Top Lake Garda Archaeology Tours

Admire Sirmione’s top attractions during the golden sunset hour with this unique boat tour. Cruise past the imposing Scaligero Castle, Grotte di Catullo Roman ruins, and Maria Callas’ elegant villa. Watch as bubbles rise to the surface at the Boiola sulfur springs and get a glimpse of the SPA & Thermal Garden. Finally, raise a glass of Prosecco as you glide beneath the castle drawbridge and back into the harbor.

If you're short on time but want to see some highlights of Lake Garda, book this 25-minute cruise and glide around the scenic Sirmione peninsula. Just choose from a morning or evening option when you book online, then set off from Sirmione. The short cruise takes you on a route past luxury villas, the Aquaria Thermal SPA, and Roman ruins at the Grotte di Catullo.

Make the most of a day in one of the world's most romantic cities with this full-day trip to Venice from Lake Garda. See Venice's most famous attractions, including St Mark's Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge. Float through the canals in a private boat, and enjoy free time to explore on your own in the afternoon.

Spend a day in Verona on a trip from Lake Garda, and discover the charms of a city with Roman ruins, links to Shakespeare, and an Old Town with an abundance of elegant shops. On a tour, see and learn about Verona’s showpiece sights include Juliet’s House, the Pietra Bridge, and the shopping street of Via Mazzini. Round-trip transport from Lake Garda region hotels is included.

Discover the best of the Italian Alps on this full-day Dolomites tour from Lake Garda. Hop into your air-conditioned coach from different pickup points around Lake Garda, then spin into the pretty Dolomites with a guide. Visit the traditional mountain town of Cavalese and take the Pordoi pass for fine views over the Catinaccio, Marmolada, and Sella peaks. Enjoy free time in the Alpine town of Ortisei and soak up the atmosphere among the peaks and valleys.

Step aboard a speedboat to cruise past the lakeside castles of Lake Garda, and stop for a wine tasting at Bardolino. This shared-group boat ride covers a route past sights such as Castello Scaligero of Sirmione and the Roman ruins at Grotte di Catullo, with photo opportunities aplenty. A stop for a swim is also possible, depending on the weather.

Lake Garda is known for its mild microclimate, perfect for producing top-notch wine, olive oil, and other gourmet goodies. Delve into the local cuisine with this wine and food experience in the vineyards surrounding the lakeside town of Lazise. Taste local Garganega, Chiaretta, and other still and sparkling wines paired with specialty cold cuts and cheeses, extra-virgin olive oil, and fresh bread.

Meet your guide in front of the entrance to the Grotte di Catullo archaeological park, where our captivating tour begins. Step inside and immerse yourself in the wonders of a place that was once a lavish and luxurious villa overlooking Lake Garda. This site holds a fascinating history and is located on the most beautiful and sought-after spot, at the tip of a peninsula that stretches into the heart of the lake. Your guide will unveil the tales and legends of this magical place where the renowned poet Catullo composed many of his works. Inspired by the breathtaking panorama and the marvels of the lake, Catullo found the inspiration to create his masterpieces. Prepare to be enchanted as you explore the site, discovering the remnants of the opulent villa and envisioning the grandeur that once graced this location. The guide's narrative will transport you back in time, allowing you to relive the past and connect with the spirit of this extraordinary place.

Uncover the ruins of an Ancient Roman villa on a guided tour. Hear stories from your guide that bring the villa’s history to life. As you explore the 2000-year-old complex, its grandeur as a lavish retreat can still be felt today by the architecture, mosaic floors and incredible views of Lake Garda. And see the surrounding Grande Oliveto, a historic olive grove of around 1500 trees – some of which are centuries old! Did you know that there are no actual caves or grottoes at the villa? The name was likely a mistake made by medieval tourists who mistook the ruins for natural caves.

Lake Garda is best seen from the water, but boat tours often sell out in advance. Ensure you spot and savor the scenery and sights of the lake on this afternoon cruise from Sirmione. Board a comfortable boat and glide along the lake's western shores past Garda's Palazzo Borghese, the islets of San Biagio and Garda, and other lakeside sights. Stop for an optional swim, disembark to take a stroll in Salò, and toast views of Gardone with a glass of Prosecco.

Combine Lake Garda scenery with local food and wine during a moderate bike tour from Lazise. Led by a local guide, the tour showcases a route that would be difficult to find alone, taking in vineyards, olive groves, and sweeping lake vistas. You’ll finish with a stop in a winery where cured meat, local cheese, and bread await, along with a selection of wine to toast the end of the ride.