How to get to Lake Garda by train from Italy's major cities

You’re standing in the heart of Italy, surrounded by gorgeous architecture, mouth-watering pizza, and perhaps a gelato (or three). But you’ve heard whispers of Lake Garda — the biggest lake in Italy. You know you can’t miss it.

Here’s the thing: Italian roads are not exactly stress-free (good luck figuring out who has right of way). So why not ditch the rental car and hop on a train instead?

Getting to Lake Garda by train is simple, scenic, and, as a bonus — you can sit back, relax, and pretend you’re living in a Wes Anderson movie for a couple of hours.

Convinced yet? Let’s go then!

Punta San Vigilio at sunset on the east coast of Lake Garda, Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, Francesco Riccardo Iacomino

Train stations in Lake Garda

Lake Garda doesn’t have a single main train station because it’s too fabulous for just one. But, there are three main stops you should know: Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, Peschiera del Garda and Rovereto. These stations will get you closest to different parts of the lake.

Trains to Lake Garda from major Italian cities

Trains are your Italian BFF. Here’s how to get to Lake Garda from the heavy-hitters:

Milan to Lake Garda train

Milan is about an hour away from Lake Garda by train. You’ll need to hop on a Regionale Veloce or a Frecciarossa train from Milano Centrale to either Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda. If you’re heading to the northern part of Lake Garda, hop off the train at Rovereto station. Trains from Milan to Rovereto take from just about 2h 16m and run up to 28 times a day from Milano Centrale, courtesy of Trenitalia. Once you’re at Rovereto, it’s just a 35-minute bus ride to Torbole or 45 minutes to Riva del Garda.

Old town and port of Sirmione, Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, FooTToo

Venice to Lake Garda train

Getting to Lake Garda from Venice is a total breeze and one of the best ideas for a day trip! Just hop on a direct train from Venezia Santa Lucia, and you’ll be in Peschiera del Garda in about 1 hour and 14 minutes. Peschiera is right on the southern shore, making it the perfect jumping-off point to explore nearby gems like charming Sirmione or the lively Lazise. If you’re headed to Desenzano, the fastest trains can get you there in just 1 hour and 21 minutes, and for a trip up north to Rovereto, you’re looking at about 1 hour and 47 minutes. Easy, scenic, and hassle-free!

Verona to Lake Garda train

Verona is basically Lake Garda’s next-door neighbor. It’s a super short train ride — just 10-20 minutes from Verona Porta Nuova to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione or Peschiera del Garda. If you’re heading to the northern part of the lake, trains to Rovereto take about 40 minutes, giving you some time to soak in the scenic views along the way.

Gardesana Occidentale scenic route on Lake Garda, Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, Francesco Riccardo Iacomino

Bologna to Lake Garda train

Getting from Bologna to Lake Garda is quicker than you might think! If you’re heading to Peschiera del Garda, the fastest trains can get you there in just 1 hour and 10 minutes, while Desenzano del Garda takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. If you’re going further north to Rovereto, you can be there in as little as 1 hour and 44 minutes. With plenty of trains running throughout the day, you’ll have no trouble finding a convenient time to make the scenic journey.

Florence to Lake Garda train

Traveling from Florence to Lake Garda is straightforward and scenic. You can reach Desenzano del Garda in just over 2 hours, which makes it a great option for exploring the southern shores, including charming Sirmione. For Peschiera del Garda, the fastest trains take about 1 hour and 51 minutes. If you’re headed further north to Rovereto, plan on a relaxing 2.5-hour ride.

Rome to Lake Garda train

Even though Rome is a bit farther, it’s still totally doable to reach Lake Garda. The journey from Roma Termini to Desenzano del Garda/Sirmione takes around 4 hours and 47 minutes, but if you’re in a hurry, the fastest trains can get you there in just 3 hours and 36 minutes. Heading to Rovereto? That ride usually takes around 4 hours and 38 minutes, but you can get there in as little as 3 hours and 51 minutes on the quickest services.

Riva del Garda on Lake Garda in Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, Kirill Rudenko

Is there a high-speed train to Lake Garda?

Yes! You’ve got a couple of high-speed train options to reach Lake Garda. You can choose between Frecciarossa train from Trenitalia, Italy’s national railway, or Italo train, run by a private company. Frecciarossa trains get you to either Peschiera del Garda or Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione (but keep in mind: they stop at one or the other, not both). Italo trains are modern, air-conditioned, and have free Wi-Fi, so it’s a smooth ride either way. Both trains also connect through Verona, where you can catch a quick regional train to other spots around Lake Garda.

Is there a train from Innsbruck to Lake Garda?

Sure thing! From Innsbruck, grab a train to Verona (about 3.5 hours), then take a quick hop to Lake Garda. You’ll be enjoying Italian views in no time.

Can you get from London to Lake Garda by train?

