Lake Garda, or Lago di Garda in Italian, is a crystal clear lake surrounded by alpine mountains. It is a popular holiday destination for Italians and Europeans alike. Many people think to visit the lake in the warmer months to enjoy sailing and swimming, but the winter time is arguably an equally stunning time to visit. Visiting Lake Garda in the winter also provides the bonus of avoiding the summer crowds, while still taking in all of the beauty the region has to offer.
How to Get to Lake Garda
Plane: Lake Garda is accessible from a number of major airports in Northern Italy. Verona, Venice, and Milan are reasonably close, and each city is worth visiting for its own history, charm, and astoundingly good food. Visit at least one of them before making your way to the lake.
Car: The easiest and most accessible way to reach Lake Garda is by car. Lake Garda is very spread out, so by renting a car you will have full independence on your itinerary. From Verona to Lake Garda is only 1 hour by car, while Milan to Lake Garda will take you 2.5 hours.
Train: Italy is incredibly well connected by train. There are trains to Lake Garda, but only to specific regions. I suggest using the trains to hop from Venice to Verona, and then picking up a car from there.
Where to Stay in Lake Garda
Lago di Garda is Italy’s largest lake and offers a variety of areas to explore. We chose to stay in the northern region, near Riva del Garda, known for its mountain biking, scenic hiking trails, and easy access to the lake.
Da la Babi $$ – A modern eco-friendly Airbnb nestled on an olive tree grove. Barbara and Nicola’s stunning property boasts sprawling views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains. Every morning we awoke to a homemade vegan breakfast made by Barbara herself, which still rivals any breakfast I’ve ever had. You’ll need a car to access the place, but the seclusion adds to the charm.
Hotel Villa Enrica $$- If you want to be closer Lake Garda and the town of Riva del Garda along it’s edge, Hotel Villa Enrica offers the ideal location. Bonus: they offer terraced rooms with private hot tubs and postcard worthy views.
Eco Garda Hill $ – Private apartment with a balcony, mountain views, and stellar reviews!
Things to Do in Lake Garda in Winter
As previously mentioned, Lake Garda is quite big, so you will be spoilt for choice. From candy-colored promenades to jaw-dropping viewpoints, there is a little something for everyone. In efforts to ensure this post isn’t too long, I have put together a detailed article on 10 Awe-Inspiring Thing to Do in & Around Northern Lake Garda, but you can find those 10 attractions also listed below.
- Visit Riva Del Garda
- Hike to Croce dei Colodri
- Sunset at Sentiero Busatte Tempesta
- Walk around Lago di Tenno
- Peruse Casarti Canale di Tenno
- Stroll Strada de Ponale
- Visit Arco Castle
- Marvel at Santuario Madonna Della Corona
- Cable car to the top of Monte Baldo
- Road trip through Northern Italy
Best Month to Visit Lake Garda
January / February
I think you can probably guess from the title and tone of this blog post that we would highly suggest visiting Lake Garda during the winter months. The truth is it ultimately depends what type of trip you are looking for. We visited in February, which provided very moderate temperatures, bright clear blue skies, and the ideal conditions for hiking and walking outdoors. My favorite part about visiting in winter was avoiding the crowds. Almost everyone we came in contact with was local to the area.
Does Lake Garda get snow in the winter? Yes, Lake Garda can get snow in winter, though it’s rare at the lower elevations near the lake. The surrounding mountains, especially in the northern region of Trentino, are often snow-capped starting in November, creating an even more magical and picturesque landscape.
For those looking to ski or snowboard, Monte Baldo or the Dolomites are great options nearby.
May / June
If you are keen to take advantage of warmer temperatures I would suggest visiting in spring. During these times you can still hope to avoid the summer rush, as well as stifling heat and humidity which comes with the regions peak visiting months in July / August.
Conclusion
I hope this guide has helped inspire you to visit Lake Garda in winter! If you find yourself with extra time to explore more of northern Italy, check out our post on Amazing Things to Do & See in Verona, Italy, as well as a Non-Touristy Guide to Things to Do & See in Venice, Italy. As always, let me know if you make the trip and any additional tips you find along the way!
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