Things to Do in Lake Garda

Meet your local guide in Bardolino, Lake Garda and get ready to discover the Dolomites, the UNESCO World Heritage site, during one day. First you’ll leave the lake and you’ll enter Valdadige, a wide valley dug by the Adige river that flows from the North. Admire the ancient castles along the valley such as Avio or Beseno and after a couple of hours you will reach Val di Fassa, a wide-open valley surrounded by mountain walls. This is the heart of the UNESCO Dolomites, pass by traditional villages and admire the mountains all around you. You’ll see the Vajolet and Sassolungo groups until arriving at Passo Pordoi, a 7345-feet-high pass. Next is an exciting cable car ride to reach the top of the mountain (depending on the season and weather - 10, 341 feet): a stunning and one-of-a-kind destination for a spectacular view. Next stop is a typical lunch in a selected restaurant or rifugio (a mountain refuge that usually offers traditional food). Here you can taste the local recipes like canederli, polenta with mushrooms and Apfelstrudel. Finally, reach a charming little village like Ortisei or Canazei and stop for a relaxing stroll in the city center and some free time before going back to the lake.

Day 1| Milan - Lake Garda - Padua Don’t get us wrong, we adore Milan. But we’re taking you away from it for now for a very good reason. The moment you arrive in Peschiera del Garda , you’ll be mesmerised by the glistening blue water, the burst of flowers around every corner, and the glow of happiness emanating from the people around you. Lake Garda is as famous as they come. This lake’s crystal-clear waters and views of the Dolomites have made the place a favourite destination for artists, poets, and travellers since the Roman ages. We spend the day exploring this beautiful spot and trust us when we say it feels like a true vacation getaway. We then head to Padua, our home for tonight. This city has rich historical significance, its architecture reflecting a blend of various periods. Make sure you wander town tonight on your way to find something delicious and carb-heavy to eat. This is Italy, after all. Accommodation: Overnight in Padua in a 3/4-star hotel with breakfast included. Day 2| Stra - Bassano del Grappa - Valdobbiadene - Venice Your morning starts with a masterpiece, Villa Pisani, in the town of Stra. This rural palace is widely beloved for its Venetian Baroque architecture, designed by Andrea Palladio in the 18th century. Here you have time to explore the palace and its magnificent gardens... the very same ground where many historical figures once wandered, including Napoleon Bonaparte. Now it’s time to visit the lovely city of Bassano del Grappa. Don’t forget to get a picture of the 13th-century wooden Ponte Vecchio bridge that spans the River Brenta. There’s plenty to see here, from Bonaguro Palace to the Civic Museum, which you can either explore at your own leisure or join us for an optional Grappa tasting. Your day ends with a visit to a region known as the Prosecco Heartland, Valdobbiadene . Surrounded by lush vineyards and delicious wines, this charming region is both delicious and beautiful. It’s up to you what you’d like to do here. Choose between an optional winery visit with Prosecco tasting, or free time in the town. Then it’s onwards to a pretty exciting city. Venice. The best part? This is where you’ll be sleeping for the next two nights. And if there’s one thing we love – it’s Venice after dark. When the day visitors go home, the city goes quiet, and you’re left to wander its winding streets, canals and bridges on your way to find somewhere cosy to eat. Accommodation: Overnight in Venice in a 3/4-star hotel with breakfast included. Included: Ticket to Villa Pisani. Day 3| Venice With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold. Trust us, you’ll need at least a full day in Venice. We wish we could give you more, and, as there will be so much for you to choose from, we recommend making a list before you go. 177 canals, 350 gondoliers , and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City', is your home for the day. It’s been built on over 118 islands and hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world. Not to mention its unique painting style and architecture classifies Venice as one of the great centres of the Renaissance, equal to Rome and Florence. You enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city and then it's up to you what you explore next. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries , you have the whole day and night in Venice. Accommodation: Overnight in Venice in a 3/4-star hotel with breakfast included. Day 4| Mantua - Cremona - Milan Italy is all about romance and our first stop this morning is the charmingly romantic medieval town of Mantua. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with rich historical and architectural legacy, including the Palazzo Ducale and all its stunning frescoes. You have several hours to explore this artistic treasure and taste some of the local good specialities. Speaking of gorgeous, you’re going to love Cremona and for far more than its glorious architecture. Cremona is internationally renowned for its tradition of violin making . Music lovers may know names such as Antonio Stradivari and Giuseppe Guarneri, well, Cremona was the place these legends called home. With a rich Italian song in your heart, it’s time to head back to Milan for the end of your journey.

