Day trip from Lombardy, Lombardy

Sirmione and Lake Garda

55 minutes to Desenzano by train, then 10-minute busby [{'type': 'Train + Bus', 'details': 'Trenitalia from Milano Centrale to Desenzano del Garda; then bus to Sirmione (10min)', 'cost': '€14 train + €3 bus', 'duration': '65 min total'}, {'type': 'Car', 'details': 'A4 autostrada to Brescia then SS11; 1hr 15min', 'cost': '€8-10 tolls', 'duration': '75 min'}]

Sirmione occupies a narrow peninsula on southern Lake Garda and is one of Italy's most dramatic and scenic small towns. The perfectly preserved 13th-century Scaligero Castle guards the entrance to the town, and the Roman ruins of the Grotte di Catullo at the peninsula's tip are spectacular. The Terme di Sirmione thermal spa is excellent for relaxation.

Highlights

Scaligero Castle (13th century)
Grotte di Catullo Roman ruins at the peninsula tip
Terme di Sirmione thermal spa
Lake Garda views from the peninsula
Sirmione's small fishing harbor
Clear turquoise water swimming (in season)

Tips

Cars are banned inside Sirmione — park at the bridge or use Desenzano + bus
Terme di Sirmione spa must be booked in advance especially in summer
Desenzano del Garda is itself worth 1-2 hours with its Roman villa mosaics

Plan your trip

More day trips in Lombardy