You can definitely embrace your adventurous side with a train journey from London to Lake Garda. Start by taking the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris, then switch to a train bound for Geneva. From there, make your way to Peschiera del Garda via Milan, which takes around 10-12 hours in total. It’s a bit of a trek, but a great way to enjoy the European countryside along the way. Plus, you could even turn it into the “Superloop” multi-country adventure with Eurail!

Castle of Malcesine on Lake Garda, Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, Westend61

Best things to do around Lake Garda

Lake Garda isn’t just a pretty face — there’s loads to do! Explore the medieval Scaligero Castle in Sirmione, then take a stroll through the ancient ruins where Call Me by Your Name filmed that iconic scene with Elio, Oliver, and Professor Perlman. Whether you’re geeking out over history or just want to walk in the footsteps of your favorite film characters, Lake Garda makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a story.

How many days do you need in Lake Garda?

Three days should do the trick. Just the right amount of time to explore the lake’s villages, eat more gelato than you should, and consider moving there forever. Check out our guide for the perfect 3-day itinerary.

How do you get to Sirmione?

From Desenzano del Garda: You can take a ferry (11 minutes), a bus (about 15 minutes), or a taxi (12 minutes).
From Peschiera del Garda: You can reach Sirmione by ferry in about 19 minutes, or by taxi, bus, or car in about 15 minutes.

Hint: The ferry is scenic and convenient, while the bus is cheaper. There is no train station in Sirmione.

Town of Limone sul Garda on Lake Garda, Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, Francesco Riccardo Iacomino

What сan you do with kids in Lake Garda?

Lake Garda has a ton of family-friendly activities. Gardaland is Italy’s largest amusement park, Movieland brings Hollywood to Italy, and Caneva Aquapark will keep the kids entertained while you relax (hopefully).

What is the prettiest place on Lake Garda?

Sirmione and Limone sul Garda are serious contenders. Sirmione has that castle-meets-lake vibe, while Limone’s cliffside lemon groves feel like a scene from a romantic movie.

Don’t miss: The best Italian lakes and how to visit by train

Where is the best place to stay in Lake Garda?

For luxury, Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda is a dream. For a more laid-back stay, Desenzano is a good base with lots of hotel options, while Peschiera del Garda is perfect if you want easy access to amusement parks.

Read also: The best hotels on Lake Garda

Harbor in Lake Garda. Image Credit: Getty Images, Patrick Daxenbichler

Is it easy to get around Lake Garda without a car?

Yes! Public buses, ferries, bikes, and your own two feet are your best friends here. You can explore different towns around the lake easily without the stress of driving.

Which side of Lake Garda is best?

Lake Garda has something special no matter which side you choose, so it all depends on what kind of experience you’re after!

Southern side

If you’re all about history with a side of beach time, the southern side is your spot. In Sirmione, you’ve got a medieval castle, ancient Roman ruins, and plenty of places to lounge by the lake. Plus, the thermal baths are perfect for a chill-out session. Want to keep the fun going after sunset? Desenzano del Garda has a buzzing nightlife scene that’ll keep you entertained.

Monte Baldo cable car above Malcesine on Lake Garda, Italy. Image Credit: Getty Images, Tinieder

Northern side

Outdoor lovers will feel right at home on the northern side. The towering mountains around Riva del Garda and Torbole make it perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. If you’re into water sports, the steady winds make this area ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing. Don’t miss a ride up the Monte Baldo cable car for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Eastern side

The eastern side, known as the “Riviera degli Ulivi” (Olive Riviera), is all about gorgeous landscapes and relaxing walks through olive groves. Towns like Bardolino and Garda have that chill atmosphere to them, with plenty of lakeside cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. It’s the perfect spot for a more relaxed, scenic experience.

Western side

For those seeking jaw-dropping views, head to the western shore. The charming town of Limone sul Garda is famous for its lemon groves and colorful streets that cling to the cliffs. If you want a peaceful escape, Punta San Vigilio is a hidden gem with a romantic harbor, a lovely little church, and breathtaking sunsets that feel like something out of a movie.

Sirmione beach at Lake Garda, Italy. Image Credit: Anna Mardo

Is Lake Como prettier than Lake Garda?

It’s a tough call. Lake Como has the glitz and glamor (hello, George Clooney), but Lake Garda feels more approachable with its laid-back charm. Explore both to see which one steals your heart.

Read also:

Is there a train from Lake Como to Lake Garda?

Not directly, but don’t panic. You can take a train from Como San Giovanni to Milan (from 40 mins), then switch to a train heading to Lake Garda. Easy!

Ready to hop on board? Don’t forget to download the Trainline app for smooth booking.

View of Malcesine village across Lake Garda. Header Image Credit: Getty Images, David C Tomlinson

How to easily get to Lake Garda by train from Italy’s top cities