Lazise and Bardolino Lakeside Towns

Lazise and Bardolino are two lakeside towns on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in the Veneto, about 25-28 km west of Verona. The easiest approach without a car is an ATV bus from Verona, which takes about 40 minutes, and the schedule should be verified before travelling; by car the drive is similar. The two towns are roughly 6 km apart and are linked by bus, by a lakeside cycle and walking path, and by seasonal ferries run by Navigazione Laghi, so the day can be done without a car once the traveller arrives. Lazise is the older and more atmospheric of the pair, with a small medieval harbour, the Scaliger castle and a ring of town walls that still enclose the historic centre. The waterfront promenade on Lungolago Marconi is lined with cafes, and a weekly market on Sunday fills the lakeside streets. Bardolino is best known for the light red wine of the same name, and the town centre has several enoteche and cellars offering tastings, as well as a wine museum. A sensible plan begins in Lazise in the morning, with a walk along the walls and harbour, then a coffee on the waterfront. The middle of the day suits lunch of lake fish or fresh pasta in either town. In the afternoon, visitors can take the lakeside path or a bus to Bardolino for a cellar tasting, followed by a swim at the public beaches or a stroll along the promenade before the return bus. May to October is the best window, with warm water and full services; July and August are the busiest, and many lakeside restaurants close or reduce hours between November and March. Both towns are low-key compared with Sirmione or Malcesine, which suits travellers who prefer a relaxed day over a list of sights. Cellar visits and tastings should be booked in advance in high season, and the last bus back to Verona leaves relatively early, so it is worth confirming the timetable.