Peschiera del Garda

Lake Garda

Peschiera del Garda, located on the southern shore of Lake Garda in Italy, is a picturesque town known for its historical significance and natural beauty. With a population of approximately 10,000 residents, the town boasts a stunning location where the lake meets the Mincio River, creating a unique aquatic landscape.

Peschiera del Garda is surrounded by impressive 16th-century Venetian walls, which are part of its UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and inviting cafes. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit in Peschiera del Garda.

Best Things to See and Do near Peschiera del Garda

Here Are the Top Picks of Peschiera del Garda You Should Not Miss

Scenic view of Borghetto sul Mincio, showcasing the medieval architecture surrounded by lush greenery. — Borghetto sul Mincio
Medieval Village

Discover the Old Town

The town center of Peschiera del Garda is a vibrant and historically rich area, where ancient fortifications blend seamlessly with lively modern life. Enclosed by massive Venetian walls that are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Peschiera’s town center is uniquely characterised by its star-shaped fort and water-filled moats.

Visitors can enter the historical center through two ancient gates: Porta Verona and Porta Brescia. The nearby Bastione San Marco allows for an elevated walk along the walls, providing a panoramic view of the surroundings and the fortress itself. For a unique perspective, consider a guided boat tour Il Giro delle Mura along the canals to appreciate the grandeur of these fortifications from the water.

The Tognon Bastion, built in 1552, is accessible for a scenic overlook of Lake Garda and includes a playground, making it a family-friendly spot. From the Querini Bastion, enjoy views of the Canale di Mezzo and the bustling Port of Peschiera. The 16th-century Ponte dei Voltoni, with its terracotta arches, spans this canal, surrounded by quaint cafés perfect for a leisurely meal or a drink.

Piazza Ferdinando di Savoia is the vibrant epicenter of Peschiera, where locals and tourists converge among colorful buildings. The square is alive with markets and festivals that celebrate local craftsmanship and cuisine, offering a slice of regional culture.

Adjacent to the piazza, the Church of San Martino stands on what is believed to be the remnants of a Jupiter temple. Next to the church are the archaeological excavations of the remains of the ancient town of Arilica reveal the Roman past of Peschiera, dating back to the 1st century BC.

Aerial view of the town walls of Peschiera del Garda.

For a deep dive into local history, it is possible to visit the Fishing Museum, a museum that tells the history of the city and fishing on Lake Garda. In fact, Peschiera del Garda takes its name from the “Peschiere”, i.e. very ancient fixed fishing stations that stood on the lake, already described in Roman times. In the museum you can appreciate original boats, nets and tools used by fishermen, photos and curiosities that characterised life on Lake Garda.

To enrich the visit, Peschiera del Garda has created a modern audio guide in several languages, available through your smartphone. The download, is achieved by connecting your phone to the QR code. A voice will take you through the visit and activating the Bluetooth will be automatically linked to each point of interest.

Take a Walk Along the Lakeside Promenade

After exploring the historic center of Peschiera del Garda and perhaps enjoying a leisurely lunch at one of its charming cafes or restaurants, make your way back to the port. From here, embark on another delightful walk that will take you along the Mazzini lakefront, all the way to the Fornaci Marina. This scenic route, approximately three kilometers long, offers stunning views and a tranquil ambiance, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

The Mazzini lakefront is a well-maintained promenade that runs parallel to the shoreline. It’s lined with trees and benches, making it an ideal place to pause and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Garda. The path is wide and flat, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, you might see swans gliding gracefully on the water or sailboats drifting lazily in the gentle breeze. The lakefront is also adorned with well-tended greenery, adding to the overall charm of the walk.

After a pleasant stroll along the Mazzini lakefront, you’ll arrive at Cappuccini Beach. This pebbled beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The clear, inviting waters are perfect for a refreshing dip, and the beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas for those who prefer to relax and soak up the sun. The surrounding area is peaceful and scenic, providing a perfect spot to unwind.

Lakeside promenade in Peschiera del Garda, from the Mazzini lakefront all the way to the Fornaci Marina.

Continuing your walk, you’ll soon reach Fornaci Marina. This small picturesque marina with colorful fisherman boats and scenic surroundings. The marina area is quiet and idyllic, making it an excellent place to end your walk. Here you can sit on a bench by the water and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the lake, or sip an evening aperitif at a local café.

