Summer 2023 Lake Garda: what to do and see
Are you looking for a place – other than the sea – where to spend your summer holidays? Then you should consider what Lake Garda has to offer. Continue reading the article to find out more about what you can visit and all the events you can attend during your summer 2023 at Lake Garda.
The Lake Garda
The must-see hamlets and villages
It is important to make a premise: Lake Garda offers more than 20 municipalities spread along the 155-km coastline each with its own characteristics, cultural attractions, and breathtaking views. Most are all hamlets with a very ancient history and are located geographically on different sides: we have the Veneto, Brescia and Verona sides. So the choice is not easy given the vast amount of enchanting landscapes and given the uniqueness of each of them. Let’s start by listing the best ones:
- Limone sul Garda: This small town is one of the most visited tourist locations on the Brescia Riviera. It is historically known for the cultivation of citrus fruits and for its lemon houses. Today they can be visited after a renovation that allowed them to be a piece of the history of Lake Garda. One of these is the Limonaia del Castel: certainly worth visiting. The historic center, with its alleys and Borgo Antico, is a continuous up and down between the streets and among the typical little stores. Do not miss a bit of healthy physical activity: it is possibile to ride the Ciclopista del Garda, a footbridge built overlooking the water that won’t let you forget about the experience.
- Desenzano del Garda: is the municipality with the highest number of inhabitants, located in the Lower Garda area presents a lot of historical and cultural attractions, the following are the most interesting activities: visit to the Old Port that was established for commercial purposes around the 15th century, Malvezzi Square, Roman Villa, Desenzano Castle and the Archaeological Museum.
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- Sirmione: If we talk about one of the most beautiful villages to see on Lake Garda, we can’t fail to mention Sirmione. One of the most charming places on Lake Garda and certainly in all of northern Italy to visit at least once in a lifetime.
What to see in Sirmione
Most famous are its thermal waters, which are also used for therapeutic and aesthetic purposes; an attractive place to visit is the Acquaria Thermal spa. The first thing that catches your eye as soon as you arrive at the resort is its historic center and its Scaliger Castle. The name of the village comes from the Greek “syrma” meaning tail, drag this because it is located on a thin tongue of land. Due to its special location, it has many beaches, the most famous is the one called Jamaica Beach. This beach is a popular meeting and entertainment spot for young people in the summer with its crystal clear waters resembling the transparent sea. But among the most fascinating things we can’t fail to mention the Catullus Caves, with their history rooted in the distant 1st century BC and 2nd century AD. In ancient times it represented a Roman villa and today it has become a very important archaeological site and one of the best preserved in the entire north.
Less known but not to be missed locations on Lake Garda!
- Lazise: another beautiful hamlet that lies on the eastern side of Lake Garda. It has a long history of rule and was part, thanks to Napoleon, of the Cisalpine Republic and later of the Kingdom of Italy. It then passed under Austrian rule and became Italian again after the Third War of Independence. Today, it is the oldest municipality in Italy. Don’t miss Scaliger walls and castle, entrance gates, small harbor and Venetian customs to stop at the romantic church of San Nicolò.
- Salò: is one of the most beautiful hamlets to see on Lake Garda. It stands on the Brescian side and became famous in 1943 when the Republic of Salò was founded. This small village, too, has all the splendid suggestiveness typical of Garda. A visit to Piazza Angelo Zanelli, the Clock Gate that marks the entrance from the west to the historic center, and the Church of the Visitation of Salò should not be missed.
- Moniga del Garda: Located between Desenzano and Manerba, Moniga Del Garda is known for its simplicity and beauty. Little known compared to the previous locations mentioned but not to be underestimated! It is a perfect mix of culture, history, relax and good food along one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, our well-known Lake Garda. It is nicknamed the “city of Chiaretto” for being the producer of one of Italy’s best-known rosé wines, Valtènesi Chiaretto Doc; first produced over a century ago by Venetian senator Pompeo Molmenti in what is now Villa Bertanzi. Villa Bertanzi is located in the historic center and is a 17th-century villa surrounded by its lovely gardens.
The beaches of Moniga del Garda
What makes Moniga del Garda so special? Definitely its numerous gravel beaches that embrace the entire lakefront. The most famous is the Romantic Beach well known by young people for the summer fun and entertainment offered. Then we find the renowned Porto beach crowded during the hottest summer days, or the less known but no less fascinating Liner beach located further north. Towards the south we find the beach of San Michele, located about 1km from the center of Moniga on which overlooks an accommodation facility for tourists that we suggest to visit, it is the “Campeggio delle Rose”.
Where to stay in Moniga del Garda
The “Campeggio delle Rose” with its 30000 sm offers tourists the opportunity to experience the town of Moniga sul Garda at 360 degrees by having all the necessary services such as pier, boat slip, reception, bar, restaurant and pizzeria, as well as a relax area with wi-fi, salt water pool and whirlpool to enjoy all the comforts necessary to live our 2023 holidays to the maximum.
The campground is appreciated by its clients for the professionalism with which every detail is handled and the passion the employees have in providing service. There are many accommodations on offer, the choice ranges from lakefront Mobile Homes to Chalets and Bungalows, as well as pitches for tents and caravans. For more information and to book your magnificent stay at Lake Garda, check out Campeggio delle Rose.
Events not to be missed: Summer 2023
Fireworks summer 2023 Lake Garda
Every summer, on August 15, 2023, the show given by fireworks will be held with the participation of the best professionals in the field. Unless the schedule changes, the fireworks show will take place from 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., in Garda (“palio delle contrade”). For a complete list of other dates when fireworks can be seen throughout Lake Garda, visit the Verona tourism website.
Fairy Tale Night in Riva del Garda
During the summer 2023, fantasy fun is guaranteed in Riva del Garda. The Fairy Tale Night is a special event held in August, more precisely from August 24 to August 27. Every year since 1999 the town is filled with life, including concerts, shows, workshops and games all with a fairy tale theme, and each edition has a different story to offer! Absolutely not to be missed for both young and old!
Garda Lake music Festival
Every year, in July, this music event of concerts is held with the presence of internationally renowned musicians. It aims to be a manifestation not only of the talent of young artists but also a manifestation of the entire area to evoke emotions and history typical of Lake Garda. For news about updated dates visit the dedicated page of the Garda music festival.
St. Maddalena Fair in Torbole
The periodic recurrence of the fair originated in 1774, when the supply of periodic supplies was still a serious problem. Today, the fair is certainly viewed differently but no less welcome by visitors or residents of Torbole, a splendid small and picturesque municipality. There will be 12 stalls in Lietzmann Square on July 22, 2023.
Guaranteed fun not to be missed at Lake Garda
There are many sports activities and excursions to do at Lake Garda both in summer and in all other seasons. You can organize bike rides on Lake Garda to admire the lakeside, boat trips at sunset, or wine tastings. This is not the end of the story, there is another option for adrenaline lovers, which is to spend a day at the various nearby amusement and/or water parks.
- One of the largest and most popular amusement parks in Italy is located right in Castelnuovo del Garda, we are talking about Gardaland. Gardaland offers numerous attractions, cinema, aquarium, and much more, in short, you just can’t get bored! Don’t miss the new movie-themed park focusing on special effects, the Movie Studios, or you can even watch an amazing medieval show at Medieval Times.
- For those who love nature, outdoor activities and want to challenge themselves on trails on Canadian bridges, the Parco Natura Viva and the wonderful Sigurtà Garden Park surrounded by green are a must-visit.
- Finally, you can’t miss the water parks, a great choice to face the hot days of summer 2023. The most famous is Canevaworld, located in Lazise on Lake Garda and known to be one of the most Caribbean-themed water parks in Europe. In addition to the guaranteed fun, the location is spectacular and capable of providing a day of evasion. Also worth mentioning are Picoverde and Cavour, nestled in the green moraine hills.
