Activities in Garda

Culture

At the start of the Olive Riviera stretching down the eastern shore of the lake, Garda is the place after which the lake is named. And after a scramble up La Rocca to survey the view below, it's easy to see the appeal of this vibrant town. Silhouetted against the sun, is the famous hotel, Locanda Punta San Vigilio, perched on the snout of 'Il Cocodrillo' (as the locals call it). History-makers have fallen for this spot, including Prince Charles and Diana, who visited for their honeymoon, and Sir Winston Churchill, who recuperated after the war painting the surrounding landscapes.

The centrepiece of the town is the Venetian Palazza del Capitano, once at the heart of a bustling harbour, and now in the main piazza on the lakefront. In honour of Garda's roots as a fishing port, the town puts on a show under the light of the full moon for the Sardine festival every July. And throughout the summer, many special events take place along the 'lungolago', including the Bandiera del Lago Bisse regatta, and the climax, the Ferragusto fireworks over the lake.

Every Friday, visit the lively travelling market on the lakefront, and if you're looking for respite, dine al fresco in inviting courtyards.

The parish church, Santa Maria Assunta is also worth a visit, not least to see the 16th century cloisters shielding ancient frescoes from the elements.

For water lovers, there are plenty of opportunities to go for a dip in the lake with beaches either side of the town. Amble along the waterside, whilst feeding the ducks or tucking into a refreshing gelato. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers can jump on a bicycle and set off in search of parascending or sailing opportunities between Garda and Bardolino.

And if you want to head further afield, Garda enjoys excellent ferry connections to the other towns on the lake, best enjoyed from the deck of Lake Garda's paddle steamers. For an injection of city life, Verona is under an hour's drive. And for the big kid in you, it's just a quick bus ride to Italy's biggest theme park, Gardaland.

Why not try -

• Exploring Monte Luppia, the hillside rising behind Punta San Vigilio - home to thousands of rock etchings created by shepherds over past centuries
• Ambling along the Lungolago in search of a gelato, mid morning cappucino, or a lazy fish lunch plucked fresh from Garda's glistening waters
• A trip to 'La Cross' Osteria for taste of Veronese cuisine amongst the locals
• A trip to San Zeno di Montagna for some of the best views over the lake, or a zip wire experience through the trees
• A day out to Venice, the magical floating city

Venice City Tour
Enjoy a full day in the floating city of charm and romance. With elegant palaces, the unique Grand Canal and St Mark's Square with its Doge's Palace and renowned Basilica, Venice is a must-see for all visitors.

Venice by Night Tour
Experience this amazing Italian floating city at night. Built entirely on canals, magical Venice is best enjoyed on an evening gondola tour.

Florence City Tour
The Jewel of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a fantastic city to visit during your Italian holidays. Amongst its vast array of arts and treasures you can visit the pink, white and green marble cathedral, the Duomo, the historic Uffizi Gallery and the ancient Ponte Vecchio.

Milan City Tour
Spend a day in Milan, a city of history, music, fashion and shopping. The city is best known for its mighty Duomo and the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie housing Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper. Also worth a visit are the impressive Sforzesco Castle and La Scala Opera Museum.

Grand Dolomites Tour
Europe's most distinctive mountains tower high over the sparkling lakes. Visit the spectacular northern ranges with their quaint villages, breathtaking passes and pretty, flower-strewn meadows. No other excursion takes you to natural scenery as stunning.

Bolzano & Renon City Tour
A wonderful trip; part city tour, part scenic drive through the picturesque countryside of the Italian South Tyrol. Visit the city of Bolzano, home of the famous Iceman and the village of Renon reached by the cog railway.

Mantua & Sigurta Garden
Enjoy the charm and atmosphere of a medieval town and take a stroll through Mantua's Palace with over 500 elaborate rooms with internal courtyards and gardens. The Parco Giardino Sigurta is considered one of the most beautiful gardens in the world and a hidden secret in Italy.

Lake Tour
Visit the largest of Northern Italy's lakes. Take a short boat ride, sample some wonderful Italian ice cream or just absorb the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Wine Tour
While staying in Bardolino, it would be a shame not to get to know the most famous produce of the area a little better. When this marvellous wine is next served at your table you will be able to say that you have visited the beautiful vineyards that bear its name. Take the opportunity to sample and even take some home with you.

Verona and Wine Tasting
Spend the morning in ancient Verona, enjoying the fascinating monuments and beautiful shops. In the afternoon leave the city behind and head to the famous vineyards of Bardolino where you can sample the produce

Verona
Spend the day in classical Verona, enjoying the fascinating monuments, beautiful shops and friendly Italian welcome.

Padova and Soave
Enjoy your morning with a guided visit to the splendid historical centre of Padua, known as the “Saint’s City”. Follow in the footsteps of thousands of pilgrims and visit the unique Basilica boosting impressive Romanesque-Gothic architecture and housing the remains of Saint Anthony. In the afternoon relax with a short stop in the mediaeval hamlet of Soave, well-known for its wine that you'll sample after a guided visit to the local wine cellar.