Lake Garda is one of the most beautiful spots in Europe, a long, narrow body of glittering water, framed by the Dolomites, and neat vine rows. It’s sun drenched and littered with elegant resort towns, created for centuries of well-to-do visitors. Poets, writers and artists have been drawn here, amongst the powerful and monied, and have extolled the region’s beauty to the rest of us. Today Lake Garda is on the itinerary of many an Italy-bound traveller. Which means the accommodation options along Lake Garda’s shore have evolved from just traditional properties and very grand five star hotels, to include converted villas, charming guesthouses and B&Bs, state-of-the-art spa hotels, farmhouses, restaurants with rooms, and apartment hotels. Our pick of the best places to stay on Lake Garda includes many a room with a view, properties with exceptional lake access, pools that float on Lake Garda, and gorgeous terrace bars.
Some experts recommend the whole Lake Garda region. Others are a bit more specific with their advice, promoting Lake Garda's southern regions, especially the two bays sheltered by the spectacular Sirmione peninsula, to honeymooners, romantics, foodies, history buffs and photographers — this area is where you’ll find some of the hotels with the most spectacular views. Lake Garda’s northern shores, radiating outwards from Riva del Garda, Torbole and Limone, they recommend for sailing and other wind and water sports. There are beaches littered all along the lakeshore, and plenty of good value accommodation to be found at both ends of the lake too, but if pushed, our Gurus recommend Bardolino for families.
But don't forget that this region gets extremely busy during the peak summer months. So if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Lake Garda, you'll need to get organised and plan well ahead.
No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.
Gargnano (Lake Garda)
A small resort comprising ten self catering units on the outskirts of Gargano. All are done in traditional style and offer fully equipped kitchens and a private outdoor space. Lovely garden and pool. The ideal property for a longer stay and fantastic value for money.
Gargnano (Lake Garda)
A charming property on the edge of Gargnano just 100m from the beach. Rooms are bright and spacious; the majority boast private balconies and many have lake views. There's a panoramic terrace for alfresco meals and use of the sister property's pool and garden. Great location and even better value!
Gargnano (Villa di Gargnano)
An elegant villa overlooking Lake Garda. Edwardian style rooms with antiques, frescoes, views and all the mod cons. Sun terrace, beach and excellent Italian fare. Exquisite views across the lake, and lots of activities nearby. An understated but very romantic choice for a weekend of exploring.
Gargnano (Villa di Gargnano)
A charming family-owned and run small hotel overlooking Lake Garda, just outside Gargnano. The twelve rooms (six with lake view and balcony) are traditional in style and feature period furnishings and antiques that perfectly complement the 19th-century building. A welcoming understated stay.
Lake Garda (Lake Garda)
A short drive from Verona and just a few minutes from Lake Garda, this is a great location for those looking to get out and explore the area. Set in an old farmhouse courtyard, bedrooms have been decorated in a contemporary style with a rustic feel. Natural earthy tones and exposed stone walls.
Gardone Riviera
Charming restaurant with rooms near to Lake Garda. Romantic bedrooms have four poster beds, white linens, wooden beams, and white washed walls. The restaurant serves excellent local food and there's also a small pool. Excellent value, family friendly.
Gardone Riviera
Gorgeous restaurant with rooms in Gardone Riviera. Enter through a charming courtyard with arched stone gateways and traditional oak doors. Chic all-white bedrooms and suites with exposed beams complemented with period furnishings. Eat delicious dinners at the on site osteria. A perfect base!
Gardone Riviera
A charming bed and breakfast in the hills above Lake Garda. Three simple, stylish, homely bedrooms (one with shared bathroom). Great for families or groups of friends. Lots of outdoor activities nearby and just a short drive to the Lake. A great value hideaway off the beaten track.
Sirmione (Colombare di Sirmione)
This simple and sophisticated house has been recently renovated and offers four comfortable air conditioned rooms and an airy communal breakfast room. Each of the bedrooms also have a small private outdoor terrace area with table and chairs. A great spot for families looking to explore Lake Garda.
Arco (Arco)
A delightful B&B in an ancient building and a stunning location. Italian-style antique furniture, wooden beams and stone walls. An outdoor pool with a covered sitting area perfect to catch up on some reading. Gourmet breakfast is included. A great base for exploring the area.
