Lazise
Lake Garda
Lazise, a charming town on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in Italy, is known for its rich history and picturesque scenery. With a population of approximately 7,000 residents, Lazise offers a perfect blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The town is surrounded by medieval walls that date back to the 9th century.
The bustling waterfront promenade offers stunning views of Lake Garda and is an ideal spot for leisurely walks and dining. Besides Lazise is known for its nearby amusement parks, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and family fun. Here are some of the top things to see and do during your visit to Lazise.
Best Things to See and Do in Lazise
Here Are the Top Picks of Lazise You Should Not Miss
Discover the Old Town
The town center of Lazise is an enchanting showcase of medieval architecture and vibrant street life, perfectly positioned on the southeastern shores of Lake Garda. Its ancient walls, which once served as formidable defenses, now warmly welcome visitors into a world where history and modernity intertwine seamlessly.
Upon approaching Lazise from the southern lake road, Gardesana, the first landmark to greet visitors is the impressive Scaliger Castle, built between 1375 and 1381 as part of Verona’s defensive network. In following four centuries the castle was used as a residence of the magistrates of the Venetian Republic.
Porta Lion, distinguished by the Lion of San Marco, is one of the 3 entrances to the fortified town of Lazise. Porta Superiore, or Porta San Zeno, served as a strategic access point guarded heavily in the past, while Porta Cansignorio, built just after the death of Cansignorio della Scala, shows marks of historical conflicts with visible artillery damage.
The fortified town encloses important historical structures including the church of St. Zenone and St. Martino. This church, notable for its white façade and Roman-inspired columns, harbors artifacts from the 12th century. The tall white bell tower and the external statues of St. Martin, St. Fermo, and St. Rustico add to its architectural charm.
Another historical gem is the Romanesque church of San Nicoló, dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and fishermen. Situated near the Dogana Veneta at Porto Vecchio, this church has undergone several restorations over the centuries, preserving valuable frescoes and artworks, including an oil painting gifted by the Tabasini family.
Porto Vecchio, the ancient harbor of Lazise, remains a picturesque spot perfect for photography. Adjacent to it is the Dogana Veneta, he prestigious Venetian-age structure was used as a customs house for the transporting of goods between Lombardy and the Republic of Venice. Today it has become an important location for societal and cultural events.
The lively Piazza Vittorio Emanuele acts as the civic and social hub of Lazise. Flanked by quaint cafes and traditional eateries, this bustling square is a favorite gathering place for both locals and tourists. The weekly market transforms this area into a vibrant bazaar where fresh produce, local crafts, and Italian delicacies are abundantly available, offering a taste of the regional lifestyle.
Take a Walk along the Lungolago Marconi
When visiting Lazise, a must-see is the promenade, a stunning lakeside walk that links Lazise with the towns of Bardolino and Garda to the north, and Peschiera del Garda to the south. Starting at the beaches of Lazise, the southern path transforms from sandy stretches into a scenic trail leading directly to Peschiera del Garda.
Accessing Lungolago Marconi, the main section of the promenade, is straightforward. Enter the town through one of its three ancient gates: Porta San Zeno, Porta Cansignorio, or Porta del Lion. These historic portals lead you into a labyrinth of streets, all eventually guiding you to the lakeside, owing to the town’s comb-like structure.
The design of Lungolago Marconi is notably marked by its striking black and white wavy pavement, a nod to the gentle waves of Lake Garda. This design choice harks back to a time when water from the lake flowed directly into the town center via small canals, earning Lazise the affectionate nickname “little Venice.” In days gone by, the town’s “calli,” or narrow streets, were only navigable by boat and were protected by palisades to block enemy access.
Lungolago Marconi is the perfect locale for a romantic evening stroll, a leisurely drink, or a refreshing ice cream as the sun sets. The area provides serene spots to relax on a bench and admire the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
Near Porto Nuovo, visitors encounter the bronze statue of the Mermaid of the lake, a figure poised elegantly on a rock that breaks the water’s surface, enhancing the area’s mystical charm. According to local legend, these waters were once home to mesmerizing creatures, part woman and part fish, as recounted by fishermen who glimpsed them in the midst of whirlpools.
