On Lake Garda, there is a public service of boats and ferries that allows you to reach different locations on both shores. Thanks to the timetables available on Navigazione Laghi, you can organize your cruise trip and spend a day in an alternative way. Below, we give you some suggestions!
Limone del Garda
The first itinerary we suggest leads to Limone, a small town on the western shore in the Upper Lake area. You can depart from Garda or Torri by boat and arrive directly in Limone. After a pleasant visit to the town, you can return to Torri or Garda by boat. An alternative is to reach Malcesine by car and take the ferry with your car there to go on the other side. For the return trip, you can choose to take the same route in reverse or, you may drive by car past Riva del Garda, traveling along the eastern shore towards Torri. During your trip you can stop in Malcesine to visit its centre and the Castello Scaligero which is a symbol of this town.
Limone is a charming location that attracts many tourists every year thanks to its narrow cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and splendid views of the lake and surrounding mountains. During your visit, you must absolutely see: the old port, the beating heart of Limone, with its colourful boats and its restaurants which offer local specialties; the Limonaia del Castel which is located on top of a hill and from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the lake; the Ancient Oil Mill and the Oil Exhibition, which provides an overview of the history and production process of olive oil; the cycle-pedestrian path suspended on the lake, to almost literally walk on the waves!
Are you a trekking lover? Climb the vertical walls surrounding Limone along the extremely steep Sentiero delle Farfalle. Once you get off the ferry, all you have to do is hit the road!
Gardone Riviera
We recommend adding a stop at Gardone Riviera to your cruise itinerary. This location is also on the western shore of the lake. To reach Gardone, you can depart from Torri via ferry, which arrives at Maderno. From there, continue by car, public transport, or bicycle towards Desenzano for about 4km. The return journey can be the same, or you can continue by car southward and then drive along the eastern shore towards Torri. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Gardone and reach Garda.
Gardone Riviera is a small and charming town where you can enjoy a mild climate, breathtaking views, and above all, a rich cultural heritage. Here you'll find the Vittoriale degli Italiani, the residence of the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio: a must-see! If you want to immerse yourself in nature, visit Heller Garden, a highly original botanical garden enriched with unique works of art. Of course, a walk along the lakeside is essential to appreciate the beauty of this region.
Sirmione
Another destination is Sirmione. To reach this location, you can take the boat from Garda, go directly to Sirmione and return with the same boat, or you can depart for another destination to explore! Naturally, not before visiting this beautiful peninsula in the middle of Lake Garda.
Sirmione is located in the southern part of Lake Garda, on a long peninsula immersed in its waters. This location is famous for its sulphur-rich thermal spring, its history dating back to Roman times, and its natural beauty. There are many interesting things to discover here, such as the Castello Scaligero at the city's entrance; the historic center, where you can wander through narrow streets while enjoying a good ice cream; Terme di Sirmione, to relax and enjoy the benefits of thermal water; Grotte di Catullo, an archaeological site where you can admire ruins from the Roman era. In this territory, Lugana wine is also produced: don't miss the chance to enjoy an aperitif with a good glass of white wine, choosing from the finest labels of the region.
Are you curious to discover these and many other locations? Book your stay at Residence Ca del Lago and plan your mini cruise on Lake Garda!