Allow yourself to unwind and soak up the unique atmosphere of Lake Garda and the pretty town of Desenzano. If you time it right you will be able to visit the old town on market day with its colourful stalls and locally produced food and crafts. Wend your way along the narrow streets and picturesque waterfront or hop on a ferry to discover more of Italy’s largest lake.

The ideal way to enjoy Lake Garda at its best is on a relaxing lake cruise. The Lake Garda ferry departs just a short walk from your hotel, and you can easily get a ferry ticket which allows you to choose where to go on the lake whether to Limone, Riva del Garda or Malcesine in the north or Torri del Benaco, Lazise or Sirmione in the south and east.

In the north we recommend Malcesine, arguably the most attractive town on the lake, with its medieval castle, maze of cobbled streets and backdrop of Monte Baldo towering above. Enjoy the opportunity to stroll around this pretty town before heading south.

In the south we recommend Sirmione, situated on a narrow promontory in the southern waters of the lake. Here you can explore Sirmione’s narrow, medieval streets and perhaps visit the 13th century Rocca Scaligera Castle or the Grotte di Catullo, the impressive remains of the largest Roman villa in Italy. Return to Desenzano in time for dinner at one of its many attractive restaurants. 

One of the attractions of Desenzano is its accessibility to the Italian rail network. Your may choose to purchase a return rail ticket to allow you to experience the magic of Venice for a day. As you arrive and walk out of Venezia Santa Lucia station enter immediately into a different world, greeted by the sights and sounds of the Grand Canal and this unique floating city.