Lake Garda: Between Desenzano Del Garda and Sirmione

Lake Garda, a picturesque jewel in northern Italy, captivates visitors with its enchanting connection between the towns of Desenzano Del Garda and Sirmione. Explore the historical landmarks, indulge in scenic boat rides, and wander through the quaint streets, all while immersed in the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you seek to uncover the secrets of the Scaligero Castle or marvel at the breathtaking lake views, this journey promises an unforgettable experience that leaves you eagerly anticipating more.

Key Points

• The tour covers the highlights between Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione, including Villa Romana, Scaligero Castle, and Grottoes of Catullus.
• The tour duration is 1 day and includes round-trip public boat tickets for transfers between the two towns.
• Visitors can explore the key landmarks for 2 hours each, with free time to wander the charming town of Sirmione.
• The tour schedule varies on Sundays, with an earlier start time and adjusted ferry and attraction hours.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

Since Lake Garda sits between the towns of Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione, this tour provides an opportunity to explore both destinations.

Priced at $52.88 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 7 days in advance for a full refund. Valid for 1 day, the tour includes public boat tickets for round-trip transfers between the towns.

A private group option is also available. With a focus on key landmarks like the Villa Romana, Scaligero Castle, and Grottoes of Catullus, the tour promises an immersive experience in the history and natural beauty of the region.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Villa Romana di Desenzano del Garda, a well-preserved Roman villa offering a free, 2-hour exploration of its ancient ruins.

Explore the well-preserved Roman villa of Desenzano del Garda with a free, 2-hour tour of its ancient ruins.

After a 20-minute ferry transfer, the journey continues in Sirmione:

• Explore the imposing Scaligero Castle, a medieval fortress with stunning lake views (free visit, 2 hours)

• Discover the Grottoes of Catullus, a complex of Roman ruins dating back to the 1st century BC (free visit, 2 hours)

• Enjoy free time to wander the charming town of Sirmione, known for its thermal treatments and beaches

Return by ferry to Desenzano del Garda, an ancient Roman town worth further exploration.

Detailed Schedule

The tour begins at 9:30 AM with arrival in Desenzano del Garda, where participants start with a visit to the Villa Romana di Desenzano del Garda.

This free visit lasts approximately 2 hours.

At 11:20 AM, the group departs by ferry for a 20-minute transfer to Sirmione.

Upon arrival at 11:45 AM, there is free time for lunch.

The visit to Scaligero Castle begins at 1:00 or 1:30 PM, lasting 2 hours.

This is followed by a visit to the Grottoes of Catullus at 3:00 PM, which also takes 2 hours.

The return ferry departs Sirmione at 6:15 PM, arriving back in Desenzano at 6:35 PM.

Sunday Variants

On Sundays, the itinerary is slightly modified.

The tour begins with an earlier arrival in Desenzano del Garda at 09:30, followed by the ferry departure to Sirmione at 10:15.

Upon arrival in Sirmione, visitors can explore the Scaliger Castle, which is open from 08:30 to 12:45.

After free time for lunch, the group will visit the Grottoes of Catullus, which are open from 14:00 to 19:30.

The final stop is the Villa Romana in Desenzano, which is open from 14:10 to 19:30.

• Scaliger Castle open from 08:30 to 12:45

• Grottoes of Catullus open from 14:00 to 19:30

• Villa Romana open from 14:10 to 19:30

• Adjusted ferry schedule on Sundays

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Inclusions and Important Information

Included in the tour price are the public boat tickets for the round-trip ferry transfer between Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione.

Entrance fees to the Scaligero Castle, Grottoes of Catullus, and Villa Romana are also covered.

24/7 assistance is provided throughout the tour.

However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and clothing.

The meeting point is either the Villa Romana and Antiquarium or the Desenzano ferry terminal on Sundays.

Ferry schedules may change depending on public navigation timetables.

Exploring Desenzano Del Garda

What is there to discover in the charming town of Desenzano del Garda? Travelers can:

• Explore the Villa Romana, a well-preserved Roman villa with intricate mosaics and ancient ruins.

• Stroll along the picturesque lakefront promenade, taking in views of the shimmering waters of Lake Garda.

• Visit the historic Old Town, with its winding streets, charming piazzas, and medieval architecture.

• Indulge in the local cuisine, sampling fresh seafood, regional wines, and traditional Italian dishes.

Desenzano del Garda offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and a chance to soak in the serene beauty of Lake Garda.

Discovering Sirmione

Sirmione, located at the southern tip of the Sirmione peninsula, is a captivating town renowned for its thermal treatments and picturesque beaches.

Visitors can explore the Scaligero Castle, a 13th-century fortification overlooking the lake. The Grottoes of Catullus, an extensive Roman villa, offer a glimpse into the town’s ancient history.

Visitors can explore the Scaligero Castle, a 13th-century fortification overlooking the lake, and the Grottoes of Catullus, an extensive Roman villa.

Thermal spas and luxury resorts cater to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

With its medieval architecture, serene lakefront, and therapeutic offerings, Sirmione enchants travelers seeking a tranquil retreat along the shores of Lake Garda.

Experiencing the Boat Journey

As visitors depart Desenzano del Garda, the brief ferry journey across the serene waters of Lake Garda offers a tranquil transition to the next destination.

The 20-minute boat ride provides:

• Panoramic views of the picturesque shoreline and surrounding hills

• An opportunity to relax and take in the serene atmosphere

• A chance to snap photos of the iconic Scaliger Castle as the boat approaches Sirmione

• A comfortable and convenient mode of transportation between the two towns

This scenic water crossing sets the stage for the exploration of the historic town of Sirmione.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the information provided, the tour does not explicitly state whether participants can bring their own food and drinks. However, it is common for such tours to allow guests to bring their own refreshments, unless otherwise specified.

Do I Need to Book in Advance or Can I Buy Tickets on the Day?

The tour allows visitors to purchase tickets on the day, with free cancellation up to 7 days in advance. Advance booking is not required, though it may be recommended during peak seasons to ensure availability.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

According to the itinerary, there are no specific discounts mentioned for seniors or students. The tour pricing appears to be a flat rate per person, regardless of age or student status.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

While the provided itinerary covers key highlights, the tour can be customized to accommodate individual interests. The supplier offers flexibility to adapt the schedule and activities to suit the preferences of each customer.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended upon request. Private group options are available, allowing for flexibility in the itinerary and duration to suit individual preferences. Additional fees may apply for extended tour times or customized experiences.

Final Words

Lake Garda’s enchanting journey between Desenzano Del Garda and Sirmione offers visitors a captivating blend of historical landmarks, scenic lake views, and the charming ambiance of quaint Italian towns. This picturesque destination promises an unforgettable experience, seamlessly connecting the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that make Northern Italy a renowned travel destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: