Garda transportation: all the options
Getting around Lake Garda is easier than you think, thanks to a transportation network that includes boats, buses, trains, bike paths and funiculars. Here is the complete guide to getting around without stress, with or without a car.
By boat: Navigarda
The Navigarda boat service is the most scenic way to get around the lake. The boats connect all the major locations, from the Verona shore to the Brescia and Trentino shores. There are several types:
- Slow boats: stop at all ports, ideal for enjoying the view
- Hydrofoils: fast, connecting major locations in reduced time
- Car ferries: on the Toscolano-Maderno / Torri del Benaco route, allow you to cross the lake by car in 30 minutes
Tickets are purchased online or at port ticket offices. Daily and weekly passes are convenient for frequent travelers. Bicycles are allowed on board at extra charge. In high season, boats can be crowded – arrive early.
By Car
The car is the most flexible means of exploring the lake, but in summer traffic on the Gardesana (the road that circumnavigates the lake) can be heavy, especially on weekends. Tips:
- Parking: in the more touristy villages (Sirmione, Malcesine, Limone) parking is paid and limited. Arrive early in the morning
- Hours: avoid the Gardesana during peak hours (10am-12pm and 4pm-7pm) on summer weekends
- Alternatives: use the Maderno-Torri ferry to cut across the lake and avoid the Gardesana road.
- Highways: A4 (Milan-Venice) for the lower lake, A22 (Brenner) for the upper lake
By Train
The nearest train stations to the lake are:
- Desenzano: on the Milan-Venice line, the most convenient for the lower lake
- Peschiera: same line, perfect for the Veronese shore.
- Rovereto: on the Brenner line, connected to Riva del Garda by bus (25 minutes)
From Milan, Verona and Venice there are frequent trains. From Desenzano and Peschiera local buses connect the main locations.
By Bus
The bus network covers all shores of the lake:
- ATV (Azienda Trasporti Verona): veronese bank
- Coming up: Brescian shore
- Trentino Transportation: upper lake (Riva, Torbole, Arco)
In summer, frequencies increase and there are special lines to tourist resorts. Tickets are purchased at newsstands, tobacconists, or by app.
By Bicycle
Garda has an ever-expanding bicycle network:
- Limone – Riva bicycle path: the bicycle path suspended over the lake
- Peschiera – Garda: along the Veronese Riviera.
- Mincio cycle path: from Peschiera to Mantova
Rental bicycles and e-bikes are available at all major locations. Many boats accept bicycles, allowing you to ride in one direction and return by boat.
Cable cars and funicular railways
- Malcesine – Monte Baldo cable car: from the lake to the top in 10 minutes
- Riva – Monte Stivo cable car: access to the mountains of the upper lake
Tips for saving money
The Garda Card and Trentino Guest Card (for those staying in Trentino) offer free or discounted transportation on boats, buses and cable cars. Inquire at your accommodation. For those staying several days, the Navigarda weekly pass is an excellent investment.
