Peschiera holidays

Popular holidays

Besides being a great base for exploring this region of Italy, holidays to Peschiera serve up scenic canals and ancient sights.

All roads lead to Rome

The old town of Peschiera sits within the walls of an imposing island fortress, which are Venetian defensive systems from the 16th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once a town named Roman Ardelica back in the days of the Roman Republic – the ruins of which you can still see today – so you really do have millennia of history to discover. Go meandering over arched cobble-stoned bridges and gaze up at the decorative cast-iron balconies of the many colourful buildings. When sunset comes around, make sure to grab a gelato and stroll along the canalsides that border the town – the pinks, purples and oranges reflecting on the water are a sight to behold.

From beaches to barracks

There are lots of points of interest in this vibrant resort. If some lakeside bathing is in order – and you happen to love dogs – don’t miss spending a day over at Braccobaldo Beach. It happens to be Italy’s first ever pup-friendly beach, and Rovers are even treated to their own sunbeds here. Then if you fancy switching leisure for culture, there're museums-a-plenty. History buffs will be drawn-in by the Palazzina Storica building, which played a key role in the First World War. And you can learn more about the area’s interesting military history at the Artillery Barracks of Porta Verona, a spot which also shows live music, theatre and exhibitions.

Family-friendly fun

Peschiera makes a top pick for easy-going family hols, with plenty of self-catering apartments that let you holiday your way. There’s lots to keep everyone entertained nearby, too – including the ever-popular Gardaland for thrill-filled days out, there's even a free shuttle from town that'll take you there. And with a train station right in town, it’s simple to swap poolside time for adventures further afield, you can travel to cities like Milan, Venice and Verona.

Out and about

Here are some ideas of things to do when staying in Peschiera:

• Lakeside path
• Lake bathing
• Fishing museum
• Theme parks
• Markets
• Museums
• Live music

Popular hotels in Peschiera

Top things to see and do in Peschiera

Beaches

Braccobaldo Beach

Ever seen a beach with sun loungers for dogs? Braccobaldo Beach makes its canine visitors welcome. This pebble beach is a short walk from Peschiera centre and opens at around 9.30 every morning. You can rent loungers, chairs and parasols.

Cappuccini Beach

Cappuccini beach is just a few hundred metres from the town centre. It's a pebble beach with plenty of space, and you'll find facilities nearby. Grab an ice-cream and enjoy the lakeside views.

Shopping

Bargain buys

There's a market in town every week, with clothing, pottery and gifts for sale. See if you can spot a bargain.

Mid-range buys

Head into town away from the lakefront and you'll find lots of shops and boutiques. Don't forget that shopkeepers tend to close their shops during the middle of the day for a siesta, and open again at around 3pm. So you can combine an early evening stroll with some window-shopping.

Nightlife

Laid-back evenings

The long lakefront promenade and fortress walls make a beautiful backdrop for an evening ramble. Watch the lights twinkle on the water as you stroll with an ice-cream.

Lively evenings

Peschiera has a great atmosphere in the later hours. Shops stay open into the evening and bars and restaurants don't close till late.

Food & drink

Lakefront dining

In Peschiera, mealtimes come with a view. Restaurants line the canals and lakefront, with tables spilling out into the sunshine and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere. The historic old town adds extra charm, with cosy spots tucked between cobbled streets and waterside walkways.

Try local dishes and wine

Menus here make the most of the lake, with fresh fish taking centre stage in many traditional dishes. Expect regional favourites like I Bigoli con le Sarda – spaghetti with a sardine sauce, paired perfectly with crisp local wines. The nearby vineyards produce the well-known Lugana, a refreshing white that’s a staple on most menus.

Something for every taste

Alongside classic trattorias, you’ll also find modern restaurants serving up more contemporary takes on Italian cuisine. Whether you’re after a laid-back pizza night, a family-friendly meal, or something a little more special, Peschiera’s varied food scene makes it easy to please everyone.

Getting about

Buses

You can catch buses going around the lake from the bus station in the harbour. Hotel Parc Paradiso and the Eden Apartments also run free shuttles into town, and you can catch a free bus to and from the nearby theme parks like Gardaland.

Passenger ferries

From Peschiera you can jump on either a Batt ferry or the faster hydrofoil. The hydrofoil leaves twice a day, whereas the Batt sails several times a day.

Trains

You'll find the train station on the Viale Stazione in the town centre. There are trains to local towns as well as to cities further afield, including Verona, Venice and Milan.

On foot

Behind Peschiera's town walls you'll find cobbled streets to wander down. It's the perfect spot to explore at your own pace. The town centre is pedestrianised and the canal is lined with walkways.

Walking

The town centre is made for walking, with pedestrianised streets and a canal-side stroll. To vary the scenery, take to the lakeside paths or stroll through green parkland.

Historic walk

Explore a little piece of history on this easy walk. Start from the centre of town at Piazza Betteloni and head west along the path that stretches right around the lakeshore to Fornaci, an old fishing port at the south end of the lake.