Camping Guide | Gardasee

Lake Garda, called Lago di Garda in Italian, is Italy's largest lake and is nestled between the regions of Trentino-South Tyrol in the north, Veneto in the east, and Lombardy in the west. Geographically, it extends along the southern edge of the Alps and is surrounded by the provinces of Verona, Brescia, and Trento. Arrival by car is usually via the Brenner motorway A22. From Munich, you can reach Lake Garda in about 5 hours via the A8 and A22. Note that tolls apply on the A22. The toll between Brenner and Affi (Lake Garda South) is approx. €25. Payment can be made in cash, by credit card, or with a toll box. Alternatively, arrival by train is possible. There are direct train connections from Germany to Verona. From there, you can reach the various towns on Lake Garda by regional trains or buses. The travel time from Verona to Peschiera del Garda, for example, is about 15 minutes by train. The nearest airport is Verona Villafranca (VRN), which is served by many European cities. From the airport, there are bus connections to Lake Garda, for example to Peschiera del Garda. The bus journey takes about 30 minutes. Within the Lake Garda region, it is best to get around by bus or ferry. There is a well-developed bus network connecting most towns. The ferries are a convenient way to reach the various lakeside towns while enjoying the view of the lake. For shorter distances, we recommend a bicycle, which you can rent locally. Some places, such as Sirmione, are partially car-free and best explored on foot or by bicycle. Travel times at a glance: Munich – Riva del Garda: approx. 5 hrs (520 km) Frankfurt – Riva del Garda: approx. 8 hrs (780 km) Hamburg – Riva del Garda: approx. 12 hrs (1250 km) Vienna – Riva del Garda: approx. 7 hrs (700 km) Zurich – Riva del Garda: approx. 5 hrs (400 km)

Lake Garda can be roughly divided into four sub-regions: the north shore, the south shore, the east shore, and the west shore. Each of these zones has its own character and offers different activities for campers. The north shore, characterized by steep rock faces and alpine flair, is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Riva del Garda and Torbole are the best-known towns and attract primarily sailors, windsurfers, and climbers. Families also feel at home here, as there are numerous child-friendly offers. Arco, located slightly inland, is a popular destination for climbers and mountain bikers. Limone sul Garda impresses with its lemon groves and picturesque town center. The south shore is gentler and more Mediterranean. Here lie the well-known towns of Peschiera del Garda, Sirmione, and Desenzano del Garda. Peschiera is a lively place with a historic center and a wide range of leisure activities. Sirmione, located on a peninsula, is famous for its Scaliger Castle and the Grottoes of Catullus. Desenzano is the largest city on Lake Garda and offers numerous shopping opportunities and a vibrant nightlife. This region is ideal for families, couples, and those interested in culture. The east shore is known for its long beaches and numerous theme parks. Bardolino and Garda are charming towns with beautiful lakeside promenades. Lazise attracts visitors with its medieval city walls and the Canevaworld Resort. This region is particularly popular with families with children. The west shore is characterized by picturesque villages and lush vegetation. Salò is an elegant town with a long history. Gardone Riviera impresses with the Vittoriale degli Italiani, the former residence of the poet Gabriele D'Annunzio. Tignale offers a breathtaking view of the lake. This region is ideal for those seeking peace and nature lovers. Towns in detail: North shore: Riva del Garda (water sports), Torbole (windsurfing), Arco (climbing), Limone sul Garda (lemon groves) South shore: Peschiera del Garda (leisure activities), Sirmione (Scaliger Castle), Desenzano del Garda (shopping) East shore: Bardolino (lakeside promenade), Garda (charming), Lazise (Canevaworld) West shore: Salò (elegant), Gardone Riviera (Vittoriale), Tignale (view)

