to local shops.  

Budget – Albergo Tecla 

Located steps from the shores of Lake Garda. Rooms are basic yet clean and have private bathrooms and air conditioning. A bus stop going to Peschiera del Garda and Verona is just a 1-minute walk from the hotel 

Pros and cons of staying in Lazise 

✅ good for families and for couples looking for a wellness break 
✅ close to theme parks like Gardaland and Movieland 
❌ not many historical sites 
❌ not as lively compared to other towns 

7. Limone sul Garda, northern Lake Garda

Limone sul Garda is my all-time favorite town on Lake Garda. Located on the northwestern shore, it’s most known for its lemon orchards, floral-lined streets and scenic views. 

While I enjoyed every second of visiting Limone sul Garda it’s not the best choice if traveling with a baby. 

My daughter was 5 months old at the time when we visited. Believe me when I say that it’s no easy feat pushing a stroller up and down the sloped streets. 

But, while Limone sul Garda may not be the best choice for families the same can’t be said for couples. 

With a long, wide promenade overlooking the tranquil north Lake Garda Limone sul Garda was made for romantic long walks.  

Couple this with pretty spots to watch the sunset and intimate restaurants, Limone makes the ideal romantic retreat. 

This makes Limone sul Garda, for me, the best area to stay in Lake Garda for couples. 

Why stay in Limone sul Garda? 

Aside from being the best town for couples (in my opinion) Limone sul Garda has other pluses to its name.  

Outdoorsy and sporty types will appreciate the easy access to hiking trails and the Ciclopista del Garda cycling path.  

The Limonaia del Castèl is a museum with lemon orchards that tells the story of Limone’s history of lemon cultivation. With tickets costing just 2 ($2/£1.77) it’s an affordable price to see a piece of the town’s history. 

Limonaia del Castèl, Via Orti, 9 

Another plus worth mentioning are the ferry connections. Limone sul Garda services routes to Malcesine, Riva del Garda and Nago-Torbole. 

Recommended hotels in Limone sul Garda 

Falling in love with the idea of Limone sul Garda? Consider booking a romantic vacation at one of these charming resorts. 

Luxury – EALA My Lakeside Dream  

The best resort in Lake Garda for couples, this 5-star adults-friendly hotel have suites with terraces overlooking the lake. It also boasts two indoor pools, a seasonal outdoor pool and couples' treatment rooms. 

Mid-range – Casa L’Andrunèl  

Beautiful, modern apartments set in a historical building. The lakefront hotel has an onsite restaurant and bar. Grocery deliveries to the apartment can also be arranged.  

Budget – Albergo Ristorante Montebaldo  

The 3-star hotel overlooks a small marina in Limone sul Garda. Rooms are modern yet the hotel retains many traditional features. As the name states, the hotel has an onsite restaurant with outdoor seating. 

Pros and cons of staying in Limone sul Garda 

✅ great for couples 
✅ a gorgeous historic center 

✅ gets very crowded during peak seasons 

❌ no transport connections 
❌ not great for families visiting with strollers/carriages 

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🎥 Watch: Punta San Vigilio on Lake Garda Italy

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8. Riva del Garda, northern Lake Garda

Riva del Garda, I would say, is the best area to stay in Lake Garda for active travelers. 

Its location at the northern tip of the lake makes it ideal for hiking, cycling and water sports. 

Why stay in Riva del Garda? 

The northernmost point of the lake is a haven for windsurfers, sailors and hikers. Sentiero del Pace is one popular trail that awards unbeatable, panoramic views of Lake Garda and beyond. 

Alongside its beaches, Riva del Garda also has several pretty viewing spots. They include: 

• Vista con scogli Lago di Garda 
• Point view Riva del Garda 
• Via Giacomo Maroni terrazza panoramica 
• Punto panoramico Forte San Nicolò 

Its geographical location also makes Riva del Garda an Ideal base for visiting the Dolomites. 

In terms of historical attractions Riva del Garda has a handful within its vicinity. 

Torre Apponale is a 13th century clock tower in the historic center. While it's possible to climb the tower bear in mind that there are 165 steps to reach the top. 

