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When you have stunning views of Lake Garda, tiny cobbled streets filled with Italian restaurants and gelato available on almost every corner, there really is no need to hurry. The northernmost part of the lake is the perfect location to take it easy so why not grab a glass of wine, put your feet up and enjoy this slow travel guide to Riva del Garda.
Riva del Garda is in the very northern most part of the lake, known throughout history due to its location on the border of the Austria-Hungary empire, there are still defence tunnels, barracks, and trenches visible in the area today from the first world war, in fact there is even a WWI walking tour for any history buffs.
This area of the lake is really aimed at those who enjoy an active holiday, namely biking, water sports, hiking trails but it also attracts a fair amount visitors for less sporty people.
A Slow Travel Guide to Riva del Garda
Getting to Riva del Garda
By Bus
There are buses connecting Riva del Garda to Trento and to the train station in Rovereto, as well as Verona, Brescia and other towns along the border of Lake Garda.
However, if you’re planning to visit Riva del Garda from other lakeside towns, the ferry is by far the most scenic way to travel to Riva del Garda!
Staying in Riva del Garda
Grand Hotel Riva
Located in the picturesque town of Riva del Garda, The Grand Hotel Riva is a 4-star hotel which is an incredible budget-friendly hotel, providing fast access to the beautiful shores of Lake Garda, enabling you to enjoy your days unwinding with this world-famous lake on your doorstep.
Exploring Riva del Garda
Following a busy weekend at a blogging conference I was thoroughly looking forward to a few relaxing days by the lake.
Having dropped my luggage at the hotel I was excited to walk around this picturesque town and it became clear quite quickly that Riva del Garda was definitely worth the time and effort and was the ideal place for a relaxing stay.
Book a Full Day Bus and Boat Tour
Other Things to Do in Riva del Garda
Museo Alto Garda
If you have an interest in nature and culture, a visit to the MAG – Museo Alto Garda is recommended, located in Riva del Garda’s ancient medieval castle, locally known as ‘Rocca’.Â
The museum is definitely one of the best things to do in Riva del Garda – its divided in sections dedicated to archaeology, paintings and life around Lake Garda. There are also sections for children providing lots of hands-on exhibits. Whilst visiting this museum make sure you is climb the Mastio, the tallest tower of the castle that offers some fantastic views over the lake.
Torre Apponale
This stone tower is located on the eastern side of the main square in Riva del Garda’s historic centre. It’s 34 meters tall and was first constructed in the 16th century before being renovated in the 1920s, which removed the traditional Germanic onion dome and replaced it with a straight roof.
Don’t forget to climb to the top – Torre Apponale is a great viewpoint over downtown Riva and of the lake.
Bastione
Another historic symbol and one of Riva del Garda’s main points of interest, especially for history lovers. The Bastione is a stone construction built 200 meters over the lake to protect the region from attacks. The ruins of the Bastione can easily be reached on foot from Riva del Garda, with a 15-20 minute hike from via Monte Oro – the views are definitely worth the effort!
Varone Waterfall & Canale di Tenno
Take a quick trip from Riva del Garda is to Varone Waterfall. There are two viewpoints – a downstream one, where you can see the flow of the waterfall, and an upstream one, where you can feel its full force.
There’s also a small botanical garden at the entrance, and multi-lingual information available throughout explaining the geological phenomenon. The waterfall is located in Tenno, just 3 km from Riva del Garda – and while you’re there, you can also visit Canale di Tenno, a magical medieval village where time seems to have stopped.
Via Ferrata
Another fun way to spend day away from Riva del Garda is to climb a via ferrata, these are protected climbing routes that allow hikers to make their way up rock faces thanks to a system of cables, steps and ladders.
Other Areas of Lake Garda to Visit
There are around 25 towns and villages surrounding Lake Garda, but with convenient trains, buses and boats there is no need for a car if you are planning on exploring them all.
Sirmione
Most articles about Lake Garda will include this town, with it’s castle and archaeological site it looks to be a fascinating to visit.
Peschiera
This historic walled town is full of artisan shops, restaurants, bars and places to enjoy a delicious gelato.
Torbole
Located at the North of the lake, this is a popular location for those wanting to enjoy some water sportsÂ
Limone sul Garda
Taking its name from the orchards of lemons along the slopes near the town, you can enjoy a variety of lemon-flavored delights while you’re here.
Remember, before heading to Italy it is always important to make sure you have sufficient Travel Insurance – single trip and annual multi trip cover is available from Unite Travel Insurance
Have you visited Riva del Garda?
Let me know in the comments.
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Thank you for this informative post! I am travelling there in August and now I am even more excited!
Thank you so much. It’s a beautiful place and definitely worth visiting. Hope you have a lovely time.
I visited Riva del Garda in 2014 for 2 quick nights and really enjoyed it. I would love to go back and explore more of the lake for sure. I found a trail on the west side of the lake, but wasn’t equipped for walking too far. So I want to return to follow that trail further! And to get out on the lake!! Thanks for sharing.
I loved it there. I injured my ankle just before I arrived so couldn’t walk far either. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind. I would definitely like to go back and explore further.
I’ve never been to Italy, so I love learning about places that aren’t the usual big cities! I’ll definitely have to visit whenever I get around to going to Italy!
Yes! This was during my first trip to Italy. I love that my first visit was not actually to one of the main cities but somewhere smaller and more relaxed. Hope you get there and love it as much as I did.
This looks like such a cute little town! I need to get back to Italy and enjoy more areas like this. I’d love to road trip around the lake to the different towns.
It is delightful. It was my first trip to Italy so now I’m desperate to go back and see more. A road trip around the lake sounds dreamy.