Top Lake Garda Historical Tours

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

The Sanctuary Suspended Between Sky and Stone Defying gravity? Absolutely. Carved directly into the sheer cliff face of Monte Baldo, the Sanctuary of Madonna della Corona isn’t just a destination, but a jaw-dropping masterpiece that literally looks like it’s floating in thin air above the valley. Forget the hassle of navigating tight mountain roads and hunting for impossible parking spots: we handle every single detail with seamless, comfortable round-trip transport straight from Lake Garda (35 minutes each way), leaving you free to just soak in the thrill. Accompanied by an expert guide ready to reveal the secrets and legends of this iconic site, you'll have all the time you need to explore a timeless marvel and capture cover-worthy photos of the endless alpine panorama. Spots for this epic half-day experience fill up fast, so don't get left behind—lock in your front-row seat today!

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.

Your first stop is at a bee-keeping farm where you'll find out about the fascinating world of the apiary. Spend some time observing the bees with an expert beekeeper, then taste three different types of honey. Next, we'll head to Lake Molveno, a glorious splash of turquoise at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll have free time to take a dip in the lake or perhaps explore the lake by kayak, pedalo, e-boat or paddleboad. You could opt to take the cable car for stunning views of the lake from above, go for a scenic walk or simply find a spot for lunch in the pretty lakeside town. We'll finish off at the Marzadro Distillery, where you'll learn about the process of making liqueurs. There's a guided tour of the facility and an explanation of the distillation process, then you'll have a tasting of a selection of liqueurs. There's a big variety here including limoncello, gin, cream liqueurs, and Italy's favourite digestif - grappa.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

This private walking tour reveals Sirmione’s historic and cultural heritage. Step into an ancient lakeside town shaped by Roman civilization. Discover a medieval Old Town rich in architectural legacy. What secrets lie within this UNESCO admired landscape? Explore the archaeological remains of a Roman villa. Enjoy panoramic views shaped by centuries of history. Wander through historic streets toward the town’s oldest church. Feel the cultural depth among olive gardens and classical charm. Encounter a grand villa linked to artistic and social legacy. Admire the Scaliger Castle, a symbol of medieval power. Experience a living heritage shaped long before the United States. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

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.

Make the most of your time in Sirmione with this walking tour that touches on the top sights in just two hours. Admire the Scaligero Castle, the churches of Santa Maria and San Pietro in Mavino, the Bojola sulfur spring, and the Grotte di Catullo Roman ruins while learning about their history and lore from your guide. Savor beautiful views over Lake Garda and stroll the lakeside promenade to snap photos.

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.

See the highlights of the Sirmione Peninsula during a sightseeing cruise on Lake Garda. With this tour, you’ll get unique views of this narrow, 2.5 mile (4 km) long peninsula that juts into the south end of Lake Garda and see landmarks such as the former villa of Italian opera star Maria Callas. You’ll view the Grotte di Catullo from the lake and see the sulphur spring that flows into Sirmione.

A private walking experience in Sirmione reveals a historic peninsula shaped by ancient Roman civilization and medieval architectural strength. You explore an Old Town where narrow streets reflect centuries of cultural transformation. The imposing Scaliger Castle introduces the story of medieval defense and lake dominance. Nearby sacred spaces reveal artistic traditions preserved through time. The route continues toward the Church of Santa Maria della Neve where preserved frescoes reflect classical devotion and local identity. At Villa of Maria Callas the atmosphere connects cultural legacy with artistic history. The Church of San Pietro in Mavino stands as one of the oldest religious sites in the area. Its hilltop position reveals layers of early civilization. Please note: The program and attractions may vary based on booking date/time and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

A journey through time, to discover the places of the Risorgimento. Here was made Italy; here the idea of the Red Cross was born.

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.