Things to do in Sirmione, the pearl of Lake Garda

What to see in Sirmione the pearl of Lake Garda. Don't know where to go on Sunday? Read this article and you will discover Sirmione,

Sirmione, one of the most renowned and visited locations on Lake Garda, is a peninsula stretching approximately 4 km. Its heart lies in the historic village, featuring the captivating Scaliger Castle and the fascinating Grotte di Catullo (Catullus’s Caves). The narrow streets, gardens, and unique views of the lake create an extraordinary atmosphere.

Known as “The Pearl of Garda,” Sirmione enchants tourists with its historical charm and distinctive allure. With its breathtaking landscape, flower-adorned alleys and walks, medieval buildings, trendy shops, and luxurious restaurants, the town provides an unforgettable experience. Just beyond the town’s borders, visitors are transported into a romantic and mysterious environment, captivating them like a siren’s song to sailors.

Things to See and Do in Sirmione:

Scaligero Castle of Sirmione

Scaliger Castle: The most iconic symbol of Sirmione, welcoming visitors as the sole entrance to the inhabited center. Built in the 13th century during the Scaliger era, it stands as one of the best-preserved castles in Italy and a rare example of lakefront fortification.

Castle Legend: The castle is the stage for a legend involving two deeply in love young individuals, Ebengardo and Arice, whose tragic story unfolds during a stormy night.

The Grottoes of Catullus

Grotte di Catullo: Dating back to the Bronze Age, these caves represent a significant Roman archaeological site. The Roman villa with frescoes from the 1st and 2nd centuries AD is considered the most grandiose example found in northern Italy.

The thermal baths of Aquaria

Terme di Aquaria: Renowned for their healing sulfuric waters bubbling up from the lake bottom, these thermal baths offer therapeutic treatments for respiratory issues and skin conditions.

Beaches and Walks: Sirmione boasts enchanting beaches, such as Lido delle Bionde, and ancient churches like S. Pietro and S. Maria Maggiore. Medieval battlements protect the village, configuring it as an island accessible only via a bridge.

Shopping in Sirmione: The town center features picturesque shops, while outside the town, there are outlets and company stores.

Jamaica beach Sirmione

Jamaica Beach: Located beneath the Ruins of the Roman Villa Grotte di Catullo, this beach offers an idyllic setting with emerald waters and captivating underwater features.

The boats to and from Sirmione

Boats to and from Sirmione: The boat service connects Sirmione to various locations around the lake, providing a chance to admire the landscape from different perspectives. Look at the timetables of the boats that depart and arrive in Sirmione.

Where to Park in Sirmione: Numerous parking spaces, most of which are paid, are available throughout the Sirmione peninsula.

How to Get to Sirmione:

By car: From the A4 Torino/Venezia motorway, exit at the Sirmione toll booth and follow the road signs.
By train: Sirmione is connected to Desenzano, the main railway hub on Lake Garda, where all trains stop. The station is within the town.
By air: Within a 30 km radius are the airports of Verona, Bergamo, and Brescia, easily accessible via fast roads.


Where to Stay and Eat in Sirmione: Numerous accommodations, from small and well-kept B&Bs to resorts with wellness centers and beauty services, offer options for every preference. Characteristic restaurants enrich evenings with local specialties.

Explore Lake Garda with its cities and high-quality restaurants! Visit the section dedicated to experiences on our magazine.

Mappa dei parcheggi di Sirmione

All parking is subject to charges.

For any questions about your holiday on Lake Garda, do not hesitate to contact us by commenting on this article or by writing on our social channels (Instagram, FacebookTwitter , TikTok), we are always available to help you.

See you next time dear Outdoors!

Walter Sestili

Destination Marketing manager since 1998, in love with Lake Garda and its opportunities. For these reasons Garda Outdoors was born, a meeting place where the passion for this territory meets the tourist's curiosity to visit and discover the beauties of the most beautiful and largest of the Italian lakes.

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