Sirmione (Colombare di Sirmione)
Slightly set back from the Lake Garda waterfront, Il Mosaico offers good value boutique accommodation ideal for those looking to explore the area by car. Comfortable, air conditioned bedrooms are striking in moody palettes with all the mod cons. Includes free Wifi and plenty of private parking.
Bardolino (Loc. Fontanadino 1)
A charming B&B facing Lake Garda. Four poster beds, antique furniture and decorated with white drapes, it is beautifully romantic. Has an infinity pool and sun terraces with stunning views. Very eco friendly it is a true rural idyll.
Montichiari
A romantic, fairytale Italian palazzo in the picturesque village of Montichiari. Rooms are elegant and suites come with muslin-draped four posters and huge walk-in showers. The owners ensure you feel like friends, not guests! A perfect base for exploring the lakes and castles of the Brescia region.
Montichiari (Lombardy)
Charming B&B in the centre of mediaeval Montichiari. Three spacious rooms are all individually decorated and feature antiques which have been in the family for years! Expect a warm welcome and loads of activities from ping pong to cookery classes. A real Italian home from home.
Lake Garda (Solferino)
A beautifully restored 19th-century farmhouse on an organic agriturismo farm. Simple traditional rooms come with continental breakfast. Explore the orchards and vineyards or head out on a pony trek through the surrounding hills. A wonderful spot to re-engage with mother nature.
Arco
This boutique hotel offers contemporary suites in one of the oldest properties in Arco, nestled on the shore of Lake Garda. Inside, modern design elements are perfectly juxtaposed with original wooden beams and part-exposed walls. Dine on the romantic restaurant terrace under a canopy of leaves.
Lake Garda (Frazione Lenzumo)
An eco friendly hotel in a spectacular setting close to Lake Garda, Lake Ledro and surrounded by mountains. Simple attractive rooms, a restaurant with Eastern European flair, swimming pool and spa. Fishing, cycling, skiing, walking etc. Perfect for families and the great outdoors.
Riva del Garda
This family-oriented hotel is tucked away between the mountains and olive groves of Riva del Garda. The hotel offers a range of packages which are great for active families, from canyoning to hiking and mountain biking. Join an excursion or simply relax in the verdant gardens by the pool.
Limone (Lake Garda)
Located on the main square in a quiet village, this small B&B with lake views is just minutes from the beach. Bedrooms are simple and comfortable, suites have terraces with a view. Store bikes in the garage or rent them on site. Hearty breakfasts before a day of outdoor exploring. Great value too.
Salò (Salò)
Rooms with floor to ceiling windows, luxurious bathrooms and hot tubs. An in-house restaurant with a covered patio overlooking the lake. Gorgeous set-up in the best location. Right on the lake within easy reach of town.
Sirmione
The hotel offers relaxing rooms filled with calming natural palettes. Modernist design, private balconies and a peaceful garden with a small jetty. Enjoy lunch on the terrace or cocktails at the sun loungers. Organise exciting day trips and fine dining restaurants with the hotel concierge.
Malcesine
A small contemporary hotel on the edge of Lake Garda. Contemporary chic rooms, some with private balconies overlooking the lake. Excellent restaurant and terrace and its own private pebble beach with deck chairs. A good value spot for a romantic holiday, family friendly too.
Salò
A stunning hotel on the shore of Lake Garda. Rooms and suites in a 20th century villa are elegant, with parquet floors and all mod cons. Frescoes and art nouveau furniture. Excellent authentic cuisine, pool and shady gardens. An idyllic choice, and perfect for a family holiday.
Garda
A hot spot for bikers, groups and families - this secluded villa has a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. The peaceful countryside and large garden provide the perfect place to unwind. Bedrooms are spacious and homely- some spread over two floors. Helpful staff can organise excursions.
Gargnano
Surrounded by 40 acres and overlooking Lake Garda, this charming villa was once an old hunting lodge. The bedrooms have a unique homely feel with antique furniture and are all individually named. Enjoy the elegant art nouveau dining room which gives a refined noble feel to this charming retreat.
Valpolicella (Veneto)
Up in the Valpolicella hills lies this luxuriously converted 17th century stone house. With a gorgeous terraced garden, plunge pool and stylish bedrooms - it is a delight. The hosts, Mara and Filippo have good local knowledge and are more than happy to recommend activities and restaurants nearby.
