Brescia is the closest large city to the western shore of Lake Garda. In just 15 minutes by train you are already in Desenzano. Here are all the options for reaching the lake from the Lioness of Italy.
By train from Brescia to Lake Garda
Brescia → Desenzano del Garda
The train connection is very fast: 15-minute ride, ticket about €4, trains about every 30 minutes. Desenzano is on the Milan-Venice line, so trains are frequent and reliable.
From Desenzano you can then reach Sirmione by bus (10 minutes) or take the ferry across the lake.
By bus from Brescia to Lake Garda
ARRIVA buses (formerly Transportation Brescia) connect Brescia with the entire western shore of the lake. The main lines are:
Line LN026: Brescia → Desenzano → Sirmione
Perfect if your destination is the lower lake. It connects Brescia with Desenzano and continues to Sirmione. Convenient because it takes you directly into the center of the towns, unlike the train that leaves you at the station.
Line RL202: Brescia → Salò → Gargnano → Limone → Riva del Garda
The express line for the west and north shore of the lake. It is essential if you want to reach Salò, Gardone Riviera, Gargnano, Limone or even Riva del Garda without a car. The trip is longer (1.5-2.5 hours depending on the stop) but goes through spectacular landscapes along the Gardesana Occidentale.
Frequency and times
The main lines have good frequency during the week (every 30-60 minutes), reduced on weekends and holidays. In summer, service is enhanced with additional runs. Always check the ARRIVA website for updated schedules.
Driving from Brescia to Lake Garda
For Desenzano and Sirmione (south lake).
You have two options:
- SS11 (highway): free, about 30 km, takes about 25-35 minutes. Can be busy in summer.
- A4 (highway): faster, exit Desenzano or Sirmione. About 25 minutes plus toll.
For the west bank (Salò, Gardone, Gargnano, Limone).
Take the SS45bis from Brescia northward: you cross Valsabbia and arrive in Salò in about 40 minutes. From Salò the Gardesana Occidentale (SS45bis then SS45) takes you north along the entire coast.
Warning: the Gardesana road between Gargnano and Limone is narrow and scenic but slow, especially in summer with tourist traffic.
From Brescia-Montichiari Airport
The Gabriele D’Annunzio airport in Montichiari is small but convenient for Garda. From the airport take the shuttle to Brescia station, then the train to Desenzano (15 minutes). Total time: about 45-60 minutes.
Alternatively, a cab from the airport to Desenzano costs about €40-50 and takes 20 minutes.
Practical Tips
- For Desenzano and Sirmione → Train can’t be beat: fast, cheap and no parking worries
- For Salò and the Riviera → Car or bus RL202, train does not arrive
- For Limone and Riva → Car is more convenient, but the RL202 bus is a good alternative if you don’t want to drive on the Gardesana road
- Parking → In summer in Sirmione, it’s a nightmare. Leave your car in Desenzano and take the bus
The complete guide to transportation on Lake Garda
For ferries, local buses, schedules and everything you need to get around the lake, visit our complete guide to Lake Garda transportation.
