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The loveliest spot on Garda Lake

SIRMIONE - WHAT TO SEE IN A DAY:

1. Scaliger Castle
2. Old town
3. Scenic viewpoint
4. Museum and archaeological site
5. Relax on the health spa

During the walk, you can admire a lovely sight of Garda Lake

Practical Information and Helpful Tips

His troubled spirit roams his chambers on stormy nights, enduring ​eternal torment for not being reunited with his beloved even in death.

The story of Ebengardo and his love Arice, who were slain by the ​knight Elaberto, continues to linger around Scaligero Castle. The ​castle has stood guard at the entrance to the village of Sirmione since ​the Middle Ages, enclosing it on the narrow peninsula that stretches ​into Lake Garda on the Brescia side.

Built for defensive purposes by the Della Scala family, who once ​ruled Sirmione and gave it its name, this fortress is now the town's ​unmistakable symbol.

The tall walls have pathways constructed from Verona stone that run along the edge and from ​which soldiers aimed at enemies through the swallow-tailed battlements.

The dock next to it, built in the same style as the fourteenth century, accommodated the fleet.

Walking across a contemporary brick bridge that replaced the old drawbridge, you step into the ​historic center with its cobblestone pedestrian pathways and structures constructed from stone ​and colorful plaster, lending it the distinguished elegance it is known for.

The stunning homes in Sirmione village

Famous for its sulfuric water springs since Roman times, nowadays many spas and hotels provide ​therapeutic activities along with wellness treatments that enhance the village's appeal to tourists.

Walking through the crowd, you stroll along the cobblestone streets of the old town, lined with ​bars and ice cream shops. Then, you enter a spacious green space with flower gardens, classy ​hotels, and Maria Callas' villa where she resided with her husband in the 1950s. The villa now holds ​exhibitions and events.

One of Sirmione's distinctive corners

The olive groves in Sirmione

From this spot, paths and stairs meander through the shimmering ​olive leaves: they lead down to different shores or go up to the ​viewpoint for a stunning sight of the lake and the nearby region.

At the end of the peninsula, you can visit the Museum and the ​archaeological site from the Roman period called the Grotte di ​Catullo, where it's believed that the poet Gaius Valerius Catullus ​found solace for his troubled soul and the motivation to praise the ​beautiful waters of his beloved Sirmione.

Sirmione - Practical info and helpful tips

Best time to visit: any time of the year

In peak season or during holidays, it gets really crowded, making it hard to find parking.

Safety: safety was not an issue, perceived everywhere

How to dress: comfortable shoes and clothing

Women should steer clear of high heels due to the cobblestone streets

How to get there: take the Sirmione exit on the A4 motorway if you're driving.

Where to park: the historic center is enclosed by walls and is completely for pedestrians.

There are additional paid parking spaces from Colombare onwards.

Souvenir: Soave wine, ceramics

Daily expenses: €70 per person (excluding transportation - including admission to the Scaligero ​Castle and the Archaeological Museum)

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