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‘Water way’ to see the sights: The best Lake Garda boat trips
Lake Garda's dotted with lively towns, Roman ruins and romantic castles, and one of the best ways to see it all is from the water. Get ready to set sail with our pick of the best Lake Garda boat trips.
Hop between Malcesine and Limone
At Lake Garda's narrower northern end, the towns of Malcesine and Limone sit on opposite shores, just a few kilometres apart – and you can explore both on the same day by taking a 20-minute ferry ride between them.
Until 1932, taking a boat was the only way to get to Limone, and it's still the best way to get a view of this postcard-pretty town. Then while you're there, you can stroll along the waterfront to the Spiaggia Cola beach to look out over the Monte Baldo mountain range, or head to the lemon garden and find a shaded spot surrounded by citrus trees. Back across the water in Malcesine, walk from the harbour to the Monte Baldo cable car, and ride to the top for a bird’s-eye view of the hilltop castle and terracotta roofs.
Explore Garda, Bardolino and Lazise
The lake's south-eastern shore is an ideal spot for ferry hopping, with three different towns to visit. Each one is just a short boat ride apart – or if you fancy stretching your legs, you could walk between them along the lakeside promenade, and then enjoy a relaxing boat ride back.
In Garda, wander among pavement cafés, gelaterias and stylish boutiques before setting sail and watching vineyards and olive groves drift past. Step ashore in Lazise and soak up some history as you explore the Scaligeri castle and the medieval St Nicolò church. And if Bardolino is your last port of call, find a waterfront bar, sit back with a glass of local wine and enjoy some of the best sunset views around.
Discover Lake Garda's largest island
Stroll through the terraced, formal gardens before looking around the impressive Venetian villa. Then head away from the grand house to explore the island’s nature reserve – it’s a haven for birds, with pathways shaded by oaks, poplars and laurel trees.
Cruise around the Sirmione peninsula
Cruise along the coast to the smooth rock shelf and turquoise water of Jamaica beach. At the tip of the peninsula, the underwater jets can reach 69°C and, when the water’s calm, you can often spot bubbles popping on the surface. You can also see the ancient remains of the Grottoes of Catullus, where the Romans once built a grand villa and bathhouse.
Set sail on the San Nicolò
Each tour's different but they all visit scenic spots around the south of the lake – take in the Sirmione peninsula, bob down the coast from Bardolino or head out on a sunset cruise. The outside of the boat hasn’t changed much since it was built but the inside has all the facilities you’d expect to find on a modern yacht. Visit the onboard bar then relax on deck, lulled by the sounds of lapping water and flapping sails.
Hire a boat and explore at your own pace
You’ll have to stick to the southern half of the lake because private motorboats aren’t allowed north of Malcesine. But having your own boat is a great way to explore at your own pace. And you don’t need to have a licence to rent one with a 40bhp engine or less either – just show some photo ID and leave a contact number.
Head to our Lakes & Mountains Italy homepage for more Italian holiday inspiration.
Author: Mathew Robinson
Last updated: 15.05.2024