The camping landscape at Lake Garda is diverse and offers something for every taste. There are an estimated 200 campsites around the lake, from large resort sites with pools and animation to small, nature-oriented sites and agriturismo offers. Many campsites are geared towards families and offer an extensive leisure program for children. This includes pools, playgrounds, animation, and sports facilities. However, there are also sites specifically aimed at athletes or those seeking peace and quiet. Agriturismo camping, i.e., camping on a farm, is an interesting alternative for those who prefer it a bit quieter and seek proximity to nature. Here you can often buy regional products directly from the farm. There are also a large number of pitches for motorhomes. Many campsites have special pitches for motorhomes with supply and disposal stations. The prices for a pitch vary depending on the season, location, and facilities. In the high season (July/August), you should expect prices between €40 and €70 per night for two people. In the low season (May/June, September/October), prices are often significantly lower, between €25 and €45 per night. Small, simple sites are often cheaper than large resort sites. The size of the pitches also varies. On larger sites, the plots are often between 80 and 100 square meters, while on smaller sites they can be smaller. Many pitches are shaded as they are located under trees. However, there are also sites with sunny spots. The sanitary standard is generally good to very good. Many campsites have modern sanitary facilities with showers, toilets, and sinks. Wi-Fi is available on most sites, but the quality can vary. Electricity connections are standard, usually with 6 or 10 amperes. A reservation is strongly recommended in the high season, as the sites are often fully booked. In the low season, you often still have a chance of finding a pitch at short notice.

For a relaxed camping holiday at Lake Garda, it is important to note some practical information. Tolls apply on motorways in Italy. The toll on the Brenner motorway A22 from the Austrian border to Affi (Lake Garda South) is about €25. You can pay the toll in cash, by credit card, or with a toll box. Diesel prices in Italy are generally slightly higher than in Germany. Gas stations are usually open from 7 am to 7 pm, many even longer. There are often 24-hour gas stations on motorways. Supermarkets such as Lidl, Eurospar, and Conad are available in most towns on Lake Garda. Opening hours are usually from 8 am to 8 pm, and some supermarkets are also open on Sundays. German gas cylinders cannot be exchanged in Italy. You will need an adapter to connect Italian gas cylinders. Adapters are available from specialist retailers. Disposal stations for grey water and toilets are available at most campsites. There are also some public disposal stations, for example at motorway service areas. Mobile network coverage is generally good, although there may be restrictions in remote areas. No roaming charges apply within the EU. Medical care is good. There are hospitals and pharmacies in the larger towns. The emergency number in Italy is 112. Wild camping is strictly prohibited in Italy and is punished with high fines. Camping on private property is also not allowed without the owner's permission. Environmental zones exist in some cities in Italy, including Verona. Find out in advance if your vehicle is affected and what rules apply. Tap water is drinkable in most places but may be chlorinated. If you want to be on the safe side, buy mineral water at the supermarket.

In addition to the well-known sights, Lake Garda also has some secret tips to offer that will make your camping holiday a special experience. The low season (May/June and September/October) is ideal for experiencing Lake Garda without the big crowds. The weather is pleasantly warm, prices are lower, and the campsites are less full. Furthermore, nature is particularly beautiful during these months. A lesser-known place is Tenno, a small mountain village above Lake Garda. From here, you have a breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Nearby is Lake Tenno, a turquoise-blue mountain lake that invites you to swim. Directions: From Riva del Garda approx. 15 km on the SS421. A beautiful beach off the beaten path is Baia delle Sirene in Garda. The beach is somewhat hidden and only accessible via a footpath, so it is often not as crowded. Here you can enjoy the sun in peace and swim in the clear water. Every Wednesday, a weekly market takes place in Bardolino where you can buy regional products such as olive oil, wine, cheese, and sausages. Weekly markets are also held regularly in other towns. You can find the dates on the internet or at tourist information offices. A culinary tip is Pasta con le Sarde, a traditional dish with sardines, fennel, and pine nuts. You should also try the olive oil and wine from the region. Many wineries offer wine tastings. A restaurant frequented by locals is Trattoria da Riccardo in Salò. Here you can find traditional Italian cuisine at fair prices. Address: Via Cure del Lino, 10, 25087 Salò BS. A worthwhile day trip is a visit to the city of Verona, which is about 30 km from Lake Garda. Here you can visit the famous Arena di Verona, Juliet's House, and many other sights. The travel time is about 30 minutes, and the cost of entry to the Arena is approx. €10.