The MAG Museo Alto Garda art, archaeology, and historical exhibits related to the Upper Garda region. Housed in the medieval Rocca di Riva building it’s a fascinating look into the region’s history. 

Like other towns around Lake Garda, Riva del Garda also has a pretty lungolago. This lake promenade connects to the neighboring town of Nago-Torbole allowing the opportunity to visit another place if desired. 

Recommended hotels in Riva del Garda 

Does Riva del Garda sound like your kind of place when looking for where to stay in Lake Garda? If so, these hotels provide a helpful starting point. 

Luxury – Lido Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World 

The 5-star resort in Lake Garda has a range of sleekly designed rooms, studios and suites to choose from. A lakefront retreat, there’s a pool and spa onsite and breakfast is included in the price. 

Mid-range – Hotel Luise   

A contemporary design hotel with modern, bright rooms, a free buffet breakfast, an outdoor pool and kids’ pool. 

Budget – Theresia 

Chic budget guesthouse and good-size bedrooms with either a garden or a mountain view. Onsite parking is free as if the guesthouse WiFi. 

Pros and cons of staying in Riva del Garda 

✅ great for outdoorsy types 
✅ plenty of wide, open space 

✅ less crowded than southern towns 
✅ good for visiting the Dolomites 

❌ few transport connections 
❌ few historical attractions 

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Map of Lake Garda

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9. Malcesine, northern Lake Garda

Malcesine is the capoluogo (main town) of Lake Garda. 

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, the ‘pearl of Lake Garda’ is a charming town to see. 

Main attractions include (another) Scaliger Castle (Castello di Scaligero di Malcesine) and the Palazzo dei Capitani (museum with gardens).  

However, Malcesine, for me, doesn’t have the same pizazz compared to Limone sul Garda. While the historic centers are more or less the same size, Malcesine is nice but it’s lacking in aesthetic. 

On the plus side, Malcesine is less crowded, and feels less touristy, than Limone sul Garda. 

Why stay in Malcesine? 

Malcesine tends to appeal to many hikers and outdoors enthusiasts.  

The towering Baldo Mountain (Monte Baldo) attracts hikers, climbers and even paragliders to visit its peak. It's made more accessible by the Monte Baldo cable car (Funivia Malcesine-Monte Baldo) that transports visitors from the town center. 

For families or retired persons Malcesine can be a good choice when looking for where to stay in Lake Garda. The town’s decked out with shops and local services making it very practical as a base. 

Recommended hotels in Malcesine 

If Malcesine sounds like a good fit these three hotels provide a helpful starting point. 

Luxury – Wellness Hotel Casa Barca - Adults Only  

Sleek and modern rooms and suites, many of which come with a lake view. Make good use of the outdoor pool (seasonal) and spa. Prices include a free buffet breakfast and free onsite parking. Wheelchair accessible parking is also available. 

Mid-range – Hotel Vega  

The 3-star lakefront property has rooms and suites with a lake or mountain view, an outdoor pool and hot tub. A free cooked-to-order breakfast is also included. 

Budget – Hotel Meridiana  

A modern and bright hotel not far from the Monte Baldo cable car. Rooms come with either a garden, mountain or lake view. Take advantage of the onsite hot tub and the free buffet breakfast. 

Pros and cons of staying in Malcesine 

✅ good for outdoors/active travelers 

✅ plenty of services in town 
✅ good ferry connections to Limone and Riva del Garda 

❌ lacks charm compared to other towns on Lake Garda 
❌ not much to do for non-outdoorsy types 

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10. Salò, western Lake Garda

Salò is one of the lesser touristy towns I’ve visited on Lake Garda. This isn’t to say that there aren’t tourists; there are, but they’re mainly Italian as opposed to international visitors. 

Situated on Lake Garda’s western shore Salò makes a nice compromise when looking for where to stay in Lake Garda. 

Why stay in Salò? 

Salò has a pretty old town, several historical buildings of interest, shops and restaurants and a good length lungolago. There are also other noteworthy things to do in Salò that can easily fill up a day’s itinerary. 

