How to Spend a Day at Lake Garda, Italy

Not far from the mountainous border of Northern Italy, Lake Garda is a photogenic destination that is perfect for those seeking a vacation that blends relaxation with sight-seeing and great food. Don’t be fooled by the term ‘lake;’ this place feels more like an ocean, with a surface area of 143 square miles! Surrounded by many towns such as Limone, Desenzano, and of course, Garda, this beautiful body of water makes the ultimate weekend getaway. 

I first found myself at Lake Garda in July of 2025, when my summer camp took a trip there, from Milan. Many people had told me that Lake Garda was the most beautiful place on Earth, so visiting had been at the top of my bucket list! Immediately, I fell in love with the pastel-painted homes, the clear waves of water, and the scent of Italian coffee sneaking out of the coffee shops into the fresh mountain air.

So, when my dad asked me where I wanted to go this April for my 18th birthday, I didn’t even have to think. Lake Garda without a doubt. 

We decided to stay in Sirmione, the peninsula that divides the south of the lake that almost feels like an island. Choosing Sirmione was an easy decision that we definitely didn’t regret; this gorgeous little town looks like something out of a Disney movie! Specifically, we stayed at the Hotel Eden, which, in my opinion, was the best hotel we could have chosen, as it is located right next to the harbor in the heart of the peninsula.

We had one full day to spend, and I’d say we were successful in making the most of it! If you’re looking to spend a day in the South of Lake Garda that involves seeing multiple towns, eating great food, whilst still balancing relaxation (because who wants to be exhausted on vacation?), then keep on reading to see how me and my dad did just that! 

Next, we made our way back to the heart of Sirmione to catch the ferry to Garda: the village that shares a name with the whole lake. The ferry took around an hour, but the stunning scenery and calming breeze of the journey made it feel like five minutes! 

Once we arrived, we took a stroll through the market that is right next to the harbor – impossible to miss! If you are looking for a flowy, breathable skirt, then this is definitely the place to be. Emerging from the market, we were met with a range of restaurants and cafes right on the lake, and this is when I had my first ever spaghetti pomodoro in Italy. It did not disappoint! 

Spending the late afternoon on the terrace with an award-worthy coffee in hand, watching the sun drift over the clear-blue lake, was undoubtedly the highlight of the trip! Afterwards, we took a quick stroll around Sirmione, enjoying all of the beauty it has to offer. As the sun started to set, we moved to the restaurant next door from our hotel: Ristorante Caruso, where we enjoyed some classic margherita pizza – just what I wish I could eat every evening! In total, we visited this restaurant three times during our weekend trip, drawn in by the delicious (yet surprisingly affordable) meals, fantastic views and friendly staff. 

And that is how we spent the ultimate day in the south of Lake Garda! From perfectly-cooked pizza dough to calming clear waters, this gorgeous place is a must-add to your bucket list, and the perfect destination for your ‘Euro-Summer’ vacation!