Top Lake Garda Historical Tours

Experience the picturesque beauty of Sirmione on both lake and land. First set sail, spotting historic landmarks, ancient ruins, and a bubbling sulphur spring from the water. Then follow your guide through the castle drawbridge, venturing into the village’s charming streets. Highlights of the walking tour include Maria Callas Villa and Grotte di Catullo, the impressive ruins of a Roman villa complex.

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.

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.

Sirmione is beautiful — and yes, it can get busy. We created this experience to slow things down, step away from the crowds and enjoy the peninsula the way locals do — with a boat ride, a relaxed walk, and a drink at the end. We’ll cruise around the peninsula by boat, then explore quieter corners and side streets most visitors miss. Along the way, you’ll hear stories, history and little local details — nothing academic, just the kind of things that make places feel alive. The pace is easy, the group is small, and there’s time to look around, ask questions, take photos — or simply enjoy the lake without rushing. The drink at the end will be nice for a chat and for asking question and best tips about the area

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.

Cruise privately around the Sirmione peninsula in the evening and watch the sun sink behind the hills. After you step aboard your private boat at Sirmione, you'll glide out onto the waters of Lake Garda with a glass of prosecco in hand. Nibble on fresh fruit as you pass chic lakeside villas and sights such as the Roman ruins at Grotte di Catullo and Scaliger Castle, then return to the harbor at Sirmione.

South Tyrol is the most un-Italian part of Italy, stands out for its Alpine location, languages, architecture, and culture. This excursion mixes the best of both worlds with time in the regional capital, Bolzano, and scenery-rich train ride through the Renon plateau. Bolzano, or Bozen in German, is known for its Archaeological Museum, which houses Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummified Copper Age shepherd. You can explore the museum or enjoy the city’s charming streets, piazzas, and local specialties like apple strudel. The trip continues with a cable car ride from Bolzano to the Renon plateau, followed by a narrow-gauge train journey through picturesque landscapes. A short walk leads to the plateau's unique earth pyramids, towering pillars shaped by nature, which can reach heights of 30 meters.

The coast between Desenzano and Sirmione offers much loved beaches even by the residents for the beauty of the landscape. These shores of Lake Garda have a name that is not known to all: "La Romantica". "La Romantica" is the coastal stretch of Lake Garda located between Sirmione and Desenzano del Garda and owes its name to the perfect views to share as a couple, but it is actually much appreciated by families as it is equipped with services and spaces greens. After skirting the Sirmione peninsula to admire the most interesting points including Villa Callas, the Acquaria thermal center, the Catullo caves, we will proceed towards Desenzano to skirt the coast "La Romantica" and enjoy a pleasant boat trip alongside the historical and cultural beauties of Sirmione to the naturalistic beauties of Lake Garda. All excursions are made with favorable weather conditions. The itinerary may undergo some variations depending on weather conditions.

Looking for a unique cultural experience on Lake Garda? Join us every Thursday at Palazzo Carlotti for Hark the Echoing Air – an intimate morning concert with mezzo-soprano Ida Maria Turri and pianist Stefano Romani. Enjoy a refined program of opera arias, lieder, and instrumental gems, changing weekly to explore the beauty of classical music across the centuries. After the performance, savor local wine or soft drinks with rustic bread and olive oil, and discover the fascinating history of the Carlotti family. A journey through music, taste, and tradition in a noble 17th-century setting. The experience concludes with access to the palazzo’s art and photography exhibitions—perfect for those who love timeless beauty, storytelling, and authentic Italian atmosphere.

Spend a lazy day on Lake Garda with this day-long trip around the main lakeside towns. Aboard an air-conditioned bus, you’ll travel around the shores in comfort, stopping to visit towns such as Limone sul Garda, Lazise, and Salò along the way. Different routes operate on different days, so check before you book. No matter what tour you book, each experience ends on a high note with a boat ride on the lake.

This is a private tour that will make you experience Sirmione far from the crowds and the midday heat. You will wander through hidden corners and authentic streets, where history, culture, and charm come alive and visit one of the most fascinating sites of Northern Italy, the archeological site “Grotte di Catullo”. During the tour we will not lecture you but give you stories and insights with a sense of humor and at a relaxed pace. The ultimate highlight is the private boat tour: we will glide along the lake, admire Sirmione from the water and enjoy breathtaking views of the Roman ruins, castle, and hidden shores. Our local captains share insider tales and secrets that you won’t find on land. To top it off, a small surprise awaits on the boat, making your visit truly unforgettable

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.

