Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, stretches a full 52 kilometers. It’s a place of dramatic mountains, sparkling blue water, and little towns that look like they were painted for postcards. Spend a few days here and you’ll see why it has become one of Italy’s most beloved destinations.
Riva del Garda quickly became one of my favourite places on Lake Garda. The setting is extraordinary, with towering mountains rising almost vertically from the lake, creating scenery that feels more like a Norwegian fjord than northern Italy. The town has a relaxed atmosphere, a beautiful waterfront, and just the right balance of activity without feeling overwhelming.
It is also an excellent place to base yourself for exploring Lake Garda. Ferries, buses, and scenic lakeside roads make it easy to visit picturesque villages around the lake, then return to Riva for an evening stroll along the promenade or dinner in one of the welcoming piazzas. With plenty of accommodation, outdoor activities, and one of the most attractive historic centres on the lake, Riva del Garda is a destination you’ll enjoy coming back to at the end of every day.
At the northern tip of the lake sits Riva del Garda, a lively town that makes the perfect base. With plenty of hotels, restaurants, and cafés, everything you need is right at your doorstep.
Parking along the lake can be difficult, and sometimes costs up to €3 an hour. Many travelers find it best to book a hotel that includes free parking. It saves both money and the headache of circling for a spot.
Staying in Riva is a great idea. It’s beautiful, it has a lot to explore, and from here you are only a short drive away from Limone sul Garda (the prettiest town on Garda).
When visiting Riva del Garda – If you can, stay in or near the old town. Places like Hotel Centrale. You’ll be just steps from charming streets, cozy cafés, and local shops. Early mornings here are pure magic, with sunlight spilling across the cobblestones and the town slowly waking up around you.
The Old Town & Torre Apponale – Climb the 34-meter tower in the center of town and you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the lake.
Bastione di Riva – This hilltop fortress is an easy walk and offers a restaurant with tables overlooking the water. It’s one of those views you’ll never forget.
Santa Maria Inviolata – A small Baroque church tucked away just a few streets from the center.
Hiking & Cycling – The Sentiero Ponale and Sentiero Busatte Tempesta routes are two of the most beautiful paths you’ll find around Lake Garda.
Riva Beach – Nearly two kilometers of soft grass along the shoreline, perfect for a picnic or simply watching the boats drift by.
Ferries leave Riva every 90 minutes, making it easy to hop across the lake. Check timetables here: Navigazione Laghi.
Planning to spend time in town? Read our complete guide to visiting Riva del Garda: The best things to do and things you should know (for 1st time visitors) – Read more >>
Your experience will depend on how much time you are willing to spend traveling each day. Because Riva del Garda sits at the far northern tip of the lake, travel times vary significantly between the northern and southern towns.
If staying 4–7 days in Riva: You can comfortably visit all northern and central towns, plus make 1 or 2 dedicated day trips to southern destinations like Sirmione.
If you prefer minimal transit time: Why not consider splitting your stay (e.g., a few nights in Riva del Garda for the mountain scenery and a few nights in Sirmione or Desenzano del Garda for the south).
A short ride from Riva brings you to Limone sul Garda, one of the most charming towns anywhere in Italy. The name says it all—lemons once played an important role here, and you’ll see them everywhere today.
The Limonaia del Castel, a historic lemon garden, gives you a glimpse of that past. Afterward, wander through streets lined with shops. Limone has some of the best souvenir shopping on the lake. Don’t miss a scoop of lemon gelato while you’re here—it tastes like summer in Italy.
Climb up to the San Rocco Church for a quiet view of the lake, spend a few hours on the beach, or walk out along the Ciclovia del Garda, a stunning pathway clinging to the cliffs.
Just 20 minutes above Limone, the little community of Tremosine is famous for one thing—the view. The Terrazzo del Brivido terrace sits 350 meters above Lake Garda. Order a spritz and sit back; the lake sparkles far below, the mountains rise behind you, and for a moment the whole world feels like it’s at your feet.
The old town is worth a stroll too, with stone houses, winding alleys, and traditional trattorias.
Not far from Riva, Canale di Tenno feels like stepping back into another century. Cobbled streets wind through stone archways, and every corner seems made for a photograph.
A short walk away is Lake Tenno, an emerald-green jewel that changes shades depending on the light. It’s a peaceful spot for swimming, relaxing, or simply soaking in the view with a glass of wine.
Further down the shore lies Malcesine, another jewel of Lake Garda. Its Scaligero Castle, a 13th-century fortress perched right at the water’s edge, offers some of the best views in town. The old harbor is lively with restaurants and bars, and the Palazzo dei Capitani adds another touch of history.
Take the cable car up to Monte Baldo for unforgettable views over the mountains and the lake. In summer, hikers and paragliders fill the trails and skies.
End your journey in Torri del Benaco, a peaceful town where the evenings are pure magic. Find a lakeside restaurant, order dinner, and watch as the sun dips behind the mountains. The lights of the town reflect on the water, and you’ll see why many travelers say this is the perfect ending to a Lake Garda holiday.
Lake Garda North vs South: Want to know which side is the best? Read more >>
The northern end of Lake Garda—centered around towns like Riva del Garda, Torbole, Arco, and Limone sul Garda—has a distinct character that sets it apart from the rest of the lake. While the southern shores are flat, warm, and lined with olive groves and thermal resorts, the north is dramatic, alpine, and outdoor-oriented.
Base yourself in Riva del Garda if you want easy ferry access and lots of restaurants within walking distance.
Book a hotel with free parking to avoid extra costs.
Use ferries to hop across the lake—it’s both practical and scenic.
Don’t rush—each town has its own flavor, and the joy of Lake Garda is slowing down to enjoy them all.
Lake Garda is more than just a destination. It’s a place to wander, to sit by the water, and to discover one beautiful town after another.
Spending a few days in town? Read our complete guide to visiting Riva del Garda before you arrive.
