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Where to Stay on Lake Garda/Car or not?

We finally made the decision to stay on Lake Garda for 5 days next summer (early July). Now the question is, which specific town should we choose for our base? There are many beautiful areas on the north part of the lake. However, although we love natural beauty, we would like to find a place that is large enough to be able to enjoy our evenings strolling through town and that has a variety of good restaurants.

We will be renting a car to explore the Dolomites before arriving in Lake Garda and aren't sure if we should keep it or not.

It seems to me that there are both pros and cons of having a car:
Pros:
1) Flexibility -- not tied to a bus or train schedule
2) Accessibility -- Ability to go to places not easily available by bus as well as stopping and getting out to see sights along the way
Cons:
1) Parking!
2) Traffic - Stress of driving in heavy traffic

Any suggestions on either of these questions (where to stay and car or not) would be really appreciated!

Thanks,
Bob

Posted by
16133 posts

Malcesine, Riva, Torbole, Limone would be my top choices. Riva and Malcesine are a bit bigger.

Take the car, leave the cannoli.

Posted by
1 posts

Well, I'd stay in Verona for sure. Especially if you have a car. It's the best base town, and it is wonderful, great city and lovely cuisine! Alternatively I found Peschiera del Garda recommended on wheresleep.com, which seems to be a nice resource. Peschiera seems to be the best also if you want to spend a day at Gardaland :)