Admire the lush coastline, villas, and castles of Lake Garda from the water without the expense of a private boat tour with this group cruise. Set off from Garda or Bardolino and sail towards Sirmione, taking in the views along the way. Dock in Sirmione for a few hours of free time to explore the historic center at your own pace before the return cruise.

Get acquainted with Italy’s largest lake—and one of its most scenic destinations—on this full-day, private-group tour of Lake Garda. Meet your guide and set off from Verona via comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. See Punta San Vigilio, linger at the Baia delle Sirene beach, enjoy lunch in the village of Bardolino, visit local villas and castles, and even embark on a mini boat tour of the lake’s waters.

Explore the enchanting western shores of Lake Garda on this guided boat excursion. Cruise past the breathtaking Isola del Garda, home to a stunning Venetian villa and lush gardens. Dock at the elegant town of Salò for a guided walk along the longest lakeside promenade in Italy, where you can admire the historic 15th-century Cathedral or treat yourself to a gelato. Witness the magnificent coastline, including the grand hotels of Gardone and the romantic Punta San Vigilio. Conclude your day with a scenic return to Garda, perfect for an evening aperitivo. - Scenic boat tour around Isola del Garda, with views of the villa - Guided walking tour in Salò, featuring Italy’s longest lakeside promenade - Admire historical architecture, including the Cathedral and Liberty-style buildings - Relaxing return to Garda, ideal for enjoying an evening drink

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.

A masterpiece floating on the Adriatic, Venice tops many a must-visit list. Boarding a private motorboat on the edge of the city, you'll arrive in style at Riva degli Schiavoni, and your guide will lead you to St Mark's Square. Here, you can admire the wonderful St Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace next door. Their orient-infused Byzantine Gothic architecture will whet your appetite for more. And there's no better way to explore Venice than with a romantic gondola trip – an optional 30-minute ride (payable locally) is available just after arrival in St Mark's Square. You'll then have free time for exploring this enchanting city, and perhaps to find somewhere to have lunch. If you fancy something really typical, locals love their cicchetti – Venetian tapas. In the afternoon, there's an optional one-hour lagoon trip, (payable locally) accompanied by your guide, or the chance to roam around yourself.

Immortalised in Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, Verona holds a special place in lovers' hearts. You'll get to fall in love with the city on this day trip from Lake Garda, seeing all its main sights as you wander around the history-steeped streets of its old town. Your guide will show you around, pointing out highlights such as the Roman Porta Borsari and the Roman arena – used every summer for an opera festival – and Juliet's Balcony. There are also some truly historic bridges over the River Adige as well as a world-class collection of medieval churches and basilicas. You'll also see the exterior of the Scaliger Tombs – five Gothic mausoleums for the Scaliger family, nobles who once ruled over Verona. And you'll discover the monumental Piazza dei Signori, location of the Romanesque Church of Santa Maria Antica, and the Piazza delle Erbe. There'll also be free time for lunch and shopping.

Hop on a boat for a guided Lake Garda cruise from Torri del Benaco or Garda to the history-steeped town of Salò and back. After cruising past the pretty lakeside villages of Italy’s largest lake, you’ll raise a glass by Isola del Garda’s Venetian palace then enjoy free time in Salò, ambling along its alleyways and visiting the Renaissance cathedral. It’s a great way to see some highlights of Lake Garda in just one afternoon.

Lazise sits at the heart of Lake Garda's wine country, but visiting a winery in the countryside can be a challenge. With this tasting, sit down in the ZF4 aging cellar and wine shop in the center of Lazise to sample six red and white wines plus olive oil and grappa. Take a break from sightseeing and learn about the history of the winery and the family who has owned it for generations.

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.

Spend a day soaking up the scenery surrounding one of Italy's most popular lakes. Passing olive groves, cypresses and grand villas, stopping off at pastel-hued towns and enjoying a short boat trip along the way. The northern shores of Lake Garda offer dramatic mountains rising behind pretty lakeside villages such as Limone and Malcesine. Your first stop will be Sirmione, often hailed as the lake's most beautiful village. Here, you'll have an hour to soak up its charm before the journey to Limone. Spread around a bay with an exceptionally mild climate, it's undoubtedly one of the most scenic spots along the lake. The town is a gem, full of character and pretty views. Next, we’ll take a scenic boat trip from Limone to Malcesine, our last stop, an impressive medieval village crowned by a castle. You'll have an hour or so here to explore the maze of narrow streets and absorb its history.

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.