Lake Garda

Jump to bottom

Posted by Amy Mac on 09/27/25 03:59 AM

Hi all,

I am looking for info on a hidden gem on Lake Garda to stay and base ourselves to explore the area.

How many days? What places to visit? Family activities? Restaurants and cafes?

I will be traveling by car from Venice and want to check out the lake on my way to the Dolomites.

Thanks.

Posted by Lin C

Surrey, UK

09/27/25 09:47 AM

583 posts

Sadly, there are no such hidden gems left, too many tourists!

However, with a car, I would like to suggest Gardone Riviera or Salo on the western shore. As there are no train connections, fewer tourists.

Both are charming small towns, with good ferry connections all over the lake.

Posted by Amy Mac OP

09/27/25 03:27 PM

43 posts

Thanks. I appreciate the tips.

Posted by mggtravel

Northern California (formerly Brescia and Lago di Garda Italy)

09/27/25 04:10 PM

167 posts

If you are coming in summer be aware that the west side is actually really busy with locals from Brescia area coming to the lake on weekends in summer (in addition to tourists from outside the area) so jammed with cars on the one lane road. So very busy with locals in addition to tourists outside Italy - if not as many train related tourists as east side. Weekdays better. .

Posted by princess pupule

martinez, ca, usa

09/27/25 06:28 PM

2716 posts

hey hey Amy Mac
as Lin C says, hidden gems are no more "too many tourists". you'll need to find your own, keep it to yourself, with no mention on social media & instagram
make sure you get an IDP (aaa.com/IDP) mandatory in italy for every driver, read laws, rules, signage
several years ago we drove from venice to bardolino for their annual wine festival "festa dell' uva e del vino" late september early october, was fabulous. lake garda has become more popular and crowded with many passing by lake como.
when are you going, how many people and any kids "ages", many small towns/villages you take your pick. i would stay at least 4 days to explore both sides of lake, ferries, water activities, farmers markets, etc "family activities" on lower end of lake there are some camping resorts on the beaches with many activities, mobile home "maxicaravans", shops, restaurants, parking, laundry, grocery store
campingspiaggiadoro.com
laroccacamp.com
campingsanfrancesco.com
click village and will show you what's available for families
earthtrekkers.com/ lake garda: 25 things to do on lake
gardavisit.it (click find inspiration, click lake villages, or click towns on top of page)
summarizes what is there and things to do
lakegardatravel.net
lots of info for you to investigate with your own decisions. have fun & enjoy the beautiful views of lake and mountains
aloha