Visit Amusement Parks nearby
Gardaland is Italy’s largest and most famous amusement park, located just a short distance from Lazise. Spread over an expansive area, Gardaland offers a variety of attractions that cater to all age groups. For adrenaline junkies, the park features heart-pounding roller coasters like the Raptor and the Blue Tornado. Families with younger children can enjoy themed areas such as Fantasy Kingdom, which offers gentle rides and interactive shows.
Just a stone’s throw away, CanevaWorld Resort offers two distinct parks: Movieland Park is themed around the magic of cinema, offering attractions and shows inspired by blockbuster movies. Visitors can experience live-action performances, thrilling rides like the Hollywood Tower, and immersive simulations that transport you into the world of film.
Caneva Aquapark, on the other hand, is a tropical-themed water park that promises fun and relaxation. It boasts an array of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind. The park’s lush, green environment and well-maintained facilities make it a perfect destination for a day of aquatic fun.
For those interested in wildlife and nature, Parco Natura Viva is a must-visit. Located a short drive from Lazise, this wildlife park and safari offers a unique opportunity to observe animals in a naturalistic setting. The park is divided into different sections, including a safari park where you can drive through and see animals like lions, giraffes, and zebras roaming freely.
When planning your visit to these amusement parks, it’s advisable to check their official websites for opening hours and ticket prices. Many parks offer online ticket purchasing options, which can save you time and sometimes provide discounts. Arrive early to make the most of your day and to avoid long lines at popular attractions.
Note: Pack essentials like sunscreen, hats, and comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to spend the entire day exploring the parks. For families with young children, bringing a stroller can be a good idea as these parks cover extensive areas.
Spend the Day at the Beach
Lazise draws many summer visitors with its easily accessible, diverse array of beaches, perfect for leisurely lakeside strolls. Here are some of the best beaches of Lazise to choose from.
Spiaggia delle Rose is free pebble beach features a quaint stone pier and jetty, perfect for sunbathing in the middle of the lake. Conveniently close to Lazise’s center, it is surrounded by amenities like bars and restaurants, ensuring a comfortable day out by the water.
Spiaggia Lazise is located in La Marra just outside the historical center, this unique sandy beach stretches nearly 1km. Accessible from Via Prà del Principe, which also offers parking, it is situated before the more famous Spiaggia d’Oro. The beach is lined with bars and restaurants, making it ideal for a relaxing day.
Spiaggia d’Oro, perhaps the most exquisite in the area, belongs to the namesake camping site and boasts very fine sand extending to the lakeshore. The facilities are top-class, catering primarily to the campsite’s guests but also attracting day visitors with its scenic beauty and resemblance to sea beaches.
Spiaggia La Quercia, a fine sandy beach just north of Lazise, can be easily reached on foot from the town center. It is part of Camping La Quercia and is accessible only through a scenic lakeside walk. Known as one of the best in the area, it offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and convenience.
Spiaggia Porto Pacengo, on the south of Lazise, features a grassy and gravel area, providing a perfect spot for those seeking a quieter place, especially on weekdays.
Spiaggia la Guglia Pacengo is accessible from the end of Via Porto but heading north towards Lazise. This sandy beach offers sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment.
Spiaggia la Bosca Pacengo, situated further north from Spiaggia Guglia, can be accessed from the same-named parking area. It’s a pebble beach equipped with all necessary facilities for a day of relaxation.
At north from Spiaggia Porto Pacengo, Spiaggia Fossalta presents a mix of sand and fine gravel, extending the options for beach-goers looking to explore different parts of the lakeshore.
Explore Neighbourhoods of Lazise
Discover the Best Things to See and Do near Lazise, Lake Garda
