I love to explore places without a car, and on my website, I cover many topics for car-free travelers. In this article, I will help you find the best places to stay in Lake Garda without a car.
I will share my recommendations for the top areas to stay in Lake Garda without a car, along with a helpful map. I’ll also tell you where I stayed in Lake Garda and suggest the best hotels for all budgets.
Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and is located in the northern part of the country, between the provinces of Verona, Brescia, and Trento. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and various recreational activities.
The lake is surrounded by several charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character. Some of the notable towns on the shores of Lake Garda include Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, Bardolino, Malcesine, and Riva del Garda.
Can you get around Lake Garda without a car?
Yes, it is possible to get around Lake Garda without a car. Lake Garda is well-connected by various forms of public transportation including ferries, buses, and trains, making it convenient for visitors to explore the area without the need for a car.
The nearest train station to Lake Garda is in Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda. From these train stations, you can take trains to cities like Verona, Milan, Venice, Brescia, and Turin. You can check the train schedule at italotreno.it and trenitalia.com.
There are regular bus services that connect the towns and villages around Lake Garda. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel and offer scenic views of the lake.
In addition to the bus, Lake Garda has a network of ferries that connect many towns along its shores. This is an enjoyable way to travel, providing stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
Many towns around Lake Garda are bike-friendly, and you can rent bicycles to explore the lakeside paths and nearby areas. Some towns even have dedicated bike lanes.
The lakeside promenades and walking paths around Lake Garda offer a picturesque way to explore the region on foot. This is especially true in towns like Sirmione, Bardolino, and Malcesine.
Keep in mind that during the peak tourist season, transportation services may be more frequent. Always check the local transportation schedules for the specific locations you plan to visit.
Where to stay in Lake Garda without a car?
The best areas to stay in Lake Garda without a car are Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, Sirmione, Bardolino, Garda, and Lazise. These areas are well-connected by ferries and buses, making them great locations to explore the lake by public transportation.
Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano del Garda are the most convenient locations for car-free travelers. They have both a train station and ferry port. These train stations have connections to major cities in Northern Italy, and the ferry ports will take you around the lake easily.
Sirmione is a picturesque town located on a peninsula, known for its medieval castle and natural hot springs. It has a unique charm and good ferry connections. Sirmione can get crowded, especially during the day when day-trippers visit the castle.
Bardolino, Garda, and Lazise are lovely towns located on the south eastern shores of Lake Garda and are only a short ferry ride from Desenzano and Peschiera. Bardolino is a lovely town known for its wine and olive oil. Lazise is a bit less crowded compared to other towns.
During my trip to Lake Garda, I stayed for 3 nights at the lovely Hotel City. It was located in a quiet area, 2 mins walk from the historic center of Desenzano, 15-20 mins walk from the train station. Also close to lakeside cafes, restaurants and ferry dock. I had a wonderful breakfast, a good-size room with a comfortable bed.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Lake Garda for car-free travelers. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Lake Garda, especially for travelers without a car. I’ll explain to you how to reach each area and how to get around. I’ll also provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Lake Garda have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best areas to stay in Lake Garda without a car:
1. Desenzano del Garda
Desenzano del Garda is one of the best places to stay in Lake Garda without a car. It is strategically positioned at the southern end of Lake Garda, making it an important transportation hub and a gateway to the lake.
Desenzano has a major train station, making it easily accessible by train from various cities, including Milan, Verona, and Venice. The town has a ferry port, offering boat connections to other towns around Lake Garda, such as Sirmione, Peschiera del Garda, and Bardolino.
Desenzano has a picturesque historic center with narrow streets, shops, cafes, and restaurants. The main square, Piazza Malvezzi, is a popular gathering spot.
The Castello di Desenzano del Garda offers panoramic views of the town and Lake Garda. It’s a historic fortress with a museum.
This town also features a beautiful lakeside promenade where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll, take in the views, and relax by the water.
You can find a variety of shops, ranging from boutiques to local markets, where you can find souvenirs and regional products.
Desenzano del Garda is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs that come alive in the evenings, especially during the summer months. Lakeside dining is particularly popular.
Best places to stay in Lake Garda in Desenzano without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Villa Rosa Hotel Desenzano, great 4-star beachfront hotel, located on the lakefront area, close to a small beach area and the town center. It has an outdoor pool, Wonderful Breakfast, and family rooms.
- Mid-range ($$): Park Hotel, popular 4-star accommodation located on Garda Lake promenade, in the center of Desenzano, only a few mins walk from the harbor. It has a rooftop pool with a sun terrace and Excellent Breakfast according to more than 1k guests’ reviews on booking.com.