Salò (Lake Garda)
A delightful hotel overlooking Lake Garda. Large stylish rooms and apartments, many with views. Outdoor pool, and fantastic Italian concept cuisine. Sailing, golf and opera nearby. Gourmet, family friendly, all in a romantic location.
Lake Garda
A contemporary hotel with minimal interiors set in peaceful gardens just a short drive from Lake Garda. Bedrooms are simple and walls are adorned with modern Italian art pieces. Situated between Lake Garda and Verona, this is an ideal spot for anyone looking to visit nearby villages and attractions.
Lake Garda (Lake Garda )
A charming 18th century stone guest house on a quaint street just a short drive from Lake Garda and Verona. Bedrooms have been decorated in a contemporary rustic style - exposed stone walls and distressed wooden furniture. A sleepy little riverside town with charming restaurants nearby.
Malcesine (Lake Garda)
Overlooking Lake Garda with fantastic views from its hillside location, this secluded rustic guesthouse is a relaxing spot, off the beaten track. Simple but stylish bedrooms have either a terrace or balcony for enjoying the views, plus there's an infinity pool in the pretty garden.
Lake Garda (Lombardy)
An elegant escape in the Italian countryside close to picturesque villages. Chic interiors littered with striking original artworks and sweeping hillside views set the stage for relaxation. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining and unwind by the pool, savouring the quiet luxury of this retreat.
Bardolino (Lake Garda)
A traditional Italian villa set in the hills above Lake Garda surrounded by vines and olive trees. This country house has an authentic rustic style - bedrooms are decorated with antique furniture and fresh flowers. Unwind in a hammock in the secluded garden or laze by the swimming pool.
Torri del Benaco (Torri del Benaco)
Excellent food and comfortable, simple rooms in Garda's showpiece fishing village. Perfectly positioned in a charming little port, it's a very romantic spot for a good value break. Homely and ideal for local exploring.
Lake Garda
A rustic B&B in a magical riverside setting between Verona and Lake Garda. A stone building houses 5 lovely rooms with wooden beams and whitewashed walls. Enchanting terraces dotted around the property soak up the sun. A great choice for rural romance, nature lovers or families.
Sirmione (Old City)
Hotel Eden offers guests fantastic lake side accomodation with a private sun terrace and relaxed outdoor dining. Bedrooms are air conditioned with simple, contemporary decor - often with lake views. A charming and picturesque spot with great activities on offer in the surrounding area.
Malcesine
Set on the cobbled streets of Malcesine, Porto Vecchio 10 is a delightful, small B&B. The original townhouse brims with rejuvenated character and the rooms are cosy and comfortable. With Lake Garda on the doorstep, it's the perfect quiet spot for couples looking for a romantic holiday.
Lake Garda
A luxury hotel with enviable access to both the mountains and Lake Garda. Elegant rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, striped wallpaper and sink-in-to beds. The restaurant whips up delicious dishes from high quality local produce. The perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts.
San Felice del Benaco (Lake Garda)
Hotel Sogno, in the quiet village of San Felice del Benaco has a gorgeous private beach, small jetty and peaceful dining terrace overlooking the lake. The bedrooms are contemporary yet quaint. Suites have private balconies and even a sauna. Golf, walking and boating are popular from the hotel
Lake Garda
Corte Guastalla is all about traditional Verona interiors. Antiques complement the wooden-beamed ceilings and parquet floors, but the rooms are fresh and contemporary. Situated between Lake Garda and Verona it offers a gorgeous base from which to explore city or countryside.
Lake Garda
This elegant hotel, set in the hills above Lake Garda has a fabulously tranquil swimming pool and large sun terrace with beautiful panoramic views. Each of the five contemporary bedrooms has a private sun deck with loungers. A relaxing refuge.
Sirmione
The elegant Villa Pioppi boasts two hectares of picturesque parkland with swimming pool, a private beach area and extensive sun terrace with views. Spacious air conditioned rooms - some with lake views - feature private balconies. Enjoy outdoor dining or try out the plentiful nearby restaurants.
Lake Garda
Palazzo Arzaga boasts vast scenic grounds which include a private golf course, spa and small chapel. Dating back to the 15th century, the hotel has kept some original features - period frescoes, charming cellar with dining and oak beamed ceilings. A delightful spot to relax.