Start your day cruise on Lake Garda, the biggest lake in Italy, in which you’ll see some of the most memorable and iconic landscapes of the lake from your private boat. Meet your guide in Sirmione and visit this beautiful medieval hamlet, considered the pearl of the lake, famous for the 13th-century castle surrounded by water, making it a spectacular sight. Then, with the boat driver and your guide, start the boat tour along the Veronese bank of the lake. Stop for lunch in one of the beautiful towns of the area and enjoy some traditional food with a glass of local wine before continuing your tour. You’ll love Punta San Vigilio, one of the most romantic corners of this bank, where you can find a small and picturesque port. You can't miss the opportunity to take stunning pictures of this fairy-tale landscape! Then, cross the lake’s clear waters to reach Isola del Garda, a fascinating island in the middle of the lake. You’ll pass by Rocca di Manerba and Desenzano on the way back to Sirmione and after this wonderful day, you will forever cherish beautiful memories of Lake Garda and its breathtaking landscapes. Highlights

Meet your guide in front of the entrance to the Grotte di Catullo archaeological park , where our captivating tour begins. Step inside and immerse yourself in the wonders of a place that was once a lavish and luxurious villa overlooking Lake Garda. This site holds a fascinating history and is located on the most beautiful and sought-after spot, at the tip of a peninsula that stretches into the heart of the lake. Your guide will unveil the tales and legends of this magical place where the renowned poet Catullo composed many of his works. Inspired by the breathtaking panorama and the marvels of the lake , Catullo found the inspiration to create his masterpieces. Embark on an unforgettable journey through time and beauty by exploring the ancient Grotte di Catullo with your guide. Prepare to be enchanted as you explore the site, discovering the remnants of the opulent villa and envisioning the grandeur that once graced this location. The guide’s narrative will transport you back in time, allowing you to relive the past and connect with the spirit of this extraordinary place .

Enjoy a guided tour of the charming historic centre of Sirmione and a private motorboat tour around the peninsula. Spend a wonderful day in Sirmione, a medieval town that offers one of the most romantic walks in Italy. The tour includes a stroll through the historical centre of this enchanting town to discover the most important traces left by the populations that have ruled it in different eras. You will meet your guide at the Scaligero Castle, which stands at the entrance to the fortified village, and admire its exterior. The walk continues through the streets of the town centre, which will enchant you with its fairytale charm. Discover the church of Santa Maria Maggiore, the splendid villa of the famous singer Maria Callas and the oldest church in Sirmione: San Pietro in Mavino. At the end of the guided tour, a romantic motorboat ride along the peninsula awaits you to admire Sirmione from a privileged view of the lake . Book your spot today and get ready for an amazing experience!

Join an incredible tour starting in Sirmione. Meet your guide and set off on a scenic boat ride , circling the picturesque Sirmione peninsula, taking in the charming views of the area. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walking tour through the charming streets of Sirmione , stroll through the quaint alleys, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and discovering the hidden gems that make this town so special. Savor some free time to explore at your own pace, indulge in shopping, savor a delicious gelato (not included), or simply soak up the ambiance of this beautiful town. Later, meet up with your guide and prepare to step back in time as you venture into the fascinating Grotte di Catullo This tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. From the boat ride to the walking tour, and the free time, to the visit of the Grotte di Catullo, it promises an unforgettable experience in Sirmione.

Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Garda, Sirmione is a jewel of Northern Italy, celebrated for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming ambiance. Perched on a narrow peninsula, this picturesque village offers panoramic views of the lake and is home to some of the region’s most significant historical sites. The tour begins just outside the medieval walls of Sirmione. Participants will first enjoy a serene boat ride around the peninsula , taking in the breathtaking vistas of Lake Garda and the village’s scenic shoreline. This leisurely cruise highlights key landmarks , including the ancient Roman villa known as Grotte di Catullo and the intriguing thermal springs that emerge from the lake’s depths. Following the boat tour, the exploration continues on foot. Entering the village through the historic drawbridge of the Scaliger Castle , participants will meander through Sirmione’s narrow, cobbled streets. A knowledgeable guide will share captivating stories and legends , enriching the experience with insights into the village’s enchanting history.

There's no better way to discover Italy's culture from the inside. Cesarine national network of expert Italian home cooks offers the finest Italian food experiences. Immerse yourself in a private dining experience with an Italian family with a 4-course menu (starter, pasta, main course and dessert with drinks included: water, selection of local wines and coffee) showcasing authentic Italian recipes passed down by real Italian Mammas in family cookbooks. Enjoy a cooking demonstration, where your host will show you their cooking skills as they finish the dishes in front of you. Feel the warmth of Italian hospitality by connecting with local people. You'll come away with happy memories, new friends, and a deeper understanding of your destination, as you taste the typical dishes that real Italians cook every day. This experience is held by Cesarine, the oldest Italy’s network of home cooks available in 500 cities all over the country. The word "Cesarine" means "home cook". Our network of passionate and welcoming local hosts open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences. The Cesarine serve only local specialties from their family cookbooks to tell the great story of their traditional regional cuisine. Inclusions: Cooking class Aperitif Exclusions: Transport Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process. Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.