Snuggled in behind Riva del Garda, under an amphitheatre of sheer cliffs, Arco is well known for being a fantastic destination for rock climbers and outdoorsy types, but it is also ideal for anyone seeking a peaceful base on Lake Garda. Arco is just high enough to feel a bit aloof from the tourists, but also for the views to get really spectacular, and the best places to stay in Arco have some of the best views on the whole of the lake. Arco’s accommodation choices do include a specialist rock climbers' hotel, as well as a collection of chic bungalow suites, and a number of charmingly converted villas.

Outdoor sports enthusiasts of all kinds will probably appreciate the facilities of Arco, mountain bikers and hikers especially, but it's also a lovely destination for anyone who likes to spend a bit of time sitting somewhere extremely picturesque, while eating and drinking exceptionally well. And in five star luxury too, if you fancy it!

Arco is really well known for its clear air and thermal waters, cheerfully mild climate, and Mediterranean style gardens and produce. Its Arboretum is a microcosm of this biological diversity, but there are lots of pretty gardens dotted around the historic part of town too, along with picturesque squares, narrow streets, and hidden alleyways. Arco also has a medieval castle, several extremely impressive palazzos, and some beautiful religious buildings.

As with most destinations in the area don't book too late if you're planning your visit during the peak summer months; the best places to stay in Arco fill up very quickly!

The Best Places to Stay in Arco

For an Intimate Escape

• The Vivere Suites is a collection of six large, contemporary, bungalow suites — all with private kitchens and living space. The decor is elegantly unfussy, with crisp angles, but plenty of luxury in the colour scheme and design. Each suite has private outdoor space, but there’s also a beautiful shared pool, and a spa and yoga facilities. Great privacy for families, or couples.

For Foodies

• You’d never guess it from looking at photos of the interiors, but the Casa Alla Lega is one of the oldest properties in Arco. The decor is fresh and contemporary, all minimalist chic and squared edges, the only thing giving it away are the terracotta tiled floors and the exposed beams of the ceiling. The restaurant is one of the oldest in town too, serving up local delicacies properly, and its terrace is beautifully laid out under a canopy of vine leaves.

For an Active Break

• Garni on the Rock is the perfect spot if you are into climbing! You can show off your skills on the perpendicular rock face behind the property or check out the indoor boulder room. Rooms are minimal and crisp, with great mountain views. There’s also a spa with a hammam and sauna, perfect for after climbing. The hotel has guest bikes too.

For Great Value

• Da Gianni is a 13 room B&B converted from a rather ancient, but beautiful villa in a stunning spot in the hills just behind Riva del Garda. Each of the rooms is individually decorated with Italian antiques and an appreciation of the building’s heritage, while outside there’s a pool and very green gardens. There are also plenty of covered terraces, and nooks and crannies for catching up on your reading. The breakfast is gourmet, and some of the rooms would be suitable for families.

Prefer a Self-catering Apartment or villa?

• Sometimes a villa or apartment is the best option if you're travelling in a larger group, so if you decide that you'd prefer a self catering option, check out our online booking partner, booking.com for some inspiration.

Travel Information

• Arco is at the northerly tip of Lake Garda, so positioned between several international airports: Verona-Villafranca, Brescia-Montichiari and Milan’s Linate and Malpensa. Verona-Villafranca is closest by car, around an hour away, but it’s three hours by public transport. Brescia-Montichiari is closest by public transport, at just over two hours, but it’s around an hour and a quarter by car. Milan is about two hours' drive, or four and a half by public transport.
• If you want to hire a car — which we strongly advise if you’re staying on Lake Garda and plan to get out and about — we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Arco is incredibly popular in the summer, so if you want to visit at this time of year you should book your hotel/s and restaurants early. However it is a great destination well into autumn and winter too, and spring is also very beautiful. May and June are a good compromise if you’re still hoping for warmth and sunshine (temperatures can reach about 25°C), and September is similar.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay on Lake Garda
• If you like the sound of Arco, but are looking for something a bit fancier when it comes to accommodation our Gurus recommend you look down the hill into Riva del Garda.
• You could also consider refining your search by the kind of accommodation you’re looking for, be it the best hotels with a view on Lake Garda, the best family hotels on Lake Garda or the  best hotels on Lake Garda for foodies?
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly gurus for personalised advice.