Malcesine
Popular belle epoque villa with lovely grounds overlooking the lake. Five Italian Villas with simple yet stylish rooms. Highlights include a restaurant with a view, outdoor pool, fitness centre and small relaxation spa. Good value for a stunning spot.
Bardolino
An elegant Italian farmhouse surrounded by 45 acres of postcard perfect views across Lake Garda. Smart, country style bedroom suites and a peaceful garden with private pool. Farmhouse style breakfasts are on offer with lots of local produce. Perfect for local exploring and exclusive hire.
Lake Garda
An 18th century palatial villa just 10km from Lake Garda, with formal Italian gardens and parkland. Rooms are decorated in a Venetian style with period furniture, high ceilings and original stone fire places. The restaurant favours traditional dishes with local produce. A stunning Italian estate.
Garda
Offering guests a large outdoor pool with sun terrace and an extensive spa facilities. Bedrooms are fitted with contemporary furniture and stylish modern features. All have glorious views of the surrounding lake and hills. Enjoy fresh fish and Italian classics at Tobago's restaurant.
Gardone Riviera
Dreamily positioned with views over Lake Garda. Contemporary, but still classic, hotel with fabulous rooms and suites, excellent restaurant, bar and pool. Fantastic watersports and activities. A great choice for families, an outdoor holiday, or a romantic break.
Lake Garda (Lake Garda)
A beautifully converted 18th-century farm, outside the medieval village of San Verolo. The restaurant heaves with happy customers every evening, testimony to the incredible food. Rustic chic bedrooms with vibrant walls and crisp white sheets. Heavenly pools and fragrant gardens seal the deal.
Lake Garda
This hotel is nestled among the vineyards and olive groves of Valtenesi. Guestrooms are located in the carefully restored heritage farmhouse, where selected antiques complement the original terracotta tiles and exposed beams. Do a tasting session to sample the hotel's organic wines.
Gardone Riviera
An elegant five star villa surrounded by beautiful, manicured gardens on the edge of Lake Garda with outdoor swimming pool and tennis court on site. A choice of two restaurants - relaxed outdoor terrace or smart fine dining. Bedrooms are traditional and stylish with high ceilings and large windows.
Gardone Riviera (25083 Gardone Riviera)
Very romantic and grand late 19th century, Liberty-style villa with historic interiors and gourmet food. Timeless, traditional rooms with antiques, lakeside views, and lovely gardens and terrace. Intimate and refined.
Lake Garda (Lake Garda)
A chic 5-star escape on Lake Garda's lively shores. Antique charm meets whimsical decor, crafting an atmosphere of luxurious nostalgia. Guest can enjoy the unique art collection, five bespoke suites, and the intimate culinary workshop. A perfect blend of privacy, artistry, and sumptuous comfort.
Lake Garda (Tremosine)
A sweet and cosy four bedroom guesthouse, delightfully decorated. Perched on a hill side rooms boast unobstructed views of Lake Garda, plus wooden floors and elegant furniture. A restaurant serving traditional cuisine and homemade cakes, cheeses and croissants. You'll be tempted to call it home.
Salò
A fabulous stone villa with spectacular views over Lake Garda from its hilltop perch. Bedrooms and one suite are simply decorated with bare stone walls and glimpses of frescoes. Fantastic restaurant and terrace, swimming pool, and gardens around. Romantic, traditional, gourmet.
Limone (Lake Garda)
Gorgeous apartments in Limone overlooking Lake Garda. Spacious, airy rooms with light wood, sleek furniture and all mod-cons. Elegant living areas extend out to terraces for dining al fresco. Expect spectacular views plus an outdoor pool and hot tub for total relaxation. A tranquil paradise.
Sirmione (Lake Garda)
A stylish retreat perched by Lake Garda's edge, near the historic Castello Scaligero. Classic interiors set the tone, while lake vistas dazzle from balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. Boasting a renowned restaurant and a top-notch spa fuelled by natural springs, it's a luxurious stay.
Gardone Riviera
An historic grand hotel originally built for the imperial family. Its privileged lakeside position and romantic architecture make it the ideal spot for a honeymoon or romantic holiday. Fairytale turrets, terraces, private pebble beach, spa, tennis court and sumptuous rooms. Heavenly
Garda
Elegant and intimate lakeside hotel, full of character, owned and run by an Italian count. A hotel for 500 years, the property is right on the waterside in a charming location, full of antiques and objets. A very special and relaxed place to stay.