Lake Garda, also called “Benaco”, is Italy’s major lake. It is located in northern part of Italy and is just over two hours from the well-known Milan. More precisely, it lies at the hinge between three regions, Lombardy, Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige. Lake Garda denotes a temperate-continental climate, surprisingly mild that is optimal even for the hottest summers given also by the alpine climate of the mountains that surround it. This climate has allowed chestnut, walnut, olive, lemon, and vine trees to bloom. The fauna and flora of the landscape give Lake Garda a picturesque beauty. The major towns of Lake Garda perfectly denote the history of the place; in fact, we can’t fail to notice the numerous medieval castles or Roman ruins. Not to mention the thermal water of Garda fed by underwater springs and that you can experience on your skin in one of the most charming villages of Garda, Sirmione and beyond. No wonder that Lake Garda boasts millions of visitors every year.
Summer 2023 Lake Garda: what to do and see
The must-see hamlets and villages
It is important to make a premise: Lake Garda offers more than 20 municipalities spread along the 155-km coastline each with its own characteristics, cultural attractions, and breathtaking views. Most are all hamlets with a very ancient history and are located geographically on different sides: we have the Veneto, Brescia and Verona sides. So the choice is not easy given the vast amount of enchanting landscapes and given the uniqueness of each of them. Let’s start by listing the best ones:
- Limone sul Garda: This small town is one of the most visited tourist locations on the Brescia Riviera. It is historically known for the cultivation of citrus fruits and for its lemon houses. Today they can be visited after a renovation that allowed them to be a piece of the history of Lake Garda. One of these is the Limonaia del Castel: certainly worth visiting. The historic center, with its alleys and Borgo Antico, is a continuous up and down between the streets and among the typical little stores. Do not miss a bit of healthy physical activity: it is possibile to ride the Ciclopista del Garda, a footbridge built overlooking the water that won’t let you forget about the experience.
- Desenzano del Garda: is the municipality with the highest number of inhabitants, located in the Lower Garda area presents a lot of historical and cultural attractions, the following are the most interesting activities: visit to the Old Port that was established for commercial purposes around the 15th century, Malvezzi Square, Roman Villa, Desenzano Castle and the Archaeological Museum.
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- Sirmione: If we talk about one of the most beautiful villages to see on Lake Garda, we can’t fail to mention Sirmione. One of the most charming places on Lake Garda and certainly in all of northern Italy to visit at least once in a lifetime.
What to see in Sirmione
Most famous are its thermal waters, which are also used for therapeutic and aesthetic purposes; an attractive place to visit is the Acquaria Thermal spa. The first thing that catches your eye as soon as you arrive at the resort is its historic center and its Scaliger Castle. The name of the village comes from the Greek “syrma” meaning tail, drag this because it is located on a thin tongue of land. Due to its special location, it has many beaches, the most famous is the one called Jamaica Beach. This beach is a popular meeting and entertainment spot for young people in the summer with its crystal clear waters resembling the transparent sea. But among the most fascinating things we can’t fail to mention the Catullus Caves, with their history rooted in the distant 1st century BC and 2nd century AD. In ancient times it represented a Roman villa and today it has become a very important archaeological site and one of the best preserved in the entire north.
Less known but not to be missed locations on Lake Garda!
- Lazise: another beautiful hamlet that lies on the eastern side of Lake Garda. It has a long history of rule and was part, thanks to Napoleon, of the Cisalpine Republic and later of the Kingdom of Italy. It then passed under Austrian rule and became Italian again after the Third War of Independence. Today, it is the oldest municipality in Italy. Don’t miss Scaliger walls and castle, entrance gates, small harbor and Venetian customs to stop at the romantic church of San Nicolò.
- Salò: is one of the most beautiful hamlets to see on Lake Garda. It stands on the Brescian side and became famous in 1943 when the Republic of Salò was founded. This small village, too, has all the splendid suggestiveness typical of Garda. A visit to Piazza Angelo Zanelli, the Clock Gate that marks the entrance from the west to the historic center, and the Church of the Visitation of Salò should not be missed.
- Moniga del Garda: Located between Desenzano and Manerba, Moniga Del Garda is known for its simplicity and beauty. Little known compared to the previous locations mentioned but not to be underestimated! It is a perfect mix of culture, history, relax and good food along one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy, our well-known Lake Garda. It is nicknamed the “city of Chiaretto” for being the producer of one of Italy’s best-known rosé wines, Valtènesi Chiaretto Doc; first produced over a century ago by Venetian senator Pompeo Molmenti in what is now Villa Bertanzi. Villa Bertanzi is located in the historic center and is a 17th-century villa surrounded by its lovely gardens.