- Budget ($): Hotel Benaco, 3-star accommodation conveniently located close to the train station, ferry port, and 5-10 min walk to the lake. It has an outdoor swimming pool and good breakfast.
2. Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda is a suitable choice for visitors without a car due to its well-connected transportation options, especially the train station. It is a charming town located at the southern tip of Lake Garda.
Peschiera del Garda has its own train station, making it accessible by train from Verona, Venice, and Milan. The town is served by buses and ferries connecting it to other towns around Lake Garda.
Peschiera del Garda is surrounded by impressive Venetian walls and fortifications, including Fortezza Medievale, which are well-preserved and provide a unique atmosphere to the town.
The town features a charming historic center with narrow streets, squares, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It also has a lovely lakeside promenade where you can enjoy a leisurely walk, take in the views of the lake, and relax in waterfront cafes.
The town has a range of restaurants and trattorias serving local cuisine. You can savor fresh seafood, pasta, and other Italian specialties.
Gardaland, one of the largest amusement parks in Italy, is located near Peschiera del Garda. It’s a popular attraction for families and offers a variety of rides and entertainment.
Best places to stay in Lake Garda in Peschiera without a car:
- Budget ($): Hotel Bell’arrivo, popular 3-star hotel, located in the historic center of the city, a short distance from Gardaland, a famous theme park in italy. It is also close to the train station and the bus stop. You can enjoy its wonderful Breakfast and comfortable rooms.
- Budget ($): Hotel Dori, 3-star accommodation located close to the shores of Lake Garda, 15 mins walk from Peschiera Station, and easy access to the pier for boat tours of the lake. It has Excellent Breakfast, paid onsite parking, and family rooms.
- Budget ($): Hotel San Marco, great 3-star hotel, located on Via Lungolago Mazzini, on the shores of Lake Garda, a short distance from the historic center of Peschiera del Garda, theme parks and golf courses. It has free parking, a summer pool, and excellent Breakfast.
3. Sirmione
Sirmione is one of the most popular areas to stay in Lake Garda for first-timers and car-free travelers. It is a pedestrian-friendly town, and its attractions are easily explored on foot. While it may not have a train station, the availability of buses and boats makes it easily accessible without a car.
It is a stunning and historic town located on a narrow peninsula that extends into the southern part of Lake Garda. It is one of the most popular destinations on the lake and is known for its picturesque setting, historical sites, and natural beauty.
The Scaligero Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress located at the entrance of Sirmione. You can explore the castle and enjoy panoramic views of the lake and the town.
This town is home to Grotte di Catullo (Catullus’s Grotto), the ruins of a Roman villa located on the tip of the Sirmione peninsula. The site offers a glimpse into the history of the region.
Sirmione is known for its thermal baths. The Terme di Sirmione, located on the shores of Lake Garda, offers spa and wellness services. The thermal waters are said to have therapeutic properties.
Sirmione’s historic center is charming, with narrow cobblestone streets, shops, cafes, and gelaterias. Strolling through the town allows you to soak in its relaxed atmosphere.
Sirmione has a beautiful lakeside promenade where you can enjoy a leisurely walk. There are also small beaches where you can relax by the lake.
The town offers a variety of shops, including boutiques and souvenir stores. There are also numerous restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy Italian cuisine with a view of the lake.
Best places to stay in Lake Garda in Sirmione without a car:
- Luxury ($$$): Grand Hotel Terme, great 5-star lakefront hotel located within easy walk from the historical center of Sirmione. It has pools with thermal waters, excellent Breakfast, and free parking. You can have a spa sauna and bathtub with amazing views of the castle.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Flaminia, great 4-star family-run accommodation located in the beachfront area with its own private beach. The hotel offers paid service to the train station, Golf Club, Arena di Verona. All the shops, restaurants, and cafes within easy reach.
- Budget ($): Hotel Pace, popular 3-star beachfront hotel with a private beach in the historic center of Sirmione. It is only a few minutes walk from the ferry terminal and right on the edge of the lake. You can choose to stay in the room with views of the lake.
4. Bardolino
Bardolino is a charming and relaxing town on the eastern shore of Lake Garda that has good bus and ferry connections. It is renowned for its wine production, particularly the red Bardolino wine.
The town’s historic center features narrow streets, colorful buildings, and charming squares. Piazza Matteotti is a central square where you can find cafes, shops, and restaurants.