Embark on a Cycling Adventure

The Ciclabile del Mincio is one of Italy’s most enchanting bike paths, stretching approximately 45 kilometers to connect Peschiera del Garda with the city of Mantova. This route, a segment of the broader Ciclopista del Sole – EuroVelo 7 which links Cape North to Malta, meanders alongside the Mincio River, presenting breathtaking views of poppy and wheat fields and traversing picturesque medieval villages. It’s a perfect blend of physical activity, exposure to nature, and cultural exploration.

This easily navigable path is characterised by gentle inclines and clear signage, making it suitable for all ages and ideal for familyoutings or those looking to enjoy a day outdoors in scenic settings. The bike path is completely asphalted and isolated from road traffic, allowing for a peaceful ride that can be completed in about four hours.

The journey begins at Peschiera del Garda, where the trail can be accessed from several points. The initial 15 kilometers of the path run through the Alto Mincio area, tracing the old Mantova-Peschiera railway which operated from 1934 to 1967. As you cycle away from Peschiera, the path will guide you to historical gems such as Ponti sul Mincio, known for its Forte Ardietti, and Monzambano, where the church of San Michele offers panoramic views over the valley.

Further along, you reach Valeggio sul Mincio, a city of art recognized by the Touring Club with the prestigious Orange Flag for its charming alleyways, historic villas, and the Scaliger Castle. Nearby, Borghetto sul Mincio, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, is an essential stop. Here, the fusion of historical charm and natural beauty creates an idyllic setting for relaxation and birdwatching.

Cycling path along the River Mincio from Peschiera del Garda to Mantova.

The route continues to Pozzolo, a small village on the river’s left bank, and then to Volta Mantovana, a medieval village nestled at the foot of Palazzo Gonzaga. From here, a detour to the ancient village of Massimbona is recommended, where you can admire one of the oldest mills, dating back to the 13th-14th century, located next to a beautiful Romanesque chapel, the Oratory of San Pietro.

The final stretch of 18 kilometers leads to Mantova, where stops include Parco delle Bertone, a romantic-era garden, and Grazie di Curtatone, known for its Marian Sanctuary and spectacular lotus bloom. Mantova itself, a peninsula cradled by the artificial bends of the Mincio, offers a rich mix of art, culture, and nature, making it a fitting end to this captivating cycle journey.

Enjoy the day at the Beach

Peschiera del Garda offers a variety of beautiful yet often underrated beaches that make it a top destination for both quick getaways and extended summer vacations. Here’s a closer look at some of the best beaches in Peschiera del Garda.

Lido ai Pioppi is one of the few sandy beaches on Lake Garda, located near the end of Lungolago Garibaldi. This beach offers both a free public section and areas where visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas. It features a mix of sand, gravel, and large grassy expanses, making it versatile for different types of beachgoers. Lido ai Pioppi is also a starting point for many cycling and walking paths that explore the scenic Venetian shore.

Litorale Cappuccini stands out as one of Peschiera’s most well-known beaches, catering to a variety of needs. It is a free public beach mainly composed of gravel with patches of grass perfect for a more comfortable relaxation. Nearby, a small playground makes it an excellent choice for families, providing entertainment for children while parents enjoy the lake’s tranquility. Facilities for renting sun loungers and the proximity of bars and restaurants enhance the beach-going experience.

Spiaggia Bergamini is noted for its distinctive small white and gray pebbles, a common sight along Lake Garda’s beaches.It is a clean, quiet beach with a fantastic view of the mountains. It is possible rent umbrellas, sun loungers, pedal boats, and canoes, making it ideal for those looking to engage in water activities or simply relax by the shore. There is a kiosk where you can have an ice cream or a coffee overlooking the lake.

View of a Lake Garda beach with aquatic birds like swans and ducks.

Bracco Baldo Beach (Bau Beach) caters specifically to dog owners. This pet-friendly beach ensures that four-legged friends are not only welcome but also well accommodated with designated areas for play and necessities like bowls and waste bags included in a special welcome kit.

Each of the beaches in Peschiera del Garda provides a perfect mix of natural beauty and visitor amenities. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot, a place to relax with your pet, or just a beautiful setting to enjoy the lake, here you can find a beach to suit every need.