The beaches of Moniga del Garda
What makes Moniga del Garda so special? Definitely its numerous gravel beaches that embrace the entire lakefront. The most famous is the Romantic Beach well known by young people for the summer fun and entertainment offered. Then we find the renowned Porto beach crowded during the hottest summer days, or the less known but no less fascinating Liner beach located further north. Towards the south we find the beach of San Michele, located about 1km from the center of Moniga on which overlooks an accommodation facility for tourists that we suggest to visit, it is the “Campeggio delle Rose”.
Where to stay in Moniga del Garda
The “Campeggio delle Rose” with its 30000 sm offers tourists the opportunity to experience the town of Moniga sul Garda at 360 degrees by having all the necessary services such as pier, boat slip, reception, bar, restaurant and pizzeria, as well as a relax area with wi-fi, salt water pool and whirlpool to enjoy all the comforts necessary to live our 2023 holidays to the maximum.
The campground is appreciated by its clients for the professionalism with which every detail is handled and the passion the employees have in providing service. There are many accommodations on offer, the choice ranges from lakefront Mobile Homes to Chalets and Bungalows, as well as pitches for tents and caravans. For more information and to book your magnificent stay at Lake Garda, check out Campeggio delle Rose.
Events not to be missed: Summer 2023
Fireworks summer 2023 Lake Garda
Every summer, on August 15, 2023, the show given by fireworks will be held with the participation of the best professionals in the field. Unless the schedule changes, the fireworks show will take place from 10 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., in Garda (“palio delle contrade”). For a complete list of other dates when fireworks can be seen throughout Lake Garda, visit the Verona tourism website.
Fairy Tale Night in Riva del Garda
During the summer 2023, fantasy fun is guaranteed in Riva del Garda. The Fairy Tale Night is a special event held in August, more precisely from August 24 to August 27. Every year since 1999 the town is filled with life, including concerts, shows, workshops and games all with a fairy tale theme, and each edition has a different story to offer! Absolutely not to be missed for both young and old!
Garda Lake music Festival
Every year, in July, this music event of concerts is held with the presence of internationally renowned musicians. It aims to be a manifestation not only of the talent of young artists but also a manifestation of the entire area to evoke emotions and history typical of Lake Garda. For news about updated dates visit the dedicated page of the Garda music festival.
St. Maddalena Fair in Torbole
The periodic recurrence of the fair originated in 1774, when the supply of periodic supplies was still a serious problem. Today, the fair is certainly viewed differently but no less welcome by visitors or residents of Torbole, a splendid small and picturesque municipality. There will be 12 stalls in Lietzmann Square on July 22, 2023.
Guaranteed fun not to be missed at Lake Garda
There are many sports activities and excursions to do at Lake Garda both in summer and in all other seasons. You can organize bike rides on Lake Garda to admire the lakeside, boat trips at sunset, or wine tastings. This is not the end of the story, there is another option for adrenaline lovers, which is to spend a day at the various nearby amusement and/or water parks.
- One of the largest and most popular amusement parks in Italy is located right in Castelnuovo del Garda, we are talking about Gardaland. Gardaland offers numerous attractions, cinema, aquarium, and much more, in short, you just can’t get bored! Don’t miss the new movie-themed park focusing on special effects, the Movie Studios, or you can even watch an amazing medieval show at Medieval Times.
- For those who love nature, outdoor activities and want to challenge themselves on trails on Canadian bridges, the Parco Natura Viva and the wonderful Sigurtà Garden Park surrounded by green are a must-visit.
- Finally, you can’t miss the water parks, a great choice to face the hot days of summer 2023. The most famous is Canevaworld, located in Lazise on Lake Garda and known to be one of the most Caribbean-themed water parks in Europe. In addition to the guaranteed fun, the location is spectacular and capable of providing a day of evasion. Also worth mentioning are Picoverde and Cavour, nestled in the green moraine hills.