You can visit the Church of San Nicolo e San Severo, located in the historic center. It has a beautiful interior with frescoes and artwork.
Bardolino has a lovely lakeside promenade along Lake Garda. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Bardolino has a variety of shops selling local products, including wine, olive oil, and handmade crafts. The town also offers a diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes to traditional Italian restaurants.
Bardolino is part of the extensive cycling paths around Lake Garda. Renting a bike is a popular way to explore the scenic surroundings.
Best places to stay in Lake Garda in Bardolino without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Palace Hotel San Pietro, 4-star hotel located on Via Madonnina, in the center of Bardolino, an easy walk to the shores of the lake. It has gardens and an outdoor pool with sun loungers and parasols.
- Mid-range ($$): Aqualux Hotel Spa Suite & Terme, popular 4-star eco-friendly accommodation in Bardolino at the foot of Monte Felice. It has free parking, free AquaSpa & wellness, and a buffet restaurant with a wonderful breakfast.
- Budget ($): Blue Lake Residence – Bardolino, 3-star modern apartments located in Bardolino center on Lake Garda. You can find many shops and restaurants nearby. Free parking and bicycle rental are available at this hotel.
5. Garda
Garda is a charming town located just north of Bardolino on the eastern shore of Lake Garda. It is one of the smaller towns around the lake but it has good connections to buses and ferries. Great base for those who want a peaceful atmosphere.
Garda’s historic center is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and a charming atmosphere. Piazza Catullo is the main square, surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The nearby San Vigilio peninsula is a scenic area with beautiful landscapes, a historic villa, and a small harbor. It’s a pleasant place for a leisurely stroll.
Garda has a lovely lakeside promenade along the shores of Lake Garda. It’s a great spot to take a leisurely walk, enjoy the views, and relax in lakeside cafes.
Lake Garda is known for its water sports, and Garda provides opportunities for activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
Best places to stay in Lake Garda in Garda without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Sky Pool Hotel Sole Garda, 4-star accommodation located in the center of Garda town, featuring a rooftop terrace with swimming pool and restaurant.
- Budget ($): Hotel Benaco Garda, great 3-star hotel located on Corso Italia, the center of Garda, a few steps from the lake shore. Short drive from Torri del Benaco, where you can catch ferries to go to Toscolano-Maderno on another side of the lake.
- Budget ($): Hotel Cortina, 2-star lovely place to stay, in the heart of Garda, easy to walk down to the lake and local restaurants in Garda.
6. Lazise
Lazise is a charming town on the eastern shore of Lake Garda, between Bardolino and Peschiera del Garda. It’s known for its medieval architecture, picturesque harbor, and scenic lakefront.
Lazise’s historic center is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares. The 9th century Castello Scaligero di Lazise, located near the harbor, is a notable landmark.
The town features a picturesque harbor with fishing boats and a lakeside promenade. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll, offering beautiful views of the lake.
The main square of Lazise is the Market Square (Piazza Vittorio Emanuele), which is a lively area with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It often hosts markets and events.
Lazise has a variety of restaurants and trattorias where you can savor local cuisine, including fresh seafood and regional wines.
Lazise has small beaches along the lake, providing opportunities for relaxation and water activities. Some of these areas are equipped with facilities like sunbeds and umbrellas.
Best places to stay in Lake Garda in Lazise without a car:
- Mid-range ($$): Porto Vecchio Appartamenti, 4-star accommodation, located in Lazise Old Town, offering free private parking and paid airport shuttle services.
- Budget ($): Classique, great accommodation in Lazise, short walk from the lakefront, and 15 mins drive from Peschiera del Garda. Easy access to the bus to go to Verona, Peschiera, and Torri Del Benaco.
- Budget ($): Hotel Le Mura, 3-star accommodation in a quiet area, close to the shores of Lake Garda. It has free parking, and a saltwater pool. Within easy distance to the shops and restaurants of the town center. Easy catch the bus to go to Gardaland and Caneva World.
In conclusion, Desenzano del Garda, Peschiera del Garda, Sirmione, Bardolino, Garda, and Lazise are the best places to stay in Lake Garda without a car. These areas are popular tourist towns along the lake and are well-connected to ferries, making them great bases for car-free travelers.
You can also continue reading this articles about Northern Italy:
- Best places to stay in Lake Como without a car
- Best places to Stay in Venice first time
- Best places to Stay in Milan first time
- Safe areas to stay in Verona for first time
There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas that you can stay during your car-free trip to Lake Garda. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality content.