Arco
A sleek collection of ground floor suites with private gardens and kitchenettes close to Lake Garda. Contemporary rooms, excellent spa and pool, yoga, cycling and great restaurants close by. A great spot for total relaxation and outdoor activities for families or honeymooners.
Gardone Riviera
Stylish bed-and-breakfast in restored medieval manor house with breathtaking views high above the town. Lovely garden, simply styled rooms full of antiques and objets. Quiet, secluded, a good base, set in a nature park with wonderful hikes.
Limone (Lake Garda)
A sleek modern hotel on Lake Garda. Rooms and suites are minimalist in style, but all have a private patio or terrace overlooking the water and the best have an outdoor hot tub too. Plus there's an outdoor infinity pool, bikes to hire and a spa. A chic choice.
Riva del Garda
This unique, four-star resort is nestled in the heart of the Italian Lake District on the banks of Lake Garda. The resort offers classic suites and private bungalows, great for a family stay or a romantic break. Discover the region's beautiful lakes through the resort's chic sailing club.
Gargnano
Handsome Victorian villa right on the water's edge. Light and airy bedrooms with original decorative flourishes and antiques. Fragrant gardens sloping down to the lakeside. Its unassuming and sophisticated charm transports one to another time.
Arco (Lake Garda)
An ancient monastery, tucked away in Arco, just off Lake Garda. Historical charm with sleek, minimalist design. Picture vaulted ceilings, stone arches, and modern suites with private saunas and gorgeous views. Guests can unwind in the lush gardens, relax in the spa, or dine on locally-sourced fare.
Limone
A fabulous 5 star adults-only hotel with amazing lake views. Elegant all-suite accommodations offer sleek modern styling with plenty of natural materials, plus private furnished terraces overlooking the water. There's a choice of dining, plus an expansive spa and private beach. Simply stunning!
Peschiera del Garda (Lake Garda)
This historic retreat blends timeless imperial charm with modern luxury, in Peschiera del Garda. Inside, think vaulted ceilings, arched porches, and Art Nouveau touches against a backdrop of sleek, contemporary elegance. With lakeside suites and an innovative restaurant, it's a sumptuous stay.
Gardone Riviera (Lake Garda)
A relaxation and well-being destination of choice - Villa Paradiso offers 7 day bespoke clinical treatment programs. Warm and elegant bedrooms are designed in a contemporary style that complements the traditional Italian country house. A grand hallway entrance and chic fine dining.
Gargnano
Spectacular spa resort overlooking Lake Garda from its hilltop perch. Rooms and suites in contemporary design with private hot tubs and sun decks. Excellent organic restaurant, swimming pools, meditation gardens and parklands for roaming. Designed for total relaxation.
Sirmione
Grand and charmingly old-fashioned villa hotel with a splendid setting in pretty Sirmione. Lovely lakeside gardens, grand 30s style bedrooms, frescos and antiques. Private swimming jetty and lovely pool. Super romantic, if you like historic charm.
Torri del Benaco (Lake Garda)
This tranquil spa retreat offers breathtaking views over Lake Garda. The interiors blend natural tones with luxurious details - think rich wood, soft linens, and expansive windows that invite the outdoors in. With 2 gourmet restaurants, a serene spa, and infinity pools, it’s a haven for relaxation.
Riva del Garda
Five Star luxury on the shores of Lake Garda and at the foot of mountains and nature reserve. Stunning liberty building is home to designer contemporary flair - rooms and suites have all glass walls, modern gadgets, huge beds, and stand alone bathtubs. Fabulous spa, gourmet restaurant and grounds.
Sirmione (Sirmione)
In the historic centre of Sirmione, with traditional stone exteriors matched with elegant chic interiors. Boasting a bar and restaurant set besides Lake Garda, spa facilities and beautifully-maintained gardens. Rooms are light and spacious and also offer fabulous views. A luxurious stay.
Gargnano
Ultimate luxury lakeside hotel in an historic house. Like staying in a private home, full of aristocratic heritage, with restored interiors and antiques, beautiful fabrics and paintings. Gourmet dining, a perfect honeymoon escape for those that can afford it.