"Lake Garda - Brenzone and Malcesine" Lago di Garda by suvanki

Lago di Garda Travel Guide: 471 reviews and 1,067 photos

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the Largest of the Italian Lakes. Its Western shore sits in Lombardy, whilst the Eastern side rests in Veneto. It is easily accessable by road and rail from Verona, Venice, Milan and many other cities.
La Gardesana is the name of the road that follows the shoreline of the lake for all of its 89 miles (143km)

Towns and villages are dotted along the shoreline - many of these are resorts catering to the many tourists who flock to enjoy the scenery, water sports, hiking, Spas and historical castles, churches and gardens. There is also a theme park and zoo with safari park for the young, or young at heart.

My Lake Garda Experience

Brenzone harbour at sunset, Lake Garda

While planning my 12 day break to Italy, I realised that it was a long time since I'd enjoyed a relaxing holiday - so I decided to spend a few days doing very little on Lake Garda.

As I was travelling by bus or train, I had to take this into consideration, also, I was trying to keep to a budget.

Initially I'd looked into Peschiera or Desenzano, the train from Padova stopped here, and I could easily get to Verona, and back- as I'd intended to fulfil one of my dreams to see Aida performed in Verona.

As I read more, I set my heart on staying in Sirmione- it looked ideal- I booked a hotel on line which would have been perfect- next to the picturesque castle. However, I found out this was overbooked - time was running out, and the other hotels in Sirmione were out of my price range.

Another hotel caught my eye - a boutique hotel in Brenzone - Yes I could see Brenzone on the map, but nothing in my guide books, and very little when I googled Brenzone.

Well - it was on the bus route from Peschiera, and ferries stopped here- So, I took a deep breath and booked the hotel.

Well- I'm so pleased that the hotel in Sirmione was booked up-

Brenzone suited me nicely ! It was quite peaceful, not one of the tourist 'hot spots' so not overun with crowds. My hotel was ideally located, for views of the lake. A bonus was the food shops - Mmmmm! After spending a day in Malcesine, battling against the crowds in the harbour, I was relieved to return to the calm of Brenzone.

I also decided that I wouldn't visit Sirmione, as I guessed that would be as crowded, if not more so!

Brenzone and Malcesine

Approaching Malcesine by ferry, Lake Garda

Pros and Cons

Pros:Scenery, Sunsets, Mountains, Fresh Air!
Cons:Some of the towns can be a bit crowded
In a nutshell:Where You can do Lots or Nothing and have a Great time!

Last visit to Lago di Garda: Jun 2007
Intro Updated Apr 13, 2008
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Reviews (17)

Traveling around / across the lake Transportation (4)

This is part of my reply to a Forum Question Besides the ferry service, there are buses. I caught the bus from... more travel advice

Mountains between Malcesine and Brenzone - Lago di Garda

Things to bring to Brenzone and... What to Pack (1)

I travelled to Brenzone by train and bus - did regret having a heavy case, especially when having to drag it up the... more travel advice

Brenzone - Beach on the Lakeside - Lago di Garda

Brenzone - Relax on the beach! Things to Do (8)

Midweek, I was laying in the sunshine, the only sound being the water lapping against the pebble beach, and a family of... more travel advice

Sunday Jack Akpans sculptures Castle Scaligero - Lago di Garda

Malcesine Castle Scaligero Open Air... Things to Do (8)

As I mentioned in my previous tip, I came across these African sculptures in the open air theatre of the Castle.... more travel advice

Restaurants (3)
See All Bar in Brenzone

Hotels (1)
Boutique hotel on lakeside

Comments (7)

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aussirose Aug 8, 2012 at 3:47 AM

Oh Sue...this is a fabulous page! This place is on my hit list and I know where I am coming back to save some tips one day. Good stuff mate! I especially love your picnic tip by the beach. Now that sounds like my style ;o) Great page!! Hugs, Ann xx
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hunterV Aug 30, 2010 at 9:50 AM

Hello, Sue! Thanks for your nice story and pictures! ><><><
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globetrekker_airen Sep 25, 2009 at 4:29 AM

Hi Sue, where did you get your Lake Garda Map? I mean, did you have it printed yourself or you get it from the tourist office of P. del Garda? Also, is Gardaland worth a visit? Thanks :)
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angiebabe Jan 12, 2009 at 2:53 PM

I was near here for New Years last year! and then again at Easter - sure is a beautiful spot to be - and see here on yr page!
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Jim_Eliason Jul 26, 2008 at 1:52 PM

Nice tips!
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ridgestreet Jul 18, 2008 at 5:32 AM

This is a perfect entry, story, website, and reccomendation. Wish all were this comprehensive. These "finds" are what travel are all about. Thanks, Crisco
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deecat Oct 13, 2007 at 4:28 PM

What outstanding restaurant tips. Very well done with beautiful photographs. Thinking about Lake Garda in Spring or Fall. Thanks.