However, what most stood out for me about Salò was its calm atmosphere. Despite the visible number of visitors, it never once felt like it was overrun with tourists.  

What’s more, my husband and I were able to eat at a nice restaurant and without having made any prior reservations. This is nearly impossible to do (during busy periods) in other more touristy towns. 

What's not so great about Salò is its checkered past. The town once served as the de facto capital of Mussolini’s short-lived Italian Social Republic during WWII. Remnants of its dark past still exist to this day. 

Top attractions in Salò 

These sights might sway you to want to stay in Salò: 

• Duomo di Salò – the town’s namesake cathedral that houses impressive Renaissance art  
• MUSA – The Salò Museum – a fascinating museum covering the town’s history 
• Lungolago Zanardelli – a long stretch of the waterfront promenade 

Recommended hotels in Salò 

If Salò resonates with your travel requirements take a closer look at these accommodation choices. 

Luxury – Bellerive Lifestyle Hotel  

The 5-star hotel has luxury rooms and suites, lakefront views and an excellent onsite restaurant. Breakfast is included and pets are welcome too. 

Mid-range – Rivalta Lifestyle Hotel 

Classic rooms in a good location in Salò. Family rooms are available as are rooms with a lake view. A bus stop is close to the hotel with services to and from Desenzano del Garda. 

Budget – Guest House Villa de Ros 

A cozy, adults-only guesthouse with a garden and terrace. The lakefront and Lungolago Zanardelli are a 6-minute walk away. 

Pros and cons of staying in Salò 

✅ less touristy and quieter 

✅ good choice of shops, bars and restaurants 
❌ not the best for nightlife, very quiet in the evenings 

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11. Gardone Riviera, western Lake Garda 

Further north along the western coast from Salò is the small town of Gardone Riviera. 

Like Salò, it’s one of the quieter places on the list when looking for where to stay in Lake Garda. 

Gardone Riviera is most famous for being home to Vittoriale degli Italiani (book a private tour). The villa and museum complex once belonged to the poet, playwright and journalist Gabriele D’Annunzio. 

Aside from the villa, there isn’t that much to see in Gardone Riviera. The local botanical gardens, filled with plants from around the world and sculptures, is worth seeing. However, it’s only open during the high season. 

Botanic garden (Giardino Botanico/Botanischer Garten - Fondazione Heller) Via Roma, 2  

Recommended hotels in Gardone Riviera 

Should Gardone Riveria sound like your cup of tea here are some hotels to consider looking into. 

Luxury – Grand Hotel Fasano   

Add some luxury to your Gardone Riviera stay by checking into this 5-star lakeside hotel. Located on a private beach, the hotel has a spa, pool and restaurant onsite. 

Mid-range – Hotel Villa Florida  

Enjoy the lake views and amenities of this 4-star hotel. Family and pet-friendly, the hotel has an outdoor pool, kids’ pool and a bar/snack bar on site. 

Budget – B&B Antico Brolo  

A super cozy and rustic B&B in Gardone Riviera. Some rooms have terraces with a lake view and there’s also a restaurant on site. 

Pros and cons of staying in Gardone Riviera 

✅ less touristy and quieter 

✅ close to Vittoriale degli Italiani 
❌ not much in the way of attractions 

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12. Gargnano, western Lake Garda  

Gargnano is a pretty, and underrated, town on Lake Garda’s western coast. Brimming with wisteria-covered buildings and historic villas, it’s ideal if looking for where to stay in Lake Garda with fewer tourists.  

The main attractions in Gargnano include: 

• Villa Bettoni – a striking 18th-century villa with gardens and an impressive facade. Once home to the noble Bettoni family today it hosts events and is open to the public for tours. Villa Bettoni, Via della Libertà, 77 

• Church of San Francesco – a historic church with 13th-century origins featuring Gothic and Romanesque elements. Church of San Francesco (Chiesa di San Francisco), Via Roma, 47 

• Palazzo Feltrinelli – a grand lakeside palace that was once Mussolini's residence during the Italian Social Republic in World War II. Palazzo Feltrinelli, Via XXIV Maggio, 18

• Parco dell’Alto Garda Bresciano – a regional park on the lake with hiking trails and important historical sites. 

