Lake Garda is the largest and most popular lake in Italy, dotted with hotels, resorts and a steady influx of visitors wanting to bask in Mediterranean climes while experiencing the diversity of high hills, olive groves, spectacular mountainous backdrops and fjord-like landscapes. Boat trips and hydrofoils connect Lake Garda's picturesque towns, transporting passengers from Riva del Garda to Limone or Desenzano to Sirmione, one of the oldest towns on the lake.
Lake Garda holidays by coach
A trip to Malcesine on Lake Garda's eastern shore affords the sight of the town's stunning castle that juts out upon the lake, delightfully cobbled streets and a high-tech jaunt on the rotating cable car to the summit of Monte Baldo, not to be missed on a Lake Garda tour. Set aside time to see the beautiful market town of Desenzano on Garda's southern tip, which attracts the chic Milan multitudes each week - take a boat trip from here to pass by the only habitable islands on the lake.
Picturesque Sirmione is famous for its medieval centre complete with moated fortress, roman villa where poet Catullus resided and lovely piazzas that provide the perfect place for cafe relaxation. On the doorstep are the Dolomites offering a cable car ride up to the Marmolada, which at over 3,000 meters gives unbeatable views over the region. A narrow gauge cog railway from Renon to the summit of Ritten provides yet more heart-stopping panoramas.
- While exploring ancient Sirmione on your coach tour, don't miss a boat trip around the area's ramparts and grottos.
- Touring holidays in Lake Garda wouldn't be the same without sinking excellent red wine in its namesake town of Bardolino. The town is famous for its wine, which is light and dry in taste.
- Visit the fishing port-turned-fashionable resort Torbole at Lake Garda's northern tip on your touring holiday. With shops, restaurants and lakeside beaches, a walk along the flat promenade will take you to nearby Riva del Garda.