Recommended hotels in Gargnano 

Ready to stay in Gargnano? Here are some hotels to kickstart your search.  

Luxury – Grand Hotel Villa Feltrinelli  

Revel in the ultimate luxury experience at one of the most exclusive hotels in Lake Garda. Maintaining traditional Italian elegance since 1892 the hotel offers first-class service, beautiful rooms and fine dining. 

Mid-range – Hotel Meandro – Lake View 

Expect clean and simple sophistication at this 4-star hotel. Many rooms have a lake view. Other features include a rooftop terrace, beach bar and a free breakfast buffet. 

Budget – Hotel Gardenia al Lago  

This picturesque 3-star hotel has gorgeous rooms, some with terraces overlooking the lake. An onsite restaurant is a hit with the guests as is the Italian breakfast. 

Pros and cons of staying in Gargnano 

✅ peaceful and lesser known 
✅ less touristy than towns like Sirmione or Bardolino 
❌ not many shops or things to do at night 
❌ ferry connections go to Castelletto or Toscalano Maderno and not to major hubs 

How many days do you need in Lake Garda? 

How long you need at Lake Garda depends on two things:

• the number of towns you want to cover and

• how much time you want to spend on the water

A long weekend of 2 to 3 days is enough to explore one or two towns comfortably. Walk the lungolago, take a boat tour and get a feel for the lake. 

Five days in Lake Garda allows for visiting multiple towns at a leisurely pace. If you're spending this long, consider choosing two bases on different shores. It gives you a different experience on each side of the lake.

A full week lets you fully cover the lake. With time to spare, a Dolomites full day tour from Lake Garda makes an excellent, and fun, addition.  

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Best luxury resorts and spa hotels on Lake Garda

Lake Garda has some of the finest resort hotels in northern Italy. Three in particular deserve mention for the scale of what they offer guests.

If budget isn’t a constraint, these are the benchmark properties to stay at on the lake.

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Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli, Gargnano

Rated among the finest hotels in Italy, Villa Feltrinelli is a restored 19th century Liberty-style villa on the western shore in Gargnano.

It has 21 rooms and suites across the villa, and runs more like a private residence than a hotel.

Benito Mussolini lived here during the Italian Social Republic period. Today, it attracts guests looking for complete seclusion, impeccable service and some of the best food on the lake.

It's the kind of property that defines a visit to Lake Garda rather than simply accommodating one.

Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli, Via Rimembranza 38, Gargnano

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Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda, Gargnano

Located on the hillside above Gargnano, Lefay Resort & Spa Lago di Garda is the lake's premier wellness resort.

Built into the terraced landscape above the water, its pools seem to extend directly into the lake view.

The spa is one of the best in northern Italy. Combining treatments with a philosophy rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and local Alpine ingredients, it stands out above the rest.

It's consistently rated among the best resort spas in Europe and is the obvious choice for anyone prioritizing a wellness-focused stay.

Lefay Resort & SPA, Via Angelo Feltrinelli, 136, Gargnano

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Du Lac et du Parc Grand Resort, Riva del Garda

Du Lac et du Parc Grand Resort is the largest resort on Lake Garda and one of the best known in Trentino. Sitting on the northern shore in Riva del Garda, it’s surrounded by 8 hectares of parkland.

It combines a full spa and wellness center with direct lake access and multiple pools. Its proximity to outdoor sporting activities solidifies Riva del Garda as the adventure capital of the lake.

Du Lac is perfect for active couples or families who want resort-level comfort while being close to the mountains and lake activities.

Du Lac et du Parc Grand Resort, Viale Rovereto, 44, Riva del Garda

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FAQs 

 

What are your thoughts on this travel guide of where to stay in Lake Garda? Does it provide a helpful overview of the different areas to choose from? Let me know in the comments below. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

Written by Lisa Rivera: Italy traveler and resident for 10+ years. First-hand researched for 2026.

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